As I have sat and enjoyed Thanksgiving with my family and life long friends, I have been reminded again of how truly blessed I am. It is sad that for myself and many Americans it takes a special day to remind us to reminisce and be thankful for all we have and are. The past few months have forced me to take a look at my life; past, present, and future. As I have done so, I can not help but see the hand and providence of a wonderful God woven throughout my life.
After the turkey was gone, the games played, and the friends has said their goodbyes, I was blessed with some time to ponder this day and why I need Thanksgiving. Why should I be thankful today? Why should I be thankful tomorrow?
I am blessed with another day. God has allowed me another day to breath and enjoy the life He has created for me. I may not be able to run right now, but I can walk, sing, and rejoice. My God is greater, stronger, and He is a healer who is awesome in power. He gave the greatest gift of all that I might spend eternity with Him. While I got used to losing a lot in high school and college basketball, it always pained me deeply. It angered me. What a joy to know that no matter what happens here on earth, I have eternal victory over death and the grave through Jesus Christ. That in itself makes Thanksgiving a great day. May each breath of every day be music and worship to His ears.
I am thankful for where the Lord has me. I am truly proud to be an American and thankful for those who daily put their lives in harms way to give me that freedom. I am thankful for the freedom we have to worship and to fellowship. I pray that the Lord sends a revival to this great nation and that we are truly once again One Nation Under GOD. God bless America!
I am thankful for the gifts the Lord has given to me and the passions He has laid on my heart. They have driven me and led to into who I am today. I find true joy as I use them to seek and fulfill His calling on my life. I pray for greater opportunities to use these gifts for His name's sake.
I am thankful for my family. As I hear stories of broken families and of holiday drama in other families I can truly thank the Lord for a family who loves each other and who above all loves the Lord. They are a constant example of God's unconditional and sacrificial love. They daily set an example for me in life. As I see my mom and dad serve I am so proud and so convicted. How often do I serve only when asked and forget to simply look around for need? I must be looking for opportunities to serve rather than waiting to be asked. The need is great and the harvest is ready. Make me a servant like my parents Lord. I see the looks on the faces of neighbors when my parents show up to do a thoughtful deed spur of the moment. Christ is truly seen in my parents and I pray that in these holiday times I become a greater servant. As I serve may He become more as I become less.
I am thankful for the legacy that is being left. As I see my grandpa begin to fade I am saddened. My selfish, human nature longs for him to remain on earth. I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that He has a home in glory and he anxiously awaits the day he will see his Savior face to face for He has that eternal hope. I too long for that day when there will be no more pain and just the glory of the Lord. I think of my grandpa's life (grandma too) and wish I had spent more hours listening to stories. Life is fleeting, but the legacy is forever. The lives that have been touched, mine included, are immeasurable. I hope and pray that I leave that same legacy of service and love for His kingdom. I long to hear Him say "Well done good and faithful servant."
As this year has passed by quickly I have gone through many things I would not have chosen for myself. I have come to realize that I am thankful for His perfect plan. His plan is to prosper me even though I may not see it in the here and now. I look back on my life and hindsight truly is a thing of beauty. God has woven a beautiful story in my life. I have fallen time and again and made a mess of things quite often. The beauty comes in Him cleaning it up, washing me clean, and loving me as my Abba Father. My job may not be where I see myself, but it is where God has me for this season. My relationship status may not always be how I want, but it is where God wants me right now. Many of my friends have moved and it is not what I desired, but God knows and He has strengthened some of those very friendships through the miles and struggles. One of the songs I loved to hear my grandpa sing was Because He Lives. This song reminds us that because He lives I can face tomorrow. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. His faithful plan for my life to date will continue into the future and for eternity. In that I hope and promise I can truly rest.
The Bible is full of the traits of God though we can never really comprehend His majesty and power for His ways and thoughts are far above ours. He is our God, our Creator, our Healer. He is the beginning and the end. He is the friend of sinners. He loves us unconditionally with more grace and mercy than we can fathom. He is faithful when we are faithless. He pours out blessings on our lives from His immeasurable riches. He is always there and always listens. He knows every part of us even before we were formed. He is our strength, our salvation, and our shield. He gives us livingwater that we may never thirst. Above all He is our eternal Father and we are His children whom He dearly loves.
Today and everyday I choose to be thankful. Thankful despite hardships and pain. Thankful despite my plans falling apart. Thankful despite what the world may say. Thankful simply because He lives, He loves me, and He has a perfect plan. I can truly say from my heart, "THANK YOU!"
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
What is my motive?
Today I was challenged to consider my motives for the things I do. 1 Corinthians 10:31 commands us to do all for His glory. What does all include? I oft forget this even includes my growth and my battle for freedom from sin. I fear that I have pursued these for my own desires and glory. I think my pride often gets in the way of His glory. I think I often think "What do I want to be seen as?" instead of seeking to truly live Matthew 5:16. My life, even in growth and battles, must be lived solely for His glory. In the victories, He gets the praise. In the defeats and struggles, I still praise Him. Psalm 79:9 reminds us that He delivers us for His name's sake and that he helps us for His glory.
Why would the God of the universe share His glory? Perhaps this is why our growth is stunted or why we fail at overcoming ensnarement to sin. Perhaps God is waiting for a transformation in our motives before He allows His spirit to transform us. In Judges 7, God trimmed Gideon's army down significantly. He did not want the Israelites to win the battle and take the glory themselves. If they were an army of few then they would see God's hand and the glory would be His. Again Psalm 115:1 says "Not to us, but to your name oh Lord be the glory." We must change our motives if we desire true renewal and transformation.
How can we see God's glory? God's glory was manifested in Jesus Christ. Hebrews 1:1-4 paints the picture of Christ as the brightness of God's glory. Our victories will be many when we cling to Christ, seek to be made in His image, and give Him ALL the glory. 2 Corinthians 3:16-18 reminds us that true liberty is found where the spirit of the Lord is. When we grab onto to Christ, the veil is lifted and the Spirit brings liberty and transformation.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3
Our eyes must be fixed solely on Christ and our motives solely for His glory. Then, and only then, will we know and taste true victory and transformation. The victory is ours in Christ. Run the race in such a way!
This is my prayer for myself and my brothers and sisters in Christ:
Lord I confess my desires to make myself free and for growth are often so that others can see more of me. My desires have been to find my glory through freedom, growth, new relationships, and who I then would be. I confess that I have not been living Matthew 5:16. Lord I desire this change and this freedom that others might see your power over sin and that Your light alone may shine through me and into the darkness that others may come to you. Lord make that my sole motive and the true desire of my heart.
Why would the God of the universe share His glory? Perhaps this is why our growth is stunted or why we fail at overcoming ensnarement to sin. Perhaps God is waiting for a transformation in our motives before He allows His spirit to transform us. In Judges 7, God trimmed Gideon's army down significantly. He did not want the Israelites to win the battle and take the glory themselves. If they were an army of few then they would see God's hand and the glory would be His. Again Psalm 115:1 says "Not to us, but to your name oh Lord be the glory." We must change our motives if we desire true renewal and transformation.
How can we see God's glory? God's glory was manifested in Jesus Christ. Hebrews 1:1-4 paints the picture of Christ as the brightness of God's glory. Our victories will be many when we cling to Christ, seek to be made in His image, and give Him ALL the glory. 2 Corinthians 3:16-18 reminds us that true liberty is found where the spirit of the Lord is. When we grab onto to Christ, the veil is lifted and the Spirit brings liberty and transformation.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3
Our eyes must be fixed solely on Christ and our motives solely for His glory. Then, and only then, will we know and taste true victory and transformation. The victory is ours in Christ. Run the race in such a way!
This is my prayer for myself and my brothers and sisters in Christ:
Lord I confess my desires to make myself free and for growth are often so that others can see more of me. My desires have been to find my glory through freedom, growth, new relationships, and who I then would be. I confess that I have not been living Matthew 5:16. Lord I desire this change and this freedom that others might see your power over sin and that Your light alone may shine through me and into the darkness that others may come to you. Lord make that my sole motive and the true desire of my heart.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Approved Workmen Are NOT Ashamed!
I am reminded of my years in Awana as I read through 2 Timothy 2. I can hear myself singing that song in the high, squeaky voice I am sure that I had. It was so easy back then to not be ashamed of anything. As I grew up I was confronted with the norm of trying to fit in. I must confess that too often became my norm as well. Ah to have the faith of a child still, to be ashamed of little, and to not be so content to just go through the motions. That is my goal, my prayer, my cry...
I don’t wanna go through the motions
I don’t wanna go one more day
Without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don’t wanna spend my whole life asking
What if I had given everything?
Instead of going through the motions
(The Motions by Matthew West)
The second half of 2nd Timothy 2 is a great Godly "To Do" list. We are to live unashamed and to properly handle the Word of God (vs 15). Paul continually reminds Timothy to guard what is entrusted to him, to fan it into flame, and to unashamedly entrust and teach what he has learned and heard to others. We must treat the Gospel in the same manner. We must read it, memorize it (Psalm 119:11), and take it to the nations: to the ends of the earth.
Furthermore we are called to avoid quarreling and godless chatter. How different would we look to our world if we did not gossip and lived at peace with everyone as best we could (Romans 12)? This includes foolish arguments as well. I so often find myself in arguments where the outcome is of little or no value. I see this in the church as well. We split over things like musical preferences. We split over things we may not even know the answers to like predestination and the end times. Does God look on favor as His church, His bride, His body is divided? Think of the impact we could have on our world if His body, the church came together as one body under one head the Lord Jesus Christ!
22 Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 23 Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. 24 And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. 25 Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.
We must flee the evil desires of youth in the same way Joseph fled from Potiphar's wife. He left his cloak and ran. We can't wait around, we must RUN! Our character must have a foundation of righteousness, faith, love, and peace. As we teach we must not be self-righteous, but rather humble, gentle, and gracious. Are we not sinners ourselves? If we take the mindset of Paul when he said in 1 Timothy 1:15 that he was the worst of sinners that Christ came to save, perhaps there will be a different reception to the Gospel. As C.S. Lewis reminds us, grace is the difference between Christianity and other religions. May we be found living as Timothy was instructed; peaceful, unashamed, and studying and teaching the Gospel of Christ properly and with gentleness and grace. What will our legacy be? Righteousness, faith, love, and peace? I pray that it is so in my life.
FIND US FAITHFUL
We're pilgrims on the journey
Of the narrow road
And those who've gone before us line the way
Cheering on the faithful, encouraging the weary
Their lives a stirring testament to God's sustaining grace
Surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses
Let us run the race not only for the prize
But as those who've gone before us
Let us leave to those behind us
The heritage of faithfulness passed on through godly lives
CHORUS:
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
May the fire of our devotion light their way
May the footprints that we leave
Lead them to believe
And the lives we live inspire them to obey
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
After all our hopes and dreams have come and gone
And our children sift through all we've left behind
May the clues that they discover and the memories they uncover
Become the light that leads them to the road we each must find
CHORUS:
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
May the fire of our devotion light their way
May the footprints that we leave
Lead them to believe
And the lives we live inspire them to obey
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
Steve Green
FOR HIS GLORY AND HONOR!
I don’t wanna go through the motions
I don’t wanna go one more day
Without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don’t wanna spend my whole life asking
What if I had given everything?
Instead of going through the motions
(The Motions by Matthew West)
The second half of 2nd Timothy 2 is a great Godly "To Do" list. We are to live unashamed and to properly handle the Word of God (vs 15). Paul continually reminds Timothy to guard what is entrusted to him, to fan it into flame, and to unashamedly entrust and teach what he has learned and heard to others. We must treat the Gospel in the same manner. We must read it, memorize it (Psalm 119:11), and take it to the nations: to the ends of the earth.
Furthermore we are called to avoid quarreling and godless chatter. How different would we look to our world if we did not gossip and lived at peace with everyone as best we could (Romans 12)? This includes foolish arguments as well. I so often find myself in arguments where the outcome is of little or no value. I see this in the church as well. We split over things like musical preferences. We split over things we may not even know the answers to like predestination and the end times. Does God look on favor as His church, His bride, His body is divided? Think of the impact we could have on our world if His body, the church came together as one body under one head the Lord Jesus Christ!
22 Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 23 Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. 24 And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. 25 Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.
We must flee the evil desires of youth in the same way Joseph fled from Potiphar's wife. He left his cloak and ran. We can't wait around, we must RUN! Our character must have a foundation of righteousness, faith, love, and peace. As we teach we must not be self-righteous, but rather humble, gentle, and gracious. Are we not sinners ourselves? If we take the mindset of Paul when he said in 1 Timothy 1:15 that he was the worst of sinners that Christ came to save, perhaps there will be a different reception to the Gospel. As C.S. Lewis reminds us, grace is the difference between Christianity and other religions. May we be found living as Timothy was instructed; peaceful, unashamed, and studying and teaching the Gospel of Christ properly and with gentleness and grace. What will our legacy be? Righteousness, faith, love, and peace? I pray that it is so in my life.
FIND US FAITHFUL
We're pilgrims on the journey
Of the narrow road
And those who've gone before us line the way
Cheering on the faithful, encouraging the weary
Their lives a stirring testament to God's sustaining grace
Surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses
Let us run the race not only for the prize
But as those who've gone before us
Let us leave to those behind us
The heritage of faithfulness passed on through godly lives
CHORUS:
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
May the fire of our devotion light their way
May the footprints that we leave
Lead them to believe
And the lives we live inspire them to obey
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
After all our hopes and dreams have come and gone
And our children sift through all we've left behind
May the clues that they discover and the memories they uncover
Become the light that leads them to the road we each must find
CHORUS:
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
May the fire of our devotion light their way
May the footprints that we leave
Lead them to believe
And the lives we live inspire them to obey
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful
Steve Green
FOR HIS GLORY AND HONOR!
Soldier, Athlete, and a Farmer? Who am I? Superman?
How can one be a soldier, athlete, and farmer all at once? We are called to live as each of those. We are called to submit to our commander the Lord as a soldier and to not get caught up in the snares life throws our way. How often do I follow the wrong paths and the wrong leaders when I should be following my Lord? We are called to follow the rules to win the prize as an athlete must. How can we properly compete and how can we win if we are not following God's rules in His Word? Even moreso how can we follow the rules if we do not know them? We must become dedicated hearers and doers of the Word so that we can run the course, finish the race, and win the prize. Finally the character of a farmer is desired. No farmer has ever succeeded by sitting around. We must work hard in life and in the fields of His harvest. Our hard work in life sets an example and is our provision. Our hard work for His Kingdom grows in importance as the day approaches when He will return. The harvest is ready!
We must endure all and forsake all for the sake of the Gospel. Paul reminds us that though we are chained the Gospel is never subdued. This is evident in the story of the Philippian jailer and his family. Paul loves to give us "trustworthy sayings." The one he leaves us here in 2nd Timothy is one of great encouragement.
Here is a trustworthy saying:
If we died with him,
we will also live with him;
if we endure,
we will also reign with him.
If we disown him,
he will also disown us;
if we are faithless,
he remains faithful,
for he cannot disown himself.
(vs 11-13)
What a promise we have as heirs of Christ. If we die and endure with Him, we will live and reign with Him. Perhaps the last verse stands out the most. If we are faithless, He remains faithful. I would be lost without this as my faith often seems like a boat on the seas tossed to and fro. He remains faithful throughout because it is who He is. God's character is faithfulness and he cannot disown that or go against it. How blessed we are!
I was reminded of an old(er) song today that blesses me and gives me hope for tomorrow just as Paul's trustworthy sayings.
God sent His son, they called Him Jesus
He came to love, heal, and forgive.
He lived and died to buy my pardon,
An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives.
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, All fear is gone.
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living just because He lives.
How sweet to hold a newborn baby,
And feel the pride and joy he gives.
But greater still the calm assurance,
This child can face uncertain days because He lives.
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, All fear is gone.
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living just because He lives.
And then one day I'll cross the river,
I'll fight life's final war with pain.
And then as death gives way to victory,
I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He lives.
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, All fear is gone!
Because I know He holds the future
And life is worth the living just because He lives!
Words: Bill & Gloria Gaither
Not to us, O LORD, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness. Psalm 115:1
We must endure all and forsake all for the sake of the Gospel. Paul reminds us that though we are chained the Gospel is never subdued. This is evident in the story of the Philippian jailer and his family. Paul loves to give us "trustworthy sayings." The one he leaves us here in 2nd Timothy is one of great encouragement.
Here is a trustworthy saying:
If we died with him,
we will also live with him;
if we endure,
we will also reign with him.
If we disown him,
he will also disown us;
if we are faithless,
he remains faithful,
for he cannot disown himself.
(vs 11-13)
What a promise we have as heirs of Christ. If we die and endure with Him, we will live and reign with Him. Perhaps the last verse stands out the most. If we are faithless, He remains faithful. I would be lost without this as my faith often seems like a boat on the seas tossed to and fro. He remains faithful throughout because it is who He is. God's character is faithfulness and he cannot disown that or go against it. How blessed we are!
I was reminded of an old(er) song today that blesses me and gives me hope for tomorrow just as Paul's trustworthy sayings.
God sent His son, they called Him Jesus
He came to love, heal, and forgive.
He lived and died to buy my pardon,
An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives.
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, All fear is gone.
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living just because He lives.
How sweet to hold a newborn baby,
And feel the pride and joy he gives.
But greater still the calm assurance,
This child can face uncertain days because He lives.
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, All fear is gone.
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living just because He lives.
And then one day I'll cross the river,
I'll fight life's final war with pain.
And then as death gives way to victory,
I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He lives.
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, All fear is gone!
Because I know He holds the future
And life is worth the living just because He lives!
Words: Bill & Gloria Gaither
Not to us, O LORD, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness. Psalm 115:1
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Onesiphorus who?
Onesiphorus? Who is that? That is what I asked myself as I began my study through 2 Timothy. He is mentioned in only 3 verses in chapter 1 and in one verse in chapter 4 (solely in sending of greetings). I love how the Bible is full of people who are only mentioned briefly, but exude such great character.
May the Lord show mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains. On the contrary, when he was in Rome, he searched hard for me until he found me. May the Lord grant that he will find mercy from the Lord on that day! You know very well in how many ways he helped me in Ephesus. 2 Timothy 1:16-18
We see in these verses that O as I will call him showed Paul hospitality ("he often refreshed me"). O was also full of courage. He sought out Paul and was not ashamed of the chains Paul wore. In fact, O even sought out Paul in Rome. Rome was not exactly the place to be searching for a Christian, much less one of Paul's stature. In a time when Christians were lit on fire and used as lamp posts, it was probably not in O's best physical interests to find Paul or ask about him. O did not let that deter him and Paul asked he be blessed with the Lord's mercies.
What if we lived a life of courage in Christ like Onesiphorus? If we were not ashamed of the Gospel, of our friends or relatives who belonged to Him, or even our Christian calling and ministry we could change the world. What if our lives where consumed by hospitality? Would the world not see we are different in a "get mine" society?
May I live daily as Onesiphorus. May the world know I am different because of the hospitality and courage I show in the name of Christ. May I not be afraid, but rather be overflowing with power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).
Paul's intro in his letter to Timothy also encourages and convicts me. I, like Paul, can think of those I am longing to meet again so I can be full of joy. I can think of those whose sincere faiths have encouraged me greatly. I am challenged to daily and constantly remember them in my prayers. I also long to be a "Timothy" and to be a man that leaves that legacy of faithfulness with people. Timothy is encouraged to fan into flames the gift of God and I must do the same in my life.
Paul exhorts Timothy to not be ashamed of the Gospel or of Paul and his status as a prisoner. Paul takes it one step further and asks Timothy to join in his suffering for the Gospel. Are we willing to take up our crosses daily and suffer? Ashamedly I fear I oft am not. Why is this the case? Am I unaware of His grace and what He has done through the death of Jesus Christ who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel (vs 10)? Am I not appointed as well to spread the Gospel as commanded in the great commission? I must not be ashamed or afraid to suffer for the glory of God the Father and His Kingdom. No I must find the same joy and assurance that Paul had in knowing in Whom he believed (vs 12). His grace is enough and He will guard what we entrust to Him.
I, like Timothy, must guard this ideal and not be moved.
For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
LIVE AS SUCH!
My translation of Paul's greeting to Timothy and my prayer for all:
Jason, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, according to the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus,
To my dear friends, my brothers and sisters:
Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
I thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which often first lived in your families and friends and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
May the Lord show mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains. On the contrary, when he was in Rome, he searched hard for me until he found me. May the Lord grant that he will find mercy from the Lord on that day! You know very well in how many ways he helped me in Ephesus. 2 Timothy 1:16-18
We see in these verses that O as I will call him showed Paul hospitality ("he often refreshed me"). O was also full of courage. He sought out Paul and was not ashamed of the chains Paul wore. In fact, O even sought out Paul in Rome. Rome was not exactly the place to be searching for a Christian, much less one of Paul's stature. In a time when Christians were lit on fire and used as lamp posts, it was probably not in O's best physical interests to find Paul or ask about him. O did not let that deter him and Paul asked he be blessed with the Lord's mercies.
What if we lived a life of courage in Christ like Onesiphorus? If we were not ashamed of the Gospel, of our friends or relatives who belonged to Him, or even our Christian calling and ministry we could change the world. What if our lives where consumed by hospitality? Would the world not see we are different in a "get mine" society?
May I live daily as Onesiphorus. May the world know I am different because of the hospitality and courage I show in the name of Christ. May I not be afraid, but rather be overflowing with power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).
Paul's intro in his letter to Timothy also encourages and convicts me. I, like Paul, can think of those I am longing to meet again so I can be full of joy. I can think of those whose sincere faiths have encouraged me greatly. I am challenged to daily and constantly remember them in my prayers. I also long to be a "Timothy" and to be a man that leaves that legacy of faithfulness with people. Timothy is encouraged to fan into flames the gift of God and I must do the same in my life.
Paul exhorts Timothy to not be ashamed of the Gospel or of Paul and his status as a prisoner. Paul takes it one step further and asks Timothy to join in his suffering for the Gospel. Are we willing to take up our crosses daily and suffer? Ashamedly I fear I oft am not. Why is this the case? Am I unaware of His grace and what He has done through the death of Jesus Christ who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel (vs 10)? Am I not appointed as well to spread the Gospel as commanded in the great commission? I must not be ashamed or afraid to suffer for the glory of God the Father and His Kingdom. No I must find the same joy and assurance that Paul had in knowing in Whom he believed (vs 12). His grace is enough and He will guard what we entrust to Him.
I, like Timothy, must guard this ideal and not be moved.
For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
LIVE AS SUCH!
My translation of Paul's greeting to Timothy and my prayer for all:
Jason, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, according to the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus,
To my dear friends, my brothers and sisters:
Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
I thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which often first lived in your families and friends and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Blessed!
As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy. James 5:11
In this season of trials and struggles, I am reminded of the call to persevere. While I have been challenged by Job's testimony, the Lord has used the testimony of my brother Nate even more these past few weeks. Nate is confined to a wheelchair. He can not use his legs and only has partial use of one of his arms. The tasks we find easy are not so simple for Nate. These setbacks can not, and I doubt ever will, stop that guy. Nate drives his wheelchair to almost every church event no matter the weather. Nate works with the youth group. Nate finished college and is now going back to school to be a pastor. Nate is truly blessed and has blessed my life. Every time I want to feel sorry for myself because of my job, my torn achilles, or occasional boredom I am reminded of Nate and his outlook and character. Nate has been the Job in my life and has forever changed my outlook on life and the struggles it brings. Nate is blessed and has been a blessing to myself and so many. I am excited for His eternal blessings and the day when Nate's body will be made new. I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that is the day Nate lives for.
The truths of God's character overcome all my wallowing in self pity. It is true that His mercies are new every morning. He is faithful and will not tempt us beyond what we can bear. He continues to prove His faithfulness even when we are unfaithful. His blessings and riches are greater than we can fathom. His strength is perfect when mine has failed. We have the BLESSED assurance of salvation through Christ Jesus. How then can I complain? How then can I give up? How then can I turn to any other source of life, joy, and hope? Are my struggles not temporary while He, His blessings, and His Kingdom are forever? This too shall pass and one day I will be made perfect; the work He began will be completed and I will spend eternity before His throne.
As the weeks have progressed I have seen the Lord bring change. Some of those changes I did not like at the time and some I stil struggle with. I have seen His hand through it all. I strive to daily choose to count my blessings and to take my every need and care to the Lord. I find my confidence in His perfect plan growing daily. Funny how my joy and hope have increased as I persevere and remember my blessings. Is this not evident to others? Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe. (Philippians 2:14-15) What a simple, yet hard way to shine and live Matthew 5:16.
As I daily press on and count my blessings I am reminded of the old hymn:
When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
Refrain:
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
*Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.
[*And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.]
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings—wealth can never buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.
So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.
May we never lose sight of the riches of His promises in our lives. He is faithful and we are truly blessed to the glory of God the Father. Thank you Lord for lavishing countless blessings on my life. May I never be lacking in thankfulness, hope, perseverance, or love for You who gave it all.
WHAT A BLESSED ASSURANCE AND A BLESSED FUTURE!
In this season of trials and struggles, I am reminded of the call to persevere. While I have been challenged by Job's testimony, the Lord has used the testimony of my brother Nate even more these past few weeks. Nate is confined to a wheelchair. He can not use his legs and only has partial use of one of his arms. The tasks we find easy are not so simple for Nate. These setbacks can not, and I doubt ever will, stop that guy. Nate drives his wheelchair to almost every church event no matter the weather. Nate works with the youth group. Nate finished college and is now going back to school to be a pastor. Nate is truly blessed and has blessed my life. Every time I want to feel sorry for myself because of my job, my torn achilles, or occasional boredom I am reminded of Nate and his outlook and character. Nate has been the Job in my life and has forever changed my outlook on life and the struggles it brings. Nate is blessed and has been a blessing to myself and so many. I am excited for His eternal blessings and the day when Nate's body will be made new. I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that is the day Nate lives for.
The truths of God's character overcome all my wallowing in self pity. It is true that His mercies are new every morning. He is faithful and will not tempt us beyond what we can bear. He continues to prove His faithfulness even when we are unfaithful. His blessings and riches are greater than we can fathom. His strength is perfect when mine has failed. We have the BLESSED assurance of salvation through Christ Jesus. How then can I complain? How then can I give up? How then can I turn to any other source of life, joy, and hope? Are my struggles not temporary while He, His blessings, and His Kingdom are forever? This too shall pass and one day I will be made perfect; the work He began will be completed and I will spend eternity before His throne.
As the weeks have progressed I have seen the Lord bring change. Some of those changes I did not like at the time and some I stil struggle with. I have seen His hand through it all. I strive to daily choose to count my blessings and to take my every need and care to the Lord. I find my confidence in His perfect plan growing daily. Funny how my joy and hope have increased as I persevere and remember my blessings. Is this not evident to others? Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe. (Philippians 2:14-15) What a simple, yet hard way to shine and live Matthew 5:16.
As I daily press on and count my blessings I am reminded of the old hymn:
When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
Refrain:
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
*Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.
[*And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.]
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings—wealth can never buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.
So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.
May we never lose sight of the riches of His promises in our lives. He is faithful and we are truly blessed to the glory of God the Father. Thank you Lord for lavishing countless blessings on my life. May I never be lacking in thankfulness, hope, perseverance, or love for You who gave it all.
WHAT A BLESSED ASSURANCE AND A BLESSED FUTURE!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
To Be an Elder...
Yes I am 30 so getting close to being elderly, but that is not what this post is about. This past week in the tranquility of Lake Superior while hiking through the splendor of Isle Royale, I was challenged to live my life as if I were an elder. Paul gives a list of characteristics, qualities, and morals for someone desiring to be an elder in his first letter to Timothy. While I am not seeking to be an elder in my church at this time, and may never be one, I am convicted to try to live my life to meet those same requirements as given to Timothy.
"Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task. Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church?) He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap.
Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.
In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.
A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household well. Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.
Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God's household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. Beyond all question, the mystery of godliness is great:
He appeared in a body, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory."
Above reproach - We are called to avoid even the appearance of evil and to flee the evil desires of youth. So many times I put myself in situations where I could get in trouble even though I don't. As my dad once said to me, I should be like an old gun that has to have the triggers set before it fires. Why set the trigger if you do not intend to fire. In other words, why put yourself in bad situations where things could go wrong or be perceived as wrong?
Husband of but one wife - Purity, purity, purity. Such a struggle in our generation and society. Everywhere we turn we are confronted with lust (even on an island like Isle Royale). Though I only intend to marry one woman and divorce is not an option for me, we are reminded that even if you look at a woman with lust you have committed adultery with her (same for women looking at men). We are exhorted to treat "younger women as sisters with ABSOLUTE purity." To me absolute leaves no room for gray or questions. This is an area in my life where I must not rest or give the enemy a foothold.
Respectable (Good reputation with outsiders) - What do others think of me? Do they see Christ in me? Am I living Matthew 5:16?
Not a lover of money - Matthew 6:33 calls us to seek first His kingdom. We are reminded that where our treasure is there our heart will be also. As Randy Alcorn states in the Treasure Principle we are not given more wealth to increase our standard of living, but rather our standard of giving. If we are faithful with little then He will give us much as He knows we will be faithful with that as well. I find myself asking myself where am I fulfilled? It is truly when I am seaking His kingdom first in using my gifts, giving cheerfully and generously, and serving His people. I find even my faith is strengthened when I give and serve. Paul hit the nail on the head when he wrote, "Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus."
The list goes on to include temperate and self controlled, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkeness, gentle, not quarrelsome, manages his own family well, sincere, and tested. Again as I see divisions in the church and between friends, I am reminded of the need for many of these characteristics. So many issues could be avoided if we lived with the above ideals. If grace was on our every breath then we would be so much closer to attaining the character of an elder. I know I am tested daily. I wish I could say that I passed each test in all of these areas. That must be what I strive for. It must be a part of my training in Godliness. I am a masterpiece as God does not create junk. I must allow Him to chisel away the rough edges. The God who created me will finish the work He began. Even when I tire of trying and failing, I am reminded that His strength is perfect when mine is gone.
The final thing that hit me was how Paul includes the wife of the elder/deacon. Note how the wife of the elder is portrayed. "In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything." The wife of an elder should be a woman of Proverbs 31; a woman of Godly character! Waiting is hard at times, but to find the woman of that stature and character is worth it. To wait for the woman or man who loves the Lord more than you and whose heart is so buried in the Lord that you must seek Him to find it is a great task, yet one of great gain and long lasting satisfaction. That is my prayer and heart's cry for my relationships and my future spouse if God so leads. I pray the same is true for her.
Until that time may I be found waiting, serving, growing as an "elder", and anticipating joyfully with my hand always to the plow!
To "God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honor and might forever. Amen. " (1 Timothy 6:15-16)
"Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task. Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church?) He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap.
Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.
In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.
A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household well. Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.
Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God's household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. Beyond all question, the mystery of godliness is great:
He appeared in a body, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory."
Above reproach - We are called to avoid even the appearance of evil and to flee the evil desires of youth. So many times I put myself in situations where I could get in trouble even though I don't. As my dad once said to me, I should be like an old gun that has to have the triggers set before it fires. Why set the trigger if you do not intend to fire. In other words, why put yourself in bad situations where things could go wrong or be perceived as wrong?
Husband of but one wife - Purity, purity, purity. Such a struggle in our generation and society. Everywhere we turn we are confronted with lust (even on an island like Isle Royale). Though I only intend to marry one woman and divorce is not an option for me, we are reminded that even if you look at a woman with lust you have committed adultery with her (same for women looking at men). We are exhorted to treat "younger women as sisters with ABSOLUTE purity." To me absolute leaves no room for gray or questions. This is an area in my life where I must not rest or give the enemy a foothold.
Respectable (Good reputation with outsiders) - What do others think of me? Do they see Christ in me? Am I living Matthew 5:16?
Not a lover of money - Matthew 6:33 calls us to seek first His kingdom. We are reminded that where our treasure is there our heart will be also. As Randy Alcorn states in the Treasure Principle we are not given more wealth to increase our standard of living, but rather our standard of giving. If we are faithful with little then He will give us much as He knows we will be faithful with that as well. I find myself asking myself where am I fulfilled? It is truly when I am seaking His kingdom first in using my gifts, giving cheerfully and generously, and serving His people. I find even my faith is strengthened when I give and serve. Paul hit the nail on the head when he wrote, "Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus."
The list goes on to include temperate and self controlled, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkeness, gentle, not quarrelsome, manages his own family well, sincere, and tested. Again as I see divisions in the church and between friends, I am reminded of the need for many of these characteristics. So many issues could be avoided if we lived with the above ideals. If grace was on our every breath then we would be so much closer to attaining the character of an elder. I know I am tested daily. I wish I could say that I passed each test in all of these areas. That must be what I strive for. It must be a part of my training in Godliness. I am a masterpiece as God does not create junk. I must allow Him to chisel away the rough edges. The God who created me will finish the work He began. Even when I tire of trying and failing, I am reminded that His strength is perfect when mine is gone.
The final thing that hit me was how Paul includes the wife of the elder/deacon. Note how the wife of the elder is portrayed. "In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything." The wife of an elder should be a woman of Proverbs 31; a woman of Godly character! Waiting is hard at times, but to find the woman of that stature and character is worth it. To wait for the woman or man who loves the Lord more than you and whose heart is so buried in the Lord that you must seek Him to find it is a great task, yet one of great gain and long lasting satisfaction. That is my prayer and heart's cry for my relationships and my future spouse if God so leads. I pray the same is true for her.
Until that time may I be found waiting, serving, growing as an "elder", and anticipating joyfully with my hand always to the plow!
To "God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honor and might forever. Amen. " (1 Timothy 6:15-16)
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