Today we read Romans 1-4.
I hope you know that you need to know as much as you can about the Lord and His Word. I also hope you know that it is not simply what you know. It is what you do with what you know. Paul put it this way in Romans 2.13 - For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous before God, but the doers of the law who will be justified.
Know it and do it today....and go Clemson Tigers!!!!
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Friday, November 29, 2013
Continued Thanks
Today we read 1 Thessalonians 4-5 and 2 Thessalonians 1-3.
2 Thessalonians 2.16-17 -Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, 17 comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.
I pray the joy and relaxation of the Thanksgiving season will continue for you and your family and the busyness of shopping and travel will not take your heart and mind off of Him.
Have a great Black Friday.
2 Thessalonians 2.16-17 -Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, 17 comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.
I pray the joy and relaxation of the Thanksgiving season will continue for you and your family and the busyness of shopping and travel will not take your heart and mind off of Him.
Have a great Black Friday.
Thursday, November 28, 2013
Most Thankful
Today we read Matthew 28 and I Thessalonians 1-3.
Today is Thanksgiving and I have much to be thankful for. I came from a good family and get to celebrate Thanksgiving with them. I have a good family, am blessed with a dear wife, and some good girls. God has blessed us with good health (as far as we know....you never really know, do you?) and we have a good time together. My father-in-law moved to town and we have been able to oversee his care during a difficult year of grief and transition after the loss of Dawn's mother. That is a blessed opportunity. I get to pastor a church full of people that I love and it is a joy to be their pastor. I have much to be thankful.
However, what I read about this morning is what I am most thankful for. Matthew 28.5-7 says it like this-But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay.7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.”
I am most thankful that there is an empty tomb and that my Savior lives. It is a game changer, a life changer, and an eternity changer. Give thanks today that our Lord lives!
Today is Thanksgiving and I have much to be thankful for. I came from a good family and get to celebrate Thanksgiving with them. I have a good family, am blessed with a dear wife, and some good girls. God has blessed us with good health (as far as we know....you never really know, do you?) and we have a good time together. My father-in-law moved to town and we have been able to oversee his care during a difficult year of grief and transition after the loss of Dawn's mother. That is a blessed opportunity. I get to pastor a church full of people that I love and it is a joy to be their pastor. I have much to be thankful.
However, what I read about this morning is what I am most thankful for. Matthew 28.5-7 says it like this-But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay.7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.”
I am most thankful that there is an empty tomb and that my Savior lives. It is a game changer, a life changer, and an eternity changer. Give thanks today that our Lord lives!
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
The Opportunity
Today we read Psalm 125 and Matthew 26-27.
Matthew 26.6-7- Now when Jesus was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, a woman came up to him with an alabaster flask of very expensive ointment, and she poured it on his head as he reclined at table.
When given the opportunity, the lady took the best she had and gave it to Jesus to anoint Him and to honor him.
When given his opportunity, Judas looked for the opportunity to betray Christ.
Matthew 26.16 states it simply- And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him.
One took the opportunity to give to Jesus. The other took the opportunity to profit at the Lord's expense.
What kind of opportunity to seek for, hope for, and look for today. Let's honor Him with our thanks and our selfless service for Him and for others.
Have a great day as we look forward to Thanksgiving.
Matthew 26.6-7- Now when Jesus was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, a woman came up to him with an alabaster flask of very expensive ointment, and she poured it on his head as he reclined at table.
When given the opportunity, the lady took the best she had and gave it to Jesus to anoint Him and to honor him.
When given his opportunity, Judas looked for the opportunity to betray Christ.
Matthew 26.16 states it simply- And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him.
One took the opportunity to give to Jesus. The other took the opportunity to profit at the Lord's expense.
What kind of opportunity to seek for, hope for, and look for today. Let's honor Him with our thanks and our selfless service for Him and for others.
Have a great day as we look forward to Thanksgiving.
Monday, November 25, 2013
A Sweet Reminder
Today we read Matthew 20-22.
Matthew 22.36-39 - “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” 37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the great and first commandment. 39 And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
Today, love Him with all that you are and reflect that love by loving on all that cross your path.
Matthew 22.36-39 - “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” 37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the great and first commandment. 39 And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
Today, love Him with all that you are and reflect that love by loving on all that cross your path.
Sunday, November 24, 2013
Bringing Children to Jesus
Today we read Matthew 17-19.
Matthew 19.14- but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven."
May we do nothing in our lives to hinder children coming to Jesus. Let's pump Jesus to our own children, to other children, and to every mother's child. May our life not hinder them either.
Take a child to church today and show them Jesus on the way!
Matthew 19.14- but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven."
May we do nothing in our lives to hinder children coming to Jesus. Let's pump Jesus to our own children, to other children, and to every mother's child. May our life not hinder them either.
Take a child to church today and show them Jesus on the way!
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Thankful Thoughts
Today we read Matthew 14-16.
In Matthew 14 an event takes place that is part of the inspiration for an ongoing, wonderfully influencing ministry in our church. In Matthew 14.13-20 Jesus feeds 5,000 men and their families. Notice the end result in v.20- And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children.
God led us to this ministry through three different avenues. The first one was my mother's influence. My mother started a food ministry years ago through her church and has always been willing to help anyone that came and asked. I used to tell mother how a lot of those people probably did not need it and used the system. However, she had the wisdom to know that there was need mixed in with the dishonest and God would 'weed' it out as He sees fit. I was not a huge fan of that ministry because you don't know who you are ministering to...that is until God spoke to me about it. I give Him all the credit. I would never have come up with this. However, the second influence was the story of the sheep and the goats. Some of those verses burned in my gut in Matthew 25.35-40-
For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, 36 I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.' 37 Then the righteous will answer him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink?
38 And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you?
39 And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?'
40 And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.'
I believe the ministries that are listed are given to us by The Lord to be a part of. Therefore, we have a feeding ministry each month when we give a bag of groceries to each family that comes on the third Tuesday at 6:30 PM. We pray with them, counsel them spiritually, and give a bag. We have a clothes closet for weary travelers that pass through from time to time. We will wash their clothes for them, put them up for a night, feed them, and give them a new set of clothes for their journey (there is a God given story there too). We visit the sick, have a ladies prison ministry, and look forward to doing more in that area. I have a history of working with prisoners and law enforcement.
The third way God has led us in this ministry is through his way of doing it in the feeding of the 5,000. He did not ask financial questions and did no background checks. He organized them and feed them. That is what we do. IF we asked a bunch of those type questions, we could get funding, state food bank help, and attention through television food drives. However, we chose to only ask spiritual questions and let The Lord provide. So far through the generosity of FBC, private donors, a few can drives, a blessed farm grant that dropped out of heaven, a partnership with Grocer's Pride grocery store (they do a bunch to help us) and a little help from Wal-mart, we have given at least 600 bags of food each year for the last five years. We give turkeys at Thanksgiving and hams at Christmas.
Why say all that? I say that because as I read Matthew 14 today, I was thankful and reminded of how God blesses our efforts. I am thankful for FBC and their willingness and voluntary service. I am thankful to be a part of a church that loves Jesus and joins together in serving Him until He comes.
I am thankful this morning.
In Matthew 14 an event takes place that is part of the inspiration for an ongoing, wonderfully influencing ministry in our church. In Matthew 14.13-20 Jesus feeds 5,000 men and their families. Notice the end result in v.20- And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children.
God led us to this ministry through three different avenues. The first one was my mother's influence. My mother started a food ministry years ago through her church and has always been willing to help anyone that came and asked. I used to tell mother how a lot of those people probably did not need it and used the system. However, she had the wisdom to know that there was need mixed in with the dishonest and God would 'weed' it out as He sees fit. I was not a huge fan of that ministry because you don't know who you are ministering to...that is until God spoke to me about it. I give Him all the credit. I would never have come up with this. However, the second influence was the story of the sheep and the goats. Some of those verses burned in my gut in Matthew 25.35-40-
For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, 36 I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.' 37 Then the righteous will answer him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink?
38 And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you?
39 And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?'
40 And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.'
I believe the ministries that are listed are given to us by The Lord to be a part of. Therefore, we have a feeding ministry each month when we give a bag of groceries to each family that comes on the third Tuesday at 6:30 PM. We pray with them, counsel them spiritually, and give a bag. We have a clothes closet for weary travelers that pass through from time to time. We will wash their clothes for them, put them up for a night, feed them, and give them a new set of clothes for their journey (there is a God given story there too). We visit the sick, have a ladies prison ministry, and look forward to doing more in that area. I have a history of working with prisoners and law enforcement.
The third way God has led us in this ministry is through his way of doing it in the feeding of the 5,000. He did not ask financial questions and did no background checks. He organized them and feed them. That is what we do. IF we asked a bunch of those type questions, we could get funding, state food bank help, and attention through television food drives. However, we chose to only ask spiritual questions and let The Lord provide. So far through the generosity of FBC, private donors, a few can drives, a blessed farm grant that dropped out of heaven, a partnership with Grocer's Pride grocery store (they do a bunch to help us) and a little help from Wal-mart, we have given at least 600 bags of food each year for the last five years. We give turkeys at Thanksgiving and hams at Christmas.
Why say all that? I say that because as I read Matthew 14 today, I was thankful and reminded of how God blesses our efforts. I am thankful for FBC and their willingness and voluntary service. I am thankful to be a part of a church that loves Jesus and joins together in serving Him until He comes.
I am thankful this morning.
Thursday, November 21, 2013
In Light of Him
Today we read Matthew 8-10.
The centurion had a worker that was very sick, paralyzed, and in need of help. He approached Jesus and notice his method of asking in Matthew 8.8- But the centurion replied, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof, but only say the word, and my servant will be healed.
I love the way he approached Christ. He realized his own position. He realized the position of Christ. He goes on to elaborate about the power of the spoken word of Christ.
I think he had it right. When we pray, we realize who we are. We realize who He is. We realize who we are in light of who He is.
Take time to do that today.
The centurion had a worker that was very sick, paralyzed, and in need of help. He approached Jesus and notice his method of asking in Matthew 8.8- But the centurion replied, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof, but only say the word, and my servant will be healed.
I love the way he approached Christ. He realized his own position. He realized the position of Christ. He goes on to elaborate about the power of the spoken word of Christ.
I think he had it right. When we pray, we realize who we are. We realize who He is. We realize who we are in light of who He is.
Take time to do that today.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Lighten Up
Today we read the Sermon on the Mount from Matthew 5-7.
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.
Go and light your world today! Light it for your family this morning. Light it for those at work or school today. Light it for your friends. Light it for your neighbors. Who are your neighbors? Sesame Street taught me a long time ago who my neighbors are:
Who are the people in your neighborhood? In your neighborhood? In your neighborhood?
Who are the people in your neighborhood? They're the people that you meet, when you're walking down the street. They're people that you meet each day.
Go and light your world!
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.
Go and light your world today! Light it for your family this morning. Light it for those at work or school today. Light it for your friends. Light it for your neighbors. Who are your neighbors? Sesame Street taught me a long time ago who my neighbors are:
Who are the people in your neighborhood? In your neighborhood? In your neighborhood?
Who are the people in your neighborhood? They're the people that you meet, when you're walking down the street. They're people that you meet each day.
Go and light your world!
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Without Delay
Today we read Matthew 1-4.
Have you ever noticed HOW the disciples followed Jesus when he called them to join Him in ministry? Notice it in Matthew 4.20- Immediately they left their nets and followed him.
If you look close, you will see a pattern of them following Christ immediately.
When the Holy Spirit speaks into your heart today to join Christ on mission, do not delay. Follow Him immediately.
Have you ever noticed HOW the disciples followed Jesus when he called them to join Him in ministry? Notice it in Matthew 4.20- Immediately they left their nets and followed him.
If you look close, you will see a pattern of them following Christ immediately.
When the Holy Spirit speaks into your heart today to join Christ on mission, do not delay. Follow Him immediately.
Monday, November 18, 2013
On Your Side
Today we read Psalm 124 and 2 Corinthians 11-13.
Psalm 124.1- If it had not been the Lord who was on our side—
I don't know what you are facing today, but I can tell you that you are not in it alone. If it was not for the Lord on your side, your whole story would be different. However, thank God, He is on your side and when you lean on Him, you will be victorious.
Don't be fooled today. You are not alone. The Lord is on your side.
Psalm 124.1- If it had not been the Lord who was on our side—
I don't know what you are facing today, but I can tell you that you are not in it alone. If it was not for the Lord on your side, your whole story would be different. However, thank God, He is on your side and when you lean on Him, you will be victorious.
Don't be fooled today. You are not alone. The Lord is on your side.
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Sunday Morning Giving
Today we read 2 Corinthians 7-10.
2 Corinthians 9.6-8 - The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.
Give generously, with a lot of thought and consideration, and allow God's grace to be in you and coming through you, so that everything that we do for Him will succeed.
I hope I see you in worship today.
2 Corinthians 9.6-8 - The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.
Give generously, with a lot of thought and consideration, and allow God's grace to be in you and coming through you, so that everything that we do for Him will succeed.
I hope I see you in worship today.
Saturday, November 16, 2013
The Word and a Good Cup of Coffee
Today we read 2 Corinthians 3-6.
2 Corinthians 4.16- So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.
I trust the Word to give me what I need day by day, therefore I start my day with His Word. The Word and a good cup of coffee will renew you daily.
Wake up and ask God to give you a word for today as you read His Word. He will. He wants to speak to you and move in your life. We just need to be receptive to His Work.
Don't lose heart, just keep reading.
2 Corinthians 4.16- So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.
I trust the Word to give me what I need day by day, therefore I start my day with His Word. The Word and a good cup of coffee will renew you daily.
Wake up and ask God to give you a word for today as you read His Word. He will. He wants to speak to you and move in your life. We just need to be receptive to His Work.
Don't lose heart, just keep reading.
Friday, November 15, 2013
Yes
Today we read Job 41-42 and 2 Corinthians 1-2.
2 Corinthians 1.20- For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.
May you seek the Lord today and His Will and find your 'Yes' in Him! Yes to Jesus. Yes for Jesus. Yes in Jesus. Amen!
2 Corinthians 1.20- For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.
May you seek the Lord today and His Will and find your 'Yes' in Him! Yes to Jesus. Yes for Jesus. Yes in Jesus. Amen!
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Steadfast and Strong
Today we read Psalm 149 and I Corinthians15-16.
I love the 'therefore' statements in the Scripture. Anytime you see a 'therefore', always go back up and look at the writings before the 'therefore' statement to see what it is 'there for.' I read a great one this morning in I Corinthians 15.58 -Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.
When you go back and read the context of the passage, you will see that Paul was sharing with them that this is no all there is. Eternity is real and SO much better. As a result of what is to come, let us be steady and strong today. May we not be ruled and rocked by the waves and winds of the day. May be always be working in the Lord, when we see fruit of our results and even when we don't.
May we work until Jesus comes!
Be Steadfast and Strong today!
I love the 'therefore' statements in the Scripture. Anytime you see a 'therefore', always go back up and look at the writings before the 'therefore' statement to see what it is 'there for.' I read a great one this morning in I Corinthians 15.58 -Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.
When you go back and read the context of the passage, you will see that Paul was sharing with them that this is no all there is. Eternity is real and SO much better. As a result of what is to come, let us be steady and strong today. May we not be ruled and rocked by the waves and winds of the day. May be always be working in the Lord, when we see fruit of our results and even when we don't.
May we work until Jesus comes!
Be Steadfast and Strong today!
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
A Two-Way Conversation
Today we read Job 39-40 and 1 Corinthians 13-14.
Job 40.3-5 - 3 Then Job answered the Lord and said:
Sometimes it is best to keep our mouths quiet and listen to the Lord. It is so easy for us to ask and ask and ask or to tell and tell and tell. We need, instead, to be still and know that He is God and listen.
Job 40.3-5 - 3 Then Job answered the Lord and said:
4 “Behold, I am of small account; what shall I answer you?
I lay my hand on my mouth.
5 I have spoken once, and I will not answer;
twice, but I will proceed no further.”
I lay my hand on my mouth.
5 I have spoken once, and I will not answer;
twice, but I will proceed no further.”
Our time will be better spent if we pause to listen in the midst of our asking and telling. Have conversation with God today....and make sure you take time to listen.
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
The Spirit in You
Today we read Job 37-38 and 1 Corinthians 12.
1 Corinthians 12.7- To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
What the Spirit of God has enabled you to do is not just for you...it is not even for you. It is for the sake of others and for the Glory of God. Don't get selfish in your service for the Lord. He has gifted you to be a blessing to others.
Go in the power of God and be a blessing today!
1 Corinthians 12.7- To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
What the Spirit of God has enabled you to do is not just for you...it is not even for you. It is for the sake of others and for the Glory of God. Don't get selfish in your service for the Lord. He has gifted you to be a blessing to others.
Go in the power of God and be a blessing today!
Monday, November 11, 2013
When Tempted
Today we read Psalm 122 and 1 Corinthians 9-11.
Temptation is very deceptive. It is easy for us to feel and respond differently to temptation than we should. I want you to be clear what Scripture teaches us about temptation. These are some truths that you need to put on the mirror of your memory and be reminded of them everyday.
1. You are not the only one being tempted like you are. 1 Cor. 10.13a- No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man.
It is easy for us to feel like nobody could ever understand our circumstances. That feeling of uniqueness will make us more vunerable to fall to the temptation. The reality is that we all are different with different weaknesses and struggles, but there are common threads of sinful troubles in all of us. If we all got real honest with each other, we would find our struggles are not that different. How we respond to it usually makes the most difference. However, understand that a strategy of the evil one is to make us feel like we are the only one that has experienced such as this, therefore it is OK for us to do. It is just a lie of the evil one. Don't fall for it.
2. You can walk away from your temptation without falling to it. I Cor. 10.13b- God is faithful and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability...
The devil also likes to make us feel that there is no way that we can walk away once we have been tempted. That is simply not true. Remember: being tempted is not a sin. Falling to temptation is.
A child of God has the power of God within him, you have power to overcome. Don't be fooled into thinking that you have no choice. It is simply not true.
3. You have the power of God to guide you out of your temptation. 1 Cor. 10.13c- but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
This point is worth reiterating because Scripture repeats it. You are not on your own. Others have been there. The Lord is with you. If you are a child of God with the Spirit of God in you, He will strengthen you. He will also provide you a way out. A temptation is not a dead end. It is a cul-de-sac. Turn around. Walk away. He has enabled you and provided you a path to walk away from temptation without yielding to it.
The first half of the battle is understanding these principles, believing them, and marking them on the memory of your mind. The second is to reflect back on them when tempted, apply them, and walk away from temptation.
I pray that you do....today.
I hope to see you today at the noon lunch and the revival worship at 6:30 PM tonight at FBC.
Temptation is very deceptive. It is easy for us to feel and respond differently to temptation than we should. I want you to be clear what Scripture teaches us about temptation. These are some truths that you need to put on the mirror of your memory and be reminded of them everyday.
1. You are not the only one being tempted like you are. 1 Cor. 10.13a- No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man.
It is easy for us to feel like nobody could ever understand our circumstances. That feeling of uniqueness will make us more vunerable to fall to the temptation. The reality is that we all are different with different weaknesses and struggles, but there are common threads of sinful troubles in all of us. If we all got real honest with each other, we would find our struggles are not that different. How we respond to it usually makes the most difference. However, understand that a strategy of the evil one is to make us feel like we are the only one that has experienced such as this, therefore it is OK for us to do. It is just a lie of the evil one. Don't fall for it.
2. You can walk away from your temptation without falling to it. I Cor. 10.13b- God is faithful and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability...
The devil also likes to make us feel that there is no way that we can walk away once we have been tempted. That is simply not true. Remember: being tempted is not a sin. Falling to temptation is.
A child of God has the power of God within him, you have power to overcome. Don't be fooled into thinking that you have no choice. It is simply not true.
3. You have the power of God to guide you out of your temptation. 1 Cor. 10.13c- but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
This point is worth reiterating because Scripture repeats it. You are not on your own. Others have been there. The Lord is with you. If you are a child of God with the Spirit of God in you, He will strengthen you. He will also provide you a way out. A temptation is not a dead end. It is a cul-de-sac. Turn around. Walk away. He has enabled you and provided you a path to walk away from temptation without yielding to it.
The first half of the battle is understanding these principles, believing them, and marking them on the memory of your mind. The second is to reflect back on them when tempted, apply them, and walk away from temptation.
I pray that you do....today.
I hope to see you today at the noon lunch and the revival worship at 6:30 PM tonight at FBC.
Sunday, November 10, 2013
What About You?
Today we read Job 35-36 and 1 Corinthians 7-8.
Sometimes people worry about other people's business too much. We each have enough to worry about without sticking an uninvited nose into someone else's business. It may seem easy to evaluate someone else's spiritual condition or give advice to one's spiritual direction, but it is not so simple. Each circumstance is somewhat different and the people involved are somewhat different. Sin is sin but it effects each of us individually and differently. None of us are the same. For the most part, however, we just need to worry about ourselves. We each have enough trouble of our own. The church of Corinth was concerned about each other's different backgrounds, marital conditions, and life patterns. Paul gave a handy piece of advice in I Corinthians 7.17- Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches.
In other words, get your heart right. What does God need to do in you? What hindrances do you have in your life that keep you from being all you can be for God? Does God want to stir up a new work in you?
I could not think of a better time to ask. Our 'Walking With Jesus' Revival with Ken Smith starts this morning. You need to be in on it. You have been prayed for. The church is praying for God to do a work that only He can do. Don't miss out on the opportunity. Be faithful to attend and invite someone to come with you. I don't want you to miss a moment!
Sometimes people worry about other people's business too much. We each have enough to worry about without sticking an uninvited nose into someone else's business. It may seem easy to evaluate someone else's spiritual condition or give advice to one's spiritual direction, but it is not so simple. Each circumstance is somewhat different and the people involved are somewhat different. Sin is sin but it effects each of us individually and differently. None of us are the same. For the most part, however, we just need to worry about ourselves. We each have enough trouble of our own. The church of Corinth was concerned about each other's different backgrounds, marital conditions, and life patterns. Paul gave a handy piece of advice in I Corinthians 7.17- Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches.
In other words, get your heart right. What does God need to do in you? What hindrances do you have in your life that keep you from being all you can be for God? Does God want to stir up a new work in you?
I could not think of a better time to ask. Our 'Walking With Jesus' Revival with Ken Smith starts this morning. You need to be in on it. You have been prayed for. The church is praying for God to do a work that only He can do. Don't miss out on the opportunity. Be faithful to attend and invite someone to come with you. I don't want you to miss a moment!
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Put Up Or....
Today we read Job 34 and 1 Corinthians 4-6.
Anyone that has been around football or any other sport knows that there comes a time to shut your mouth and get the job done. You can talk about what you can and will do for some long, then it is time to get it done. Notice what Paul said to the Corinthians in 4.20- For the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power.
In other words, what goes in football, goes in your spiritual life too. There is only so much you can talk about what you are going to do for the Lord until you do it. Don't just talk about it. Put yourself in the spiritual place for God to use you mightily!
I am highly anticipating a great revival in our church tomorrow. I hope you will be a part of it!
Anyone that has been around football or any other sport knows that there comes a time to shut your mouth and get the job done. You can talk about what you can and will do for some long, then it is time to get it done. Notice what Paul said to the Corinthians in 4.20- For the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power.
In other words, what goes in football, goes in your spiritual life too. There is only so much you can talk about what you are going to do for the Lord until you do it. Don't just talk about it. Put yourself in the spiritual place for God to use you mightily!
I am highly anticipating a great revival in our church tomorrow. I hope you will be a part of it!
Friday, November 8, 2013
The Coming Days
Today we read Job 33 and 1 Corinthians 1-3.
This Sunday we begin our "Walk With Jesus" revival with Ken Smith. I am highly anticipating what God will do in our midst. I am thankful that Ken is coming to lead us. He always has a word from God, a timely message that speaks to the heart of where we are. I also know that God has lead Ken in a new and very fresh way in the last days in preparation for this revival. We are blessed to have him come and lead us.
In preparation for revival I am praying that the Spirit of God will move mightily in our midst. I pray that there will be no hindrances: from within individuals or in the body of believers. The Spirit works in a ready people.
I am thankful that FBC is not like Corinth was. They were a struggling, quarreling church that needed a lot of healing. We are not that way, but all of us need a fresh touch from the Lord and I know that we can invite many that need a relationship with the Lord. Thinking on those things and praying that nothing can distract or detain us from a wonderful time together 1 Corinthians 1.10 really spoke to me this morning- I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.
Let's let nothing come in the way of God having His Way in us in the coming days.
This Sunday we begin our "Walk With Jesus" revival with Ken Smith. I am highly anticipating what God will do in our midst. I am thankful that Ken is coming to lead us. He always has a word from God, a timely message that speaks to the heart of where we are. I also know that God has lead Ken in a new and very fresh way in the last days in preparation for this revival. We are blessed to have him come and lead us.
In preparation for revival I am praying that the Spirit of God will move mightily in our midst. I pray that there will be no hindrances: from within individuals or in the body of believers. The Spirit works in a ready people.
I am thankful that FBC is not like Corinth was. They were a struggling, quarreling church that needed a lot of healing. We are not that way, but all of us need a fresh touch from the Lord and I know that we can invite many that need a relationship with the Lord. Thinking on those things and praying that nothing can distract or detain us from a wonderful time together 1 Corinthians 1.10 really spoke to me this morning- I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.
Let's let nothing come in the way of God having His Way in us in the coming days.
Thursday, November 7, 2013
Don't Blow Your Top
Today we read Job 31-32 and Galatians 5-6.
Job is going through a catastrophic hard time of which there is little that he understands. He sits in the rubble and the ashes of the life he once knew and has 'friends' that come to guide him through. I say 'friends' because of everyone that comes running to your side in your crisis is not your friend. Some of them are just nosey. Others that come are experts...or, at least, they think so....just ask them.
Elihu is late on the scene in Job's crisis and he has sat back and listened. However, in Job 32.19, he apparently has had enough:
Behold, my belly is like wine that has no vent;
like new wineskins ready to burst.
20 I must speak, that I may find relief;
I must open my lips and answer.
He is so full of something to say...as well as being full of himself...that he is about the blow his top if he doesn't say it. Too many of us get like that too much of the time.
Job is going through a catastrophic hard time of which there is little that he understands. He sits in the rubble and the ashes of the life he once knew and has 'friends' that come to guide him through. I say 'friends' because of everyone that comes running to your side in your crisis is not your friend. Some of them are just nosey. Others that come are experts...or, at least, they think so....just ask them.
Elihu is late on the scene in Job's crisis and he has sat back and listened. However, in Job 32.19, he apparently has had enough:
Behold, my belly is like wine that has no vent;
like new wineskins ready to burst.
20 I must speak, that I may find relief;
I must open my lips and answer.
It is wonderful to be a friend to someone in crisis, but check your motive at the door. You are not there to find out the latest information to share nor simply for your own nosiness. You are also not there to give your expert advice to someone who is going through something that you have never been through. Even if you have been through it, you are not an expert on how other people will cope. We all cope differently. You are there to be a friend, to lend a helping hand, and to be used by God.
Go, when one is in need, but don't blow your top. You may not even need to open your mouth. Be sensitive today to those in need as God gives you opportunity.
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
What Ails You
Today we read Job 30, Psalm 120, and Galatians 3 & 4.
Galatians 4.13-14- You know it wasbecause of a bodily ailment that I preached the gospel to youat first, 14 and though my condition was a trial to you, you did not scorn or despise me, but received me as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus.
Sometimes God does His greatest works in us and through us during our ailments, struggles and difficulties. Let nothing today stop you from being a vessel of the Lord.
He may just be up to something...actually He is....He is up to something...in you!
Have a great day!
Galatians 4.13-14- You know it wasbecause of a bodily ailment that I preached the gospel to youat first, 14 and though my condition was a trial to you, you did not scorn or despise me, but received me as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus.
Sometimes God does His greatest works in us and through us during our ailments, struggles and difficulties. Let nothing today stop you from being a vessel of the Lord.
He may just be up to something...actually He is....He is up to something...in you!
Have a great day!
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
How To Live
Today we read Job 28 & 29 and Galatians 1 & 2.
Dying to self is both a 'one time in life' decision as well as a daily decision. Paul said in Galatians 2.20- I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
The Christian life begins by surrendering your life, your ways, and your wants to the Lord Jesus and asking for his forgiveness and Lordship in your life. It is a one time event. If it is real to start with, there is no need to do it again. However, the surrendering of your ways and the 'dying to self' is also a daily decision. We reap greater benefits in the Christian life when we give up on our ways and follow His.
Don't live for you today, live for HIm. Walk by faith, put yourself second (try to be third), and live for Him.
...And have a great one!
Dying to self is both a 'one time in life' decision as well as a daily decision. Paul said in Galatians 2.20- I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
The Christian life begins by surrendering your life, your ways, and your wants to the Lord Jesus and asking for his forgiveness and Lordship in your life. It is a one time event. If it is real to start with, there is no need to do it again. However, the surrendering of your ways and the 'dying to self' is also a daily decision. We reap greater benefits in the Christian life when we give up on our ways and follow His.
Don't live for you today, live for HIm. Walk by faith, put yourself second (try to be third), and live for Him.
...And have a great one!
Monday, November 4, 2013
Breaking News
Today we read Job 26 & 27 and Mark 15 & 16.
Mark 16.6-7- And he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him.7 But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.”
The tomb is empty. The Savior lives! Live like it today....and, hey, go tell somebody about it.
It is still breaking news!
Mark 16.6-7- And he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him.7 But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.”
The tomb is empty. The Savior lives! Live like it today....and, hey, go tell somebody about it.
It is still breaking news!
Sunday, November 3, 2013
That Sick Realization
Today we read Job 25 and Mark 13 & 14.
Have you ever really messed up and then, almost as soon as you did, you remembered what your mother said...what the teacher had said...what the Lord had said about the matter? That overwhelming sense of guilt and stupidity roll over you. That is what Peter felt after he bluntly denied his association with Christ three times on the night that Jesus was arrested. Notice how quickly he saw the light in Mark 14.72- And immediately the rooster crowed a second time. And Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And he broke down and wept.
May we stay so faithfully close to Christ that we heed His Warnings every morning from His Word before we go about our day denying His Lordship in our lives. When we do mess up, may we break down and wept and repent and change when we realize that we have sinned.
Go...and sin no more...today! Hope to see you worship!
Have you ever really messed up and then, almost as soon as you did, you remembered what your mother said...what the teacher had said...what the Lord had said about the matter? That overwhelming sense of guilt and stupidity roll over you. That is what Peter felt after he bluntly denied his association with Christ three times on the night that Jesus was arrested. Notice how quickly he saw the light in Mark 14.72- And immediately the rooster crowed a second time. And Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And he broke down and wept.
May we stay so faithfully close to Christ that we heed His Warnings every morning from His Word before we go about our day denying His Lordship in our lives. When we do mess up, may we break down and wept and repent and change when we realize that we have sinned.
Go...and sin no more...today! Hope to see you worship!
Saturday, November 2, 2013
To Shine
Today we read Job 23 & 24 and Mark 11 & 12.
In the midst of his struggles, even when he could not sense the presence of the Lord, he still turned to the Lord.
Job 23.8-10- “Behold, I go forward, but he is not there, and backward, but I do not perceive him;
9 on the left hand when he is working, I do not behold him; he turns to the right hand, but I do not see him. But he knows the way that I take; when he has tried me, I shall come out as gold.
What he knew, we need to be reminded of. No matter your circumstance, you are not alone, God is there. Whether you sense His Presence or not, God is there and at work. God's Presence is not based on your feelings, but on His Promises. He is at work in your situation and He is at work in you. He will lead you through and help you shine.
In the midst of his struggles, even when he could not sense the presence of the Lord, he still turned to the Lord.
Job 23.8-10- “Behold, I go forward, but he is not there, and backward, but I do not perceive him;
9 on the left hand when he is working, I do not behold him; he turns to the right hand, but I do not see him. But he knows the way that I take; when he has tried me, I shall come out as gold.
Look to Him today!
Friday, November 1, 2013
The Faith I Have
Today we read Psalm 121 and Mark 9-10.
Mark 9.24- Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!”
Aren't you glad this morning that we don't have to have perfect faith for God to work in us?
We just have to take the faith we have and lay it before the Lord.
Give Him all you got today and watch your faith grow in response!
Mark 9.24- Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!”
Aren't you glad this morning that we don't have to have perfect faith for God to work in us?
We just have to take the faith we have and lay it before the Lord.
Give Him all you got today and watch your faith grow in response!
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