When God begins a relationship with us, it cannot be more personal. To be known by God and to know God, is an amazing experience. I am reminded of the verse that reveals what eternal life really has become for us..."And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent." John 17:3.
The truth is, God has not called us into such a personal relationship as to keep this relationship silent. He wants us to speak about it and encourage others around us to enter this same personal relationship.
The other day I watched a show where this young person was meeting a new person and they were about to date for the first time. This young girl was so excited to have this personal relationship with this young man. She called her friends together just to tell them about this new found relationship. She spoke about this relationship in such as way as if she almost could not help it. It was flowing out of her. She wanted to talk about it. She was not forced to speak about this relationship but instead enjoyed to speak about him.
This picture is a good metaphor about our relationship with the Lord. He wants us to tell the world what a great relationship it is that we have entered. He loves us speaking about Him as a God of love and full of loving-kindness.
When we keep our relationship private about our Lord it seems to indicate one of three things: 1. We really don't have a true relationship with the Lord. 2. We are ashamed others will find out that we love the Lord. 3. We don`t know how to speak about this relationship we have with the Lord.
The first statement needs to be answers by saying, cry out to God that He may give you life and life eternal.
The second statement is face this fear. Be strong and courageous. We have a great and wonderful God. Although the world is attempting to paint a different view of the Lord, God is good. Be a witness to your relationship you have with Him before your family and friends.
The last statement is learn how to speak about Him in the variety of experiences He puts before you. I know the message of the gospel can be offensive when others hear it because it says if they are not in than they are out of Christ. People don`t like hearing this truth unless they are seeking to also enter this relationship.
The good thing about going public with your relationship is Jesus reminded us that the fields are white to harvest. Many people around us the Lord has already called them and your witness is what brings that into reality. You get to see a person who was completely lost become a person who becomes completely found.
God is good,...let`s tell someone!
Friday, January 30, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Jesus Increased
Luke 2:52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and men.
Increased is a good thing. We look forward to growth in all areas of our lives. Growth in health, growth in knowledge, growth in our spiritual lives, etc.
The focus in this verse is on two areas which brought into favour two Beings.
Wisdom and Stature plus God and Man.
Why wisdom?
Because it is such a rare commodity. It takes experience to have wisdom. The word wisdom means "applied knowledge".
The Bible puts on those who are elderly because of this one trait in their lives, wisdom. The grey hairs of people often have brought them through life so they grew up in things they should do and things they shouldn't. They got this wisdom over time.
Young mom don't get discouraged raising those little ones. With all the questions you have on discipline and love. It is a challenge to know eactly what to do in every situation but reach out to some older moms. Their experience can give you insights. Plus you will not have to repeat the same mistakes they did.
Young leaders don't get overwhelmed with all the decisions you have to make each day. Read some of the wisdom of others who have gone through the trenches. Learn from their thoughts and ideas.
Jesus wisdom is what excelled Him in being in favour with God and man. When we get out of balance by not using wisdom to make our decisions soon we pay the cost is hurt relationships. I've done this and so would have many of you.
Jesus also grew in stature.
The physical health of a person goes a long way in seeing that the day goes well also. Our growth in this area of life is so critical during the early years. Watch over your children and give them good things to eat. Give them good experiences to enjoy.
Jesus came into favour with God and man by doing these two simple tasks. May we learn the art of keeping our Christianity simple. It is normally in the simple that power and strength are found.
Increased is a good thing. We look forward to growth in all areas of our lives. Growth in health, growth in knowledge, growth in our spiritual lives, etc.
The focus in this verse is on two areas which brought into favour two Beings.
Wisdom and Stature plus God and Man.
Why wisdom?
Because it is such a rare commodity. It takes experience to have wisdom. The word wisdom means "applied knowledge".
The Bible puts on those who are elderly because of this one trait in their lives, wisdom. The grey hairs of people often have brought them through life so they grew up in things they should do and things they shouldn't. They got this wisdom over time.
Young mom don't get discouraged raising those little ones. With all the questions you have on discipline and love. It is a challenge to know eactly what to do in every situation but reach out to some older moms. Their experience can give you insights. Plus you will not have to repeat the same mistakes they did.
Young leaders don't get overwhelmed with all the decisions you have to make each day. Read some of the wisdom of others who have gone through the trenches. Learn from their thoughts and ideas.
Jesus wisdom is what excelled Him in being in favour with God and man. When we get out of balance by not using wisdom to make our decisions soon we pay the cost is hurt relationships. I've done this and so would have many of you.
Jesus also grew in stature.
The physical health of a person goes a long way in seeing that the day goes well also. Our growth in this area of life is so critical during the early years. Watch over your children and give them good things to eat. Give them good experiences to enjoy.
Jesus came into favour with God and man by doing these two simple tasks. May we learn the art of keeping our Christianity simple. It is normally in the simple that power and strength are found.
Monday, January 26, 2009
The Gospel for the Nations
Acts 2:5 And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven. 6 And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language. 7 Then they were all amazed and marveled, saying to one another, “Look, are not all these who speak Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear, each in our own language in which we were born? 9 Parthians and Medes and Elamites, those dwelling in Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya adjoining Cyrene, visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretans and Arabs—we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.”
When God begins to work in the hearts of people it can be completely overwhelming. He is the LORD of all people, all tongues and all nations. He loves mankind with an everlasting love.
When God began His church "called out ones", the world was never to be the same. Few things have started on this planet that end up changing how mankind will forever conduct their lives. The message of the early church was such an event.
The gospel or the good news came to the nations with power. The power of the Holy Spirit.
What is the gospel and why is it so needed?
Mankind has been in rebellion against the LORD GOD of the heavens. Man has raised his fist in defiance against the Rightful Owner and Possessor of all life. Man believe he should rule, instead he is a slave to sin and has inherited death and eternal separation from God as his work of sin. Man is completely lost, dead in sin, The wrath of Almighty God dwells on him. He can not and will not escape. It is appointed unto man once to die, then judgement.
Mankind has been lauded into a false peace. A sleep of death.
But God who is rich in mercy, sent His only Son in the fullness of time, to redeem man and make away for his return to a relationship again with his Creator. Jesus the Christ lived a righteous life before His Father God. He was the only man who ever lived without sin. He became the only substitute that would be received by God has a just payment for the sins of mankind.
After living for 33 years and preaching for 3 1/2 about the plan of God. Mankind took Him, stripped Him and mocked Him in open shame. He was bruised and beaten by the hatred of man. They took Him up the hill of Golgotha, the place of the skull, and drove nails through His hands and feet as they spread Him on a cross.
The earth shook. The day went to night. Fear rose across the land. God's Son died for the sins of man. The Lamb of God. The Perfect Sacrifice for sin.
He was removed from the cross after a soldier checked to see if He had really died. He pieced his side with a spear. They placed Him in a tomb and rolled a heavy stone over the entrance.
One Day
Two Days
Three Days.
On the third day He arose again! Jesus walked out of the grave and proclaimed to the world. "My Father has accepted My death as payment for your sin. If you but repent, turn from your wicked ways, and put your trust in My death as your payment for sin, My Father will recieve you unto Himself. Without Me, no one will see God."
Every nation must hear this message. Every people and language are in grave danger. Each must repent and believe that Christ alone is the only One who can save.
Let all the nations rejoice for the Son of God has redeemed us. The Son of God has saved us!
When God begins to work in the hearts of people it can be completely overwhelming. He is the LORD of all people, all tongues and all nations. He loves mankind with an everlasting love.
When God began His church "called out ones", the world was never to be the same. Few things have started on this planet that end up changing how mankind will forever conduct their lives. The message of the early church was such an event.
The gospel or the good news came to the nations with power. The power of the Holy Spirit.
What is the gospel and why is it so needed?
Mankind has been in rebellion against the LORD GOD of the heavens. Man has raised his fist in defiance against the Rightful Owner and Possessor of all life. Man believe he should rule, instead he is a slave to sin and has inherited death and eternal separation from God as his work of sin. Man is completely lost, dead in sin, The wrath of Almighty God dwells on him. He can not and will not escape. It is appointed unto man once to die, then judgement.
Mankind has been lauded into a false peace. A sleep of death.
But God who is rich in mercy, sent His only Son in the fullness of time, to redeem man and make away for his return to a relationship again with his Creator. Jesus the Christ lived a righteous life before His Father God. He was the only man who ever lived without sin. He became the only substitute that would be received by God has a just payment for the sins of mankind.
After living for 33 years and preaching for 3 1/2 about the plan of God. Mankind took Him, stripped Him and mocked Him in open shame. He was bruised and beaten by the hatred of man. They took Him up the hill of Golgotha, the place of the skull, and drove nails through His hands and feet as they spread Him on a cross.
The earth shook. The day went to night. Fear rose across the land. God's Son died for the sins of man. The Lamb of God. The Perfect Sacrifice for sin.
He was removed from the cross after a soldier checked to see if He had really died. He pieced his side with a spear. They placed Him in a tomb and rolled a heavy stone over the entrance.
One Day
Two Days
Three Days.
On the third day He arose again! Jesus walked out of the grave and proclaimed to the world. "My Father has accepted My death as payment for your sin. If you but repent, turn from your wicked ways, and put your trust in My death as your payment for sin, My Father will recieve you unto Himself. Without Me, no one will see God."
Every nation must hear this message. Every people and language are in grave danger. Each must repent and believe that Christ alone is the only One who can save.
Let all the nations rejoice for the Son of God has redeemed us. The Son of God has saved us!
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Staff Retreat
Church,we had a GREAT Staff Retreat over the weekend. The Staff at Royal Heights are EXCELLENT!
Please, pray for the leadership as we continue to seek the heart of the LORD on the many matters that come our way.
1 Timothy 5:17 Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially those who labour in the word and doctrine.
Please, pray for the leadership as we continue to seek the heart of the LORD on the many matters that come our way.
1 Timothy 5:17 Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially those who labour in the word and doctrine.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Validation
What does encouragement do for us? How do the words we speak bring life and hope to others? When are we responsible to speak the truth in love?
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
A New President
PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA
Barack H. Obama is the 44th President of the United States.
Watching the new President of the United States take the oath of office was a history making event. Millions watched as life unfolded before them. Years of prejudices to give way to a new colour in leadership. You could see that people were proud to be an American.
I am happy for United States, for their new leadership but we all must be reminded of one thing, no person is the answer to the world's challenges save one, Jesus the Christ.
God in His wisdom puts in various leaders to be a watch-care for the nations. But all Presidents, Kings and Lords must always remember they are given this task to move the nation closer to its Great Creator.
All through the ages men and women have comeand gone but the LORD remains on His throne guiding the world to the end. He expects every leader to bow before Him and Him alone. He expects all people to give recognition and worship to Him alone.
The new President has begun his time to serve the people. He will come and he will depart, leaving behind his legacy, to good or to evil. God alone will judge.
Our Jesus has been given a Kingdom from His Father, the Ancient of Days. It is an everlasting Kingdom. A Kingdom beyond every kingdom. It is a Kingdom without end!
Daniel 7: 9 “ I watched till thrones were put in place,
And the Ancient of Days was seated;
His garment was white as snow,
And the hair of His head was like pure wool.
His throne was a fiery flame,
Its wheels a burning fire;
10 A fiery stream issued
And came forth from before Him.
A thousand thousands ministered to Him;
Ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him.
The court was seated,
And the books were opened.
11 “I watched then because of the sound of the pompous words which the horn was speaking; I watched till the beast was slain, and its body destroyed and given to the burning flame. 12 As for the rest of the beasts, they had their dominion taken away, yet their lives were prolonged for a season and a time.
13 “ I was watching in the night visions,
And behold, One like the Son of Man,
Coming with the clouds of heaven!
He came to the Ancient of Days,
And they brought Him near before Him.
14 Then to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom,
That all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him.
His dominion is an everlasting dominion,
Which shall not pass away,
And His kingdom the one
Which shall not be destroyed.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Babies
I'm sitting in the coffee shop working on a project I'm putting together for the church. Across from where I am sitting, at the next table, is a young mother with a new baby.
To watch a young mom, who is fascinated by the new life she has given birth to, puts a smile on my face. She is constantly looking over at her baby as he or she sleeps in perfect peace knowing that mother has everything under control. When the baby stirred instantly the mother used this occasion to pick the child up and hold him close to give him reassuring comfort.
The mother had brought another friend with her. This girl clearly did not have any children and was excited and scared to hold this new child. When the mother offered for her friend to hold the baby instantly excitement filled her eyes. As she took the child in her arms, which took about a minute and half to make the transfer because of all the instruction and care that was happening, a huge smile came across her face. Various noises came out of her mouth trying to get the little one to smile or at least recognize he was now with her and not with mom. The baby slept on.
As I watched this event unfold before my eyes I was reminded of the church. The church is the bride of Christ and the new believer is her little baby she must and desires to care for. The new believer is so trusting that the mother will care for him. He just believes that things will be okay because mother is watching over everything.
Church, as the LORD brings us 29 new baby Christians this year it will be important that we love them as a mother loves her new born. The baby trusts that the mother knows best and she will love and develop him.
Church, it is important that we take these new ones into our arms and develop them into mature adults. Each lesson we teach them is to make us interdependant on each other. Our desire is to see them grow up in a healthy way, giving and receiving the things of God.
As a baby needs the milk of the mother to survive, it is important that we take the LORD's young believers and give them the pure milk of the word of God. As they drink it in they will develop in a way that makes the mother proud.
It is not the baby's responsibility to be the main caregiver of itself, it is the mothers. At least until that child is healthy enough to fend for himself. A good church must love the young to give them the strength they will need to do life in the real world.
1 Peter 2: 1 Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, 2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
Church, let's get ready to develop healthy spiritual children as the LORD honours us with the birth of new believers!
To watch a young mom, who is fascinated by the new life she has given birth to, puts a smile on my face. She is constantly looking over at her baby as he or she sleeps in perfect peace knowing that mother has everything under control. When the baby stirred instantly the mother used this occasion to pick the child up and hold him close to give him reassuring comfort.
The mother had brought another friend with her. This girl clearly did not have any children and was excited and scared to hold this new child. When the mother offered for her friend to hold the baby instantly excitement filled her eyes. As she took the child in her arms, which took about a minute and half to make the transfer because of all the instruction and care that was happening, a huge smile came across her face. Various noises came out of her mouth trying to get the little one to smile or at least recognize he was now with her and not with mom. The baby slept on.
As I watched this event unfold before my eyes I was reminded of the church. The church is the bride of Christ and the new believer is her little baby she must and desires to care for. The new believer is so trusting that the mother will care for him. He just believes that things will be okay because mother is watching over everything.
Church, as the LORD brings us 29 new baby Christians this year it will be important that we love them as a mother loves her new born. The baby trusts that the mother knows best and she will love and develop him.
Church, it is important that we take these new ones into our arms and develop them into mature adults. Each lesson we teach them is to make us interdependant on each other. Our desire is to see them grow up in a healthy way, giving and receiving the things of God.
As a baby needs the milk of the mother to survive, it is important that we take the LORD's young believers and give them the pure milk of the word of God. As they drink it in they will develop in a way that makes the mother proud.
It is not the baby's responsibility to be the main caregiver of itself, it is the mothers. At least until that child is healthy enough to fend for himself. A good church must love the young to give them the strength they will need to do life in the real world.
1 Peter 2: 1 Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, 2 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
Church, let's get ready to develop healthy spiritual children as the LORD honours us with the birth of new believers!
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Blessed
Blessed is the man
Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. Proverbs 8:34
Blessed is he who trusts in the LORD. Proverbs 16:20
Blessed is the man who does this, the man who holds it fast, who keeps the Sabbath without desecrating it, and keeps his hand from doing any evil. Isaiah 56:2
Blessed is the one who waits for and reaches the end of the 1,335 days. Daniel 12:12
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:3
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:4
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Matthew 5:6
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Matthew 5:7
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Matthew 5:8
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Matthew 5:9
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10
Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Matthew 5:11
Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me. Matthew 11:6
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Hosanna in the highest. Matthew 21:9
Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!" "Hosanna in the highest!" Mark 11:10
Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! Luke 1:42
Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh? Luke 6:21
Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you. Luke 11:27
Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it. Luke 11:28
Blessed is the man who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God." Luke 14:15
Blessed are the barren women, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed. Luke 23:29
Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Romans 4:7
Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him. Romans 4:8
Blessed is the man who does not condemn himself by what he approves. Romans 14:22
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12
Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near. Revelation 1:3
Blessed is he who stays awake and keeps his clothes with him, so that he may not go naked and be shamefully exposed. Revelation 16:15
Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb. Revelation 19:9
Blessed and holy are those who have part in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years. Revelation 20:6
Blessed Is he who keeps the words of the prophecy in this book. Revelation 22:7
Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. Jeremiah 17:7
Blessed is the man who makes the LORD his trust, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods. Psalm 40:4
Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; the LORD delivers him in times of trouble. Psalm 41:1
Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. Psalm 84:5
Blessed is the man you discipline, O LORD, the man you teach from your law. Psalm 94:12
Blessed are they who maintain justice, who constantly do what is right. Psalm 106:3
Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who finds great delight in his commands. Psalm 112:1
Blessed are they who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart. Psalm 119:2
Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their enemies in the gate. Psalm 127:5
Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways. Psalm 128:1
Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding. Proverbs 3:13
Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. Nehemiah 9:5
Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. Psalm 1:1
Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. Genesis 14:19
Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. Proverbs 8:34
Blessed is he who trusts in the LORD. Proverbs 16:20
Blessed is the man who does this, the man who holds it fast, who keeps the Sabbath without desecrating it, and keeps his hand from doing any evil. Isaiah 56:2
Blessed is the one who waits for and reaches the end of the 1,335 days. Daniel 12:12
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:3
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:4
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Matthew 5:6
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Matthew 5:7
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Matthew 5:8
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Matthew 5:9
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10
Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Matthew 5:11
Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me. Matthew 11:6
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Hosanna in the highest. Matthew 21:9
Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!" "Hosanna in the highest!" Mark 11:10
Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! Luke 1:42
Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh? Luke 6:21
Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you. Luke 11:27
Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it. Luke 11:28
Blessed is the man who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God." Luke 14:15
Blessed are the barren women, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed. Luke 23:29
Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Romans 4:7
Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him. Romans 4:8
Blessed is the man who does not condemn himself by what he approves. Romans 14:22
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12
Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near. Revelation 1:3
Blessed is he who stays awake and keeps his clothes with him, so that he may not go naked and be shamefully exposed. Revelation 16:15
Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb. Revelation 19:9
Blessed and holy are those who have part in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years. Revelation 20:6
Blessed Is he who keeps the words of the prophecy in this book. Revelation 22:7
Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. Jeremiah 17:7
Blessed is the man who makes the LORD his trust, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods. Psalm 40:4
Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; the LORD delivers him in times of trouble. Psalm 41:1
Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. Psalm 84:5
Blessed is the man you discipline, O LORD, the man you teach from your law. Psalm 94:12
Blessed are they who maintain justice, who constantly do what is right. Psalm 106:3
Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who finds great delight in his commands. Psalm 112:1
Blessed are they who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart. Psalm 119:2
Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their enemies in the gate. Psalm 127:5
Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways. Psalm 128:1
Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding. Proverbs 3:13
Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. Nehemiah 9:5
Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. Psalm 1:1
Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. Genesis 14:19
Friday, January 16, 2009
Wisdom for Raising Children
A is for Accountability.
Hold your children accountable for their behaviour.
Mat 12:36 "But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment."
B is for Boundaries.
Set specific limits, and make clear the repercussions if those limits are exceeded.
C is for Consistency.
Almost every form of discipline works IF you are consistent. If you tell a child you will count to three and he should have whatever it is completed, don't count to 4. Do something!
D is for Discipline.
Make the discipline fit the crime. Never discipline in anger. Discipline is always to develop the child. Punishment is to hurt with no development as the goal. Don't punish children.
Prov 13:24 He who spares his rod hates his son, But he who loves him disciplines him promptly.
E is for Example.
Children are in greater need of models than critics. Set a good example.
F is for Forgiveness.
Practice it and teach the importance of forgiving.
Mat 6:14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
G is for Giving.
Teach the joy of giving, not only to family and friends, but to strangers in need.
Luke 6:38 Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”
H is for a sense of Humour.
Keep your sense of humour. Promote laughter with your children.
Prov 15:13 A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.
I is for Imagination.
Be creative, and play with your children. Read and sing with them. Make up songs. Put their names in them.
J is for Justice.
Be fair, and insist that they be fair, also.
Col 3: 23 And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for[a] you serve the Lord Christ. 25 But he who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality.
K is for Knowing your children's friends and their parents as well as their teachers.
Children are influenced very quickly by ideas, you must watch over so you know what ideas they are being exposed to. The closer the person to their heart the easier it is to accept their ideas. Only let people of good character close to your children.
L is for Listening.
Listen to your children. It will teach them how to listen to others, and their thoughts will give you insights.
James 1:19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
M is for Morals.
Be sure your own standard of conduct is sound. When you fail, apologize and make things right, if possible.
1 Pet 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conduct;
N is for No.
Use it, and mean it. Only say it when you mean it.
Exodus 20. "Thou shalt not...." The LORD was not saying "No" because he was holding something good back from us. He told us "No" because He knew how much pain would be involved in stealing, lying, commiting adultry, coveting, etc.
O is for Oops.
Give the kid a break when they do childish things. Be firm, but don't act as if the world is coming to an end when they do things wrong. Remember that they are, but flesh.
Ps 78:39 For He remembered that they were but flesh,A breath that passes away and does not come again.
P is for Pressure.
Reduce the pressure on your children, but insist they maintain high standards. A "C" means average, don't constantly push them to be above average. Not every child can get an "A" our they would move that grade toonly be a "C".
Q is for Questions.
Pay close attention to their questions and give simple answers unless they demand more. Children learn by asking questions. Lots and lots of questions!
R is for Respect.
Show respect, teach respect and earn respect.
Eph 6:2 Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;
Eph 6:4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
S is for Source of Strength.
Share your own faith or beliefs with your children. Faith can be a great strength in times of trouble.
Deut 6:6 “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. 8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes.
T is for Togetherness.
Have special, designated times to be together as a family--but know when to let go, too. The family meal has proven to beone of the best times for all the family to connect, protect it from the TV, appointments, and anything else thatcomes in to destory it.
U is for Uniqueness.
Understand the uniqueness of each child, and let that child be who he or she is.
V is for Voice.
Tone of voice can convey more to a child than the words spoken.
Prov 15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
W is for Words.
Keep your word. Promises broken destroy trust.
Eccl 5:5 Better not to vow than to vow and not pay.
X is for xylophone.
Music is a child's gift. Many children love to play an instrument and/or sing. Let them.
Y is for You.
Take care of yourself mentally, physically and spiritually. A happy parent helps a child to be happy.
Z is for Zoo!
This is what your house will be like but when they grow up an leave, you will miss them completely.
Hold your children accountable for their behaviour.
Mat 12:36 "But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment."
B is for Boundaries.
Set specific limits, and make clear the repercussions if those limits are exceeded.
C is for Consistency.
Almost every form of discipline works IF you are consistent. If you tell a child you will count to three and he should have whatever it is completed, don't count to 4. Do something!
D is for Discipline.
Make the discipline fit the crime. Never discipline in anger. Discipline is always to develop the child. Punishment is to hurt with no development as the goal. Don't punish children.
Prov 13:24 He who spares his rod hates his son, But he who loves him disciplines him promptly.
E is for Example.
Children are in greater need of models than critics. Set a good example.
F is for Forgiveness.
Practice it and teach the importance of forgiving.
Mat 6:14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
G is for Giving.
Teach the joy of giving, not only to family and friends, but to strangers in need.
Luke 6:38 Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”
H is for a sense of Humour.
Keep your sense of humour. Promote laughter with your children.
Prov 15:13 A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.
I is for Imagination.
Be creative, and play with your children. Read and sing with them. Make up songs. Put their names in them.
J is for Justice.
Be fair, and insist that they be fair, also.
Col 3: 23 And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for[a] you serve the Lord Christ. 25 But he who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality.
K is for Knowing your children's friends and their parents as well as their teachers.
Children are influenced very quickly by ideas, you must watch over so you know what ideas they are being exposed to. The closer the person to their heart the easier it is to accept their ideas. Only let people of good character close to your children.
L is for Listening.
Listen to your children. It will teach them how to listen to others, and their thoughts will give you insights.
James 1:19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
M is for Morals.
Be sure your own standard of conduct is sound. When you fail, apologize and make things right, if possible.
1 Pet 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conduct;
N is for No.
Use it, and mean it. Only say it when you mean it.
Exodus 20. "Thou shalt not...." The LORD was not saying "No" because he was holding something good back from us. He told us "No" because He knew how much pain would be involved in stealing, lying, commiting adultry, coveting, etc.
O is for Oops.
Give the kid a break when they do childish things. Be firm, but don't act as if the world is coming to an end when they do things wrong. Remember that they are, but flesh.
Ps 78:39 For He remembered that they were but flesh,A breath that passes away and does not come again.
P is for Pressure.
Reduce the pressure on your children, but insist they maintain high standards. A "C" means average, don't constantly push them to be above average. Not every child can get an "A" our they would move that grade toonly be a "C".
Q is for Questions.
Pay close attention to their questions and give simple answers unless they demand more. Children learn by asking questions. Lots and lots of questions!
R is for Respect.
Show respect, teach respect and earn respect.
Eph 6:2 Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;
Eph 6:4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
S is for Source of Strength.
Share your own faith or beliefs with your children. Faith can be a great strength in times of trouble.
Deut 6:6 “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. 8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes.
T is for Togetherness.
Have special, designated times to be together as a family--but know when to let go, too. The family meal has proven to beone of the best times for all the family to connect, protect it from the TV, appointments, and anything else thatcomes in to destory it.
U is for Uniqueness.
Understand the uniqueness of each child, and let that child be who he or she is.
V is for Voice.
Tone of voice can convey more to a child than the words spoken.
Prov 15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
W is for Words.
Keep your word. Promises broken destroy trust.
Eccl 5:5 Better not to vow than to vow and not pay.
X is for xylophone.
Music is a child's gift. Many children love to play an instrument and/or sing. Let them.
Y is for You.
Take care of yourself mentally, physically and spiritually. A happy parent helps a child to be happy.
Z is for Zoo!
This is what your house will be like but when they grow up an leave, you will miss them completely.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Panic
With the financial situation of the world as it is, it can be easy to push the "panic" button. The problem with panic is it rarely brings any kind of health to a situation and often brings greater stress.
One man was asked, what's the difference between a depression and a reccession? He answered, "A recession is when the economy is bad enough that my neighbour loses his job. A depression is when the economy is bad enough that I lose my job!" Maybe there is a lot of truth in this statement.
It is easy to stay positive when it is not directly effecting us but what do you do when the situation comes home?
Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
1. Prayer
The secret of looking at any situation is to get the LORD's view on the subject. Do you think God is stressed about the world economy? Do you think He could still provide for you and yours?
Matthew 6:25 “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?
28 “So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29 and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
2. Be Thankful
To be thankful even in challenging times is a picture before your family and friends that you do believe there is a God, on the Throne, who loves you and cares for you. Thank Him for everything! For your healthy, the little money you do have, your family, your house, clothes, and the list goes on. Be thankful! Be thankful!
3. Tell God your situation
Lay it all out there before Him. Hold nothing back. Treat Him like the Father King He is. Let Him know your complete situation. Then leave it with Him to figure it out. You remain faithful in the things that you can do to be responsible and let Him remain faithful in the things He is responsible for.
Philippians 4:7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
It can't get better than that!
One man was asked, what's the difference between a depression and a reccession? He answered, "A recession is when the economy is bad enough that my neighbour loses his job. A depression is when the economy is bad enough that I lose my job!" Maybe there is a lot of truth in this statement.
It is easy to stay positive when it is not directly effecting us but what do you do when the situation comes home?
Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
1. Prayer
The secret of looking at any situation is to get the LORD's view on the subject. Do you think God is stressed about the world economy? Do you think He could still provide for you and yours?
Matthew 6:25 “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?
28 “So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29 and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
2. Be Thankful
To be thankful even in challenging times is a picture before your family and friends that you do believe there is a God, on the Throne, who loves you and cares for you. Thank Him for everything! For your healthy, the little money you do have, your family, your house, clothes, and the list goes on. Be thankful! Be thankful!
3. Tell God your situation
Lay it all out there before Him. Hold nothing back. Treat Him like the Father King He is. Let Him know your complete situation. Then leave it with Him to figure it out. You remain faithful in the things that you can do to be responsible and let Him remain faithful in the things He is responsible for.
Philippians 4:7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
It can't get better than that!
Monday, January 12, 2009
A Good Mind
Romans 8:5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
The human being has the ability to have one of two minds, a mind of the flesh or a mind of the spirit. The mind of the flesh thinks like a flesh creature.
Flesh thinking is explained in the Scriptures as very distructive. Galatians 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
May we, as believers, move far from flesh thinking. Flesh thinking is basically thinking thoughts only about yourself; Thoughts away from God and His people.
Spiritual thinking is God-centred or God-focused thinking. It seeks to bring God into the flow of life. It brings peace because it is based on the foundational truths of God and not the whim of man.
God's foundational truths are lived out by the fruit of the Spirit in us. God moves us at the heart of our very being. Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
God ususally exposes our thinking by exposing our actions. But good actions do not neccessary mean good thinking because we can fake good action for awhile. Long term living is the way the LORD exposes the thinking of man. How are you thinking? Look at life in the long term. Do you desire to love the LORD with all your heart? Do you want to serve your fellow man? Do you long to see the works of God in your life as you serve and please Him? It is because you are renewing your mind into the image of the Son.
God wants us to think like Him. To live to the glory of Him. True peace and life is found here and only here!
The human being has the ability to have one of two minds, a mind of the flesh or a mind of the spirit. The mind of the flesh thinks like a flesh creature.
Flesh thinking is explained in the Scriptures as very distructive. Galatians 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
May we, as believers, move far from flesh thinking. Flesh thinking is basically thinking thoughts only about yourself; Thoughts away from God and His people.
Spiritual thinking is God-centred or God-focused thinking. It seeks to bring God into the flow of life. It brings peace because it is based on the foundational truths of God and not the whim of man.
God's foundational truths are lived out by the fruit of the Spirit in us. God moves us at the heart of our very being. Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
God ususally exposes our thinking by exposing our actions. But good actions do not neccessary mean good thinking because we can fake good action for awhile. Long term living is the way the LORD exposes the thinking of man. How are you thinking? Look at life in the long term. Do you desire to love the LORD with all your heart? Do you want to serve your fellow man? Do you long to see the works of God in your life as you serve and please Him? It is because you are renewing your mind into the image of the Son.
God wants us to think like Him. To live to the glory of Him. True peace and life is found here and only here!
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Beloved of God, Called Saints
Romans 1:7 To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
In this verse Paul points his letter to whom he is speaking. Not all Rome but the beloved of God, those called saints.
The words “to be” have been added. It should just say, “called saints”. "To be" could give the impression that it takes awhile to become a saint. A view held by the Catholic church, which is a complete false doctrine.
Why are these people Christians? Paul says it is because the love of God. “The beloved of God” it is obvious that the Lord has loved you because you would not have found Him without His revelation in your heart.
John 6:44 "No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day."
There are two calls in the Bible. One, that is general and one that is effectual, it does a work.
Whenever the gospel is preached God calls men everywhere to repent. It is a universal call. But many do not respond to the call.
1 Cor 1:26-27 For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called.
27 But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty;
These beloved people are called saints. What is a saint? It is a holy one. Its meaning to be separated to God and to His glory and service. That is what happened in the Old Testament when something or someone was made holy. People or utensils all were separated to God. It was not because of their behaviour or act on their part but only because of God.
Notice how sanctified is before justified.
1 Cor 6:9-11
9 Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites,
10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.
11 And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.
Rom 8:30 Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.
A saint is not a person who never does bad, never sins in the flesh. He is a person who has been set apart by God, for God. We do not die as a saint if we live righteously or do some profound act or miracle. We begin as a saint and are expected to live to the glory of God. We die as a saint only because we have a God who has set us apart. All glory is His, from the start or our salvation to the everlasting end.
Praise be to His Name.
In this verse Paul points his letter to whom he is speaking. Not all Rome but the beloved of God, those called saints.
The words “to be” have been added. It should just say, “called saints”. "To be" could give the impression that it takes awhile to become a saint. A view held by the Catholic church, which is a complete false doctrine.
Why are these people Christians? Paul says it is because the love of God. “The beloved of God” it is obvious that the Lord has loved you because you would not have found Him without His revelation in your heart.
John 6:44 "No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day."
There are two calls in the Bible. One, that is general and one that is effectual, it does a work.
Whenever the gospel is preached God calls men everywhere to repent. It is a universal call. But many do not respond to the call.
1 Cor 1:26-27 For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called.
27 But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty;
These beloved people are called saints. What is a saint? It is a holy one. Its meaning to be separated to God and to His glory and service. That is what happened in the Old Testament when something or someone was made holy. People or utensils all were separated to God. It was not because of their behaviour or act on their part but only because of God.
Notice how sanctified is before justified.
1 Cor 6:9-11
9 Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites,
10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.
11 And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.
Rom 8:30 Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.
A saint is not a person who never does bad, never sins in the flesh. He is a person who has been set apart by God, for God. We do not die as a saint if we live righteously or do some profound act or miracle. We begin as a saint and are expected to live to the glory of God. We die as a saint only because we have a God who has set us apart. All glory is His, from the start or our salvation to the everlasting end.
Praise be to His Name.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Just a Minute
Our goal is to pray for one minute a day for one lost person. Simple.
Why be a part of this exercise?
When we begin to daily pray for the lost, even one minute a day, we will begin to see the lost and seek to engage them. Everything important in the Kingdom of God starts and ends with prayer.
Can you begin to notice the names of your waitress or gas bar attendant,and begin to pray for their salvation. You may be the one to present the gospel to a first time believer.
Stop right now and pray for 60 seconds!
Why be a part of this exercise?
When we begin to daily pray for the lost, even one minute a day, we will begin to see the lost and seek to engage them. Everything important in the Kingdom of God starts and ends with prayer.
Can you begin to notice the names of your waitress or gas bar attendant,and begin to pray for their salvation. You may be the one to present the gospel to a first time believer.
Stop right now and pray for 60 seconds!
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
What is God Looking For?
Sometimes we become confused on how to serve our Lord. What is He looking for? What does He want from me?
Does being responsible before the Lord just mean doing more for Him? Like the statement man makes, "You were saved to serve". This is a half truth. You were really saved to expereince love, the love of God. We were made to enjoy Him, forever.
In our confusion we run around trying to do things for Him. Many times this can beome just busy work. We do these things until we tire out and throw our hands up in the air.
God spoke through Isaiah, the prophet:
Isa 66:1-2
1 Thus says the LORD: "Heaven is My throne, and earth is My footstool. Where is the house that you will build Me? And where is the place of My rest?
2 For all those things My hand has made, and all those things exist," says the LORD. "But on this one will I look: on him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, and who trembles at My word.
What does He look for?
"But on this one will I look: on him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, and who trembles at My word.
God is very interested in us as human beings, not human doings. He knows that once we understand and we know Him and His heart, we will always serve Him from the heart.
God is good. He is looking for those who will understand the great gift of His Son, who was given to us. He is looking for those who will have a healthy fear of Him so they respect and carry out His will in every circumstance.
As a people, we want to "do". God wants us to "be". Spend some time before the Lord seeking to know the Blesser instead of seeking a blessing. God desires for us to love Him because He knows He loves us. All real love seeks to see love returned and expressed.
Keep things simple.
Does being responsible before the Lord just mean doing more for Him? Like the statement man makes, "You were saved to serve". This is a half truth. You were really saved to expereince love, the love of God. We were made to enjoy Him, forever.
In our confusion we run around trying to do things for Him. Many times this can beome just busy work. We do these things until we tire out and throw our hands up in the air.
God spoke through Isaiah, the prophet:
Isa 66:1-2
1 Thus says the LORD: "Heaven is My throne, and earth is My footstool. Where is the house that you will build Me? And where is the place of My rest?
2 For all those things My hand has made, and all those things exist," says the LORD. "But on this one will I look: on him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, and who trembles at My word.
What does He look for?
"But on this one will I look: on him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, and who trembles at My word.
God is very interested in us as human beings, not human doings. He knows that once we understand and we know Him and His heart, we will always serve Him from the heart.
God is good. He is looking for those who will understand the great gift of His Son, who was given to us. He is looking for those who will have a healthy fear of Him so they respect and carry out His will in every circumstance.
As a people, we want to "do". God wants us to "be". Spend some time before the Lord seeking to know the Blesser instead of seeking a blessing. God desires for us to love Him because He knows He loves us. All real love seeks to see love returned and expressed.
Keep things simple.
Monday, January 5, 2009
You are Responsible
Galatians 6:5 "For each one shall bear his own load."
The Apostle Paul is attempting to get a church to take some personal responsibility to live out their faith. Yes, they were instructed to help each other and help the community at large but he also clearly instructed them to take personal responsibility over their own lives.
How does a person take personal responsibility?
First, accept the fact that you are responsible for where you are in life. No blaming-shifting towards your present or past circumstances or people that have come into your life. You are where you are in life because of choices you made. If you cannot accept the fact that you are responsible you cannot move on. Even if a tragedy or some other events have occurred which you believe led you to the place you are right now, it was your own choice to either respond or react to the situation in the way that you did. You are responsible,...no one else!
Learn to forgive people, yourself and God. So many walk around with this anger towards life. Someone or something has let them down and they are mad! Does this change the situation? NO! As a matter of fact, we have a warning about our anger from the LORD, through James, "1:19 So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God."
Learn to let things go through forgiveness. Let go of the blame by simply acknowledging that is there is nothing you can do to change the past. You are responsible for the here and now, and whatever occurred in the past is done, it's a fact. You can continue to blame others for where you are, but what purpose will that serve you now? Blaming yourself is not the same thing as taking responsibility. Letting it all go through forgiveness is the important thing.
Second, start to change what you can about your situation. Get off the couch! MOVE! Be responsible! You are where you are because of you and you alone. If you don't like it, make better choices.
Example: If you blamed your spiritual life and love for God on the inadequately of your church, switch the responsibility to yourself now and make a change. What are you doing to change it NOW? Blaming others will do nothing to change your life, so just get over it and do what you can to take responsibility.
Example: If you don't like your financial situation, change it! Stop blaming the market, your ex-husband or your current wife. It is you! Make choices that educate yourself into maturity in this area.
Example: If you don't like your weight, stop blaming your wife, mother or your favourite restaurant. It is you! Be responsible. Get off the couch, move, exercise,...shovel snow! I'm speaking to myself now! I wanted to lose 25 pounds by 2009, I lost only 12 pounds than gained back 6 of those! I would love to blame my wife because of her great cooking but it was me.
I did find the secret to losing weight. When you are at the table and you know you have eaten enough, firmly place your hands on the edge of the table and push! It works every time!
This is a simple statement: You are Responsible but very difficult to get people to REALLY believe. When you and I do, we will be set free! Free to walk in a manner we were made to walk in. We will walk as responsible adults, in Christ!
The Apostle Paul is attempting to get a church to take some personal responsibility to live out their faith. Yes, they were instructed to help each other and help the community at large but he also clearly instructed them to take personal responsibility over their own lives.
How does a person take personal responsibility?
First, accept the fact that you are responsible for where you are in life. No blaming-shifting towards your present or past circumstances or people that have come into your life. You are where you are in life because of choices you made. If you cannot accept the fact that you are responsible you cannot move on. Even if a tragedy or some other events have occurred which you believe led you to the place you are right now, it was your own choice to either respond or react to the situation in the way that you did. You are responsible,...no one else!
Learn to forgive people, yourself and God. So many walk around with this anger towards life. Someone or something has let them down and they are mad! Does this change the situation? NO! As a matter of fact, we have a warning about our anger from the LORD, through James, "1:19 So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God."
Learn to let things go through forgiveness. Let go of the blame by simply acknowledging that is there is nothing you can do to change the past. You are responsible for the here and now, and whatever occurred in the past is done, it's a fact. You can continue to blame others for where you are, but what purpose will that serve you now? Blaming yourself is not the same thing as taking responsibility. Letting it all go through forgiveness is the important thing.
Second, start to change what you can about your situation. Get off the couch! MOVE! Be responsible! You are where you are because of you and you alone. If you don't like it, make better choices.
Example: If you blamed your spiritual life and love for God on the inadequately of your church, switch the responsibility to yourself now and make a change. What are you doing to change it NOW? Blaming others will do nothing to change your life, so just get over it and do what you can to take responsibility.
Example: If you don't like your financial situation, change it! Stop blaming the market, your ex-husband or your current wife. It is you! Make choices that educate yourself into maturity in this area.
Example: If you don't like your weight, stop blaming your wife, mother or your favourite restaurant. It is you! Be responsible. Get off the couch, move, exercise,...shovel snow! I'm speaking to myself now! I wanted to lose 25 pounds by 2009, I lost only 12 pounds than gained back 6 of those! I would love to blame my wife because of her great cooking but it was me.
I did find the secret to losing weight. When you are at the table and you know you have eaten enough, firmly place your hands on the edge of the table and push! It works every time!
This is a simple statement: You are Responsible but very difficult to get people to REALLY believe. When you and I do, we will be set free! Free to walk in a manner we were made to walk in. We will walk as responsible adults, in Christ!
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Profile of a Leader
Leaders will be marked by characteristics like these below. Take a moment to rate yourself according to the following statements:
Key:
0 = Never 1= Seldom 2 = Sometimes 3= Usually 4= Always
1. They have influence
```0 1 2 3 4
2. They have self-discipline
```0 1 2 3 4
3. They have a good track record
```0 1 2 3 4
4. They have strong people skills
```0 1 2 3 4
5. They have the ability to address and solve problems
```0 1 2 3 4
6. They do not accept the status quo
```0 1 2 3 4
7. They see the big picture
```0 1 2 3 4
8. They have the ability to handle stress
```0 1 2 3 4
9. They display a positive spirit
```0 1 2 3 4
10. They understand people
```0 1 2 3 4
11. They are free from personal problems that sabotage
```0 1 2 3 4
12. They are willing to take responsibility
```0 1 2 3 4
13. They are free from anger
```0 1 2 3 4
14. They are willing to make changes
```0 1 2 3 4
15. They have integrity
```0 1 2 3 4
16. They have a growing personal walk with God
```0 1 2 3 4
17. They can see what needs to be done next
```0 1 2 3 4
18. People follow their leadership
```0 1 2 3 4
19. They have the ability and desire to keep learning
```0 1 2 3 4
20. They have a manner which draws people
```0 1 2 3 4
21. They have a good self-image
```0 1 2 3 4
22. They have a willingness to submit to and serve others
```0 1 2 3 4
23. They can "bounce back" when problems arise
```0 1 2 3 4
24. The have the ability to develop other leaders
```0 1 2 3 4
25. They take the initiative
```0 1 2 3 4
Total Points _____/100
How did you do?
Score 0-50 What is a leader again?
Score 51-75 Leadership - i like it!
Score 76-85 You are a leader in training. You see the big picture and you are willing to see that it getsdone.
Score 86-99 You are leading and doing a great job at it. Continue to learn.
Score 100 You cheated!
Key:
0 = Never 1= Seldom 2 = Sometimes 3= Usually 4= Always
1. They have influence
```0 1 2 3 4
2. They have self-discipline
```0 1 2 3 4
3. They have a good track record
```0 1 2 3 4
4. They have strong people skills
```0 1 2 3 4
5. They have the ability to address and solve problems
```0 1 2 3 4
6. They do not accept the status quo
```0 1 2 3 4
7. They see the big picture
```0 1 2 3 4
8. They have the ability to handle stress
```0 1 2 3 4
9. They display a positive spirit
```0 1 2 3 4
10. They understand people
```0 1 2 3 4
11. They are free from personal problems that sabotage
```0 1 2 3 4
12. They are willing to take responsibility
```0 1 2 3 4
13. They are free from anger
```0 1 2 3 4
14. They are willing to make changes
```0 1 2 3 4
15. They have integrity
```0 1 2 3 4
16. They have a growing personal walk with God
```0 1 2 3 4
17. They can see what needs to be done next
```0 1 2 3 4
18. People follow their leadership
```0 1 2 3 4
19. They have the ability and desire to keep learning
```0 1 2 3 4
20. They have a manner which draws people
```0 1 2 3 4
21. They have a good self-image
```0 1 2 3 4
22. They have a willingness to submit to and serve others
```0 1 2 3 4
23. They can "bounce back" when problems arise
```0 1 2 3 4
24. The have the ability to develop other leaders
```0 1 2 3 4
25. They take the initiative
```0 1 2 3 4
Total Points _____/100
How did you do?
Score 0-50 What is a leader again?
Score 51-75 Leadership - i like it!
Score 76-85 You are a leader in training. You see the big picture and you are willing to see that it getsdone.
Score 86-99 You are leading and doing a great job at it. Continue to learn.
Score 100 You cheated!
Saturday, January 3, 2009
What will 2009 look like?
If someone tried to predict 2008, they probably would have got in wrong in the financial world. We have witnessed record loses on Wall Street that filter down to Main Street. The working man is starting to feel the sting of other people spending their money.
But what will 2009 hold? Do we know? Can we know?
Let me give you some assurances of absolutes that will happen in 2009.
1. God will be and remain on His throne.
God never leaves His throne. He always moves life to His greatest glory. Nations come and go but God is from Everlasting to Everlasting, the Almighty!
2. God's church will not be defeated.
Jesus said that the "Gates of Hell will not prevail aginst His church" so we can rest assuranced that His glorious church will continue, with power. Men and women will give their lives to see all God has promised come into reality.
3. God's Word will not come back to Him void.
The Word of God will continue to have its effect on the earth. Many people will attempt to belittle it, call it foolish and seek to destory its power but they will not weaken His Word. Truth is forever; God's Word is Truth. God's Word will continue to go forth.
4. The Gospel will continue to be the power of God.
The gospel is the only means on which a man can be saved. The gospel will continue to be preached, day after day, minute after minute, to the world at large so men every where can repent and believe. There is no other Name under heaven in which to be saved, other than Jesus the Christ.
I do not know if the world will become financially healthy or if Canada will remain a nation or if I will even be alive by this time next year BUT I can say with the Apostle Paul: "For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day." 2 Timothy 1:12
But what will 2009 hold? Do we know? Can we know?
Let me give you some assurances of absolutes that will happen in 2009.
1. God will be and remain on His throne.
God never leaves His throne. He always moves life to His greatest glory. Nations come and go but God is from Everlasting to Everlasting, the Almighty!
2. God's church will not be defeated.
Jesus said that the "Gates of Hell will not prevail aginst His church" so we can rest assuranced that His glorious church will continue, with power. Men and women will give their lives to see all God has promised come into reality.
3. God's Word will not come back to Him void.
The Word of God will continue to have its effect on the earth. Many people will attempt to belittle it, call it foolish and seek to destory its power but they will not weaken His Word. Truth is forever; God's Word is Truth. God's Word will continue to go forth.
4. The Gospel will continue to be the power of God.
The gospel is the only means on which a man can be saved. The gospel will continue to be preached, day after day, minute after minute, to the world at large so men every where can repent and believe. There is no other Name under heaven in which to be saved, other than Jesus the Christ.
I do not know if the world will become financially healthy or if Canada will remain a nation or if I will even be alive by this time next year BUT I can say with the Apostle Paul: "For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day." 2 Timothy 1:12
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Happy New Year 2009
Wow! It's Here...2009!
We have a Theme Verse this year. We believe God is going to do some great things in the year 2009. There is nothing too hard for our LORD. He is the ALMIGHTY!
We are also asking the Lord for 29 baptisms in the coming year. This is the most baptisms Royal Heights has seen for years. Let's ask God every day for souls! This will take a renewed desire on our part to see the lost come to the Lord. Each one of us will need to be open to be used by the Lord to encounter people with the gospel.
We are believing that this will greatly effect our worship attendance on Sunday mornings. We will need to expect this increase and prepare accordingly. Now that the Spanish Church has agreed to meet at the same time as us but in our other building, parking is going to become a challenge. We will need to be patient to work together to see the impact we can have on the community around us.
Our three goals for the year are simple. I ask everyone to commit to these three goals with an sincere heart, seeking God to accomplish His will through us. No one person can do these things. It takes the complete body of Christ to pursue these goals, together!
Royal Heights,...LET'S DO IT!
We have a Theme Verse this year. We believe God is going to do some great things in the year 2009. There is nothing too hard for our LORD. He is the ALMIGHTY!
We are also asking the Lord for 29 baptisms in the coming year. This is the most baptisms Royal Heights has seen for years. Let's ask God every day for souls! This will take a renewed desire on our part to see the lost come to the Lord. Each one of us will need to be open to be used by the Lord to encounter people with the gospel.
We are believing that this will greatly effect our worship attendance on Sunday mornings. We will need to expect this increase and prepare accordingly. Now that the Spanish Church has agreed to meet at the same time as us but in our other building, parking is going to become a challenge. We will need to be patient to work together to see the impact we can have on the community around us.
Our three goals for the year are simple. I ask everyone to commit to these three goals with an sincere heart, seeking God to accomplish His will through us. No one person can do these things. It takes the complete body of Christ to pursue these goals, together!
Royal Heights,...LET'S DO IT!
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