About a month or two ago, we did a devo on "the year of the Lord's favour", and Rick asked a number of pretty deep questions about "the day of vengeance". I'd like to focus a little bit on that this week.
Jesus tells the disciples when He is leaving them that He will return, and bring His family (the church) home to heaven with Him. He has prepared a place for those who believe in Him, so when the end of the world comes, we won't meet our end.
verse 9
- the reason that God doesn't just take us all now is because He is patient and merciful. He would rather not have anyone be destroyed, that's why He offers us all every opportunity to change and accept Him.
- as His agents on earth; we are called to be about His business. We are to make Him known to people who don't know Him, giving them every opportunity to turn to Him and have life... God uses us to snatch others out of the fire.
verses 13-15a
- God's patience leads to salvation, ours and others'. Although He is the one who saves us, it takes a conscious decision and choice on our part to be at peace with Him.
verses 17-18
- God has made us safe and secure in Him, but we can fall from safety, so we need to be careful to guard ourselves by growing in Gid's grace and the knowledge of Him.
Saturday, September 24, 2005
This Post Is Probably Out of Order
Hey guys, this devo I have seperate from my others, so it's not in order, I'm just gonna put it here.
"Raised in Harlem" - Jesus raises Jairus' daughter from the dead and heals a sick woman.
(the title comes from the scene in the DVD we watched, HERO, where Jesus [Michael Tait] raises Jairus' [T-Bone] daughter from the dead)
text found in Matthew 9:18-26, Mark 5:22-43, and Luke 8:41-56
- equality of the high and lowly
- equality of the religious and the outcast
- the woman had been bleeding for as long as the child had been alive
- it was in God's plan to heal the woman and raise the girl, even 12 years earlier, when Jesus was most likely still working as a carpenter with Joseph
- both miracles involved faith
- Jairus and the sick woman were both desperate
- Jesus healed both, though medical science could do nothing
- friends saw a hopeless situation, they laughed at Jesus, but He saw the finished product, He saw her living again...
- do we laugh at Jesus?
- are we desperate for Jesus to bring life?
- do we have faith that God can do what seems impossible?
*Jesus works right on time, even if it seems 12 years late (the woman) or 12 minutes late (Jairus). He knows His plans, we don't.
- do we get impatient when God doesn't do what we want when we want it?
"Raised in Harlem" - Jesus raises Jairus' daughter from the dead and heals a sick woman.
(the title comes from the scene in the DVD we watched, HERO, where Jesus [Michael Tait] raises Jairus' [T-Bone] daughter from the dead)
text found in Matthew 9:18-26, Mark 5:22-43, and Luke 8:41-56
- equality of the high and lowly
- equality of the religious and the outcast
- the woman had been bleeding for as long as the child had been alive
- it was in God's plan to heal the woman and raise the girl, even 12 years earlier, when Jesus was most likely still working as a carpenter with Joseph
- both miracles involved faith
- Jairus and the sick woman were both desperate
- Jesus healed both, though medical science could do nothing
- friends saw a hopeless situation, they laughed at Jesus, but He saw the finished product, He saw her living again...
- do we laugh at Jesus?
- are we desperate for Jesus to bring life?
- do we have faith that God can do what seems impossible?
*Jesus works right on time, even if it seems 12 years late (the woman) or 12 minutes late (Jairus). He knows His plans, we don't.
- do we get impatient when God doesn't do what we want when we want it?
Psalm 23 Devo
In a way, we're all like sheep, and this psalm draws some parallels to our lives and those of a flock of sheep...
verses 1-3a
Like the shepherd does for his sheep, God makes sure that all of our needs are met. He knows where to take us so that we can grow and are strengthened. Sometimes we like to stay in one spot because we're used to it, but He knows that before long all the grass will be eaten up, so He wants us to keep moving, following Him.
verse 3b
The point of living a righteous life is not to show off how good we are, but to glorify God. If we follow His leading, we'll know which paths to take.
verse 4
No matter how difficult or dangerous our circumstances, God is there to protect us. We can take comfort in the fact that He is well able to take care of us.
verse 5
God will pour out His blessing on us to such an extent that even those who hate us will have to acknowledge that we are blessed, it will be evident to all.
verse 6
As we stay in Him, His goodness and love will fill our lives, and we'll be able to have an ongoing relationship with God Himself.
verses 1-3a
Like the shepherd does for his sheep, God makes sure that all of our needs are met. He knows where to take us so that we can grow and are strengthened. Sometimes we like to stay in one spot because we're used to it, but He knows that before long all the grass will be eaten up, so He wants us to keep moving, following Him.
verse 3b
The point of living a righteous life is not to show off how good we are, but to glorify God. If we follow His leading, we'll know which paths to take.
verse 4
No matter how difficult or dangerous our circumstances, God is there to protect us. We can take comfort in the fact that He is well able to take care of us.
verse 5
God will pour out His blessing on us to such an extent that even those who hate us will have to acknowledge that we are blessed, it will be evident to all.
verse 6
As we stay in Him, His goodness and love will fill our lives, and we'll be able to have an ongoing relationship with God Himself.
First Post In 2.5 Months
Yes, I'm back, and I've got a whole bunch of devo posts to do, so bear with me. I hope to get a whole lot done in a fairly short period of time, so lots of reading material for everyone (and lots of blogwork for me, yay!)... rather than skip to the next post, I'll start my first of the devos on this post, so without too much further ado...
Obeying God, Whatever the Cost - Daniel 6
(start by reading Daniel 6:1-4)
Daniel had it pretty good at this point in his life. He had the blessing of God, and the favour of the king. He had power and influence, and his enemies couldn't dig up any dirt on him. But then, some difficult circumstances came around which forced Daniel to make a choice.
(read Daniel 6:5-9)
Now right here Daniel could have done three things:
*stopped praying to God for a month (...after all, it's only a month, God will understand, He's concerned for my safety)
*continued praying, but in secret (...they can't catch me if they can't see me, it's not that I'm really ashamed of God)
*continued praying openly for all to see (no compromise)
(read Daniel 6:10)
This is where it really gets interesting. The king tries to save Daniel but is unable. Finally, even he realizes that only God has the power to save Daniel now.
(read Daniel 6:11-20)
Now we see how God comes through when Daniel needs Him the most, and Daniel is able to talk to the king about God.
(read Daniel 6:21-28)
We need to follow Daniel's example, obey God no matter what, and trust that He is able to take care of us.
More posts to follow shortly...
Obeying God, Whatever the Cost - Daniel 6
(start by reading Daniel 6:1-4)
Daniel had it pretty good at this point in his life. He had the blessing of God, and the favour of the king. He had power and influence, and his enemies couldn't dig up any dirt on him. But then, some difficult circumstances came around which forced Daniel to make a choice.
(read Daniel 6:5-9)
Now right here Daniel could have done three things:
*stopped praying to God for a month (...after all, it's only a month, God will understand, He's concerned for my safety)
*continued praying, but in secret (...they can't catch me if they can't see me, it's not that I'm really ashamed of God)
*continued praying openly for all to see (no compromise)
(read Daniel 6:10)
This is where it really gets interesting. The king tries to save Daniel but is unable. Finally, even he realizes that only God has the power to save Daniel now.
(read Daniel 6:11-20)
Now we see how God comes through when Daniel needs Him the most, and Daniel is able to talk to the king about God.
(read Daniel 6:21-28)
We need to follow Daniel's example, obey God no matter what, and trust that He is able to take care of us.
More posts to follow shortly...
Saturday, July 02, 2005
Oh Canada
Welcome to Canada... the land created under the laws and for the glory of God... "He shall have dominion from sea to sea, and from the River to the ends of the earth."... what a perfect geographic description of the Dominion of Canada, created 138 years ago by people who actually believed that those words meant something. As our national anthem states:
Oh Canada, our home and native land
True patriot love in all thy sons command
With glowing hearts we see thee rise
The true north strong and free
From far and wide, oh Canada
We stand on guard for thee
God keep our land glorious and free
Oh Canada, we stand on guard for thee
Oh Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
Who is standing on guard for our country now? Canada is neither strong or free. It is falling to new depths, its glory fading, its past forgotten, its God systematically eliminated from all relevance in day to day life. Where are the sons and daughters of Canada? Those who will stand on guard for her, those who will rise up against injustice and oppression, stand for the morals that created such a glorious nation, those who will refuse to stand by and do nothing? Where is Canada's future? What is her new legacy? Slaughtering children, legalizing harmful substances, and unnatural sexual relations? Are those the issues of today? According to those in power, they are really non-issues. They will fight against morality under the banners of "decriminalizing marijuana", "gay pride" and "pro-choice". Are they the sons and daughters who guard our beloved nation so well? God keep out land glorious and free? May God have mercy on our souls! I love this country, but I don't love what's being done to it.
Here's a random comparison for you: say you have a pair of shoes. When they're new, they look all clean and nice... but as they get older, they start to get dirty and smell... if you want those shoes to be clean and nice again, do you...
a) actually clean them up, or
b) poop all over them, wipe it in with your hands, and then pee on them for good measure, all the while calling it "cleaning them up"?
That's what I thought. So stop pooping all over Canada people. It could be really awesome if we actually cleaned it up. 'Nuff said.
Oh Canada, our home and native land
True patriot love in all thy sons command
With glowing hearts we see thee rise
The true north strong and free
From far and wide, oh Canada
We stand on guard for thee
God keep our land glorious and free
Oh Canada, we stand on guard for thee
Oh Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
Who is standing on guard for our country now? Canada is neither strong or free. It is falling to new depths, its glory fading, its past forgotten, its God systematically eliminated from all relevance in day to day life. Where are the sons and daughters of Canada? Those who will stand on guard for her, those who will rise up against injustice and oppression, stand for the morals that created such a glorious nation, those who will refuse to stand by and do nothing? Where is Canada's future? What is her new legacy? Slaughtering children, legalizing harmful substances, and unnatural sexual relations? Are those the issues of today? According to those in power, they are really non-issues. They will fight against morality under the banners of "decriminalizing marijuana", "gay pride" and "pro-choice". Are they the sons and daughters who guard our beloved nation so well? God keep out land glorious and free? May God have mercy on our souls! I love this country, but I don't love what's being done to it.
Here's a random comparison for you: say you have a pair of shoes. When they're new, they look all clean and nice... but as they get older, they start to get dirty and smell... if you want those shoes to be clean and nice again, do you...
a) actually clean them up, or
b) poop all over them, wipe it in with your hands, and then pee on them for good measure, all the while calling it "cleaning them up"?
That's what I thought. So stop pooping all over Canada people. It could be really awesome if we actually cleaned it up. 'Nuff said.
Saturday, June 11, 2005
First Non-Devo Post in a While
I think it's time for another poem on the blog, and since I have a few minutes, I'll take the time to create a blog-only poem... maybe I'll write it down later, we'll see. Usually my poems reflect how I'm feeling or what I'm thinking about at a given time, so this'll probably be one of those kind too.
My Enemy
You know me so well, you rule my mind,
You say you'll protect me, but you are unkind.
You hurt me and then... you hurt me again,
You get me so stressed out I need to unwind.
Your morals I question, I think they are lax,
It's so hard to fend off all of your attacks.
You treat me like dirt, and when I am hurt,
You won't let me go cuz you're there on my back.
My ego you boost, then rip it away,
I'm built up and torn down by all that you say.
You say I'm a star, that I will go far,
Then beat up on me like you did yesterday.
You take all the glory, you leave me the blame,
You think that this all is just some sort of game.
I try and I fail, and yet you prevail,
And leave me there sitting alone in my shame.
But now I will stop, and begin to see,
Just what is behind this, your identity.
I was such a fool, you made me your tool,
I should have known all along that you were me.
My Enemy
You know me so well, you rule my mind,
You say you'll protect me, but you are unkind.
You hurt me and then... you hurt me again,
You get me so stressed out I need to unwind.
Your morals I question, I think they are lax,
It's so hard to fend off all of your attacks.
You treat me like dirt, and when I am hurt,
You won't let me go cuz you're there on my back.
My ego you boost, then rip it away,
I'm built up and torn down by all that you say.
You say I'm a star, that I will go far,
Then beat up on me like you did yesterday.
You take all the glory, you leave me the blame,
You think that this all is just some sort of game.
I try and I fail, and yet you prevail,
And leave me there sitting alone in my shame.
But now I will stop, and begin to see,
Just what is behind this, your identity.
I was such a fool, you made me your tool,
I should have known all along that you were me.
Be All That You Can Be - 2 Timothy 2:3-5
Finally, I'm catching up on my posts, this was yesterday's devo... it was shorter because we had a RISK game last night, and we also had to discuss some events which are coming up at the drop-in in the coming months... hopefully more about those later.
"For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (fear), but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." - 2 Timothy 1:7
(Read 2 Timothy 2:3-5)
Living for God is not a part-time thing, it's a lifestyle, it's who you are, like in sports, or the army:
Join the army... see the world... go to strange and exotic places... meet new and interesting people... and kill them.
Just kidding, I just thought that was a humorous take on an army slogan, but it is a commitment that you don't back out on, just like your Christian life has to be. Anything that pulls you away or holds you back and is counterproductive to your Christian life has to go. Concentrate on the things of God, focus on growing in your Christian walk, become all that you can. God wants to help you to reach your potential. He wants you to be all that you can be.
"For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (fear), but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." - 2 Timothy 1:7
(Read 2 Timothy 2:3-5)
Living for God is not a part-time thing, it's a lifestyle, it's who you are, like in sports, or the army:
Join the army... see the world... go to strange and exotic places... meet new and interesting people... and kill them.
Just kidding, I just thought that was a humorous take on an army slogan, but it is a commitment that you don't back out on, just like your Christian life has to be. Anything that pulls you away or holds you back and is counterproductive to your Christian life has to go. Concentrate on the things of God, focus on growing in your Christian walk, become all that you can. God wants to help you to reach your potential. He wants you to be all that you can be.
The Year of the Lord's Favour - Luke 4:14-21, Isaiah 61:1-3
- This story took place very shortly after Jesus received the Holy Spirit.
- One of the first things He does is announce Himself. This is probably one of the most blatant ways Jesus pointed to Himself being the Christ, the Jews listening understood the passage He read to be prophetic, about the Christ, and He claimed to fulfill it.
- When we receive the Holy Spirit from God, this becomes our mission, and our call. Whatever else we do, we have to:
Preach good news to the poor.
- show them the good news by taking care of them
Proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind.
- these go hand in hand, those who are prisoners to their flesh are often blind to the things of the Spirit
Release the oppressed.
- not only not oppressing others, but actively releasing them... whether the oppression be physical, mental, spiritual or whatever
Proclaim the year of the Lord's favour.
- when we live by the Spirit, we have the favour of God on our lives, He wants to show favour on everyone, and it's our job to let them know.
P.S. - Rick and I had a pretty good discussion going on after the devo about the continuation of the passage in Isaiah, about the "Day of Vengeance"...I encourage people to read the rest of the passage, and just want to say that for those of us who are Christians, the Day of Vengeance is not something to be afraid of... but it should spur us to action, to want to let friends, family and everyone know about Jesus while it's still the Year of Favour.
- One of the first things He does is announce Himself. This is probably one of the most blatant ways Jesus pointed to Himself being the Christ, the Jews listening understood the passage He read to be prophetic, about the Christ, and He claimed to fulfill it.
- When we receive the Holy Spirit from God, this becomes our mission, and our call. Whatever else we do, we have to:
Preach good news to the poor.
- show them the good news by taking care of them
Proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind.
- these go hand in hand, those who are prisoners to their flesh are often blind to the things of the Spirit
Release the oppressed.
- not only not oppressing others, but actively releasing them... whether the oppression be physical, mental, spiritual or whatever
Proclaim the year of the Lord's favour.
- when we live by the Spirit, we have the favour of God on our lives, He wants to show favour on everyone, and it's our job to let them know.
P.S. - Rick and I had a pretty good discussion going on after the devo about the continuation of the passage in Isaiah, about the "Day of Vengeance"...I encourage people to read the rest of the passage, and just want to say that for those of us who are Christians, the Day of Vengeance is not something to be afraid of... but it should spur us to action, to want to let friends, family and everyone know about Jesus while it's still the Year of Favour.
The Prayer of the Tax Collector - Luke 18:9-14
It's obvious that the Pharisee in this story was a "better person", but the tax collector was the one who was justified. Any idea what the difference was, what made God listen to the tax collector rather than the Pharisee? What did the tax collector do right?
1. The tax collector was humble.
- he knew that he wasn't so great, and God is
- he wouldn't even look up, he didn't feel worthy to look in God's direction
- he stood at a distance - this reflected how close he felt to God
2. The tax collector was sincere.
- he acknowledged his sin
- he spoke to God straight-up, no angles
- he asked for the mercy he knew he needed
What did the Pharisee do wrong?
1. The Pharisee was proud.
- he thought a lot of himself, forgot God's greatness
- he stood up close, not to be close to God, but to be the centre of attention
- he boasted about how much better he was than everyone else
*In the grand scheme of things, God doesn't measure us up against other people, but against perfection. None of us can stand up to that comparison, which is why we need His mercy and grace. Through Jesus, He makes us able to stand up to the measuring stick of perfection.
2. The Pharisee was insincere.
- he prayed so others would hear, he wasn't really interested in whether or not God heard
- he compared himself to the worst of humanity to make himself look better
- he didn't acknowledge his need for God's mercy, in fact, the only time he acknowledge God at all was as a name at the beginning of his prayer
*almost like putting "Once upon a time..." at the beginning of a fairy tale... it meant about as much to him
We need to be like the tax collector rather than the Pharisee in our dealings with God.
1. The tax collector was humble.
- he knew that he wasn't so great, and God is
- he wouldn't even look up, he didn't feel worthy to look in God's direction
- he stood at a distance - this reflected how close he felt to God
2. The tax collector was sincere.
- he acknowledged his sin
- he spoke to God straight-up, no angles
- he asked for the mercy he knew he needed
What did the Pharisee do wrong?
1. The Pharisee was proud.
- he thought a lot of himself, forgot God's greatness
- he stood up close, not to be close to God, but to be the centre of attention
- he boasted about how much better he was than everyone else
*In the grand scheme of things, God doesn't measure us up against other people, but against perfection. None of us can stand up to that comparison, which is why we need His mercy and grace. Through Jesus, He makes us able to stand up to the measuring stick of perfection.
2. The Pharisee was insincere.
- he prayed so others would hear, he wasn't really interested in whether or not God heard
- he compared himself to the worst of humanity to make himself look better
- he didn't acknowledge his need for God's mercy, in fact, the only time he acknowledge God at all was as a name at the beginning of his prayer
*almost like putting "Once upon a time..." at the beginning of a fairy tale... it meant about as much to him
We need to be like the tax collector rather than the Pharisee in our dealings with God.
Jesus and Peter Walk on Water - Matthew 14:22-33
Let's set the stage. We've got a group of guys here who have personally seen Jesus' miracles, and heard His teachings and believed in Him. In fact, they've just finished participating in a huge outdoor all-you-can-eat dinner, where Jesus provided food for likely close to 20,000 people (5000 men plus women and children, could've been more, could've been less). After seeing this miracle, Jesus sends them off so He can be by Himself. If I'm on that boat, I'm thinking, "Jesus knows what He's doing. We should be safe going where He told us to go, and doing what He told us to do." Then, all of a sudden, a wind comes up against the boat, and the waves start rocking it harder and harder, and it's all the disciples can do to make any headway at all.
- life can be pretty tough even when we're doing what God says
Imagine you're fighting the waves for control of the boat, when all of a sudden you look back and catch the moonlight reflecting off something on the water, and it looks like it's heading towards you. All the ghost and monster stories you heard as a kid come rushing back into your mind. You can make out the figure of a man. Someone whispers the word 'ghost' and slowly the other guys huddle towards the front. You quickly join them, abandoning the boat to the waves, a couple of the more superstitious guys let out muffled screams...
That's when you hear the most comforting thing you've ever heard. Jesus' voice booms out to you over the storm: "Hey guys! Don't be afraid, it's just me, Jesus! You've got nothing to worry about!"
- often we let our minds wander, we fear things we don't understand, we don't see the obvious because our circumstances cloud our judgement.
Now we get to where Peter walks on water... well, sort of. After all, he took His focus off Jesus and would have sunk if Jesus hadn't saved him. Sometimes we think that makes the other disciples look better, but where was their faith? Did any of them take even one step on the water? NO. Peter's decision to take a risk and step out was a good one, and one we need to follow. And the fact that he fell is an encouragement for us, when the inevitable fall comes, Jesus is faithful to pick us back up and keep us safe.
I'd like to focus on Jesus' words in verse 31, because I don't think it's quite the heavy rebuke we expect... I think it's a commendation, and a push to go farther:
Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"
In Luke 17:6, Jesus says, "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it will obey you."
I think Jesus is saying, "You were doing good, you had a little faith... why did you let doubt take that away from you?"
We need to have a little faith to begin with, and then let that grow.
- life can be pretty tough even when we're doing what God says
Imagine you're fighting the waves for control of the boat, when all of a sudden you look back and catch the moonlight reflecting off something on the water, and it looks like it's heading towards you. All the ghost and monster stories you heard as a kid come rushing back into your mind. You can make out the figure of a man. Someone whispers the word 'ghost' and slowly the other guys huddle towards the front. You quickly join them, abandoning the boat to the waves, a couple of the more superstitious guys let out muffled screams...
That's when you hear the most comforting thing you've ever heard. Jesus' voice booms out to you over the storm: "Hey guys! Don't be afraid, it's just me, Jesus! You've got nothing to worry about!"
- often we let our minds wander, we fear things we don't understand, we don't see the obvious because our circumstances cloud our judgement.
Now we get to where Peter walks on water... well, sort of. After all, he took His focus off Jesus and would have sunk if Jesus hadn't saved him. Sometimes we think that makes the other disciples look better, but where was their faith? Did any of them take even one step on the water? NO. Peter's decision to take a risk and step out was a good one, and one we need to follow. And the fact that he fell is an encouragement for us, when the inevitable fall comes, Jesus is faithful to pick us back up and keep us safe.
I'd like to focus on Jesus' words in verse 31, because I don't think it's quite the heavy rebuke we expect... I think it's a commendation, and a push to go farther:
Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"
In Luke 17:6, Jesus says, "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it will obey you."
I think Jesus is saying, "You were doing good, you had a little faith... why did you let doubt take that away from you?"
We need to have a little faith to begin with, and then let that grow.
Catholic vs. Protestant: Fighting the Wrong War - Romans 14, 1 Cor. 12
Hey everybody, I'm finally back and posting after a long dry spell (busy, oh so busy)... here's the first of a bunch of forthcoming:
Let me start by saying I happen to be a Pentecostal Protestant. The logistics of that is for another time, but suffice it to say that I have seen God's power at work in the Protestant churches I have been a part of, and I could probably find a bunch of Bible verses that I could use to support my position when in a conversation/discussion/debate/argument with a Catholic. BUT that's not what this is.
I've grown up all my life believing that anyone who believes in Jesus and accepts Him into their life will be saved, regardless of denomination. All Christians are brothers (and sisters). Though I am a Protestant, I do not exclude Catholics and from what I hear, the Catholic Church doesn't exclude other Christians either, but welcomes them as family. All the same, I've had some pretty heated discussions and, though some were helpful and informative, many degenerated into a Catholic- and Protestant-bashing session.
Let's look at a few verses of Scripture, and apply them to how we should really be treating each other as God's family:
(read Romans 14)
- We need to put ourselves in the shoes of both the weaker and stronger brothers. Sometimes our faith is strong in one area, while in others it's weak. In both cases, don't condemn or look down on other Christians. God will help them to stand, just as He helps you.
- We need to do our best not to cause others to stumble... for example, you may think a certain movie is OK but your friend thinks it's wrong... DON'T go see it with them (or describe it to them in detail afterwards). It's not as important whether you eat, drink, watch or do whatever you want to, as it is to care about about someone's spiritual health. This applies, for example, if a non-Catholic Christian goes to a Catholic church and they feel it's OK for them to take the Eucharist (Communion), but the Catholics there would be distressed and see something wrong with it... don't do it. Whatever your personal convictions, you're not acting in love if you do.
(read 1 Cor. 12:12-27)
- Protestants and Catholics alike are members of the Body of Christ. Just because we play different parts in the body doesn't mean we aren't both necessary. Let's use an example:
Say you're a nose. Just a regular, ordinary nose, going about its business. Oh yeah, and you're on the face of a guy with glasses. One day, you get tired of holding up the glasses, doing all the work just so your weaker brothers, the eyes, can have an easier time of it. Somehow you throw off the glasses, and you feel pretty good, thinking, "Now those stupid eyes will have to do their share of the work!" What happens next? While the eyes are straining to adjust, the guy walks right into a brick wall... NOSE FIRST! What seemed like a burden was really working for your protection.
Though we don't understand all the parts in play, God does. If we're united in Him, we'll stand, regardless of denomination... if not, we'll all fall.
P.S. - Greg, if you'd like to post your thoughts from a Catholic perspective, that would be great. I appreciated you coming to the drop-in to help with this one so it didn't become an anti-Catholic slugfest.
Let me start by saying I happen to be a Pentecostal Protestant. The logistics of that is for another time, but suffice it to say that I have seen God's power at work in the Protestant churches I have been a part of, and I could probably find a bunch of Bible verses that I could use to support my position when in a conversation/discussion/debate/argument with a Catholic. BUT that's not what this is.
I've grown up all my life believing that anyone who believes in Jesus and accepts Him into their life will be saved, regardless of denomination. All Christians are brothers (and sisters). Though I am a Protestant, I do not exclude Catholics and from what I hear, the Catholic Church doesn't exclude other Christians either, but welcomes them as family. All the same, I've had some pretty heated discussions and, though some were helpful and informative, many degenerated into a Catholic- and Protestant-bashing session.
Let's look at a few verses of Scripture, and apply them to how we should really be treating each other as God's family:
(read Romans 14)
- We need to put ourselves in the shoes of both the weaker and stronger brothers. Sometimes our faith is strong in one area, while in others it's weak. In both cases, don't condemn or look down on other Christians. God will help them to stand, just as He helps you.
- We need to do our best not to cause others to stumble... for example, you may think a certain movie is OK but your friend thinks it's wrong... DON'T go see it with them (or describe it to them in detail afterwards). It's not as important whether you eat, drink, watch or do whatever you want to, as it is to care about about someone's spiritual health. This applies, for example, if a non-Catholic Christian goes to a Catholic church and they feel it's OK for them to take the Eucharist (Communion), but the Catholics there would be distressed and see something wrong with it... don't do it. Whatever your personal convictions, you're not acting in love if you do.
(read 1 Cor. 12:12-27)
- Protestants and Catholics alike are members of the Body of Christ. Just because we play different parts in the body doesn't mean we aren't both necessary. Let's use an example:
Say you're a nose. Just a regular, ordinary nose, going about its business. Oh yeah, and you're on the face of a guy with glasses. One day, you get tired of holding up the glasses, doing all the work just so your weaker brothers, the eyes, can have an easier time of it. Somehow you throw off the glasses, and you feel pretty good, thinking, "Now those stupid eyes will have to do their share of the work!" What happens next? While the eyes are straining to adjust, the guy walks right into a brick wall... NOSE FIRST! What seemed like a burden was really working for your protection.
Though we don't understand all the parts in play, God does. If we're united in Him, we'll stand, regardless of denomination... if not, we'll all fall.
P.S. - Greg, if you'd like to post your thoughts from a Catholic perspective, that would be great. I appreciated you coming to the drop-in to help with this one so it didn't become an anti-Catholic slugfest.
Monday, April 11, 2005
Devo - Wisdom: 1 Corinthians 1 & 2
The idea of Jesus dying a bloody death on the cross seems foolish. Why would anyone die for something they didn't do? Why would God Himself suffer and die, just to restore a relationship with His creation? Where is the power in weakness? Where's the wisdom in any of it?
But that's exactly what He did... (read 1:18-25)
God is so much wiser than us, that even His so-called "foolishness" is above our wisdom, His "weakness" above our strength. Jesus' death was an act of wisdom, He knew it was the only way we could be in a relationship with Him; and He did what had to be done, an act of strength. He even showed power over death by rising from the dead, turning weakness into strength, foolishness into wisdom.
Now He calls us to do the same thing, to choose God's foolishness over man's wisdom... (read 1:26-31)
He turns conventional wisdom on its head, choosing the weak, foolish and lowly to His kingdom. He shows up man's strength, wisdom and honour for the sham that it is in comparison to His.
When we know we are foolish, we acknowledge Him as wise that much easier, and when we do that, He can place His wisdom in us... (read 2:6-16)
God's wisdom has been hidden from mankind because we couldn't understand it... "BUT GOD HAS REVEALED IT TO US BY HIS SPIRIT."
The Bible says that when we acknowledge who Jesus is and what He's done for us, and choose to turn from our wisdom and choose His, we receive the Holy Spirit... (read Acts 2:36-39)
That's the same Spirit who knows the thoughts of God! We can know God's plans for us, and what He's given us, because His Spirit in us can show us His wisdom. We can be a part of the wisdom and strength of God.
We can have the mind of Christ! We can have true wisdom!
But that's exactly what He did... (read 1:18-25)
God is so much wiser than us, that even His so-called "foolishness" is above our wisdom, His "weakness" above our strength. Jesus' death was an act of wisdom, He knew it was the only way we could be in a relationship with Him; and He did what had to be done, an act of strength. He even showed power over death by rising from the dead, turning weakness into strength, foolishness into wisdom.
Now He calls us to do the same thing, to choose God's foolishness over man's wisdom... (read 1:26-31)
He turns conventional wisdom on its head, choosing the weak, foolish and lowly to His kingdom. He shows up man's strength, wisdom and honour for the sham that it is in comparison to His.
When we know we are foolish, we acknowledge Him as wise that much easier, and when we do that, He can place His wisdom in us... (read 2:6-16)
God's wisdom has been hidden from mankind because we couldn't understand it... "BUT GOD HAS REVEALED IT TO US BY HIS SPIRIT."
The Bible says that when we acknowledge who Jesus is and what He's done for us, and choose to turn from our wisdom and choose His, we receive the Holy Spirit... (read Acts 2:36-39)
That's the same Spirit who knows the thoughts of God! We can know God's plans for us, and what He's given us, because His Spirit in us can show us His wisdom. We can be a part of the wisdom and strength of God.
We can have the mind of Christ! We can have true wisdom!
Wednesday, April 06, 2005
A Poem I Wrote For Myself
Turn away from the little things
That bring you down and turn and sing
A song of praise unto your God
And never mind if you look odd
Cause when you know you've met the One
Who saved your soul, you'll start to run
Away from things that block your goal
To be made new, to be made whole
You'll focus on your God instead
Of small distractions in your head
No matter what happens to you,
His love will stay, His love is true.
He never wavers, never fades,
So give Him some more accolades,
Worship Him only, He's the One
Who forgives everything you've done,
He comes into your heart to stay,
And He takes all your sins away.
He takes your hurt, He takes your pain,
And makes you happy once again.
That bring you down and turn and sing
A song of praise unto your God
And never mind if you look odd
Cause when you know you've met the One
Who saved your soul, you'll start to run
Away from things that block your goal
To be made new, to be made whole
You'll focus on your God instead
Of small distractions in your head
No matter what happens to you,
His love will stay, His love is true.
He never wavers, never fades,
So give Him some more accolades,
Worship Him only, He's the One
Who forgives everything you've done,
He comes into your heart to stay,
And He takes all your sins away.
He takes your hurt, He takes your pain,
And makes you happy once again.
This Poem Is Kind of the Odd One Out...
...in that it makes you think about a serious topic in a much sillier way than the others. Hopefully makes you think anyway.... here goes:
Salvation, why not now?
You could get hit tomorrow by a snowplow.
Or you could get sat on by a 2-ton cow
If your heart is right with Jesus you won't stay down.
You'll get to go to heaven and be with the Lord
And in a million years you'll never be bored,
Because you'll always be in the centre of His love
Praising forever the one seated above.
You'll finally be able to see his face...
And it's a lot better than the other place.
So make your decision now, before it's too late
At least if you want to decide your own fate.
Forever with God, or forever away?
The choice is pretty obvious, wouldn't you say?
Salvation, why not now?
You could get hit tomorrow by a snowplow.
Or you could get sat on by a 2-ton cow
If your heart is right with Jesus you won't stay down.
You'll get to go to heaven and be with the Lord
And in a million years you'll never be bored,
Because you'll always be in the centre of His love
Praising forever the one seated above.
You'll finally be able to see his face...
And it's a lot better than the other place.
So make your decision now, before it's too late
At least if you want to decide your own fate.
Forever with God, or forever away?
The choice is pretty obvious, wouldn't you say?
The Opposite of Love
Some people think hate is the opposite of love,
But I'm not so sure I agree,
After looking inside I have come to conclude
The opposite of love has been me.
I've been impatient and I've been unkind,
I've been envious, boastful and proud.
I've been rude and self-seeking, and easily angered,
And in love that's just not allowed.
Of wrongs done to me I've kept a record,
I've not always rejoiced with the truth.
I've protected and trusted, hoped and persevered,
But not always, as love's known to do.
I could speak in the language of angels,
With faith, give a mountain a shove,
Have wisdom and knowledge surpassing all men,
But it would all be in vain without love.
God is love, and love never fails,
Though knowledge and prophecy cease.
When perfection comes, the imperfect disappears,
So I pray that my love would increase.
But I'm not so sure I agree,
After looking inside I have come to conclude
The opposite of love has been me.
I've been impatient and I've been unkind,
I've been envious, boastful and proud.
I've been rude and self-seeking, and easily angered,
And in love that's just not allowed.
Of wrongs done to me I've kept a record,
I've not always rejoiced with the truth.
I've protected and trusted, hoped and persevered,
But not always, as love's known to do.
I could speak in the language of angels,
With faith, give a mountain a shove,
Have wisdom and knowledge surpassing all men,
But it would all be in vain without love.
God is love, and love never fails,
Though knowledge and prophecy cease.
When perfection comes, the imperfect disappears,
So I pray that my love would increase.
Monday, April 04, 2005
The Reunion
When times are difficult to bear
And hope gives way to endless fear,
We hate the burden that we wear
And dread the thought of one more tear.
We understand that there is more,
And yet we still settle for less,
We know we're weak, lowly and poor
We long for love's tender caress.
What's left to do when all is done?
And where at last can someone turn
Who did it all in the name of fun,
And still bears scars from every burn?
From far away, we hear the cry,
Come back to me, my child, come back,
Stop trading the truth for a lie,
You know my love is what you lack.
From over the ruins of a life,
The pounding footsteps fill the air,
Breaking through turmoil and strife
With flying robes and windblown hair...
The father comes, arms open wide
As tears flow down his shirt and vest
He takes one final running stride,
And hugs the child to his chest.
You came, you came at last, he cries
The streets all echo with the sound
He acts as if he'd won a prize
This child was lost, but now is found.
Once more the father speaks out loud
He says, it is finished, it's done.
Your past may not have made you proud,
But your future has just begun.
And hope gives way to endless fear,
We hate the burden that we wear
And dread the thought of one more tear.
We understand that there is more,
And yet we still settle for less,
We know we're weak, lowly and poor
We long for love's tender caress.
What's left to do when all is done?
And where at last can someone turn
Who did it all in the name of fun,
And still bears scars from every burn?
From far away, we hear the cry,
Come back to me, my child, come back,
Stop trading the truth for a lie,
You know my love is what you lack.
From over the ruins of a life,
The pounding footsteps fill the air,
Breaking through turmoil and strife
With flying robes and windblown hair...
The father comes, arms open wide
As tears flow down his shirt and vest
He takes one final running stride,
And hugs the child to his chest.
You came, you came at last, he cries
The streets all echo with the sound
He acts as if he'd won a prize
This child was lost, but now is found.
Once more the father speaks out loud
He says, it is finished, it's done.
Your past may not have made you proud,
But your future has just begun.
Destined For Grayness
Always settle for second best
Take what you've got, forget the rest
No pressure, you can't get stressed
When you're destined for grayness
No difference between black and white
Who cares what's wrong, who cares what's right
Don't run the race, don't fight the fight
When you're destined for grayness
Never let your boat be tossed
And never reach out to the lost
Don't pay the price, don't count the cost
When you're destined for grayness
No apple of the Saviour's eye
No reason Jesus had to die
For a good old sinner such as I
When I'm destined for grayness
Now Jesus died to set us free
From sin and mediocrity
No grayness now for you and me
'Cause we're destined for greatness.
Take what you've got, forget the rest
No pressure, you can't get stressed
When you're destined for grayness
No difference between black and white
Who cares what's wrong, who cares what's right
Don't run the race, don't fight the fight
When you're destined for grayness
Never let your boat be tossed
And never reach out to the lost
Don't pay the price, don't count the cost
When you're destined for grayness
No apple of the Saviour's eye
No reason Jesus had to die
For a good old sinner such as I
When I'm destined for grayness
Now Jesus died to set us free
From sin and mediocrity
No grayness now for you and me
'Cause we're destined for greatness.
Devo - Faith: Hebrews 11-12
11:6 - "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."
What is faith, and what are some ways we can apply it to our lives in order to please God?
11:1 - "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."
11:3 - faith in God as Creator
11:13-16 - faith in a future in heaven when our lives on earth end
- our home, our citizenship is in heaven
- if you feel like you don't belong here, it's probably because you don't
- you belong in heaven, your home
11:24-27 (Moses' story) - follow Moses' example: he chose to be who God created him to be, and despite missing out on temporary enjoyment, he focussed on his eternal reward
- "he persevered because he saw him who is invisible.
11:33-40 - all these things were accomplished through faith
- weakness was turned to strength
- dead were brought to life
- kingdoms were conquered
* - many suffered terrible persecution, torture and death, poverty and homelessness; and "the world was not worthy of them"(v.38)
- they all had faith in the Christ (Messiah) before he came, they believed a Saviour would come
- now that He has come, our faith has a historical backing... it's easier for us in a way... at the same time, we still have to make that choice
12:1-11 - throw off sin and hindrances (not necessarily sin, but keep us from God, such as playing video games for 12 hours a day, putting things ahead of God, being so busy you never make time, etc.), and peresevere in the Christian faith
- focus on Jesus
- be encouraged, He was persecuted too
- accept discipline, learn and grow
- receive righteousness and peace
What is faith, and what are some ways we can apply it to our lives in order to please God?
11:1 - "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."
11:3 - faith in God as Creator
11:13-16 - faith in a future in heaven when our lives on earth end
- our home, our citizenship is in heaven
- if you feel like you don't belong here, it's probably because you don't
- you belong in heaven, your home
11:24-27 (Moses' story) - follow Moses' example: he chose to be who God created him to be, and despite missing out on temporary enjoyment, he focussed on his eternal reward
- "he persevered because he saw him who is invisible.
11:33-40 - all these things were accomplished through faith
- weakness was turned to strength
- dead were brought to life
- kingdoms were conquered
* - many suffered terrible persecution, torture and death, poverty and homelessness; and "the world was not worthy of them"(v.38)
- they all had faith in the Christ (Messiah) before he came, they believed a Saviour would come
- now that He has come, our faith has a historical backing... it's easier for us in a way... at the same time, we still have to make that choice
12:1-11 - throw off sin and hindrances (not necessarily sin, but keep us from God, such as playing video games for 12 hours a day, putting things ahead of God, being so busy you never make time, etc.), and peresevere in the Christian faith
- focus on Jesus
- be encouraged, He was persecuted too
- accept discipline, learn and grow
- receive righteousness and peace
Devo - God's Deliverance: 2 Chronicles 20:1-30
vv.1-4, 12
Jehoshaphat realizes he has a big problem that he can't deal with on his own, so he asks God for help.
- he doesn't discount or play down the problem, he realizes it's serious
- the first thing he does is turn to God
- he understands that he is unable to solve the problem
- he also understands that God is able to solve it
vv.14-17
God responds to Jehoshaphat's cry for help, promises to solve the problem
- encourages him
- gives him specific instructions
- promises to solve the problem, to deliver him
- encourages him again
- promises to be with him
vv.18-21
Jehoshaphat responds to God's promise with faith and belief
- worships God as soon as he hears the promise, before he's seen anything
- obeys God's specific instructions
- encourages the people to have faith in God
- praises and thanks God before he's seen the victory
vv.22-23
God comes through on His promise
- fulfills His promise as the people begin to praise Him
vv.27-28
Jehoshaphat praises and thanks God again, after the victory and God's deliverance
v.29
The fear of God came on all the countries around
- they knew God fought for Jehoshaphat and Israel
- they didn't dare mess with God, so they didn't dare mess with Jehoshaphat or Israel
v.30
God gave Jehoshaphat peace and rest
*PROBLEM SOLVED, DELIVERANCE GRANTED, VICTORY WON*
- your problem may be more or less severe than an army of thousands upon thousands of people coming to kill you, but God can deliver you too, just like He delivered Jehoshaphat.
Jehoshaphat realizes he has a big problem that he can't deal with on his own, so he asks God for help.
- he doesn't discount or play down the problem, he realizes it's serious
- the first thing he does is turn to God
- he understands that he is unable to solve the problem
- he also understands that God is able to solve it
vv.14-17
God responds to Jehoshaphat's cry for help, promises to solve the problem
- encourages him
- gives him specific instructions
- promises to solve the problem, to deliver him
- encourages him again
- promises to be with him
vv.18-21
Jehoshaphat responds to God's promise with faith and belief
- worships God as soon as he hears the promise, before he's seen anything
- obeys God's specific instructions
- encourages the people to have faith in God
- praises and thanks God before he's seen the victory
vv.22-23
God comes through on His promise
- fulfills His promise as the people begin to praise Him
vv.27-28
Jehoshaphat praises and thanks God again, after the victory and God's deliverance
v.29
The fear of God came on all the countries around
- they knew God fought for Jehoshaphat and Israel
- they didn't dare mess with God, so they didn't dare mess with Jehoshaphat or Israel
v.30
God gave Jehoshaphat peace and rest
*PROBLEM SOLVED, DELIVERANCE GRANTED, VICTORY WON*
- your problem may be more or less severe than an army of thousands upon thousands of people coming to kill you, but God can deliver you too, just like He delivered Jehoshaphat.
Thursday, March 24, 2005
Last Week's Devo - Fasting: Isaiah 58
In light of the Lenten season just before Easter, during which many people choose to fast from many things for many different reasons, I thought it would be appropriate to do a devo on how God wants us to fast, and what our motives should be.
In case you're not familiar with the idea of fasting, it's basically giving something up for a time, for a specific reason. Although the most common fast is from food, you can fast from anything.
- video games
- Coke
- sleep
- etc....
1. Improper Fasting - Isaiah 58:1-5
- "seem" eager for God (appearance but no substance, it's fake)
- "humble" themselves (and yet they boast to God about how humble they are)
- you do as you please
- quarreling, fighting, wickedness
*your prayer, your fast will have no effect
Improper fasting can involve all of the motions and appearance of true fasting, until you look deeper.
2. Proper Fasting - Isaiah 58:6-7
In a nutshell, it involves righteousness (loving God), and justice (loving others).
- loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke
- set the oppressed free and break every yoke
These seem the same until you look closer. Loosening and untying is the first step, and it's an improvement, but it's not the ultimate goal. It takes time and effort before the freeing and breaking takes place. You have to keep at it and see it through to completion.
- share food, shelter, clothing with those in need
- love your family
James 1:27 - Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
3. Rewards of Proper Fasting - Isaiah 58:8-14
Read vv.7-9
Caring for Others' Physical Needs
- your light will break forth like the dawn
- your healing will quickly appear
- your righteousness will go before you
- the glory of the Lord will be your rearguard
- you will call, and the Lord will answer
- you will cry for help, and He will say: Here am I.
*He answers our cry for help with Himself: He is our help.
Read vv.10-12
Caring for Others' Emotional/Spiritual Needs, etc.
- your light will rise in the darkness
- your night will be like noon
- the Lord will guide you always
- He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame
- you will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail
- your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and raise up the age-old foundations
- you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets With Dwellings
(imagine school roll call with that for a name... Smith, Repairer..... Dwellings... here!)
Read vv.13-14
Obedience to God
- you will find your joy in the Lord
- God will cause you to ride on the heights of the land and to "feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob"
*NOTE* Replace what you're fasting from with seeking after God, doing His will, righteousness and justice, not just other distracting things, otherwise there's no point.
In case you're not familiar with the idea of fasting, it's basically giving something up for a time, for a specific reason. Although the most common fast is from food, you can fast from anything.
- video games
- Coke
- sleep
- etc....
1. Improper Fasting - Isaiah 58:1-5
- "seem" eager for God (appearance but no substance, it's fake)
- "humble" themselves (and yet they boast to God about how humble they are)
- you do as you please
- quarreling, fighting, wickedness
*your prayer, your fast will have no effect
Improper fasting can involve all of the motions and appearance of true fasting, until you look deeper.
2. Proper Fasting - Isaiah 58:6-7
In a nutshell, it involves righteousness (loving God), and justice (loving others).
- loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke
- set the oppressed free and break every yoke
These seem the same until you look closer. Loosening and untying is the first step, and it's an improvement, but it's not the ultimate goal. It takes time and effort before the freeing and breaking takes place. You have to keep at it and see it through to completion.
- share food, shelter, clothing with those in need
- love your family
James 1:27 - Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
3. Rewards of Proper Fasting - Isaiah 58:8-14
Read vv.7-9
Caring for Others' Physical Needs
- your light will break forth like the dawn
- your healing will quickly appear
- your righteousness will go before you
- the glory of the Lord will be your rearguard
- you will call, and the Lord will answer
- you will cry for help, and He will say: Here am I.
*He answers our cry for help with Himself: He is our help.
Read vv.10-12
Caring for Others' Emotional/Spiritual Needs, etc.
- your light will rise in the darkness
- your night will be like noon
- the Lord will guide you always
- He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame
- you will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail
- your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and raise up the age-old foundations
- you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets With Dwellings
(imagine school roll call with that for a name... Smith, Repairer..... Dwellings... here!)
Read vv.13-14
Obedience to God
- you will find your joy in the Lord
- God will cause you to ride on the heights of the land and to "feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob"
*NOTE* Replace what you're fasting from with seeking after God, doing His will, righteousness and justice, not just other distracting things, otherwise there's no point.
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