Empty Me
Week 3
Isaiah 58:10
"If you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom become as the noonday."
The whole chapter of Isaiah 58 is one that became so real to me while I was in Guatemala. The Lord placed Isaiah 58:10 on my heart his week specifically. When you look at the first part of this verse it says pour yourself out. When I think about pouring water out of a bottle, you take it and turn it partly upside down and as it gets more empty, you flip it more till it is completely upside down and the water is completely drained out. Pour yourself out to the hungry; completely empty yourself, turn yourself upside down. The verse then goes on to say satisfy the desire of the afflicted. The desires of everyone who does not know Christ is a relationship with Jesus, it is just masked in different ways. So to those that are burdened and in despair, comfort them with the love of Christ. The very first word of this verse is "if" which implies condition. If we do these things then e second part of the verse will be true for us. The light of Christ that is in us will then shine brightly and will cut through the darkness. People will begin to receive hope and encouragement and will no longer thirst or be hungry because the love of Christ is being shared with them. It also says that your gloom will be as noonday, which in NKJ says your darkness will be as noonday. Around noon, the sun is the hottest and the brightest during that day. So if you do these things your darkness will be blinded by the light of Christ that is radiating through you so strongly.
God placed this verse on my heart as I was preparing for kids club. I feel as though the devil always tries to get a hold of my Friday and Saturday to discourage me. He wants to get me down so that I might not be affective doing the Lord's work. I recognized that when I out aside the feelings and thoughts I was having and just love on the kids while I am with them, I often times forget about the stuff the devil was attacking me with. I am always filled with so much joy after kids club when I pour myself out to the kids. When I completely dump myself upside down and empty all of me, I receive the promise that the Lord states in this verse and my "gloom" is as noonday.
I cannot help but think of the song that says: "empty me, won't you empty me. Fill me with you, with you Lord." Today I am going to spend sometime in prayer and ask for help from the Lord to pour myself out not just on kid club days but everyday of the week as I serve him in different schools and in different ways.
Week 3
Isaiah 58:10
"If you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom become as the noonday."
The whole chapter of Isaiah 58 is one that became so real to me while I was in Guatemala. The Lord placed Isaiah 58:10 on my heart his week specifically. When you look at the first part of this verse it says pour yourself out. When I think about pouring water out of a bottle, you take it and turn it partly upside down and as it gets more empty, you flip it more till it is completely upside down and the water is completely drained out. Pour yourself out to the hungry; completely empty yourself, turn yourself upside down. The verse then goes on to say satisfy the desire of the afflicted. The desires of everyone who does not know Christ is a relationship with Jesus, it is just masked in different ways. So to those that are burdened and in despair, comfort them with the love of Christ. The very first word of this verse is "if" which implies condition. If we do these things then e second part of the verse will be true for us. The light of Christ that is in us will then shine brightly and will cut through the darkness. People will begin to receive hope and encouragement and will no longer thirst or be hungry because the love of Christ is being shared with them. It also says that your gloom will be as noonday, which in NKJ says your darkness will be as noonday. Around noon, the sun is the hottest and the brightest during that day. So if you do these things your darkness will be blinded by the light of Christ that is radiating through you so strongly.
God placed this verse on my heart as I was preparing for kids club. I feel as though the devil always tries to get a hold of my Friday and Saturday to discourage me. He wants to get me down so that I might not be affective doing the Lord's work. I recognized that when I out aside the feelings and thoughts I was having and just love on the kids while I am with them, I often times forget about the stuff the devil was attacking me with. I am always filled with so much joy after kids club when I pour myself out to the kids. When I completely dump myself upside down and empty all of me, I receive the promise that the Lord states in this verse and my "gloom" is as noonday.
I cannot help but think of the song that says: "empty me, won't you empty me. Fill me with you, with you Lord." Today I am going to spend sometime in prayer and ask for help from the Lord to pour myself out not just on kid club days but everyday of the week as I serve him in different schools and in different ways.
Memorization is Key
Week 2
Proverbs 22:17-18
"Incline you ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge, for it will be pleasant if you keep them within you, if all of them are ready on your lips."
God placed this verse on my heart early this week and it was one I had decided to put to memory and wanted to spend some time meditating on. "Incline your ear" stood out to me as a interesting phrase so I checked out the word incline. One definition I found for it is "to have mental tendency, preference". I now see this verse as a mental thing. God does not want just our ears but our minds saw well. He does not want us to just hear the words of the wise but to hear them and think on them. So now, in this verse, I see the need for out minds, ears, hearts, and lips. Turn on your thinking cap, open your ears, soften your heart, and speak the truth. Wow.
Turn on your thinking cap: Read the Word and meditate on it hear words from the wise and think them over, and keep them at the forefront of your brain.
Open you're ears: Don't be shut down to what God has to speak to you. It is important to always ask God to speak to you before opening the Bible. It is also important to ask God to speak to you before going to a Bible study or to hear someone teach. It is also important to listen for the voice of a God when you least expect it. He will speak to you in many ways throughout each day but you will not hear him unless your ears are open to him.
Soften your heart: Just as it is important to have open ears to hear God when he speaks to you, it is also important that you are in a right place with God. If we have I repented sin or any sin going on in our lives our hearts will not be soft but will be hardened just a little towards God. A hardened heart or any thing in our lives that is not of God puts a barrier between us that we then have to try to hear through. So not only will the noise of the world be trying to drown the voice of God but the wall that is between will also drown out some of his voice.
Speak the truth: the words that come out of my mouth as a Christian should be words that are honoring and pleasing to God. Be ready in and out of season. These words come to my mind as it is so important to constantly be hiding the Word in our hearts so that way when the devil comes and attacks we have our defense right there. The words to get him away should be on our lips ready to speak when temptation comes our way or whenever they may be needed.
The last point really spoke to me because, while I was in Guatemala for training, The Lord spoke to me about how important it is to memorize scripture. From this I decided to start memorizing the book of psalms and other short verses from other parts of the Bible as lead. Once I went home I stopped memorizing like I was in Guatemala and when the lord showed me this verse this week it immediately spoke to me. I was convicted of not being serious enough about memorizing scripture. Scripture is a useful tool and God does not want us having to dig around the tool box to find it when we need it. He wants it to be hanging up by the door, our mouths.
So now I am going to write all the scripture I have memorized on 3x5 cards and keep adding to it and see how much the pile grows over the next 6 months.
Week 2
Proverbs 22:17-18
"Incline you ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge, for it will be pleasant if you keep them within you, if all of them are ready on your lips."
God placed this verse on my heart early this week and it was one I had decided to put to memory and wanted to spend some time meditating on. "Incline your ear" stood out to me as a interesting phrase so I checked out the word incline. One definition I found for it is "to have mental tendency, preference". I now see this verse as a mental thing. God does not want just our ears but our minds saw well. He does not want us to just hear the words of the wise but to hear them and think on them. So now, in this verse, I see the need for out minds, ears, hearts, and lips. Turn on your thinking cap, open your ears, soften your heart, and speak the truth. Wow.
Turn on your thinking cap: Read the Word and meditate on it hear words from the wise and think them over, and keep them at the forefront of your brain.
Open you're ears: Don't be shut down to what God has to speak to you. It is important to always ask God to speak to you before opening the Bible. It is also important to ask God to speak to you before going to a Bible study or to hear someone teach. It is also important to listen for the voice of a God when you least expect it. He will speak to you in many ways throughout each day but you will not hear him unless your ears are open to him.
Soften your heart: Just as it is important to have open ears to hear God when he speaks to you, it is also important that you are in a right place with God. If we have I repented sin or any sin going on in our lives our hearts will not be soft but will be hardened just a little towards God. A hardened heart or any thing in our lives that is not of God puts a barrier between us that we then have to try to hear through. So not only will the noise of the world be trying to drown the voice of God but the wall that is between will also drown out some of his voice.
Speak the truth: the words that come out of my mouth as a Christian should be words that are honoring and pleasing to God. Be ready in and out of season. These words come to my mind as it is so important to constantly be hiding the Word in our hearts so that way when the devil comes and attacks we have our defense right there. The words to get him away should be on our lips ready to speak when temptation comes our way or whenever they may be needed.
The last point really spoke to me because, while I was in Guatemala for training, The Lord spoke to me about how important it is to memorize scripture. From this I decided to start memorizing the book of psalms and other short verses from other parts of the Bible as lead. Once I went home I stopped memorizing like I was in Guatemala and when the lord showed me this verse this week it immediately spoke to me. I was convicted of not being serious enough about memorizing scripture. Scripture is a useful tool and God does not want us having to dig around the tool box to find it when we need it. He wants it to be hanging up by the door, our mouths.
So now I am going to write all the scripture I have memorized on 3x5 cards and keep adding to it and see how much the pile grows over the next 6 months.
Undeserved Gifts
Friday, September 27, 2013
Matthew 5:20
“For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
The scribes and the Pharisees had self-righteousness. The righteousness they were after came from keeping the Law. The only person that ever kept the Law is he who came to fulfill it (Jesus Christ). I see Jesus saying here the Pharisees kept a lot of the Law but could never 100 percent keep it. If you are able to keep the Law 100 percent then you can enter the kingdom of heaven. Since we are human and constantly sinning (breaking the Law), obviously self-righteousness will never grant us the kingdom of heaven. The righteousness we need is through faith. Philippians 3:9 says “and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the Law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith.” We need God’s righteousness through faith in him and the outpouring of his grace for our lives. Grace is getting we do not deserve and the kingdom of heaven is certainly one of those undeserved gifts. God’s grace is so abundant for us that have faith in him that he is continually giving us what we do not deserve. As I sit here, I ask myself the question, what gifts have I been given that I don’t deserve? Immediately I say life. The very fact that I am alive today is an undeserved gift. Forgiveness is something God daily gives me which I do not deserve. I do not deserve the forgiveness from God when he knows I am going to again mess up and come crawling back to him. I don’t even deserve to have fellowship with God. Today, before I go to bed, I am going to spend some time reflecting on grace and all the grace God showed me through the day.
Friday, September 27, 2013
Matthew 5:20
“For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
The scribes and the Pharisees had self-righteousness. The righteousness they were after came from keeping the Law. The only person that ever kept the Law is he who came to fulfill it (Jesus Christ). I see Jesus saying here the Pharisees kept a lot of the Law but could never 100 percent keep it. If you are able to keep the Law 100 percent then you can enter the kingdom of heaven. Since we are human and constantly sinning (breaking the Law), obviously self-righteousness will never grant us the kingdom of heaven. The righteousness we need is through faith. Philippians 3:9 says “and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the Law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith.” We need God’s righteousness through faith in him and the outpouring of his grace for our lives. Grace is getting we do not deserve and the kingdom of heaven is certainly one of those undeserved gifts. God’s grace is so abundant for us that have faith in him that he is continually giving us what we do not deserve. As I sit here, I ask myself the question, what gifts have I been given that I don’t deserve? Immediately I say life. The very fact that I am alive today is an undeserved gift. Forgiveness is something God daily gives me which I do not deserve. I do not deserve the forgiveness from God when he knows I am going to again mess up and come crawling back to him. I don’t even deserve to have fellowship with God. Today, before I go to bed, I am going to spend some time reflecting on grace and all the grace God showed me through the day.
Keep His Commandments
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Matthew 5:19
“Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”
We saw in previous verses that Jesus had come to fulfill the law and the prophets. He had come to earth as the perfect lamb to be the perfect sacrifice once and for all. All the practices of the old law are no longer needed but the 10 commandments are. Jesus says here that we are to take the 10 commandments to heart and live life according to them. The 10 Commandments are: 1) Thou shall have no other gods before me, 2) you shall not make for yourself a carved image, 3) You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, 4) remember the Sabbath and keep it Holy, 5) honor your father and your mother, 6) you shall not murder, 7) you shall not commit adultery, 8) you shall not steal, 9) you shall not bear false witness against your neighbor, and 10) you shall not covet your neighbors house. We are not to take these or any other commandment that the Lord has given us lightly. We are instructed to obey them and teach them. Not only are these commandments important but also the other things the Lord has instructed us to do such as love your neighbor as yourself. Today, I will recite these 10 commandments to Kay before going to bed as a reminder to obey the Lord not just in way of the 10 commandments but all areas of life.
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Matthew 5:19
“Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”
We saw in previous verses that Jesus had come to fulfill the law and the prophets. He had come to earth as the perfect lamb to be the perfect sacrifice once and for all. All the practices of the old law are no longer needed but the 10 commandments are. Jesus says here that we are to take the 10 commandments to heart and live life according to them. The 10 Commandments are: 1) Thou shall have no other gods before me, 2) you shall not make for yourself a carved image, 3) You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, 4) remember the Sabbath and keep it Holy, 5) honor your father and your mother, 6) you shall not murder, 7) you shall not commit adultery, 8) you shall not steal, 9) you shall not bear false witness against your neighbor, and 10) you shall not covet your neighbors house. We are not to take these or any other commandment that the Lord has given us lightly. We are instructed to obey them and teach them. Not only are these commandments important but also the other things the Lord has instructed us to do such as love your neighbor as yourself. Today, I will recite these 10 commandments to Kay before going to bed as a reminder to obey the Lord not just in way of the 10 commandments but all areas of life.
The Perfect Sacrifice
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Matthew 5:17
“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law of the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”
Jesus came to the Earth as a baby knowing he was to become the sacrifice for every ones sins. Jesus took the old Law and did not come to destroy it or eliminate it but rather came to be the perfect sacrifice. I am in the process of reading through the Old Testament right now and as I read through the first five books I often times think how grateful I am that I no longer have to make sin offerings when I sin and am considered unclean. I have often times thought that I would have had to go before the Lord with my offering then get home and have to go back to the Priests again in need of making another offering to the Lord. Jesus came to the earth and became the ultimate sacrifice for me and for the world. Now when I sin I can in that very moment confess it to God and be cleansed. Jesus became the lamb that was without blemishes or spots. He became someone that took the beating that I deserved. He died for me and for you and that makes me thankful. He humbled himself to the point of death but then defeated death and now lives with his Father in Glory. Each of us that believe now have hope because he is coming back for us someday. Today, I am going to spend 10 minutes meditating on Jesus death and resurrection and praise him for being willing to pay my debt.
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Matthew 5:17
“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law of the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”
Jesus came to the Earth as a baby knowing he was to become the sacrifice for every ones sins. Jesus took the old Law and did not come to destroy it or eliminate it but rather came to be the perfect sacrifice. I am in the process of reading through the Old Testament right now and as I read through the first five books I often times think how grateful I am that I no longer have to make sin offerings when I sin and am considered unclean. I have often times thought that I would have had to go before the Lord with my offering then get home and have to go back to the Priests again in need of making another offering to the Lord. Jesus came to the earth and became the ultimate sacrifice for me and for the world. Now when I sin I can in that very moment confess it to God and be cleansed. Jesus became the lamb that was without blemishes or spots. He became someone that took the beating that I deserved. He died for me and for you and that makes me thankful. He humbled himself to the point of death but then defeated death and now lives with his Father in Glory. Each of us that believe now have hope because he is coming back for us someday. Today, I am going to spend 10 minutes meditating on Jesus death and resurrection and praise him for being willing to pay my debt.
To the Glory of God
Monday, September 23, 2013
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in Heaven.”
“In the same way” is referencing back to the previous verses that say when you light a lamp. You set it out in the open so that it lights up the whole house, it would be silly to hide the lamp after lighting it. So now verse 16 is saying that we are to be like a lamp. I think of the song we often sing that says “set a fire down in my soul that I can’t contain that I can’t control”. If we have that fire, that passion for Jesus in our hearts we need to share it with others. We need to go out into the world and allow that light to shine, we need to serve others the way Christ modeled for us to serve and we need to love others the way Christ loves us. If we do those things people will recognize our good works, the difference will be that they will see something different. When we do everything for the Glory of God, people will return the praise to the Father and his name will be exalted. That is what I want in my life. Today I am going to have written on my hand “to the Glory of God” as a constant reminder to do everything to bring him Glory.
Monday, September 23, 2013
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in Heaven.”
“In the same way” is referencing back to the previous verses that say when you light a lamp. You set it out in the open so that it lights up the whole house, it would be silly to hide the lamp after lighting it. So now verse 16 is saying that we are to be like a lamp. I think of the song we often sing that says “set a fire down in my soul that I can’t contain that I can’t control”. If we have that fire, that passion for Jesus in our hearts we need to share it with others. We need to go out into the world and allow that light to shine, we need to serve others the way Christ modeled for us to serve and we need to love others the way Christ loves us. If we do those things people will recognize our good works, the difference will be that they will see something different. When we do everything for the Glory of God, people will return the praise to the Father and his name will be exalted. That is what I want in my life. Today I am going to have written on my hand “to the Glory of God” as a constant reminder to do everything to bring him Glory.
The Athlete
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
1 Corinthians 9:25
“Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.”
Athletes do exercise self-control a lot. I remember in high school to be an athlete you had to maintain a certain GPA. For that to happen I could not mess around during class so that way when text come I would do well. In college, though I was never an athlete , a lot of my friends were and self-control become more important. One of my friends on the football team would forfeit going out on Firday nights because he had a big game the next day and did not wan to have a hang over. My friends also often had to wake up really early for morning workouts. They had to be discipline and have self-control other wise they would only be a hindrance to the team. It is much like that of the Christian faith. The things of this world may seem so desiring. The flesh tells us that it would make everything better if you have a drink, smoke some pot, go to a party, or get more money. The flesh says to do all the things that the would make us part of the world but we are instructed to live in the world not of the world. We have to have self0control to deny ourselves those things and to turn to God. But athletes do not just need self-control in denying things to make them a stronger athlete
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
1 Corinthians 9:25
“Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.”
Athletes do exercise self-control a lot. I remember in high school to be an athlete you had to maintain a certain GPA. For that to happen I could not mess around during class so that way when text come I would do well. In college, though I was never an athlete , a lot of my friends were and self-control become more important. One of my friends on the football team would forfeit going out on Firday nights because he had a big game the next day and did not wan to have a hang over. My friends also often had to wake up really early for morning workouts. They had to be discipline and have self-control other wise they would only be a hindrance to the team. It is much like that of the Christian faith. The things of this world may seem so desiring. The flesh tells us that it would make everything better if you have a drink, smoke some pot, go to a party, or get more money. The flesh says to do all the things that the would make us part of the world but we are instructed to live in the world not of the world. We have to have self0control to deny ourselves those things and to turn to God. But athletes do not just need self-control in denying things to make them a stronger athlete
The Race
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
1 Corinthians 9:24
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.”
Paul often makes comparisons to athletes. In this verse, he says that multiple runners line up to run a race and no one walks, they all run because that is what they are, runners. Christians should not be seen as runners but as a little Christ since that is what Christian means. Once we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, we step up to the start line and the gun goes off. Now this race is just a little different because every “runner” gets the prize. Paul is sayi8ng here that as runners run hard and press on even when they get tired, they are racing for a trophy. This trophy is something that may break and is pretty much useless except for bragging rights. Christians need to press on. We need to be discipline to keep running even when we get tired and weary. We need to run this race on earth with everything we have that we may obtain the prize. And our prize is way better then a trophy. It is instead eternity with Jesus Christ where we will hopefully hear the words “well done my good and faithful servant”. One loop I have at home that I like to run is eight miles and its was the run that required mental preparation knowing what was ahead of me. This run often reminded me or my Christian walk as I ran it. It is long and tired son and sometimes I would just want to give up. It had its moments of beauty on the back roads where it is was peaceful and I could enjoy God’s creation. Then the busy roads would come and I would receive energy from all the energy going on around me and it helped me to keep going. There were many ups and odwns, some hills long and steep, but once I reached my destination, I was happy I pushed through and did not give up on the run. So often life is like that and there are moments in our walk with Christ that we may doubt or just be so worn out we are ready to give up on the race and not complete what the Lord had called us to do. Paul says no do not give up, you are a runner so you will run till you cross the finish line. Press on. Am I running hard through the finish line or have the hills gotten me down? Today I will pray and ask God to help me finish this time in training full sprint. This time is coming to an end but if I can finish strong it will only help me for the next part of this marathon I am running.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
1 Corinthians 9:24
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.”
Paul often makes comparisons to athletes. In this verse, he says that multiple runners line up to run a race and no one walks, they all run because that is what they are, runners. Christians should not be seen as runners but as a little Christ since that is what Christian means. Once we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, we step up to the start line and the gun goes off. Now this race is just a little different because every “runner” gets the prize. Paul is sayi8ng here that as runners run hard and press on even when they get tired, they are racing for a trophy. This trophy is something that may break and is pretty much useless except for bragging rights. Christians need to press on. We need to be discipline to keep running even when we get tired and weary. We need to run this race on earth with everything we have that we may obtain the prize. And our prize is way better then a trophy. It is instead eternity with Jesus Christ where we will hopefully hear the words “well done my good and faithful servant”. One loop I have at home that I like to run is eight miles and its was the run that required mental preparation knowing what was ahead of me. This run often reminded me or my Christian walk as I ran it. It is long and tired son and sometimes I would just want to give up. It had its moments of beauty on the back roads where it is was peaceful and I could enjoy God’s creation. Then the busy roads would come and I would receive energy from all the energy going on around me and it helped me to keep going. There were many ups and odwns, some hills long and steep, but once I reached my destination, I was happy I pushed through and did not give up on the run. So often life is like that and there are moments in our walk with Christ that we may doubt or just be so worn out we are ready to give up on the race and not complete what the Lord had called us to do. Paul says no do not give up, you are a runner so you will run till you cross the finish line. Press on. Am I running hard through the finish line or have the hills gotten me down? Today I will pray and ask God to help me finish this time in training full sprint. This time is coming to an end but if I can finish strong it will only help me for the next part of this marathon I am running.
All things to All men
Monday, September 16, 2013
1 Corinthians 9:22b-23
“I have become all things to all people that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the Gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.”
Earlier in the passage Paul says when sharing the Gospel with the Jews, became a Jew, to those under the law, became as one under the law, and to the weak, become weak. Paul is willing to be whoever he needs to be while remaining under the law of Christ just for the sake of sharing the Gospel. He does not want to ruin his witness by being a stumbling block to the people he is sharing with even if he thinks it okay. When I got the handbook for IGNITE and read the section on modesty, something new stood out to me. It said that the amount of clothing you own can be a stumbling block for those who have very little so we were to be modest in the amount of clothing we brought. I cannot help but think of what Austin said to team Kenya last night and many times before in becoming all things to all men. He told us to take the public transportation as the Kenyans would and to walk with them to places. Our words do not mean much if our actions do not back it up. During this time of training, their were certain things we did not do or did not wear just to be culturally sensitive. We started learning the language and creating relationships so that we may share the love of Christ with them. As Pastor Steve told us, we must know the culture. But more importantly we must know the worldview of the people in the culture that we may then understand the culture and be able to share the Gospel with them in an effective manner. Paul knew the culture and I believe the worldview of people in each culture he entered and was therefore able to live in their culture yet under the law of Christ. He was able to be effective in his ministry because he took the time to get to know them. As I prepare to go to Kenya, I want to be all things to them. That requires me to learn their language and about their culture. This week when we have internet time I will do some research on the Kenyan culture and everyday I will review the Kiswahili I have been given working hard to learn their language and about their culture.
Monday, September 16, 2013
1 Corinthians 9:22b-23
“I have become all things to all people that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the Gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.”
Earlier in the passage Paul says when sharing the Gospel with the Jews, became a Jew, to those under the law, became as one under the law, and to the weak, become weak. Paul is willing to be whoever he needs to be while remaining under the law of Christ just for the sake of sharing the Gospel. He does not want to ruin his witness by being a stumbling block to the people he is sharing with even if he thinks it okay. When I got the handbook for IGNITE and read the section on modesty, something new stood out to me. It said that the amount of clothing you own can be a stumbling block for those who have very little so we were to be modest in the amount of clothing we brought. I cannot help but think of what Austin said to team Kenya last night and many times before in becoming all things to all men. He told us to take the public transportation as the Kenyans would and to walk with them to places. Our words do not mean much if our actions do not back it up. During this time of training, their were certain things we did not do or did not wear just to be culturally sensitive. We started learning the language and creating relationships so that we may share the love of Christ with them. As Pastor Steve told us, we must know the culture. But more importantly we must know the worldview of the people in the culture that we may then understand the culture and be able to share the Gospel with them in an effective manner. Paul knew the culture and I believe the worldview of people in each culture he entered and was therefore able to live in their culture yet under the law of Christ. He was able to be effective in his ministry because he took the time to get to know them. As I prepare to go to Kenya, I want to be all things to them. That requires me to learn their language and about their culture. This week when we have internet time I will do some research on the Kenyan culture and everyday I will review the Kiswahili I have been given working hard to learn their language and about their culture.
Looking to the Kingdom of God
Friday, September 13, 2013
Philippians 3:12-13
“Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead.”
Paul is forgetting his past and looking to the future. He says that he is not perfect but that will not keep him from pressing on. Paul’s past is crazy. He use to persecute the Christians and then God revealed himself to him changing his life forever. Paul forgets the pass and presses on toward the Kingdom of God. This is such a great example for me. It is easy to dwell on my past and Satan would love it. Ever since I printed out the application for IGNITE Satan like to creep in and remind me of my past. “Remember that night when…” is often what Satan will tell me. He likes to remind me of all the mistakes I have made and all the pain I have felt. But Galatians 5:1 says “for freedom Christ has set us free, stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Paul took hold of the freedom he had in Christ and no longer looked at the past. Instead he looked forward and saw the Kingdom of God. It was his prize, his ultimate goal. This example that Paul gives is great and I need to daily press on towards the Kingdom of God. What does this look like in my life? First, I believe having scripture hidden in my heart so that when Satan tries to throw discouragement from my past I am ready with Word of God to fight him off. But when discouragement or hard times come, I must not shrink back as we talked about in Acts 20:24, we must press on. And, here again, Paul reminds me and you that our goal is the Kingdom of God. We all must lay the past down and look forward. We must everyday live like today is the day we will receive the prize. Today, I will memorize Philippians 3:12-13 so that I may remember this verse, press on, and daily live looking to the goal (the Kingdom of God).
Friday, September 13, 2013
Philippians 3:12-13
“Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead.”
Paul is forgetting his past and looking to the future. He says that he is not perfect but that will not keep him from pressing on. Paul’s past is crazy. He use to persecute the Christians and then God revealed himself to him changing his life forever. Paul forgets the pass and presses on toward the Kingdom of God. This is such a great example for me. It is easy to dwell on my past and Satan would love it. Ever since I printed out the application for IGNITE Satan like to creep in and remind me of my past. “Remember that night when…” is often what Satan will tell me. He likes to remind me of all the mistakes I have made and all the pain I have felt. But Galatians 5:1 says “for freedom Christ has set us free, stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Paul took hold of the freedom he had in Christ and no longer looked at the past. Instead he looked forward and saw the Kingdom of God. It was his prize, his ultimate goal. This example that Paul gives is great and I need to daily press on towards the Kingdom of God. What does this look like in my life? First, I believe having scripture hidden in my heart so that when Satan tries to throw discouragement from my past I am ready with Word of God to fight him off. But when discouragement or hard times come, I must not shrink back as we talked about in Acts 20:24, we must press on. And, here again, Paul reminds me and you that our goal is the Kingdom of God. We all must lay the past down and look forward. We must everyday live like today is the day we will receive the prize. Today, I will memorize Philippians 3:12-13 so that I may remember this verse, press on, and daily live looking to the goal (the Kingdom of God).
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Philippians 3:11
“that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead.”
Jesus is coming back for all his children. All those who have died will on that day be resurrected from the dead and taken up to live with Jesus forever. In this verse, I sense eagerness. Paul had to endure a lot of sufferings for his faith in Christ yet he is ready and willing for whatever just so that would come. He says “by any means possible”. He was not joking around. He believed in God and had received Salvation. He suffered physically and spent nights in prison for his belief. He was sensitive to the Holy Spirit and knew someday Jesus was going to come back for him and the rest of the church. Something that I see here is that be resurrected you must be dead. Paul was still alive but was saying what great desire he had to be resurrected. I cannot help but think of the phrase “die to self”. Paul though physically alive, was a dead man. He did not see anything of any importance except Christ, hi8s relationship with him, and giving the word of salvation to non-believers. Dead men have no rights. Dead men do not complain. Am I a dead man? Unfortunately, just from those two lines, I am not a dead man. I think I have rights to everything and I complain far to often. A physically dead man has nothing in him. A spiritually dead man has only Christ in him. What is left in me that needs to come out so I am empty and Christ can movie in? What is keeping me from being a dead man? In what areas am I still standing up on the inside? Today I am going to pray and ask God to reveal to me areas that I need to change and make a list of these things. Asking God to remove them so that I may be a dead man with nothing left in me but Christ.
Philippians 3:11
“that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead.”
Jesus is coming back for all his children. All those who have died will on that day be resurrected from the dead and taken up to live with Jesus forever. In this verse, I sense eagerness. Paul had to endure a lot of sufferings for his faith in Christ yet he is ready and willing for whatever just so that would come. He says “by any means possible”. He was not joking around. He believed in God and had received Salvation. He suffered physically and spent nights in prison for his belief. He was sensitive to the Holy Spirit and knew someday Jesus was going to come back for him and the rest of the church. Something that I see here is that be resurrected you must be dead. Paul was still alive but was saying what great desire he had to be resurrected. I cannot help but think of the phrase “die to self”. Paul though physically alive, was a dead man. He did not see anything of any importance except Christ, hi8s relationship with him, and giving the word of salvation to non-believers. Dead men have no rights. Dead men do not complain. Am I a dead man? Unfortunately, just from those two lines, I am not a dead man. I think I have rights to everything and I complain far to often. A physically dead man has nothing in him. A spiritually dead man has only Christ in him. What is left in me that needs to come out so I am empty and Christ can movie in? What is keeping me from being a dead man? In what areas am I still standing up on the inside? Today I am going to pray and ask God to reveal to me areas that I need to change and make a list of these things. Asking God to remove them so that I may be a dead man with nothing left in me but Christ.
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Philippians 3:10
“that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death”
The first phrase stands out to me, “that I may know him”. As I said yesterday, one of the things I desire is a more intimate relationship with Jesus. When someone sees another person and wants to know them they walk up to the person and meet them. At first the conversation is very general and they are known as acquaintances, but as they talk, they soon develop a friendship. Over time the friendship may go deeper and they start talking about more personal things and the friendship is now an intimate relationship as they are honest and open with each other about struggles and pains, joys and praises. As I sit here and write this, I cannot help but think of several of my closest girl friends. One of the girls I went to high school with but we never talked much. She knew who I was and I knew who she was, we were acquaintances. We graduated and ended up going to the same college but I still did not think we would ever talk. We soon were hanging out with the same group of people and became friends, then we decided to get an apartment together. We talked and laughed together all the time and when hard days came, we would cry together. We took time to get to know each other and were able to share each others joys and burdens. “As the deer pants for streams of water, so I long for you, O God.” Psalm 42:1. We should have that type of desire for a more intimate relationship with Jesus. We should long for more of him. Jesus wants us to know him more and he wants us to be open with him. I see my relationship with Jesus like that of my friend. For a long time I knew who he (Jesus) was. Then I began talking with him and we formed a friendship where we often shared in the joys of my life and the joy of his resurrection. I share my pains with him but so often I do not give him a chance to tell me what his pains are. I love the song that says “break my heart for what breaks yours”. To know the Lord intimately I need to be open with him but also allow him to speak to me. Today I will spend 10 minutes in prayer asking God to break my hear for the tings that break his heart and I will also spend 10 minutes sitting silently waiting on the Lord to speak to me with my Bible open willing to listen to him.
Philippians 3:10
“that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death”
The first phrase stands out to me, “that I may know him”. As I said yesterday, one of the things I desire is a more intimate relationship with Jesus. When someone sees another person and wants to know them they walk up to the person and meet them. At first the conversation is very general and they are known as acquaintances, but as they talk, they soon develop a friendship. Over time the friendship may go deeper and they start talking about more personal things and the friendship is now an intimate relationship as they are honest and open with each other about struggles and pains, joys and praises. As I sit here and write this, I cannot help but think of several of my closest girl friends. One of the girls I went to high school with but we never talked much. She knew who I was and I knew who she was, we were acquaintances. We graduated and ended up going to the same college but I still did not think we would ever talk. We soon were hanging out with the same group of people and became friends, then we decided to get an apartment together. We talked and laughed together all the time and when hard days came, we would cry together. We took time to get to know each other and were able to share each others joys and burdens. “As the deer pants for streams of water, so I long for you, O God.” Psalm 42:1. We should have that type of desire for a more intimate relationship with Jesus. We should long for more of him. Jesus wants us to know him more and he wants us to be open with him. I see my relationship with Jesus like that of my friend. For a long time I knew who he (Jesus) was. Then I began talking with him and we formed a friendship where we often shared in the joys of my life and the joy of his resurrection. I share my pains with him but so often I do not give him a chance to tell me what his pains are. I love the song that says “break my heart for what breaks yours”. To know the Lord intimately I need to be open with him but also allow him to speak to me. Today I will spend 10 minutes in prayer asking God to break my hear for the tings that break his heart and I will also spend 10 minutes sitting silently waiting on the Lord to speak to me with my Bible open willing to listen to him.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Philippians 3:9
“and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith.”
On Earth, if you obey the law you stay out of trouble and are viewed by law enforcement as a good person. In the eyes of God, nothing makes you a good person. Nothing I do or you do could ever make us good enough to go to heaven. Righteousness doesn’t come from following the law or doing good things. Rather, this verse says righteousness comes from God is dependent on on faith. I can’t help but think back to high school. I went to church and went on missions trips and to soup kitchens with my youth group. I felt like I was a good person. I prayed the prayer when I was younger and never killed anyone. To me, it was like I had a golden ticket into Heaven. I was good, no need to get all crazy about God and not enjoy life was my thought. But righteousness comes from faith and through faith in God, you have the desires to do the mission trips and serve others and go to church. Good works gets you no where, but a strong faith in God leads to righteousness. Hebrews 11:1 says “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Two things I have been desiring recently are 1) a more intimate relationship with Jesus and 2) a stronger faith. What exactly does Hebrews 11:1 mean for me? What steps do I need to take to strengthen my faith? As a step towards my desire for a stronger faith, I will do a word study on faith over the next couple weeks as part of my time on the mount and will be in prayer daily asking God to strengthen my faith.
Philippians 3:9
“and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith.”
On Earth, if you obey the law you stay out of trouble and are viewed by law enforcement as a good person. In the eyes of God, nothing makes you a good person. Nothing I do or you do could ever make us good enough to go to heaven. Righteousness doesn’t come from following the law or doing good things. Rather, this verse says righteousness comes from God is dependent on on faith. I can’t help but think back to high school. I went to church and went on missions trips and to soup kitchens with my youth group. I felt like I was a good person. I prayed the prayer when I was younger and never killed anyone. To me, it was like I had a golden ticket into Heaven. I was good, no need to get all crazy about God and not enjoy life was my thought. But righteousness comes from faith and through faith in God, you have the desires to do the mission trips and serve others and go to church. Good works gets you no where, but a strong faith in God leads to righteousness. Hebrews 11:1 says “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Two things I have been desiring recently are 1) a more intimate relationship with Jesus and 2) a stronger faith. What exactly does Hebrews 11:1 mean for me? What steps do I need to take to strengthen my faith? As a step towards my desire for a stronger faith, I will do a word study on faith over the next couple weeks as part of my time on the mount and will be in prayer daily asking God to strengthen my faith.
Monday, September 9, 2013
Philippians 3:8
“Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ.”
Paul in this verse is saying that everything he ever accomplished and everything he has is like garbage to him. He has the mentality that nothing on this earth is worth anything. The only thing that has any value at all is a relationship with Jesus. He also says he has “suffered the loss” making it clear that it will not be easy but in return you have Christ which is the most valuable possession. When I decided to have a relationship with Jesus, I was convicted about some of the relationships I had with people. God told me I needed to remove myself from that group of friends because they only tore me down. I argued with God for a while because I had so much fun with them. The fun we had though was of the world and was everything the Bible said would lead to death. Eventually, I was able to die to self and lay down those friendships but it was not easy, I suffered the loss. But in return, my relationship with Jesus was strengthened and that single relationship brought more joy then all the friends I use to have. Everything I own I should see as rubbish as well. All the shoes, clothing, jewelry, or whatever it may be cannot bring me joy. Christ is the only one that can bring joy. Luke 9:25 says “for what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself?” are you willing to value everything on this earth as less and value your relationship with Jesus as more? Am I willing? I am forfeiting a few comforts and possessions for 1 year of my life but if God called me, would I be willing to forfeit them for life? Am I willing to sacrifice everything for my Lord? Today I will spend 10 minutes in prayer asking the Lord what some things are in my life that I have not been willing to give up for the gain of an even deeper relationship with Jesus.
Philippians 3:8
“Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ.”
Paul in this verse is saying that everything he ever accomplished and everything he has is like garbage to him. He has the mentality that nothing on this earth is worth anything. The only thing that has any value at all is a relationship with Jesus. He also says he has “suffered the loss” making it clear that it will not be easy but in return you have Christ which is the most valuable possession. When I decided to have a relationship with Jesus, I was convicted about some of the relationships I had with people. God told me I needed to remove myself from that group of friends because they only tore me down. I argued with God for a while because I had so much fun with them. The fun we had though was of the world and was everything the Bible said would lead to death. Eventually, I was able to die to self and lay down those friendships but it was not easy, I suffered the loss. But in return, my relationship with Jesus was strengthened and that single relationship brought more joy then all the friends I use to have. Everything I own I should see as rubbish as well. All the shoes, clothing, jewelry, or whatever it may be cannot bring me joy. Christ is the only one that can bring joy. Luke 9:25 says “for what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself?” are you willing to value everything on this earth as less and value your relationship with Jesus as more? Am I willing? I am forfeiting a few comforts and possessions for 1 year of my life but if God called me, would I be willing to forfeit them for life? Am I willing to sacrifice everything for my Lord? Today I will spend 10 minutes in prayer asking the Lord what some things are in my life that I have not been willing to give up for the gain of an even deeper relationship with Jesus.
Friday, September 6, 2013
1 Corinthians 9:19
“For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them.”
Because of Jesus Christ who died on the cross for our sins, we have freedom. I had given things from my past to Jesus a couple weeks ago and the freedom that brought me is incredible. Jesus wants us to live in his freedom, yet Paul here says he is free but has chosen to make himself a servant. Though he is serving the people on this Earth, he has actually enslaved himself to Christ. When I think about being a servant in that light, its humbling. All the times I say in my head, “I don’t really feel like serving right now” what I am actually saying is “I don’t really feel like being enslaved to Jesus right now”. So at that point I have allowed Satan in to enslave me which removes joy and freedom and only brings sadness, heartache, and more. If you look back at the end of the verse, Paul says, “that I might win more of them”. Win more of them for what? Paul is saying here that he is willing to die to self, become enslaved to Jesus, and serve others with the love of Christ just to spread the Gospel and hopefully some will come to know Christ through it. I can’t help but think about how different my life would look if I did that everyday. If I woke up every morning and sincerely asked God to rid me of myself and to enslave me to him so I can walk in His joy and freedom. And then if I also asked God to make me a servant to those around me that I might be a witness to them of his love. I think my eyes would be off of self a lot more and I would not only see all the opportunities to serve but would take them and rejoice in them. Today, before prayer, I want to spend time talking with Jesus about the junk in my life keeping me from giving my all to serve others. I will then tell my Kenyan girls (Courtney and Kay) what the Lord has revealed to me so that they may pray for me and hold me accountable here and on the field.
1 Corinthians 9:19
“For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them.”
Because of Jesus Christ who died on the cross for our sins, we have freedom. I had given things from my past to Jesus a couple weeks ago and the freedom that brought me is incredible. Jesus wants us to live in his freedom, yet Paul here says he is free but has chosen to make himself a servant. Though he is serving the people on this Earth, he has actually enslaved himself to Christ. When I think about being a servant in that light, its humbling. All the times I say in my head, “I don’t really feel like serving right now” what I am actually saying is “I don’t really feel like being enslaved to Jesus right now”. So at that point I have allowed Satan in to enslave me which removes joy and freedom and only brings sadness, heartache, and more. If you look back at the end of the verse, Paul says, “that I might win more of them”. Win more of them for what? Paul is saying here that he is willing to die to self, become enslaved to Jesus, and serve others with the love of Christ just to spread the Gospel and hopefully some will come to know Christ through it. I can’t help but think about how different my life would look if I did that everyday. If I woke up every morning and sincerely asked God to rid me of myself and to enslave me to him so I can walk in His joy and freedom. And then if I also asked God to make me a servant to those around me that I might be a witness to them of his love. I think my eyes would be off of self a lot more and I would not only see all the opportunities to serve but would take them and rejoice in them. Today, before prayer, I want to spend time talking with Jesus about the junk in my life keeping me from giving my all to serve others. I will then tell my Kenyan girls (Courtney and Kay) what the Lord has revealed to me so that they may pray for me and hold me accountable here and on the field.
Thursday, September 5, 2013
Luke 17:10
“So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘we are unworthy servants, we have only done what was our duty’.”
I am an unworthy servant. There is nothing about me that even makes me good enough to be a servant of God. I am a sinner and do not deserve to do the lowest of jobs for God. Yet, me and you have the opportunity to be his servants. God has called those who believe to be witnesses, to be light in this dark world. He has called us to serve and love. Our “duty” as believers is to love, serve, and share all in the name of Jesus. It will have its fun moments and its hard times but all in all we will have joy because we will be in the will of God doing what he has called us to do. It is a privilege to be a servant of God. It is so easy for me to forget that. In my flesh, I think I am awesome and forget the reality of my state. I should burn in Hell, but by the grace of God I know I am going to spend eternity with Jesus in Heaven. It does not matter what I do, or what I don’t do, because Jesus’ death on the cross covers all of it. Yet, if I am at a place of humility, I should desire to do right and to do as commanded even if I reap nothing on this earth. My Master, is the Lord Jesus Christ and I am his unworthy servant. I need to start living life in that humility instead of the pride that so quickly creeps up. Just because I am laying down a year of my life for Jesus does not make me any better then, for example, my brothers and sister who are serving the Lord in Pennsylvania. We al have a mission field and none is greater then the other. Right now, mine is Antigua, Guatemala and my desire is to be humble servant for my King. Today, I am going to write on my hand “unworthy servant” as a reminder to humbly serve.
Luke 17:10
“So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘we are unworthy servants, we have only done what was our duty’.”
I am an unworthy servant. There is nothing about me that even makes me good enough to be a servant of God. I am a sinner and do not deserve to do the lowest of jobs for God. Yet, me and you have the opportunity to be his servants. God has called those who believe to be witnesses, to be light in this dark world. He has called us to serve and love. Our “duty” as believers is to love, serve, and share all in the name of Jesus. It will have its fun moments and its hard times but all in all we will have joy because we will be in the will of God doing what he has called us to do. It is a privilege to be a servant of God. It is so easy for me to forget that. In my flesh, I think I am awesome and forget the reality of my state. I should burn in Hell, but by the grace of God I know I am going to spend eternity with Jesus in Heaven. It does not matter what I do, or what I don’t do, because Jesus’ death on the cross covers all of it. Yet, if I am at a place of humility, I should desire to do right and to do as commanded even if I reap nothing on this earth. My Master, is the Lord Jesus Christ and I am his unworthy servant. I need to start living life in that humility instead of the pride that so quickly creeps up. Just because I am laying down a year of my life for Jesus does not make me any better then, for example, my brothers and sister who are serving the Lord in Pennsylvania. We al have a mission field and none is greater then the other. Right now, mine is Antigua, Guatemala and my desire is to be humble servant for my King. Today, I am going to write on my hand “unworthy servant” as a reminder to humbly serve.
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Luke 17:9
“Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded?”
Thank you is a word that is so easily left out of our vocabulary. Doria makes us three meals a day because that’s her job but how much of an impact we could have if after every meal everyday we went up to her and said “gracias”. I think of the story of the ten leopards. They were so happy they were healed yet only one thought to say thank you. Even so, Jesus continues to heal and Doria continues to make us food. Whether we receive a thank you or not we are to be obedient to Jesus and serve one another in love. We may not receive a thank you today for serving our neighbors, but Jesus is our Master and he promises us the riches of Heaven. For me, that is the ultimate thank you which I do not even deserve. How can I serve my neighbors? Today, I am going to look twice as hard for opportunities to serve even if it is unseen and no thank you is given.
Luke 17:9
“Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded?”
Thank you is a word that is so easily left out of our vocabulary. Doria makes us three meals a day because that’s her job but how much of an impact we could have if after every meal everyday we went up to her and said “gracias”. I think of the story of the ten leopards. They were so happy they were healed yet only one thought to say thank you. Even so, Jesus continues to heal and Doria continues to make us food. Whether we receive a thank you or not we are to be obedient to Jesus and serve one another in love. We may not receive a thank you today for serving our neighbors, but Jesus is our Master and he promises us the riches of Heaven. For me, that is the ultimate thank you which I do not even deserve. How can I serve my neighbors? Today, I am going to look twice as hard for opportunities to serve even if it is unseen and no thank you is given.
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Luke 17:8
“Will he not rather say to him, ‘prepare supper for me, and dress properly, and serve me while I eat and drink, and afterward you will eat and drink’?”
The line, “will he not rather” caught my attention. It recognizes the choice to serve others or to serve yourself. It recognizes that it is so easy to serve yourself and that, in our flesh, it is easier to do. It is more appealing to our fleshly desires. I know for me, I so easily focus on myself instead of others. It is something I daily struggle with and in those moments I am self-centered I notice that my joy leaves me. During the past two months here in Antigua, God has been convicting me of all the things I do and say that are self-focused. The kids song JOY that we learned speaks so much to me. God calls us to serve; serve Jesus and others. When we serve Jesus and others, an unexplainable joy comes from it. But, even in the moments of serving others, it is a matter of the heart. I love the verse in Psalm 139:23. Its says, “search me O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts”. It is humbling when I am serving and stop to do a heart check and realize it is not to bring joy to others or to bring glory to God. Today I am going to have “Psalm 139:23” written on my hand as a reminder to constantly do a heart check while serving.
Luke 17:8
“Will he not rather say to him, ‘prepare supper for me, and dress properly, and serve me while I eat and drink, and afterward you will eat and drink’?”
The line, “will he not rather” caught my attention. It recognizes the choice to serve others or to serve yourself. It recognizes that it is so easy to serve yourself and that, in our flesh, it is easier to do. It is more appealing to our fleshly desires. I know for me, I so easily focus on myself instead of others. It is something I daily struggle with and in those moments I am self-centered I notice that my joy leaves me. During the past two months here in Antigua, God has been convicting me of all the things I do and say that are self-focused. The kids song JOY that we learned speaks so much to me. God calls us to serve; serve Jesus and others. When we serve Jesus and others, an unexplainable joy comes from it. But, even in the moments of serving others, it is a matter of the heart. I love the verse in Psalm 139:23. Its says, “search me O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts”. It is humbling when I am serving and stop to do a heart check and realize it is not to bring joy to others or to bring glory to God. Today I am going to have “Psalm 139:23” written on my hand as a reminder to constantly do a heart check while serving.
Monday, August 12, 2013
1 Timothy 6:6-8
“Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we shall be content.”
So I asked God for brokenness and for him to reveal things in my life that are not of him. He spoke right into that desire this morning. “Great gain in Godliness”. These words stood out to me because, like many other believers, that’s what I want; I want to be more like Jesus. This verse makes it really clear that one way to be more like Jesus is to be content. Listening to the song “Smile” by Jonathan McReynolds this morning, the lyrics say; “I can’t help by smile cause I realized what you done for me, all those battles you’ve won for me, and that someday soon you will come for me.” God gave his only Son, Jesus, willingly suffered and died so that someday He will return and take those who believed to live with him in Glory forever. Yet I sit on this Earth and say I wish I had those shoes, I wish I had more money, I wish I had a better job, I’m hungry, I want this, I want that. This verse hit me smack in the face and I remembered the saying “dead men don’t complain” from the devotionals we were to do before coming here. Who am I to sit here in Guatemala, in a mission training school who has hope because of Jesus Christ or a great eternity, who has clothes to wear and food to ear to complain about anything? I have Jesus! Do I really need anything else? As verse 7 says, I came into the world with nothing and will leave with nothing. Matthew 6:19-20 comes to mind to as I sit here; “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But lay up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.”. Then verse 21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” I need to be content with Jesus alone and being content in him will five me so much thankfulness for the things he blesses me with. For me, the first step is to not complain. Today (and really always I should do this) when I complain I want to be called out whether by inward conviction of the Holy Spirit or conviction by someone around me. When I find myself wanting to complain or complaining I want to praise God and offer up a prayer of thanksgiving. By doing this I hope to become more thankful and more content in Jesus alone recognizing I don’t NEED anything beside him.
“Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we shall be content.”
So I asked God for brokenness and for him to reveal things in my life that are not of him. He spoke right into that desire this morning. “Great gain in Godliness”. These words stood out to me because, like many other believers, that’s what I want; I want to be more like Jesus. This verse makes it really clear that one way to be more like Jesus is to be content. Listening to the song “Smile” by Jonathan McReynolds this morning, the lyrics say; “I can’t help by smile cause I realized what you done for me, all those battles you’ve won for me, and that someday soon you will come for me.” God gave his only Son, Jesus, willingly suffered and died so that someday He will return and take those who believed to live with him in Glory forever. Yet I sit on this Earth and say I wish I had those shoes, I wish I had more money, I wish I had a better job, I’m hungry, I want this, I want that. This verse hit me smack in the face and I remembered the saying “dead men don’t complain” from the devotionals we were to do before coming here. Who am I to sit here in Guatemala, in a mission training school who has hope because of Jesus Christ or a great eternity, who has clothes to wear and food to ear to complain about anything? I have Jesus! Do I really need anything else? As verse 7 says, I came into the world with nothing and will leave with nothing. Matthew 6:19-20 comes to mind to as I sit here; “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But lay up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.”. Then verse 21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” I need to be content with Jesus alone and being content in him will five me so much thankfulness for the things he blesses me with. For me, the first step is to not complain. Today (and really always I should do this) when I complain I want to be called out whether by inward conviction of the Holy Spirit or conviction by someone around me. When I find myself wanting to complain or complaining I want to praise God and offer up a prayer of thanksgiving. By doing this I hope to become more thankful and more content in Jesus alone recognizing I don’t NEED anything beside him.
Monday, September 2, 2013
Luke 17:7
“Will anyone of you who have a servant plowing or keeping sheep say to him when he has come in from the field, ‘come at once and recline at table’.”
I can only imagine that someone that was just in the field plowing and keeping sheep was probably dirty and stinky. Most people probably did not want them in their house. It makes me think of my Mom-mom and Pop-pop. I did not milk the cows much, but when I did, they often times had either some fruit or something that they would offer me after. This was not like an apple that you would pick up and run out the door with either. Even though I was stinky and dirty from working, they still wanted you to stick around and enjoy fellowship and often times food with them. To them my stench did not make a difference. Jesus is asking here in Luke, would you invite someone that you hired to work for you all day that might be smelly and dirty to stay at your home for a little to enjoy fellowship and maybe food? Even though you are “greater” then he is, will that stop you from being a friend? I look at my life and ask the question will I know someone who is dirty and stained from sin and invite them to come into my house and eat with me and talk? Would I befriend someone and show them Christ love even though they have never been cleaned with the blood of Jesus? Of course I want to say yes but it is a hard thing to do. I find it hard to have non-believing friends and to feed the Gospel to them. I am no better then the non-believers and they should have the opportunity to have salvation as well. My non-believing friends are hungry. They are starved and the need the Bread of Life, the Gospel, to feed them and fill them. Today, I will spend 10 minutes praying for boldness to share the Gospel with everyone, even those it may be hard to share it with.
Luke 17:7
“Will anyone of you who have a servant plowing or keeping sheep say to him when he has come in from the field, ‘come at once and recline at table’.”
I can only imagine that someone that was just in the field plowing and keeping sheep was probably dirty and stinky. Most people probably did not want them in their house. It makes me think of my Mom-mom and Pop-pop. I did not milk the cows much, but when I did, they often times had either some fruit or something that they would offer me after. This was not like an apple that you would pick up and run out the door with either. Even though I was stinky and dirty from working, they still wanted you to stick around and enjoy fellowship and often times food with them. To them my stench did not make a difference. Jesus is asking here in Luke, would you invite someone that you hired to work for you all day that might be smelly and dirty to stay at your home for a little to enjoy fellowship and maybe food? Even though you are “greater” then he is, will that stop you from being a friend? I look at my life and ask the question will I know someone who is dirty and stained from sin and invite them to come into my house and eat with me and talk? Would I befriend someone and show them Christ love even though they have never been cleaned with the blood of Jesus? Of course I want to say yes but it is a hard thing to do. I find it hard to have non-believing friends and to feed the Gospel to them. I am no better then the non-believers and they should have the opportunity to have salvation as well. My non-believing friends are hungry. They are starved and the need the Bread of Life, the Gospel, to feed them and fill them. Today, I will spend 10 minutes praying for boldness to share the Gospel with everyone, even those it may be hard to share it with.
Friday, August 30, 2013
Philippians 2:8
“And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on the cross.”
Last night, when we had communion, I thanked God for dying on the cross and for taking the wrath of God that I deserve. He humbled himself and was obedient, even to the point that he was willing to die the most painful death. I think back to the verses that we looked at on obedience and how God tells us to be obedient to our parents. My parents have never asked me to go die on a cross for the entire world and have never asked me to do anything that would mean sacrificing my life, and I still do not always obey them. Jesus obeyed his Father to the point of death and I am glad he was obedient. Do I obey God? Am I sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit? I think I easily obey God when it does not mean a big sacrifice for me. For example, when God was telling me to ask my friend to go to star bucks with me, I did. It was easy because I enjoy Starbucks and I was obedient and then God gave me the opportunity to witness to her. But when God called me to join IGNITE I fought it. It is a long time to not work and I have college loans. I did not see how it would possibly work out. Yes, I became obedient, but with a fight. God was asking me to walk away from life as I knew it to follow him. He was not asking me to go die for him, just follow him. But it does make me wonder, if God asked me to go somewhere I would most likely die for my belief would I go? Would I humble myself and remember this life is not my own? Would I remember the Apostles Paul to die is to gain? Today I will memorize Philippians 1:21 (For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain) and write it on my hand as a constant reminder that Jesus sacrificed everything for me in obedience to the Father so I must be obedient to the Father no matter what the sacrifice.
Philippians 2:8
“And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on the cross.”
Last night, when we had communion, I thanked God for dying on the cross and for taking the wrath of God that I deserve. He humbled himself and was obedient, even to the point that he was willing to die the most painful death. I think back to the verses that we looked at on obedience and how God tells us to be obedient to our parents. My parents have never asked me to go die on a cross for the entire world and have never asked me to do anything that would mean sacrificing my life, and I still do not always obey them. Jesus obeyed his Father to the point of death and I am glad he was obedient. Do I obey God? Am I sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit? I think I easily obey God when it does not mean a big sacrifice for me. For example, when God was telling me to ask my friend to go to star bucks with me, I did. It was easy because I enjoy Starbucks and I was obedient and then God gave me the opportunity to witness to her. But when God called me to join IGNITE I fought it. It is a long time to not work and I have college loans. I did not see how it would possibly work out. Yes, I became obedient, but with a fight. God was asking me to walk away from life as I knew it to follow him. He was not asking me to go die for him, just follow him. But it does make me wonder, if God asked me to go somewhere I would most likely die for my belief would I go? Would I humble myself and remember this life is not my own? Would I remember the Apostles Paul to die is to gain? Today I will memorize Philippians 1:21 (For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain) and write it on my hand as a constant reminder that Jesus sacrificed everything for me in obedience to the Father so I must be obedient to the Father no matter what the sacrifice.
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Philippians 2:7
“But made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.”
As we look at different characteristics of Christ in class and study different verses from the Bible, Jesus keeps blowing my mind more and more. Yes, I know all these things about him, but part of this verse says he made himself nothing. We so often try to make ourselves to be something, but Jesus did the exact opposite and made himself a servant. Jesus is God. God is the Creator of the universe, Almighty, all Powerful, King of Kings, Alpha and Omega, and the list could keep going. And he came to earth in a body like ours and served then died for us. This verse is such a great reminder of what Christ did for me and for you. Jesus died on the cross knowing each sin I would commit. He died as the perfect Lamb who, with his blood, makes us white as snow when we ask for forgiveness. He became nothing so we could live with him forever in Heaven. He became nothing so we could have the hope of him coming back for those who believe. I think of Isaiah 53 where it talks about how Jesus was like a lamb led to the alter. His love for us blows my mind over and over again. And I am so grateful for His work on the cross and the grace he has for everyone of us. My life is far from perfect but the blood of Jesus says those sins are gone. The blood of Jesus is what gives me hope and the reason I can walk in freedom everyday. Thank you Jesus! Today, I am going to spend at least 10 minutes reading Isaiah 53 and reflecting on Jesus and all that he has done for me.
Philippians 2:7
“But made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.”
As we look at different characteristics of Christ in class and study different verses from the Bible, Jesus keeps blowing my mind more and more. Yes, I know all these things about him, but part of this verse says he made himself nothing. We so often try to make ourselves to be something, but Jesus did the exact opposite and made himself a servant. Jesus is God. God is the Creator of the universe, Almighty, all Powerful, King of Kings, Alpha and Omega, and the list could keep going. And he came to earth in a body like ours and served then died for us. This verse is such a great reminder of what Christ did for me and for you. Jesus died on the cross knowing each sin I would commit. He died as the perfect Lamb who, with his blood, makes us white as snow when we ask for forgiveness. He became nothing so we could live with him forever in Heaven. He became nothing so we could have the hope of him coming back for those who believe. I think of Isaiah 53 where it talks about how Jesus was like a lamb led to the alter. His love for us blows my mind over and over again. And I am so grateful for His work on the cross and the grace he has for everyone of us. My life is far from perfect but the blood of Jesus says those sins are gone. The blood of Jesus is what gives me hope and the reason I can walk in freedom everyday. Thank you Jesus! Today, I am going to spend at least 10 minutes reading Isaiah 53 and reflecting on Jesus and all that he has done for me.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Philippians 2:4
“Let each of you look not only to his own interest, but also to the interest of others.”
When we look to the interests of others, we are taking the focus off of self. I remember in high school my soccer coach would always lecture us at the beginning of each season on the team commitment. One that the he emphasized is if we did not keep up with our school work and got suspended from the team we were not only hurting ourselves but the whole team. And in cheerleading, if one person in the stunt group lacked faith in getting the stunt up, it would not work. Both of these things show how one person’s decision can affect a whole group of people. It shows the importance of taking captive of your thoughts and actions, not just in your own interest but more importantly for the interest of others. As IGNITE class 5, we have experienced how one person being sick can just make for a weird day. If one person is down, we all hurt for that person because we are family. How important it is then also to think how our actions and words affect the whole family. I know for myself, when I do not make God a priority in the morning, whether it means skipping my quiet time or not giving it my all, my mood is weird. I am less patient, more easily irritated, more selfish, and the list goes on. My lack of time with God does affect just me but rather the whole group. An example of this happened just last week. I had not given my day to God in the morning, I had just gone through the motions of praying, reading, memorizing. Rachel, my prayer partner, comes to me before class and gives me a hug and ask how she could pray for me. Now I was upset because she just touched. Neither did I want anyone to talk to me so I kind of blew her off. When we were singing before class, the Holy Spirit convicted me of how wrong I was. Sweet Rachel just wants to pray for me and I basically told her no thanks. The point of this story is to see how our decisions affect others. We must be careful that what we do and say only builds each other up and as the verse says, think of the interest of others. Today I will spend 15 minutes in prayer asking God to help me take every thought captive. I will ask him to help me see how my choices affect everyone around me.
Philippians 2:4
“Let each of you look not only to his own interest, but also to the interest of others.”
When we look to the interests of others, we are taking the focus off of self. I remember in high school my soccer coach would always lecture us at the beginning of each season on the team commitment. One that the he emphasized is if we did not keep up with our school work and got suspended from the team we were not only hurting ourselves but the whole team. And in cheerleading, if one person in the stunt group lacked faith in getting the stunt up, it would not work. Both of these things show how one person’s decision can affect a whole group of people. It shows the importance of taking captive of your thoughts and actions, not just in your own interest but more importantly for the interest of others. As IGNITE class 5, we have experienced how one person being sick can just make for a weird day. If one person is down, we all hurt for that person because we are family. How important it is then also to think how our actions and words affect the whole family. I know for myself, when I do not make God a priority in the morning, whether it means skipping my quiet time or not giving it my all, my mood is weird. I am less patient, more easily irritated, more selfish, and the list goes on. My lack of time with God does affect just me but rather the whole group. An example of this happened just last week. I had not given my day to God in the morning, I had just gone through the motions of praying, reading, memorizing. Rachel, my prayer partner, comes to me before class and gives me a hug and ask how she could pray for me. Now I was upset because she just touched. Neither did I want anyone to talk to me so I kind of blew her off. When we were singing before class, the Holy Spirit convicted me of how wrong I was. Sweet Rachel just wants to pray for me and I basically told her no thanks. The point of this story is to see how our decisions affect others. We must be careful that what we do and say only builds each other up and as the verse says, think of the interest of others. Today I will spend 15 minutes in prayer asking God to help me take every thought captive. I will ask him to help me see how my choices affect everyone around me.
Monday, August 26, 2013
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”
To do noting from rivalry or conceit is to not look at things as a competition or to have a top person or group of people. As Christians, we are to be little Christ. Jesus was never concerned with how many people may be listening to him teach or what type of people he was talking to. He taught to a woman at a well, He went to the house of a tax collector and fellowshipped. He also spoke to crowds of thousands of people. As Christians, who are told to go into all the world and preach the Gospel, There should be no competitive nature or looking at yourself as better than another. Whether in the smallest town in the United States or in the largest city half way around the world, we must be serving in humility. I have often heard stories of some missionaries who lead countless numbers of people to Christ and then some who lead one or two, neither one of these I greater than the other but both are doing the work God has called them to do. I remember when I got a management position at my one job I had only been there a short period of time of time and was felt pride. I felt better then the other people who had been there for several years and I got a promotion. I would often times go over stuff that was already done and make sure everything was done perfect, not because I wanted to do everything to best of my ability as unto the Lord, but because I wanted to sure I looked good. It was all to bring glory to myself. As I am here in Guatemala, what are my motives behind my acts of service? Do I do it in a competitive way trying to out do my brothers and sisters? Do I do it in a manner that is noticed and applauded? Or do I do it with an attitude of humility, do I do it because God has called me to serve others? In the Christian walk there is no one better than another. We are all sinners saved by the grace of God who should strive to represent Christ in all that we do to bring honor and Glory to his name. Today I will pray as I am serving, examining my heart for the motives behind it and I will also pray for 10 minutes asking God to show me where I need to be more humble.
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”
To do noting from rivalry or conceit is to not look at things as a competition or to have a top person or group of people. As Christians, we are to be little Christ. Jesus was never concerned with how many people may be listening to him teach or what type of people he was talking to. He taught to a woman at a well, He went to the house of a tax collector and fellowshipped. He also spoke to crowds of thousands of people. As Christians, who are told to go into all the world and preach the Gospel, There should be no competitive nature or looking at yourself as better than another. Whether in the smallest town in the United States or in the largest city half way around the world, we must be serving in humility. I have often heard stories of some missionaries who lead countless numbers of people to Christ and then some who lead one or two, neither one of these I greater than the other but both are doing the work God has called them to do. I remember when I got a management position at my one job I had only been there a short period of time of time and was felt pride. I felt better then the other people who had been there for several years and I got a promotion. I would often times go over stuff that was already done and make sure everything was done perfect, not because I wanted to do everything to best of my ability as unto the Lord, but because I wanted to sure I looked good. It was all to bring glory to myself. As I am here in Guatemala, what are my motives behind my acts of service? Do I do it in a competitive way trying to out do my brothers and sisters? Do I do it in a manner that is noticed and applauded? Or do I do it with an attitude of humility, do I do it because God has called me to serve others? In the Christian walk there is no one better than another. We are all sinners saved by the grace of God who should strive to represent Christ in all that we do to bring honor and Glory to his name. Today I will pray as I am serving, examining my heart for the motives behind it and I will also pray for 10 minutes asking God to show me where I need to be more humble.
Friday, August 23, 2013
Hebrews 13:17
“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those that will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.”
My mind immediately goes to Miss Brooke as I read this passage. Miss Brooke is here to be a missionary in Antigua but also a leader for us interns. After prayer on Wednesday night she came over to me gave me a hug and asked how I was doing. I wasn’t doing well and that was very clear to her as the tears started falling from my eyes. I told her what was going on in my mind and she told me I needed to lay it down. After talking with her and she pointed out the chains that this thing from my past was keeping me in. So I decided to fast on Thursday, praying that these chains would fall off and I would have new freedom in Christ. Thursday morning I see Miss Brooke and she, with a smile on her face, gives me a paper with verses and words of encouragement. “Let them do this with joy and not with groaning”. Miss Brooke displayed through me that night that her responsibility is to us. We are here in training and as a leader, she will help us be as equip as possible for the field. She recognizes her Biblical responsibilities as a leader and takes them seriously., yet she does them joyfully as this verse instructs. For me, I am instructed to obey and submit to Miss Brooke and all the other leaders that are here. Because I took to heart what Miss Brooke told me about my chains and obeyed her and really God in laying them down, I experienced a joy yesterday that was beautiful. Especially here, where the leaders are God centered, what they tell me and any of us interns is probably what God desires for us. We are to listen to them and obey them. God has placed them over us for our good so that we might be prepared when we go to the field and therefore being the best tool we can as we share the Gospel.
Hebrews 13:17
“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those that will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.”
My mind immediately goes to Miss Brooke as I read this passage. Miss Brooke is here to be a missionary in Antigua but also a leader for us interns. After prayer on Wednesday night she came over to me gave me a hug and asked how I was doing. I wasn’t doing well and that was very clear to her as the tears started falling from my eyes. I told her what was going on in my mind and she told me I needed to lay it down. After talking with her and she pointed out the chains that this thing from my past was keeping me in. So I decided to fast on Thursday, praying that these chains would fall off and I would have new freedom in Christ. Thursday morning I see Miss Brooke and she, with a smile on her face, gives me a paper with verses and words of encouragement. “Let them do this with joy and not with groaning”. Miss Brooke displayed through me that night that her responsibility is to us. We are here in training and as a leader, she will help us be as equip as possible for the field. She recognizes her Biblical responsibilities as a leader and takes them seriously., yet she does them joyfully as this verse instructs. For me, I am instructed to obey and submit to Miss Brooke and all the other leaders that are here. Because I took to heart what Miss Brooke told me about my chains and obeyed her and really God in laying them down, I experienced a joy yesterday that was beautiful. Especially here, where the leaders are God centered, what they tell me and any of us interns is probably what God desires for us. We are to listen to them and obey them. God has placed them over us for our good so that we might be prepared when we go to the field and therefore being the best tool we can as we share the Gospel.
Thursday, August 22, 2013
Ephesians 6:1
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother (this is the first commandment with a promise)”
Colossians 3:20
Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.”
In Ephesians 6:1, we are instructed to obey our parents as in Colossians 3:20. But in Ephesians, we are told that we will be rewarded for our obedience. We are promised to live a long life on this Earth if we are obedient to our parents. I often times think of my Mommom and Poppop when I hear this verse. They are just about 80 years old and are both going strong. And my Great Grammy lived to be 96 years old. Is God rewarding them for obedience to their parents? It is a question I often ask when I hear of people living long lives. I know I have not always obeyed my parents. One thing I remember hearing is “how many times do I have to tell you not to eat in the family room?”. Me and my little brother we never obedient in this mmatter. There are so many times we would hear the garage door start going up and would quick run food or bowls or whatever to the kitchen. Obedience is a choice and obedience is rewarded. Obedience to our parents may lead to a long life, which I would love. God doesn’t say that he suggests we obey our parents, but rather he demands it. By obeying my parents we are also obeying God. God gave me parents to help me and I should respect and honor them. I should heed to their direction because God has instructed mme to. But what keeps me from obedience to my parents? It is me. Its selfishness coming out again. Since I started walking with the Lord, I have had more respect for my parents and in return I am more obedient, but there is still room for improvement. Today I will pray and ask God to show me 5 ways I can be more obedient to my parents even as I am away from home.
Ephesians 6:1
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother (this is the first commandment with a promise)”
Colossians 3:20
Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.”
In Ephesians 6:1, we are instructed to obey our parents as in Colossians 3:20. But in Ephesians, we are told that we will be rewarded for our obedience. We are promised to live a long life on this Earth if we are obedient to our parents. I often times think of my Mommom and Poppop when I hear this verse. They are just about 80 years old and are both going strong. And my Great Grammy lived to be 96 years old. Is God rewarding them for obedience to their parents? It is a question I often ask when I hear of people living long lives. I know I have not always obeyed my parents. One thing I remember hearing is “how many times do I have to tell you not to eat in the family room?”. Me and my little brother we never obedient in this mmatter. There are so many times we would hear the garage door start going up and would quick run food or bowls or whatever to the kitchen. Obedience is a choice and obedience is rewarded. Obedience to our parents may lead to a long life, which I would love. God doesn’t say that he suggests we obey our parents, but rather he demands it. By obeying my parents we are also obeying God. God gave me parents to help me and I should respect and honor them. I should heed to their direction because God has instructed mme to. But what keeps me from obedience to my parents? It is me. Its selfishness coming out again. Since I started walking with the Lord, I have had more respect for my parents and in return I am more obedient, but there is still room for improvement. Today I will pray and ask God to show me 5 ways I can be more obedient to my parents even as I am away from home.
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Luke 3:14
“Soldiers also asked him, ‘And we, what shall we do?’ and he said to them ‘Do not extort money from anyone by threats or by false accusation, and be content with your wages’.”
Looking at the previous verses, John was teaching about those who have an abundance are to share with those who are in need. Then in verse 14, the solders ask “what shall we do?” and John told them to be content with their wages. I looked at a commentary and solders had a lot of authority and would take advantage of that power and take money from people. What I noticed here is the idea that if you have abundance, shares with those in need. If you have but don’t have much, be happy and thankful for what you have. I can’t help but think about how just yesterday I told Gus that I wish I could afford a MacBook yet I have a perfectly good computer. A computer is not a necessity and I know several people who don’t own computers. I have one and it still isn’t good enough for me. How ungrateful I can be in moments like that. It takes me back to yesterday when someone mentioned entitlement. I unconsciously think that I deserve more stuff or higher pay from my job. John told the soldiers to be content with their pay and if John were to answer that question for me he would tell me to be content with less. I have so much and I need to be more grateful for what Jesus has blessed me with. Today I will start a journal of thanksgiving where I can go daily and write all the blessings big and small. I can fill my heart with thanksgiving and remember where all those blessings come from.
“Soldiers also asked him, ‘And we, what shall we do?’ and he said to them ‘Do not extort money from anyone by threats or by false accusation, and be content with your wages’.”
Looking at the previous verses, John was teaching about those who have an abundance are to share with those who are in need. Then in verse 14, the solders ask “what shall we do?” and John told them to be content with their wages. I looked at a commentary and solders had a lot of authority and would take advantage of that power and take money from people. What I noticed here is the idea that if you have abundance, shares with those in need. If you have but don’t have much, be happy and thankful for what you have. I can’t help but think about how just yesterday I told Gus that I wish I could afford a MacBook yet I have a perfectly good computer. A computer is not a necessity and I know several people who don’t own computers. I have one and it still isn’t good enough for me. How ungrateful I can be in moments like that. It takes me back to yesterday when someone mentioned entitlement. I unconsciously think that I deserve more stuff or higher pay from my job. John told the soldiers to be content with their pay and if John were to answer that question for me he would tell me to be content with less. I have so much and I need to be more grateful for what Jesus has blessed me with. Today I will start a journal of thanksgiving where I can go daily and write all the blessings big and small. I can fill my heart with thanksgiving and remember where all those blessings come from.
Monday, August 19,2013
John 14:15
If you love me, keep my commandments.
There are certain commandments I looked at as a kid and said “I will never break that commandment”. As a grew older and walked away from the Lord it was those commandments that I said “never” to that I now see I have broken. Looking at the things in Galatians 5 that are of the world and we are instructed not to take part in, I now see I have taken part in some of those things. But what I realize is those actions and those commandments I broke that I said “never” about happened when I started walking away from the Faith. When I fell in love with Jesus, my heart was saddened by the reality of all the things I did which I knew were not pleasing to God. If I did it again, my guilt was heavy and my heart was broken. Why? Well because I loved God and my actions and words were still not lining up. I came to the point of realization that I am human and will make mistakes, but some sins are avoidable. For example, do not go to a party where their will be alcohol and drunkenness and say that its okay because you will only have one drink. I have learned it never stops with just one drink. God will always give you a way out and you just have to choose to take it when he provides it. I am going to make mistakes such as telling a lie or whatever it may be but I take to God, ask for his forgiveness and try again. The word “if” at the beginning of this verse means there is an option to love God or not love God. By continually striving everyday to be more like Christ and to sin less, we are showing a love for Christ. Today I will write “Jesus” on my hand to keep in plain few as a constant reminder of who I am living for.
If you love me, keep my commandments.
There are certain commandments I looked at as a kid and said “I will never break that commandment”. As a grew older and walked away from the Lord it was those commandments that I said “never” to that I now see I have broken. Looking at the things in Galatians 5 that are of the world and we are instructed not to take part in, I now see I have taken part in some of those things. But what I realize is those actions and those commandments I broke that I said “never” about happened when I started walking away from the Faith. When I fell in love with Jesus, my heart was saddened by the reality of all the things I did which I knew were not pleasing to God. If I did it again, my guilt was heavy and my heart was broken. Why? Well because I loved God and my actions and words were still not lining up. I came to the point of realization that I am human and will make mistakes, but some sins are avoidable. For example, do not go to a party where their will be alcohol and drunkenness and say that its okay because you will only have one drink. I have learned it never stops with just one drink. God will always give you a way out and you just have to choose to take it when he provides it. I am going to make mistakes such as telling a lie or whatever it may be but I take to God, ask for his forgiveness and try again. The word “if” at the beginning of this verse means there is an option to love God or not love God. By continually striving everyday to be more like Christ and to sin less, we are showing a love for Christ. Today I will write “Jesus” on my hand to keep in plain few as a constant reminder of who I am living for.
Tuesday, August 20,2013
Acts 5:29
"But Peter and the apostles answered, 'we must obey God rather than man'."
The apostles here were told not to preach the Gospel any more but went on doing it any way. When they were comfronted about it, they responded that they are to obey God not man. They understood God had told them to go and teach and when authorities on this Earth told them to do the opposite off what God said, they chose to listen to God. God calls us to respect authority and to listen to them, but if it contradicts what God is telling us, we are then given the option of who we will listen to. It makes me think of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abendnego who were told to bow down and worship a statue of King Nebuchandnezzar. They listened to God, even though it meant being thrown into a furnance, and would not bow down to any other god beside the one true God. I also think of Gladys Aylward who was told to leave China when the war started but she listened to God and knew she was to stay. It would have been easier to listen to man but she listened to God and she was able to witness to many inbetween bombs and gunfires. I could have listened to man who told me I should finish school before going away for a year. It would have been easier and more common for me to stay at home and work or go to school. I chose to listen to God and come to Anitgua, Guatemala and commit to the year long IGNITE program. I have been significantly blessed and challenged being here and its only week 6 of the whole year. I like how Gladys Aylward said it better, but basically she said I choose to obey God and I got the adventure of a lifetime. Obey God. If we obey God, he will bless our obedience. Today is a day of fasting and prayer, which is an act of obedience to God. During this time I will pray for my non-believing friends but will also spend extra time in prayer asking him to give me the boldness and strength to continually obey God no matter what man says.
"But Peter and the apostles answered, 'we must obey God rather than man'."
The apostles here were told not to preach the Gospel any more but went on doing it any way. When they were comfronted about it, they responded that they are to obey God not man. They understood God had told them to go and teach and when authorities on this Earth told them to do the opposite off what God said, they chose to listen to God. God calls us to respect authority and to listen to them, but if it contradicts what God is telling us, we are then given the option of who we will listen to. It makes me think of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abendnego who were told to bow down and worship a statue of King Nebuchandnezzar. They listened to God, even though it meant being thrown into a furnance, and would not bow down to any other god beside the one true God. I also think of Gladys Aylward who was told to leave China when the war started but she listened to God and knew she was to stay. It would have been easier to listen to man but she listened to God and she was able to witness to many inbetween bombs and gunfires. I could have listened to man who told me I should finish school before going away for a year. It would have been easier and more common for me to stay at home and work or go to school. I chose to listen to God and come to Anitgua, Guatemala and commit to the year long IGNITE program. I have been significantly blessed and challenged being here and its only week 6 of the whole year. I like how Gladys Aylward said it better, but basically she said I choose to obey God and I got the adventure of a lifetime. Obey God. If we obey God, he will bless our obedience. Today is a day of fasting and prayer, which is an act of obedience to God. During this time I will pray for my non-believing friends but will also spend extra time in prayer asking him to give me the boldness and strength to continually obey God no matter what man says.
Wednesday, August 21,2013
Romans 6:16
“Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death or of obedience, which leads to righteousness?”
In John 8:31, Jesus tells the Jews tat if they abide in the Word they will know the truth and the truth will set them free. They think they are free and do not understand how they would be set free. Then in verse34, “Jesus answered them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin’.” And in Romans 6:16, it says that whatever we obey is what we are a slave to. When we sin, we become a slave to that sin but we do not have to remain chained to that. We have the choice to obey God and go to the cross and ask for forgiveness. In obedience to God we are becoming slaves to righteousness which is freedom. As I sit here, I ask myself the question, which sins are enslaving me? It is a hard question to answer but it takes me back to the Real Worship class with Pastor Donathan. He told us to ask God to reveal to us what our idols are. Both of the things he revealed pointed to me. My body image and myself. So what sin am I enslaved to? I would say selfishness. But I am not stuck their because when I find myself focused on me I can turn to God, ask for forgiveness and enslave myself to him again. Last night Courtney, Stephen, and Rebekah came around and asked if anyone had hot chocolate. I knew I did but wanted them for myself so I didn’t say anything. But God reminded of scriptures and told me to love them in this way. I then said that I had some. Courtney immediately says “you didn’t want to say that”. I told her that was true but I need to learn to share more. I chose to obey God’s voice and was enslaved to him rather than the sin of selfishness and God reminded me that he blesses obedience and I got to enjoy fellowship with them and other family members as we all enjoyed hot chocolate and popcorn together. Today, I am going to pray and ask God to reveal things to me that are selfish and not Jesus or others focused. I will have JOY written on my wrist as a constant reminder to be sensitive to his voice in this area.
“Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death or of obedience, which leads to righteousness?”
In John 8:31, Jesus tells the Jews tat if they abide in the Word they will know the truth and the truth will set them free. They think they are free and do not understand how they would be set free. Then in verse34, “Jesus answered them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin’.” And in Romans 6:16, it says that whatever we obey is what we are a slave to. When we sin, we become a slave to that sin but we do not have to remain chained to that. We have the choice to obey God and go to the cross and ask for forgiveness. In obedience to God we are becoming slaves to righteousness which is freedom. As I sit here, I ask myself the question, which sins are enslaving me? It is a hard question to answer but it takes me back to the Real Worship class with Pastor Donathan. He told us to ask God to reveal to us what our idols are. Both of the things he revealed pointed to me. My body image and myself. So what sin am I enslaved to? I would say selfishness. But I am not stuck their because when I find myself focused on me I can turn to God, ask for forgiveness and enslave myself to him again. Last night Courtney, Stephen, and Rebekah came around and asked if anyone had hot chocolate. I knew I did but wanted them for myself so I didn’t say anything. But God reminded of scriptures and told me to love them in this way. I then said that I had some. Courtney immediately says “you didn’t want to say that”. I told her that was true but I need to learn to share more. I chose to obey God’s voice and was enslaved to him rather than the sin of selfishness and God reminded me that he blesses obedience and I got to enjoy fellowship with them and other family members as we all enjoyed hot chocolate and popcorn together. Today, I am going to pray and ask God to reveal things to me that are selfish and not Jesus or others focused. I will have JOY written on my wrist as a constant reminder to be sensitive to his voice in this area.