What has happened to man in his pursuit of living life to the full as set forth in Scripture? Within every human being is the desire to accomplish something in life, hopefully with character and integrity intact after it is done. One must avoid actions like “It doesn’t matter who you step on, friend or foe, while on your way to your self-defined happiness.” An “all about me” generation has stepped on the stage and acted out their lusts. The importance of integrity has faded in this world of corruption. Character and integrity is lost with efforts to be successful at any price.
Our confidence must be placed in a more sure thing. The dependability of God's word rests entirely upon His unchanging character. He is not only the God of truth, He is truth itself. Therefore, we can rely with complete confidence on whatever He says. Balaam spoke of God's trustworthiness when he said, "God is not a man, that He should lie" (Numbers 23:19). Abraham also found this as, "being fully persuaded that, what He had promised, He was able also to perform" (Romans 4:21). Looking at God's promise from a human point of view, we might say that He has more at stake than we do. We stand to lose our soul; He stands to lose His character.
During America's dark days of slavery, a man walked up to a young slave on the auctioneer's block and asked, "If I buy you and take you to my beautiful home, will you be honest and truthful?" The black youth responded, "I will be honest and truthful whether you buy me or not." His conduct did not depend on circumstances. He was for real. Likewise, our profession of faith in Christ must always be authentic.
We know that salvation is of the Lord. (Psalms 27:1).
What preserves us? Are we preserved for the moment only later to be consumed by a bigger problem? What=s the use of trying?
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
A New Chapter
It is a new chapter in our life. Yes, the book is still being written, although recently at times it felt like it ended abruptly. Perhaps it would be better to call it a sequel. Even though others’ decisions have been forced upon us God is turning it to a favorable position for us so the story continues.
We are in a new place that is not necessarily a comfort zone but an opportunity to grow more in God’s grace. It is a place to grow beyond the mundane routine we found ourselves in. There is new vision, new opportunity, new respect and new relationships growing out of the process. It is uncertain where it will finally lead us but we know it will be God’s will.
The sustaining provisions are not what we have been customarily comfortable with; adjustments and compensation must be made. At times it seems awkward. We walk in unfamiliar territory and get a new perspective on the goal set before us. Caution must be taken to avoid destroying what is already ordained of God; at times our feelings must be overruled. The truth will set free.
Our lips must be guarded to avoid doing as we have been done. It is too easy to offer retribution. Loss such as we have experienced is difficult to overcome. There must be a reliance on God to avenge us and we must pray for our enemies. I would not dismiss the judgment that will come without true repentance to those who have knowingly wreaked the disaster.
Less stress in the great advantage discovered in this new chapter. There was so much pressure placed upon us in our former position and God has shown us the relief we can have being removed from that place. It’s an escape from the unreasonable expectations placed upon us by people. The demands of perfection created complex and pointless matters to wade through.
Accountability is the responsible way to conduct life but excessive rules and restrictions that are non-biblical establish horrible expectations that eventually destroy the person. Those who keep score on these trivial matters will doubtless be judged by the same standard. Condemnation tears down a person’s character instead of bringing the much needed biblical edification.
A denomination that has overridden Scripture to enforce lifestyle upon its constituents has overstepped its boundary. Expectation of the presbytery exceeds biblical principles; this is reverting to legalism. The alleged return to the old paths is not the message. It should be a new way, albeit straight and narrow with a Holy God, not a Holy hierarchy. I remain biblically a Pentecostal. I would further qualify my stance by calling myself a Reformed Pentecostal; freed from the radical deviation of rules and orders ascribing to things such as KJV only, avoiding theaters, etc. The particular group of people needs to avoid snubbing the alleged violators of their standards; God will send a rain that will fill up their upturned noses and drown them.
We are in a new place that is not necessarily a comfort zone but an opportunity to grow more in God’s grace. It is a place to grow beyond the mundane routine we found ourselves in. There is new vision, new opportunity, new respect and new relationships growing out of the process. It is uncertain where it will finally lead us but we know it will be God’s will.
The sustaining provisions are not what we have been customarily comfortable with; adjustments and compensation must be made. At times it seems awkward. We walk in unfamiliar territory and get a new perspective on the goal set before us. Caution must be taken to avoid destroying what is already ordained of God; at times our feelings must be overruled. The truth will set free.
Our lips must be guarded to avoid doing as we have been done. It is too easy to offer retribution. Loss such as we have experienced is difficult to overcome. There must be a reliance on God to avenge us and we must pray for our enemies. I would not dismiss the judgment that will come without true repentance to those who have knowingly wreaked the disaster.
Less stress in the great advantage discovered in this new chapter. There was so much pressure placed upon us in our former position and God has shown us the relief we can have being removed from that place. It’s an escape from the unreasonable expectations placed upon us by people. The demands of perfection created complex and pointless matters to wade through.
Accountability is the responsible way to conduct life but excessive rules and restrictions that are non-biblical establish horrible expectations that eventually destroy the person. Those who keep score on these trivial matters will doubtless be judged by the same standard. Condemnation tears down a person’s character instead of bringing the much needed biblical edification.
A denomination that has overridden Scripture to enforce lifestyle upon its constituents has overstepped its boundary. Expectation of the presbytery exceeds biblical principles; this is reverting to legalism. The alleged return to the old paths is not the message. It should be a new way, albeit straight and narrow with a Holy God, not a Holy hierarchy. I remain biblically a Pentecostal. I would further qualify my stance by calling myself a Reformed Pentecostal; freed from the radical deviation of rules and orders ascribing to things such as KJV only, avoiding theaters, etc. The particular group of people needs to avoid snubbing the alleged violators of their standards; God will send a rain that will fill up their upturned noses and drown them.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
The Amazing Race
Television programming is overrun with reality shows with various themes. I enjoy watching The Amazing Race. It involves teams of at least two people in assorted relationships working together through obstacles of time tables, strange cultures and unfamiliar countries with varied challenges to get to a predetermined destination first. The last team to arrive faces elimination. The race doesn't play gender, age, or strength favorites in how it can be won.
There are many legs of the race to complete before there is any respite of struggle. Everything is a test of endurance, cooperation, and chance. Strange places and customs become part of the challenge. It is a test of character and the strength of relationship. There must be resolve and stamina to finish. The teams must take advantage of rest periods.
Particulars of the show include: teamwork, roadblocks, clues, physical and mental challenges, fast forwards, eliminations, travel documents, rewards, etc. The winner's prize is a million dollars.
God has designed a race that has more than a million dollar prize as a final goal. We are teamed with the Holy Spirit. He will assure us of a successful completion because He is our guide.
The preacher puts it like this: Ecclesiastes 9:10-12 “I have seen something else under the sun: The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise or wealth to the brilliant or favor to the learned; but time and chance happen to them all.”
If we value what lies at the end of our life then we must know why we were created and the purpose for which we have been called. Paul states it like this, “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.” (Acts 20:23-25)
Interference like roadblocks crop up unexpectedly and totally distract us from the final prize. “You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth?” (Galatians 5:6-8)
Our ultimate goal is like the words of Paul in 2 Timothy 4:6-8 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
The Christian race is challenging and filled with many obstacles that are unfamiliar to us. We may have never faced them before. But our success is guaranteed if we follow our teammate’s guidance. The Holy Spirit will not fail us; we will never be left alone although we can act alone. The experiences of the race will enhance our testimony to others.
In our terms we feel like it is a fight or an exhausting race that has challenge after challenge. We mist focus on the prize set before us knowing it will be worth it all. Truly we are in an amazing race to an amazing place.
There are many legs of the race to complete before there is any respite of struggle. Everything is a test of endurance, cooperation, and chance. Strange places and customs become part of the challenge. It is a test of character and the strength of relationship. There must be resolve and stamina to finish. The teams must take advantage of rest periods.
Particulars of the show include: teamwork, roadblocks, clues, physical and mental challenges, fast forwards, eliminations, travel documents, rewards, etc. The winner's prize is a million dollars.
God has designed a race that has more than a million dollar prize as a final goal. We are teamed with the Holy Spirit. He will assure us of a successful completion because He is our guide.
The preacher puts it like this: Ecclesiastes 9:10-12 “I have seen something else under the sun: The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise or wealth to the brilliant or favor to the learned; but time and chance happen to them all.”
If we value what lies at the end of our life then we must know why we were created and the purpose for which we have been called. Paul states it like this, “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.” (Acts 20:23-25)
Interference like roadblocks crop up unexpectedly and totally distract us from the final prize. “You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth?” (Galatians 5:6-8)
Our ultimate goal is like the words of Paul in 2 Timothy 4:6-8 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
The Christian race is challenging and filled with many obstacles that are unfamiliar to us. We may have never faced them before. But our success is guaranteed if we follow our teammate’s guidance. The Holy Spirit will not fail us; we will never be left alone although we can act alone. The experiences of the race will enhance our testimony to others.
In our terms we feel like it is a fight or an exhausting race that has challenge after challenge. We mist focus on the prize set before us knowing it will be worth it all. Truly we are in an amazing race to an amazing place.
Friday, October 16, 2009
THANK YOU!
Today is the 64th anniversary of my birth. Wow! I am amazed that I have aged to this time. A lot of water has gone under the bridge in these years. Wonderful parents nurtured me through my youth. There are so many marvelous memories I have of them. My siblings were also instrumental in my upbringing. Thanks to all of you.
I have experienced many good things. I waited a long time to find my life partner, Carolyn. She became my special Sunhine in 1983. I’ve enjoyed calling her my wife for over 26 years. I thank her for her tolerance in all of my stubborness.
In December 1984 we were blessed to have Micah Allen be our offspring. I appreciate his honor to us. I am happy to call him my son.
In all past birthday celebrations I have not seen so much well-wishing that I have this year. Facebook.com has enhanced ability of people to respond readily and easily to give well-wishes. Technology is wonderful! Thanks to all my family and friends!
Most of all my thanks go from my heart to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. So many times I would be so lost without Him to guide me. He is my strong tower in times of storm; life is not always smooth sailing.
I feel so blessed!
I have experienced many good things. I waited a long time to find my life partner, Carolyn. She became my special Sunhine in 1983. I’ve enjoyed calling her my wife for over 26 years. I thank her for her tolerance in all of my stubborness.
In December 1984 we were blessed to have Micah Allen be our offspring. I appreciate his honor to us. I am happy to call him my son.
In all past birthday celebrations I have not seen so much well-wishing that I have this year. Facebook.com has enhanced ability of people to respond readily and easily to give well-wishes. Technology is wonderful! Thanks to all my family and friends!
Most of all my thanks go from my heart to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. So many times I would be so lost without Him to guide me. He is my strong tower in times of storm; life is not always smooth sailing.
I feel so blessed!
Monday, October 12, 2009
Marketing Under A New Paradigm
The more things change, the more they are the same. [Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose] -Alphonse Karr, Les Guêpes, January, 1849
I know hospitals as places where acute and basic medical care is administered. Now these institutions are using terms like “medical center” to describe their business. But I would note that their original intent is still to provide medical care. Only the name has changed and their services becoming more advanced and specialized. These institutions remain by true definition a hospital with their original intent and purpose still the primary focus.
In the past few months I have noticed a lot of advertisings or postings by pastors and staff about events they stage at their church. Some omit the word “church”; I surmise that the new paradigm prefers the use of “campus” or other titles of sponsorship. I know that “campus” had been a term specifically to describe a place of education, and of course the church needs to be a place of learning.
Why this shift in names now? The auto industry employed the term “station wagon” a few decades ago but now it’s called an SUV. These vehicles are improved but still serve as transportation for a family. The caution I offer is to watch out for trends for the sake of trends. Is the campus still giving sound teaching and enabling transport to heaven?
It’s all about marketing your “product.” It may be easier for some people to attend such meeting on a campus. The term releases a preconceived stigma attached to this institution known as a church. To use a cliché, maybe it is a trick of the trade. Is that sugar-coating the Gospel? Whatever the reason, the leadership of the campus must be sure the message is the same and the original intent and purpose remains. I do not believe God erred when He put His plans together in the Bible. He definitely knows marketing but He leaves it up to His ordained to follow the plan.
It is not being puritanical to preach the unadulterated Word of God. Although it is not a matter of sales for profit, it must be marketed to the public in a fashion that enlarges God’s Kingdom. It is a serious thing to remember that all things done in the church or on a campus must be Spirit driven. God will not share His glory with any one. It is not about marketing your program or agenda, rather it is about giving Jesus to the spiritually hungry and thirsty.
I’ve also noticed many churches establishing unique names to identify their mission. There is a tendency to get away from denominational connections. This may be a step in the right direction. The covering of a hierarchy has turned from true support into a set of useless codifications that hamper the expansion of the church. The umbrella of covering that a church needs is the blood of Christ and the by-laws of Scripture.
The church is not a theater, circus, or carnival. Does your campus entertain the attendees? Call it a tabernacle, church, or campus; your marketing must be such to exhibit the transforming, nourishing, and sustaining power of God. There must be integrity in your outreach to the community.
I know hospitals as places where acute and basic medical care is administered. Now these institutions are using terms like “medical center” to describe their business. But I would note that their original intent is still to provide medical care. Only the name has changed and their services becoming more advanced and specialized. These institutions remain by true definition a hospital with their original intent and purpose still the primary focus.
In the past few months I have noticed a lot of advertisings or postings by pastors and staff about events they stage at their church. Some omit the word “church”; I surmise that the new paradigm prefers the use of “campus” or other titles of sponsorship. I know that “campus” had been a term specifically to describe a place of education, and of course the church needs to be a place of learning.
Why this shift in names now? The auto industry employed the term “station wagon” a few decades ago but now it’s called an SUV. These vehicles are improved but still serve as transportation for a family. The caution I offer is to watch out for trends for the sake of trends. Is the campus still giving sound teaching and enabling transport to heaven?
It’s all about marketing your “product.” It may be easier for some people to attend such meeting on a campus. The term releases a preconceived stigma attached to this institution known as a church. To use a cliché, maybe it is a trick of the trade. Is that sugar-coating the Gospel? Whatever the reason, the leadership of the campus must be sure the message is the same and the original intent and purpose remains. I do not believe God erred when He put His plans together in the Bible. He definitely knows marketing but He leaves it up to His ordained to follow the plan.
It is not being puritanical to preach the unadulterated Word of God. Although it is not a matter of sales for profit, it must be marketed to the public in a fashion that enlarges God’s Kingdom. It is a serious thing to remember that all things done in the church or on a campus must be Spirit driven. God will not share His glory with any one. It is not about marketing your program or agenda, rather it is about giving Jesus to the spiritually hungry and thirsty.
I’ve also noticed many churches establishing unique names to identify their mission. There is a tendency to get away from denominational connections. This may be a step in the right direction. The covering of a hierarchy has turned from true support into a set of useless codifications that hamper the expansion of the church. The umbrella of covering that a church needs is the blood of Christ and the by-laws of Scripture.
The church is not a theater, circus, or carnival. Does your campus entertain the attendees? Call it a tabernacle, church, or campus; your marketing must be such to exhibit the transforming, nourishing, and sustaining power of God. There must be integrity in your outreach to the community.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
What Would You Do?
Psalms 1:1 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. [NIV]
An aged sage once quoted this statement to me, “Advice is free, counsel will cost you, but if you can use either one it’s a miracle.” I believe this quote expresses the frustration of so many counselees. Our friends are often like Job’s counselors of old. They make analysis from a narrow perspective and dole out opinion that is often in error.
For counselors there is a tremendous challenge to assist people in overcoming difficulties in their life. A Godly counselor needs to have the Word of the Lord as his qualifying certification. The experience factor must take second seat to prayer and Scripture. Care must be taken in weighing the facts. Measuring with false scales can easily skew the results.
Scripture is to be the supreme authority in the church but is often used out of context or to justify a particular position. Many times it is described as “license” to make a point. It should always be the Spirit that gives approval, correction, or blessing on the exhortation of the Word and the application to a particular situation. I am amazed at the amount of unsolicited or inappropriate advice and counsel given from the pulpit and pastor’s office. This occurs when there is an omission of prayer and close examination of Scripture in relation to the problem. It is difficult to separate opinion from fact at times.
I recognize and have experienced anointing that comes upon us for the purpose of Godly edification. We cannot omit this anointing in the God-ordained individual if we practice counseling. A note of caution: Do not focus on your skill; rather give attention to the Divine. Having emotional or relationship ties doesn’t make us an authority on a particular matter. The connection may mean you are too close to the trees to see the forest on fire. The consideration must be the result of such guidance. Will the receiver be edified?
The sad thing to me is when a person attains a leadership position and gets a little exposure in that place, suddenly they become experts. They seem to hand out advice and opinions on issues that they do not have full knowledge of even though they use Scripture to support their position. I would point out that even Satan quoted Scripture, (out of context). It may be solely due to their assumption of having authority and showing their skill of directing others. Flaunting authority is the beginning of arrogant anarchy.
We definitely need to seek God on matters and listen to His direction. The advice and counsel given by friends and others should be weighed in God’s scale first. Our decisions will lead us through tough times when we adhere to those principles.
An aged sage once quoted this statement to me, “Advice is free, counsel will cost you, but if you can use either one it’s a miracle.” I believe this quote expresses the frustration of so many counselees. Our friends are often like Job’s counselors of old. They make analysis from a narrow perspective and dole out opinion that is often in error.
For counselors there is a tremendous challenge to assist people in overcoming difficulties in their life. A Godly counselor needs to have the Word of the Lord as his qualifying certification. The experience factor must take second seat to prayer and Scripture. Care must be taken in weighing the facts. Measuring with false scales can easily skew the results.
Scripture is to be the supreme authority in the church but is often used out of context or to justify a particular position. Many times it is described as “license” to make a point. It should always be the Spirit that gives approval, correction, or blessing on the exhortation of the Word and the application to a particular situation. I am amazed at the amount of unsolicited or inappropriate advice and counsel given from the pulpit and pastor’s office. This occurs when there is an omission of prayer and close examination of Scripture in relation to the problem. It is difficult to separate opinion from fact at times.
I recognize and have experienced anointing that comes upon us for the purpose of Godly edification. We cannot omit this anointing in the God-ordained individual if we practice counseling. A note of caution: Do not focus on your skill; rather give attention to the Divine. Having emotional or relationship ties doesn’t make us an authority on a particular matter. The connection may mean you are too close to the trees to see the forest on fire. The consideration must be the result of such guidance. Will the receiver be edified?
The sad thing to me is when a person attains a leadership position and gets a little exposure in that place, suddenly they become experts. They seem to hand out advice and opinions on issues that they do not have full knowledge of even though they use Scripture to support their position. I would point out that even Satan quoted Scripture, (out of context). It may be solely due to their assumption of having authority and showing their skill of directing others. Flaunting authority is the beginning of arrogant anarchy.
We definitely need to seek God on matters and listen to His direction. The advice and counsel given by friends and others should be weighed in God’s scale first. Our decisions will lead us through tough times when we adhere to those principles.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
What's Motivating?
Survival is the primary motivator. The level of comfort in your survival will determine the level of mental and physical exertion, with a will to live one will do the needed thing to survive. Opportunity becomes the second factor of motivation. Assessing the present opportunity; then responding in desire promotes improved survival probability or the next level of success. Key elements are desire followed by interest.
Too often the less fortunate don’t avail themselves of opportunity. Perhaps this is due to fear of failure and inadequacy instilled by years of lack. Settling for mediocrity should not be an option. One cannot allow others to stymie emergent opportunities by raining on the parade of possibility. Cover yourself with the umbrella of fortitude. Stick to the task even if you initially fail; learn from the failure.
Each person has to look at themselves in a mirror of truth and see beyond the physical into an inner strength. This force can be the dynamics of success and must surface in that individual. A new attitude will be developed and possibilities begin to transform the image seen into an unfolding improvement.
Wallowing in self pity or deprivation will not get one out of the mire of self-defeat. Ignoring opportunity because of fear will lead to self-destruction. Take the chance, exert an effort. Demonstrate to the observing doubter that you can and will do your best to make a difference in life for yourself and others. Accept the challenge and at least defend your right to succeed.
Dare to dream. Do it early in life. Seek wisdom. Get motivated to act immediately. Receive praise of success graciously when offered. Let those things become motivators toward better things in your life. Avoid becoming aloof from prior associations as long as they are encouragers to your motivation. Avoid those that say you can’t or if they express jealousy over your accomplishments. Watch out for over-confidence that will destroy your personage.
We must know we have a destiny in life. Each has been given life and it is their choice to live it fully and fulfill that destiny by giving it their all. Find contentment in your life’s assignment but always pursue improvement. Take advantage of the time you have been allotted, make each hour count and yet acquire rest for body and soul.
Above all, give honor to God, who gives liberally to those who walk in His righteousness. Include Him in your plans, seek His advice and counsel and then follow.
Too often the less fortunate don’t avail themselves of opportunity. Perhaps this is due to fear of failure and inadequacy instilled by years of lack. Settling for mediocrity should not be an option. One cannot allow others to stymie emergent opportunities by raining on the parade of possibility. Cover yourself with the umbrella of fortitude. Stick to the task even if you initially fail; learn from the failure.
Each person has to look at themselves in a mirror of truth and see beyond the physical into an inner strength. This force can be the dynamics of success and must surface in that individual. A new attitude will be developed and possibilities begin to transform the image seen into an unfolding improvement.
Wallowing in self pity or deprivation will not get one out of the mire of self-defeat. Ignoring opportunity because of fear will lead to self-destruction. Take the chance, exert an effort. Demonstrate to the observing doubter that you can and will do your best to make a difference in life for yourself and others. Accept the challenge and at least defend your right to succeed.
Dare to dream. Do it early in life. Seek wisdom. Get motivated to act immediately. Receive praise of success graciously when offered. Let those things become motivators toward better things in your life. Avoid becoming aloof from prior associations as long as they are encouragers to your motivation. Avoid those that say you can’t or if they express jealousy over your accomplishments. Watch out for over-confidence that will destroy your personage.
We must know we have a destiny in life. Each has been given life and it is their choice to live it fully and fulfill that destiny by giving it their all. Find contentment in your life’s assignment but always pursue improvement. Take advantage of the time you have been allotted, make each hour count and yet acquire rest for body and soul.
Above all, give honor to God, who gives liberally to those who walk in His righteousness. Include Him in your plans, seek His advice and counsel and then follow.
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