tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81754132001072790222024-02-06T18:20:24.067-08:00Who Shall Ascend?Psa 24:3-6 Who shall ascend the hill of the LORD? And who shall stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to what is false and does not swear deceitfully. He will receive blessing from the LORD and righteousness from the God of his salvation. Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek the face of the God of Jacob. SelahJustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-87069607250180893312012-10-09T11:40:00.002-07:002012-10-09T11:40:42.863-07:00Stubbornness<br />
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Hello readers! I apologize for my one week absence in posting. I
could give a myriad of excuses but I will simply leave it at the apology.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I would say the majority of individuals define stubbornness as
something like: the trait of being difficult to handle or overcome. Now, this
definition is absolutely true, but my contention is this: we ALWAYS equate
stubbornness to a bad concept when it is not always bad.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Let's look at some other definitions that are equally as valid as
the first one:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Dictionary.com -
"unreasonably obstinate; obstinately unmoving: <i>a stubborn
child.</i> "<o:p></o:p></div>
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Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary: "unreasonably or
perversely unyielding"<o:p></o:p></div>
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These are the initial definitions we all think of, and the ones
first presented in any dictionary. However, there are other definitions in the
same sources! Definitions that we far too often forget:<o:p></o:p></div>
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"Fixed or set in purpose or opinion; resolute."<o:p></o:p></div>
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"Justifiably unyielding: Resolute."<o:p></o:p></div>
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You'll notice these definitions are put more in a positive light.
We continually push stubbornness as a negative trait when often times it is
not. Consider this: What if our forefathers had not be "stubborn" in
fighting for freedom? What if Martin Luther had not been "stubborn"
in his religious views? What if Gutenberg had not been "stubborn" in
believing all people should be able to read the Bible?<o:p></o:p></div>
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I won't waste your time by discussing how improper stubbornness is
destructive and annoying because you already know that. So let's talk about how
often we refuse to be "justifiably stubborn".<o:p></o:p></div>
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For example: an Atheist walks up to me and says, "Hey there!
God doesn't exist, you shouldn't believe in Him, it's all a joke, you should
give it up and stop believing in Him."<o:p></o:p></div>
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Me: "Oh gosh. I bet you're right! I guess it is pretty silly
to believe. Sure, I'll give up on Christianity."<o:p></o:p></div>
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NO! Why would I do that? That doesn't make ANY sense. I have every
right to be "stubborn" in my view-point and beliefs. Just as I would
expect a staunch atheist to not simply give up all of his views and become a
Christian just because I tell him he should. Sure, he is wrong in his beliefs,
but he would see me as wrong in mine as well. My point is this: as Christian we
should be stubborn. We should stand our ground and be "Justifiably
unyielding", for if we are not then we are Luke-warm (or worse)
Christians.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I urge you to consider this principle. Yes, refrain from wrongful
stubbornness, but never forget that there are two distinct definitions of stubbornness.
Don't give up on your beliefs and faith. As a Christian you are on the right
side and many will try to sway you against it, be stubborn! Stand your ground.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Webster's 1828 Dictionary:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Persevering; persisting; steady; constant; as stubborn attention.
Hardy; firm; enduring without complaint; as stubborn Stoics (A person who can
endure pain or hardship without showing their feelings or complaining).
Refractory; not easily melted or worked; as a stubborn ore or metal.<o:p></o:p></div>
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JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-23548114239183672572012-09-26T11:19:00.002-07:002012-09-26T11:19:37.706-07:00Hiding, but not Hidden<br />
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“Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee
from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in
Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the
uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right
hand shall hold me. If I say, ‘Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the
light about me be night,’ even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is
bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Psalm 139:7-12<o:p></o:p></div>
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In today’s post I would like to build off a quote I heard
this Sunday from a pastor Brad McMurray. He made the profound statement: <o:p></o:p></div>
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“You can hide IN God. But you can’t hide FROM God.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is absolutely true and I would like to prove it through
scripture. We will begin by looking at the former half of this quote. “You can’t
hide from God.” I believe that this is really important to study and look into
for a couple of reasons. First of all, we like to think we can get away with participating in wrongful actions that no one else will know about. Second, when we feel under
attack, lost, desperately in need, the One we should turn is God because we can
and should hide in God. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Let’s look at this through Scripture. We already saw clearly
in the opening verses (Psalm 139:7-12) that there is no where we can ride to
escape from God. It is quite literally impossible. This is expressed in a couple
of different ways throughout the Bible in both the Old and New Testament. <o:p></o:p></div>
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“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any
two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and
of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no
creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of
him to whom we must give account.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hebrews 4:12-13<o:p></o:p></div>
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These verses dive further into the idea that we cannot hide
from God. The author states that not only can we not hide from God, but all
creatures are not hidden. From the fish to the birds to us humans, nothing can
run from His sight. <o:p></o:p></div>
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"Am I a God at hand, and not a God far away? Can a man
hide himself in secret places so that I cannot see him? Do I not fill heaven
and earth?”(Paraphrased)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Jeremiah 23:24<o:p></o:p></div>
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The reason I chose this final verse for this point is
because it is God speaking. We’ve heard from the Psalmist in the Old Testament,
we’ve heard from the unknown New Testament author of Hebrews, but what greater
source to turn to then God Himself? He asks a
hypothetical question where the obvious answer is: NO. A man cannot hide
himself so that God cannot see him. <o:p></o:p></div>
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With all of this in mind I would like to turn the tables and
look at the former half of Mr. McMurray’s observation. “We can hide in God.” The Psalmist loves to accept this fact and prove it as his
life gets in danger. He feels threatened by armies, people, even the world, but
he expresses his firm belief in the fact that he has God to turn to and truly
hide in.</div>
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“Wondrously show your steadfast love, O Savior of those who
seek refuge from their adversaries at your right hand. Keep me as the apple of
your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings, from the wicked who do me
violence, my deadly enemies who surround me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Psalm 17:7-9<o:p></o:p></div>
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Here we see the analogy of hiding in the wings of the
Father. Just as a little chick when in danger runs and hides in the protective wings
of his mother, so we should run and hide in the shelter of our Father’s wings. <o:p></o:p></div>
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“One thing have I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after:
that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon
the beauty of the LORD and to inquire in his temple. For he will hide me in his
shelter in the day of trouble; he will conceal me under the cover of his tent;
he will lift me high upon a rock.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Psalm 27:4-5<o:p></o:p></div>
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This final passage really wraps up the beauty of what God will
do for us in time of need. King David gives some examples here once again
beginning with the idea of hiding in the wings of God. He uses three different
examples: <o:p></o:p></div>
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One, God will hide Him in His shelter. This could be conveyed
as the wings of protection. God will keep you safe in His shelter. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Two, God will conceal us under the cover of His tent. We
could think of maybe rain fall coming down and the tent being the protection
from that trouble. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Finally, three, God will lift us up on a high rock. I would
posit in King David’s time if there was a wild beast pursuing him he would seek
a high rock to climb on to get away from the attacker. In the same way when in
times of attack or trouble God will lift you up and keep you safe. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I encourage you to remember this important idea: we can hide
in God, but cannot hide from God. We should live our lives based on this fact
and understand nothing is hidden from Him, and in times of trouble we must turn
to Him for safety. <o:p></o:p></div>
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JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-76516778371408576252012-09-19T11:00:00.004-07:002012-09-19T11:00:50.918-07:00Wisdom & Knowledge<br />
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For this post this week I chose to not write two posts (one
on Sunday and one today) but rather take the time to write a longer, more in
depth post on one topic. I hope you enjoy the words below and I pray they shed
some light on the topic of Wisdom and Knowledge. I would love to hear your thoughts!
<o:p></o:p></div>
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The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in
Jerusalem. Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher, vanity of vanities! All is
vanity. What does man gain by all the toil at which he toils under the sun? <o:p></o:p></div>
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A generation goes, and a generation comes, but the earth
remains forever. The sun rises, and the sun goes down, and hastens to the place
where it rises. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The wind blows to the south and goes around to the north;
around and around goes the wind, and on its circuits the wind returns. <o:p></o:p></div>
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All streams run to the sea, but the sea is not full; to the
place where the streams flow, there they flow again. <o:p></o:p></div>
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All things are full of weariness; a man cannot utter it; the
eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing. <o:p></o:p></div>
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What has been is what will be, and what has been done is
what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Is there a thing of which it is said, "See, this is
new"? It has been already in the ages before us. <o:p></o:p></div>
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There is no remembrance of former things, nor will there be
any remembrance of later things yet to be among those who come after. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I the Preacher have been king over Israel in Jerusalem. And
I applied my heart to seek and to search out by wisdom all that is done under
heaven. It is an unhappy business that God has given to the children of man to
be busy with. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I have seen everything that is done under the sun, and
behold, all is vanity and a striving after wind. What is crooked cannot be made
straight, and what is lacking cannot be counted. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I said in my heart, "I have acquired great wisdom,
surpassing all who were over Jerusalem before me, and my heart has had great
experience of wisdom and knowledge." <o:p></o:p></div>
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And I applied my heart to know wisdom and to know madness
and folly. I perceived that this also is but a striving after wind. For in much
wisdom is much vexation, and he who increases knowledge increases sorrow.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>-- Ecclesiastes 1:1-18 --</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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As I read this chapter written by the wisest man who ever
lived, Solomon, it throws my mind into a twilight-zone where I wonder what the
purpose of any of the learning I have endured has for my future. Pre-school,
grade-school, middle-school, junior high, high school… Is it all really
“vanity”? The final sentence of this chapter is what hits me the hardest. If
wisdom is vexation, and knowledge increases sorrow, then why on earth would I
ever want to learn more? <o:p></o:p></div>
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What further causes me trouble is when I look to Proverbs
and find such verses as these: <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Proverbs 1:7</b> – “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of
knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Proverbs 17:24</b> – “The discerning sets his face toward
wisdom, but the eyes of a fool are on the ends of the earth.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Proverbs 28:26</b> – “Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool,
but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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According to Solomon knowledge is sorrow and wisdom is
vexation. Yet, according to the Proverbs the fool despises these things. Once
again, why would a fool despise something foolish? Or, why would something that
Godly people must seek be so bad in Solomon’s mind? <o:p></o:p></div>
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As I pondered these questions I think I have come to a
somewhat reasonable conclusion. I would like to tie this into my post from last
week regarding the evils of the world and us not worrying about them. I would
posit that son of David is seeing the evils of the world and seeing how crooked
and perverse it is and because of this he sees somewhat of an irony in trying
to gain wisdom. The world is foolish and everything in it, what actual wisdom
can there be? Quite honestly, this isn’t all that unreasonable of a thought
process. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Because this is still a confusing conclusion however, I
decided to read the 2<sup>nd</sup> chapter of Ecclesiastes to see if I might
find more answers. I absolutely did. The 2<sup>nd</sup> chapter we see Solomon
gives himself all of the pleasures of the world. He felt that wisdom and
knowledge were useless in the world and decided to check out the life-style of
the world. It is almost as if he tried to perform a research study to try out
the different ways of life:<o:p></o:p></div>
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I said in my heart, "Come now, I will test you with
pleasure; enjoy yourself." But behold, this also was vanity. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I said of laughter, "It is mad," and of pleasure,
"What use is it?" <o:p></o:p></div>
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I searched with my heart how to cheer my body with wine—my
heart still guiding me with wisdom—and how to lay hold on folly, till I might
see what was good for the children of man to do under heaven during the few
days of their life. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I made great works. I built houses and planted vineyards for
myself. I made myself gardens and parks, and planted in them all kinds of fruit
trees. I made myself pools from which to water the forest of growing trees. I
bought male and female slaves, and had slaves who were born in my house. I had
also great possessions of herds and flocks, more than any who had been before
me in Jerusalem. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I also gathered for myself silver and gold and the treasure
of kings and provinces. I got singers, both men and women, and many concubines,
the delight of the sons of man. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So I became great and surpassed all who were before me in
Jerusalem. Also my wisdom remained with me. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And whatever my eyes desired I did not keep from them. I
kept my heart from no pleasure, for my heart found pleasure in all my toil, and
this was my reward for all my toil. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Then I considered all that my hands had done and the toil I
had expended in doing it, and behold, all was vanity and a striving after wind,
and there was nothing to be gained under the sun. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So I turned to consider wisdom and madness and folly. For
what can the man do who comes after the king? Only what has already been done. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Then I saw that there is more gain in wisdom than in folly,
as there is more gain in light than in darkness. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The wise person has his eyes in his head, but the fool walks
in darkness. And yet I perceived that the same event happens to all of them. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Then I said in my heart, "What happens to the fool will
happen to me also. Why then have I been so very wise?" And I said in my
heart that this also is vanity. <o:p></o:p></div>
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For of the wise as of the fool there is no enduring
remembrance, seeing that in the days to come all will have been long forgotten.
How the wise dies just like the fool! <o:p></o:p></div>
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So I hated life, because what is done under the sun was
grievous to me, for all is vanity and a striving after wind. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I hated all my toil in which I toil under the sun, seeing
that I must leave it to the man who will come after me, and who knows whether
he will be wise or a fool? Yet he will be master of all for which I toiled and
used my wisdom under the sun. This also is vanity. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So I turned about and gave my heart up to despair over all
the toil of my labors under the sun, because sometimes a person who has toiled
with wisdom and knowledge and skill must leave everything to be enjoyed by
someone who did not toil for it. This also is vanity and a great evil. <o:p></o:p></div>
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What has a man from all the toil and striving of heart with
which he toils beneath the sun? <o:p></o:p></div>
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For all his days are full of sorrow, and his work is a
vexation. Even in the night his heart does not rest. This also is vanity. <o:p></o:p></div>
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There is nothing better for a person than that he should eat
and drink and find enjoyment in his toil. This also, I saw, is from the hand of
God, for apart from him who can eat or who can have enjoyment? <o:p></o:p></div>
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For to the one who pleases him God has given wisdom and
knowledge and joy, but to the sinner he has given the business of gathering and
collecting, only to give to one who pleases God. This also is vanity and a
striving after wind. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>-- Ecclesiastes
2:1-26 --</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">______________________________</span>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After reading this
second chapter it finally dawned on me that Solomon truly was the wisest man
who ever lived. If you take a minute to think about this fact it should strike
you as a key part of answering the question why Solomon feels the way he does
about wisdom. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
1<sup>st</sup> Kings
3:7-12 – “’Now, Lord my God, you have made your servant king
in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know
how to carry out my duties. Your servant is here among the people you have
chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. So give your
servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between
right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?’<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this. So
God said to him, ‘Since you have asked for this and not for long life or
wealth for yourself, nor have asked for the death of your enemies but for
discernment in administering justice, I will do what you have asked. I
will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have
been anyone like you, nor will there ever be.’”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
God quite literally granted Solomon wisdom that surpassed
anyone living in his day and surpassed the wisdom of anyone who would ever be
born after. Consider that for a moment. Imagine being wiser than anyone else on
the entire planet. How would life be knowing you knew better than everyone
around you and there was no hope for them ever coming close to the wisdom you
have. How would life look? Well, Solomon puts it best in these two chapters of
Ecclesiastes. It was a living hell. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, the conclusion that Solomon offers sheds light on
the final truth we should hold on to. The truth that gives us hope to live and
continue trusting God. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“There is nothing better for a person than that he should
eat and drink and find enjoyment in his toil. This also, I saw, is from the
hand of God, for apart from him who can eat or who can have enjoyment?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You can be the wisest man to ever live, you can have
knowledge and wisdom that far surpasses the world but in the end it is all from
the hand of God. And apart from God we cannot have anything. Vanity may be
vanity, and the world may be despicable, but all that truly matters in the end
is that we believe in and live for God. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-10690433911978447512012-09-12T10:57:00.000-07:002012-09-12T10:57:00.326-07:00Do Not Worry<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Often I look at the world and see that virtue and integrity
has vanished. There are so many people living in the world that haven’t a care
for God, the Bible or even Christianity at all. I see this horror and wonder
when the end of the world will come because there seems to be no righteousness
remaining. But as I read Psalm 12 today it dawned on me that the world I live
in is nothing new at all. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Save, O Lord, for the godly one is gone; for the
faithful have vanished from among the children of man.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<sup> </sup>Everyone utters lies to his neighbor; with flattering
lips and a double heart they speak.</div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is quite obvious that long, long ago the world was just
as wicked as I see it today. King David has the same idea of the world as I do.
And as I kept reading his Psalm I noticed that he had the same conclusion as I
as well. He sought for the Lord to solve the situation because it rested so
heavily on his heart. In addition to this David sought safety from the evil. He
didn’t want to live among those who did not serve and love God, he wanted to be
saved from world and live with Christ. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
May the Lord cut off all flattering lips, the
tongue that makes great boasts,<b><sup> </sup></b>those who say,
“With our tongue we will prevail, our lips are with us; who is master over
us?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“Because the poor are plundered, because the needy
groan, I will now arise,” says the Lord; “I will place him in
the safety for which he longs.”<b><sup> </sup></b>The words of the Lord are
pure words, like silver refined in a furnace on the ground, purified
seven times.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
You, O Lord, will keep them; you will guard us from
this generation forever.<b><sup> </sup></b>On every side the wicked prowl, as
vileness is exalted among the children of man.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I posit this, no matter how evil the world may seem, we
still have God on our side. We have God who will keep us safe, will guard us,
and will always be there for us. I think rather than worrying as I have about
the generation, and fearing our almost certain demise, I should seek the truth.
I should try to speak truth in love to all those around me. What does worrying
do to solve the problem? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I believe that King David’s response was perfectly accurate.
Yes, fear the problem, but no, do not fear the solution. Understand that God is
there, God has the situation under control, and it is our responsibility to do
our part to save our generation. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let’s conclude with a passage from Matthew that I find
applicable. In the same way that we shouldn’t worry about the present
generation’s unbelief, we should not worry about the common staples of life.
Worrying is simply something we should not do. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life,
what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life
more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the
air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly
Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one
of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of
the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even
Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.<b><sup> </sup></b>If
that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and
tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of
little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall
we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these
things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first
his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to
you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will
worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Matthew 6:25-34<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-3266778502524449312012-09-09T14:23:00.004-07:002012-09-09T14:23:44.671-07:00Wisdom<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tomorrow marks the beginning of the Fall term for me. All of
my students are back in the studio and ready to begin lessons again, the speech
and debate classes I will be coaching are starting up for the competitive
season. School has begun. The difference between this week this year, and this
week last year, is that last year I was the student. I was looking to my
teachers to counsel and guide me, looking for help for all the problems I could
not solve on my own. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I was pondering
this idea today I was hit with the most terrifying realization. I am absolutely
not fit to be leading my peers. I am young, I have so much more to learn,
indeed I am in many ways just as ignorant as those I am suppose to be coaching
this year. And yet, even with this, it is still my duty (And certainly my
honor) to lead them. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But this got me thinking further. How am I going to teach
this year? How is my coaching going to affect the lives of those I lead? Will I
have wisdom and understanding or will I fail? God is the answer to these
questions. We all know the verse, "I can do all things through Christ who
strengthens me" (Phil 4:13). Here is the simple truth: This year will NOT
work on my own strength. I will not lead properly, I will not speak wisdom into
those who need it, I will not be able to accomplish anything apart from God,
His strength, and His wisdom. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I read Proverbs 9 in the hopes that God would teach me
something. That I would glean something that I can use to increase my wisdom to
be a better teacher. And wouldn't you know? This is what it says...</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Proverbs 9:7-8 "Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself
abuse, and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury. Do not reprove a
scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A couple of thoughts: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) I do NOT want abuse. Who does? I do not want injury. So I
should simply leave any trouble-makers alone and only focus on the
"good" people. No. False. I believe these verses are speaking
specifically to me in the position I am in today. The leader. God will be
teaching me this year. God will be showing me what to say and do in certain
situations, and God will reprove me for my wrong actions. I must make sure to
guard my heart and not turn and be the scoffer. In the same way as I would not
like a student to talk back to me, I must not talk back to God. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) I would posit that one of the first baby steps to being
Wise is in verse 8. If God reproves me, corrects me, tells me of a fault, and I
love Him, I am beginning to gain wisdom. If my knee jerk reaction to God's
correction is anger, then I obviously have a lot to work on. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, all of this is quite pointed to me, but I would say
that certainly some of you out there are, or will be struggling with this
topic. You must know you are absolutely not alone. But furthermore, I need your
help. If I am to be an effective leader I must be willing to listen. I must be
willing to take correction and have a humble attitude. As I move into this new
stage of life, this time where I move from student to teacher, I would ask for
your help to encourage me, correct me when I go astray, and help me keep on the
right path. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Aside from God we are nothing. At the same time, aside from
strong, Godly discipleship we become weak and stray. Let us band together to
encourage and love one another as we take on this next year. God is always on
our side, and we should fight together just as Christ fights for us. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-68090167143096046352012-09-05T09:03:00.002-07:002012-09-05T09:03:59.938-07:00School Begins<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today is the first official day of school. Whether
homeschooled, public schooled, or private schooled, this marks the beginning of
the school year. Granted, some of you are not starting yet, some have already,
but it's safe to say that the school year is well under way. In this post I
would just like to offer up some thoughts (feel free to pass it around if you
deem it worthy) about school, the year, and hopefully a little encouragement. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So far I have seen one person be incredibly excited about
school. He literally has been screaming
he's so excited. But the other 99% of those I have spoken with seem
either 1) Apathetic, 2) Scared or 3) Downright Angry. Because of this it is
somewhat fitting that the Psalm of the day is Psalm 5:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Give ear to my words, O LORD; consider my groaning. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Give attention to the sound of my cry, my King and my God, for to you do I
pray. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
O LORD, in the morning you hear my voice; in the morning I prepare a sacrifice
for you and watch. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For you are not a God who delights in wickedness; evil may not dwell with you. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The boastful shall not stand before your eyes; you hate all evildoers. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You destroy those who speak lies; the LORD abhors the bloodthirsty and
deceitful man. (1-6)</div>
<br /><br />
Some of you may take these verses and definitely nod your head at the groaning,
certainly agree with the "cry" and the "pray". Life is
about to get a lot worse in your opinion and you're simply bracing yourself for
impact. You may even see the teachers in your life as evildoers and are wishing
for God to smite them down and put you back to the beginning of summer again! Ok...
maybe not, but you get my point. <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, I would like to use the second half of this Psalm
as an encouragement to you. This year can be great. This next semester can be
life-changing. If you choose to, you could make this year be the one where you
learn more scholastic knowledge as well as more about God than you ever have before! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But I, through the abundance of your steadfast love, will
enter your house. I will bow down toward your holy temple in the fear of you. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lead me, O LORD, in your righteousness because of my enemies; make your way
straight before me. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For there is no truth in their mouth; their inmost self is destruction; their
throat is an open grave; they flatter with their tongue. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Make them bear their guilt, O God; let them fall by their own counsels; because
of the abundance of their transgressions cast them out, for they have rebelled
against you. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy, and
spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may exult in
you. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For you bless the righteous, O LORD; you cover him with favor as with a shield.
(7-12)</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Take this school year with excitement. Take it with the
understanding that you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.
Pray to God, seek God to get you through the hard times. Let's
talk about those people who are inevitably going to be the thorns in your side
this year. Those people who will annoy you, upset you, or constantly bother
you. What will your reaction be to them? How will you treat them? You are
called to treat them with love and respect, to honor them, and not be angry
with them. A very hard task to accomplish, but you should at least try, right? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then take the words from the Psalm, if there are unrighteous
people around you, if there are foolish people around you, if there are those
who are doing things that you think shouldn't be done, don't take condemnation
upon yourself, don't take judging into your own hands. Take the words of the Psalm to heart: Make THEM bear their own
guilt. Let THEM fall by their own counsels. There will be many who speak lies,
who deceive, and that isn't your problem. It is only your problem if you are
one of them. Let God take care of them, and you focus on the straight and
narrow. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My final exhortation is one word that I think would behoove
you to keep in the back of your mind: Focus. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Focus this year. Focus on your work, learning, and then at
the end of the day (or weekend) when all of your work is done, have some fun!
Party! But when working, just focus. You'll get so much farther in life if you
concentrate on learning in the present. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
You can do it! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Psalm 1</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the
wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and
night. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its
season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the
congregation of the righteous; </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will
perish.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-6363372987505004762012-09-03T10:05:00.003-07:002012-09-03T10:05:33.695-07:00Our God<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
During worship yesterday at Church we sang the song Our God
by Chris Tomlin. Definitely up there in my favorites for worship songs. But the
chorus got me thinking about something. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Our God is greater, our God is stronger, God you are
higher than any other.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our God is Healer, Awesome in Power, Our God! Our God!"</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It reads that God is higher than any other. Any other god. And as I pondered this I remembered back to the days when I studied Greek and Roman mythology and all of their gods. In this post today I
would like to look at one of the Greek gods and three goddesses and compare and
contrast them to the One True God. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Zeus had his golden throne on the highest summit of Mount
Olympus and was respected and awed by all gods and mortals. He was the
"Lord of Justice", punishing anyone who lied or broke an oath, but
was fair and always striving to keep a balance of all things.<br />
<br />
Furthermore, Zeus was responsible for the weather and was shaping it according
to his temper. When in high spirits, Zeus was blessing the world with fine
weather; in case of bad mood, however, he would throw rain, winds, lightning
and thunderbolts to cause disaster to the mortals.<br />
<br />
But even Zeus' powers had their limits, for, however powerful as he was, he had
neither the right nor the ability to intervene in the decisions of the Fates.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What does God have to offer against such a powerful god? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Psalm 33:5</b> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing
love.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Mark 4: 37-41</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat,
so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a
cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we
drown?” He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be
still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.<b><sup> </sup></b>He
said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no
faith?”<b><sup> </sup></b>They were terrified and asked each other, “Who
is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Jeremiah 23:29</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Does not my word burn like fire?" says the LORD.
"Is it not like a mighty hammer that smashes a rock to pieces?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, I don't see anywhere in the Bible where it says God has
a limit. Zeus cannot intervene in the decisions of the Fates. What are the
Fates?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The three Fates in Greek mythology were: <i>Clotho</i>, <i>Lachesis</i>,
and <i>Atropos</i>. Clotho, the spinner, was the youngest of the three
Fates; she spun the thread of destiny with a distaff, determining the time of
birth of an individual; Lachesis measured the thread length to determine the
length of life; finally, cruel Atropos cut the thread of life, determining this
way the time of death.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So these three goddess had technically more power than Zeus
himself. If you don't know, they were Zeus's daughters. However, it still took
THREE of them in order to birth life, continue life, and end life. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Genesis 2:7</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then the LORD God
formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the
breath of life, and the man became a living creature.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Genesis 2:18-24</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to
be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now the Lord God had formed out of the ground all
the wild animals and all the birds in the sky. He brought them to the
man to see what he would name them; and whatever the man called each
living creature, that was its name.<b><sup> </sup></b>So the man gave
names to all the livestock, the birds in the sky and all the wild animals.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But for Adam no suitable helper was found.<b><sup> </sup></b>So
the Lord God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep; and while
he was sleeping, he took one of the man’s ribs and then closed up the
place with flesh.<b><sup> </sup></b>Then the Lord God made a
woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the
man.<b><sup> </sup></b>The man said, “This is now bone of my bones and
flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman,’ for she was taken out
of man.”<b><sup> </sup></b>That is why a man leaves his father and mother
and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We see that not only did God create Adam (man), as well
as all of the trees and all of the animals, He also created Eve. What help did
He have? None at all! Just Himself. Furthermore...</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Jeremiah 1:5</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were
born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
God is certainly more powerful than any mythological god. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why do I say all of this? I'm sure you know it already, you
know that God is greater than any fake gods. You know that there is only One
True God. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here is my point. It's healthy to step back every once in a
while and see just how great our God is! And I don't mean by simply saying God
is great, I mean by actually seeing, researching, understanding WHY God is so
much greater than us or other gods. We can live with simple faith and dedicate
our lives to God. But He deserves so much more than that. Just look at
mythology, look at how silly it is that they need so many gods and goddesses
all fighting with each other and we have the God who is greater. The God who
actually exists!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I urge you to think about this idea this week. Ponder how we
have a God who created everything. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Everything we see was created by God.
Everything we know was thought up by God. Everything goes back to our awesome,
mighty, incredible God. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
We owe our lives to Him. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-82125732256821169992012-08-29T12:47:00.001-07:002012-08-29T12:47:12.095-07:00Voice of the Lord<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Have you ever planned out something, an event, something
rather important in your life and then have it either get cancelled or just not
work out? Today I had plans. Plans I had been considering for six months. All
the various ways it could have turned out. But I woke up this morning, looked
at the date, the 29th, and I thought about what I was going to be doing today. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Quartet rehearsal at 10. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Grandparents coming in to stay for the week in the
afternoon. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Leading worship for the Young Discipleship Group tonight at
7. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Where had my plans gone? This occasion that could have been
life-changing was nowhere to be found. As I lay in bed I started to feel
uneasy. Almost a little sick. Realizing for the millionth time that I have zero
control over my life. I can hope to do things, I can wish for events to happen,
I can plan all I want to. But in the end God has sovereignty over my life and
will take me in the direction I need to be taken. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So then, what should my reaction be today? How should I act
today? I think I need to fall back on the word: Contentment. I need to be
content. Seek God's greatest will in my life and not my own. Stop worrying
about what will happen and listen to God. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I posted not too long ago about the Still Small Voice of
God. How if we just keep calm, pray, and seek God He will speak to us. Well,
God in His incredible work showed me Psalm 29 this morning. The psalm for the
day of the month. I had a small freak out when I read it, because not only does
it tie all of these rambles together, but it once again gives me hope that God
will lead me down the path I need to go. I can fear not for God is with me. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Psalm 29:</b> A Psalm of David. Ascribe to the LORD,
O heavenly beings, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of
holiness. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the LORD,
over many waters. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is full of majesty. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; the LORD breaks the cedars of Lebanon. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He makes Lebanon to skip like a calf, and Sirion like a young wild ox. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The voice of the LORD flashes forth flames of fire. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The voice of the LORD shakes the wilderness; the LORD shakes the wilderness of
Kadesh. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The voice of the LORD makes the deer give birth and strips the forests bare,
and in his temple all cry, "Glory!" </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The LORD sits enthroned over the flood; the LORD sits enthroned as king
forever. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
May the LORD give strength to his people! May the LORD bless his people with
peace!</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Lord is powerful. He is beyond powerful. I think we
should take up the charge of David and live with the moto: May the LORD give
strength to his people! May the LORD bless his people with peace!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We may not know what lies ahead, we may create plans that
fall to pieces, but God is at the helm. He is leading us through life, through
battle, through peace-time. God is with us. Listen to His voice, follow His guidance,
and we will all one day stand at His glorious throne. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
If God, who's voice is more powerful than any mortal army,
is with us, then who can stand against us?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-258310772653438622012-08-26T14:42:00.001-07:002012-08-26T14:42:43.516-07:00The Mustard Seed<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Often times things come up in my life that seem impossible.
Whether it be a stage in my life of hurt and healing, or simply a task I must
perform. I think to myself, "Good heavens this is way too hard. It just isn't even worth it." Yet, the next week, or day, or even the next hour, I find
I have completed said task and have come out just fine, if not stronger. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, to say this is all my doing would be foolish and
downright wrong, however I WAS able to accomplish a task I thought to be
impossible. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In today's post I would like to posit a simple philosophy:
Nothing we are called to do is too difficult to accomplish. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
God gives us missions. Just as soldiers are sent out to
fight or gather intel, we too are sent out for God and His purposes. Some
missions will be rather easy and quick, but others will be long, hard, vicious
fights where we drain every ounce of strength from our bodies. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But of one thing we can be sure, God will never EVER assign
us a task that is impossible for us to complete. If we abide in His strength
and will then nothing is too much for us. Now, if you think this is ridiculous,
if you think it's silly to think we can do everything with God on our side,
then let me make one caveat: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If God has truly called you to do a certain assignment. You
CAN do it and the only thing that will stop you is yourself. I can tell you
with absolute certainty that if the entire time you follow God's calling and
realize that He is guiding you (not yourself) then you will succeed. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This principle lies in one crucial aspect of Christianity:
Faith. We can do all things if Christ is leading us and if we have absolute
faith in Him. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is illustrated beautifully in these verses from the
Bible: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And when they came to the crowd, a man came up to him and,
kneeling before him, said, “Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is an
epileptic and he suffers terribly. For often he falls into the fire, and often
into the water. And I brought him to your disciples, and they could
not heal him.” And Jesus answered, “O faithless and twisted generation,
how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him
here to me.” And Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of him, and the
boy was healed instantly. Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and
said, “Why could we not cast it out?” He said to them, “Because of
your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a
grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to
there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.” --
Matthew 17:14-21</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Furthermore, when times are tough is when God is most
evident. In Philippians we see that God allows us to do all things, hard or
easy, through His strength and His alone:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you
renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no
opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I
have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it
is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the
secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether
living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me
strength." -- Philippians 4:10-13</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So today I exhort you to trust God in all times. Do not have
joy and faith only when times are easy and you are feeling blessed, but learn
to rejoice and have faith in every circumstance. Never forget that when
assigned a calling by God, even when it seems like you are at the end of your
rope, that you have nothing left, you still always, always have God. Nothing
God gives you will be too hard for you to get through. You will get through on
Christ's power and through His glory. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-81862917971540922792012-08-22T10:43:00.001-07:002012-08-22T10:43:20.887-07:00Still Small Voice<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am sure we have all heard the phrase the "Still Small
Voice". When talking about God speaking to us we always say we must listen
closely. Now this phrase didn't just come out of the blue, it came from 1st
Kings chapter 19 in the King James Version: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before
the Lord. And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and
strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord;
but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake;
but the Lord was not in the earthquake:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was
not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And it was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his
face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entering in of the cave.
And, behold, there came a voice unto him, and said, What doest thou here,
Elijah?" (11-13)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, a lot of this probably sounds a little funny because of
the old English, but let's create this image of the situation. Strong winds are
blowing, winds that "rent" (define: A large tear in a piece of
fabric.) Mountains. This wind is probably like a hurricane. A horrific storm.
So powerful as to break rocks. Then, after all of this wind, an earthquake
happened, after that an all-out fire storm. Now, the Lord was not in any of
these, but God had caused them to happen. Where was the Lord? He was in a
"still small voice". </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
God shows His awesome power and might but waits to speak
until He can do so in a whisper. He speaks to Elijah through the torrents of
the storm in a small voice. No shouting or commanding, just a simple, loving whisper.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I posit this question, how many times have you sought God's
help and felt like you heard nothing? You knew it would be a still small voice,
you knew it would come in times of trial, so you waited and waited yet heard
nothing? This is always disheartening because of these passages of scripture: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mark 11:24 -- "Therefore I tell you, whatever you
ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be
yours."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Matthew 7:7 -- "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek,
and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We live in this misconception that asking will automatically
grant us our wish. Let's be real friends, God isn't a genie in a bottle. We
can't simply say "I.... wish for a million dollars. I'm asking for it full
faith God and You WILL give it to me!" That is never, ever going to work.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think we need to look to the Psalmist to find our reality
check: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Psalm 22: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you
so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning? O my God, I cry
by day, but you do not answer, and by night, but I find no rest."
(1-2)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think it's safe to say this is me a lot of the time. I cry
out to God, I seek His help and guidance, but feel all alone. But David then
goes on to say...</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of
Israel. In you our fathers trusted; they trusted, and you delivered them. To
you they cried and were rescued; in you they trusted and were not put
to shame." (3-5)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No matter if we hear from God or not, He is still there. It
doesn't matter if we get an instant response, just because we live in a world of
instant gratification does not mean God must adhere to that lifestyle. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I love David's words near the end of Psalm 22 when he says: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the
midst of the congregation I will praise you:<b> </b>You who fear the Lord,
praise him! All you offspring of Jacob, glorify him, and stand in awe of him,
all you offspring of Israel!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For he has not despised or abhorred the affliction of the
afflicted, and he has not hidden his face from him, but has heard, when he cried
to him.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
From you comes my praise in the great congregation; my vows
I will perform before those who fear him. The afflicted shall eat
and be satisfied; those who seek him shall praise the Lord! May your
hearts live forever!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to
the Lord, and all the families of the nations shall worship before
you. For kingship belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations."
(22-28)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I encourage you to wait for the still small voice. But if
you don't hear anything right away, don't worry about it! Just keep praying and
pressing into God!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-9057319733129152872012-08-20T09:38:00.003-07:002012-08-20T09:38:34.894-07:00The Hated People<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Often times I get frustrated, annoyed, even angry at the
world for the attacks against Christianity. For the personal strikes at
Christians who are just trying to live by their faith. I get so fed up with
people calling Christians bigots, homophobes, etc, especially when most of the
time it isn't true. Yes, there are those bad apples in the crowd but as a whole
we just want to serve God and love people. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pastor Mark Driscoll opened my eyes to 1st John chapter 3 and
to something that made me laugh. I laughed because it is so simply and
blatantly stated. It has entirely changed my view of how the world thinks of me
as a Christian. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
1 John 3:12-13 "We should not be like Cain, who was of
the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his
own deeds were evil and his brother's righteous. Do not be surprised, brothers,
that the world hates you."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is so very simple! I love Jesus, I follow Jesus, much
of the world does not. In fact, a lot of the world hates Jesus! So... Why on
earth am I surprised that the world hates Christians? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Throughout the Bible we see references to the World being
one thing and God/Jesus being another. We cannot have idols, we cannot serve
two masters, we must be in the world but not of the world, the list goes on. The
world is a dark, lost, horrific place. The only way for hope and peace is
through Jesus Christ. However, because as humans with our sin nature we are
constantly in rebellion to God, the world seeks to tear Jesus down. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So let's put it this way, if the world seeks to get rid of
Christ, and I seek to express Christ, speak about Him, glorify His name, what
is the world going to think of me? Obviously they are going to try to get rid
of me as well. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It comes down to this basic question, do you want the world
to love you, or Jesus to love you? We cannot serve two masters. We cannot be
loved by the world and by Jesus at the same time. Yes, there are those in the
world who will love us, we all have people who love us, but as the whole we
cannot have a world who wants the best for us because the world does not
believe in the same ideals that we do. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That being said, we CAN love the world and love Jesus
simultaneously. Do not love the world in the way you love Jesus, but we are
called to love everyone. We are to bless those who curse us, love those who
persecute us. We are to show kindness and love to our enemies. It is a tall
order to fill because no one likes to be loving and kind to someone who doesn't
like them. However it is not impossible to accomplish. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I say we at least try. This week if someone says an angry
word to you, if someone "attacks" you whether for your faith or just
because they can, love them in return. Bless them in return. If we all do this
the world will be just that much better of a place to live in. Not to mention,
it will give God all the glory, and that's our purpose. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-89398333295131394862012-08-15T11:20:00.003-07:002012-08-15T11:27:50.681-07:00The Light<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b><br />
John 1:1-18</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
In the beginning was the Word,
and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
He was in the beginning with God.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
All things were made through him,
and without him was not anything made that was made.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
In him was life, and the life was
the light of men.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
The light shines in the darkness,
and the darkness has not overcome it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
There was a man sent from God,
whose name was John.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
He came as a witness, to bear
witness about the light, that all might believe through him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
He was not the light, but came to
bear witness about the light.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
The true light, which gives light
to everyone, was coming into the world.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
He was in the world, and the
world was made through him, yet the world did not know him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
He came to his own, and his own
people did not receive him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
But to all who did receive him,
who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
who were born, not of blood nor
of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have
seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and
truth.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
(John bore witness about him, and cried out, "This was
he of whom I said, 'He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was
before me.'")<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
For from his fullness we have all
received, grace upon grace.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
For the law was given through
Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center; text-indent: -.25in;">
No one has ever seen God; the
only God, who is at the Father's side, he has made him known.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-indent: -.25in;">
I believe we are called to be lights. I think the Bible is
pretty clear on that:<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b> Matt 5:14-16</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-indent: -.25in;">
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill
cannot be hidden.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-indent: -.25in;">
Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but
on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
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."<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
We are
lights in the darkness. The world is a wicked place and evil has darkened it.
We, with Christ shining through us are lights, lights that show others the way
to Truth.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
But in my Bible study this morning I discovered something that I had never seen
before. (Don't you just love it when that happens?)<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
We all
know that many times we are called to be Christ-like:<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b>1st
John 2:6<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>"Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the
same way in which he walked."<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b>1st
Cor 11:1</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>"Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ."<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b>Eph
5:1-2</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>"Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.
And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant
offering and sacrifice to God."<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
However,
for as many times as I read John chapter One I never noticed that Christ came
into the world as the Light. Let's look at the metamorphosis:<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b>John
1:1</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>-- We have the Word. The Word is suppose to be the Spirit,
many commentators have said the Word is the Spirit and apart of God.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b>1:3</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>-- All things are in the Word (Spirit).<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b>1:4</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>-- In the Word (Him) was the light of men.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b>1:5</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>-- The Light (Word... Him... Spirit... God) shines in the
darkness.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b>1:7</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>-- He (John) came to bear witness about the Light.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b>1:14</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>-- The Word (Light... Spirit...God) Became FLESH. (Jesus!)<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b>1:15</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>-- John bore witness: "This was He of whom I said 'He
who comes after me ranks before me, because He was before me.'"<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
The
"He was before me" is a call-back to John 1:1. The Word was in the
beginning. The Word was before John.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
I had
never realized that through this chapter we get the Light of life as it is
fully God, fully man, and fully the Holy Spirit. We have the divine trinity
explained clearly for us to see. The fascinating part is it also proves that
Jesus is not merely a man, but fully God. For in the first verse it says
the Word WAS God. But then as the chapter goes on the Word morphs into the
Light, the Light into the Flesh, and the Flesh is Jesus Christ.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
I see now
that we are not only called to be Christ-like, not only called to be the light
in the darkness, but we are called to be both simultaneously because they are
one in the same. Now, I could be way behind the times on this realization, so
maybe you know all this already, but even if so I want you to consider this:<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
What type
of calling is it that says we are to be LIKE Christ? Is that not the greatest
calling man has ever been given? We see men are born to be great leaders,
generals, kings, presidents, people are born with the "upmost of
callings". Yet us, as Christians, every single one of us great or small
has the SAME calling! We are all commanded to be like Christ. But look at it
this way... this is the greatest calling because by telling us to be
Christ-like, we are being called to be like a Divine spiritual being that is
fully God, fully Spirit, and fully Man. We are called to live our lives in a
way that mimics that of a spiritual Being that was around before the
foundations of the world.<o:p></o:p></div>
<u1:p></u1:p>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<b>This is a great calling, this is a calling we simply cannot
refuse. It is by far the hardest to achieve, but farther still the greatest to
be rewarded. </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-84429845952373742592012-08-13T10:08:00.002-07:002012-08-13T10:08:11.701-07:00Sharks and Satan<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hello readers! I apologize for the respite in posting, the
week got away with me and other excuses that most likely aren't true. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyhow, this week marks the start of the 2012 Shark Week!
For those of you who don't know... The Discovery Channel picks one week a year
to air shows, movies, documentaries etc in honor of Sharks. The idea is to get
the general public aware of the dangers of sharks and how powerful they are.
Indeed I believe somewhere upwards of 72 million people now participate in
Shark Week annually. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In this post I would like to talk about Sharks and Satan.
There are many people (and I am guilty of this as well) who like to mock the
devil. They like to call him stupid and lame and that God is far stronger than
he is. Now, all this may be true, but I think this generation has lost sight of
something incredibly important. The devil is still the devil no matter how dumb
he may seem. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Afterall, he has turned righteous leaders into wicked
sinners, rich prosperous men to poor begging fools. Sure he may have to talk to
God before he can do these kinds of things (see the book of Job) but he is
still incredibly powerful. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let's talk about sharks. Sharks are awesome in the true
sense of the word. (Extremely impressive or daunting; inspiring great
admiration, apprehension, or fear.) We look at these massive creatures and I
know some of us tend to think of just how amazing they are. Shark Enthusiasts
study their habits, their nature, their being. However, how many of us have
actually SEEN a shark? Like in real life, in the ocean. I know I haven't.
Pretty sure no one I know has. Or maybe you have seen a shark, but just its
fin. Only seen it swimming around far off. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We can't honestly understand the great danger a hungry shark
poses unless we experience it first-hand. In the same way we can't realize the
danger the evil one is unless we realize his power first-hand. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let me tell you something about myself. I am allergic to
medical sedatives. Things like NyQuil, Advil PM, etc. Now, whenever I take one
or another of said medicine I fall into horrible hallucinations until the
effects of the pills wear off. I, for obvious reasons, have not partaken in any
of these medicines in quite a few years, but before I knew I was allergic I had
these hallucinations quite a few times. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I vividly remember... </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sitting on the couch in the living room. Sick with a cold.
It's pitch black everywhere. Roughly 3 AM. Then the room started to turn
slightly. I looked at my left hand and saw it swelling up. I couldn't feel my
legs. Then a mass of little black circles came from all sides of me and started
enveloping me. My right leg disappeared somewhere I started screaming. At this
point I couldn't control myself. I knew I was moving. Or at least thought I
was. Furniture was sliding around. I kept getting attacked by these random
circles. I felt so much pain all over and I just kept yelling for help. Hoping,
of course, that I was actually yelling and not just dreaming it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All this happened while I was perfectly awake. As the
medicine wore off I realize the sun was coming up. Nothing was wrong. I was
just a little sick. Nothing had moved. I was fine. What I have never been able
to shake off is the feeling of being absolutely and utterly lost for control of
my own body. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why do I share this? I think the devil can do the same. The
devil can make us do or say things that we wouldn't ever mean. He can turn best
friends against each other, he can turn families inside out. He is crafty and
will do anything to stop us from glorifying God. He can make us lose control of ourselves.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think it's time that we took with gravity the idea of the
enemy. That we stop thinking we are in control of our lives and God will always
protect us. Yes, God will protect us,
but He will also allow for temptation and trials. We cannot be apathetic. The devil wants us, he desires to trip us. We must understand that he can and will do this if we don't
watch out and pay close attention to what we are doing. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let's heed God's Word when He says,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil
prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm
in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced
by your brotherhood throughout the world." -- 1 Peter 5:8-9</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to
stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and
blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic
powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the
heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able
to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand
therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate
of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness
given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith,
with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take
the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,
praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that
end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints." </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-- Ephesians 6:11-18<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is time we stand
and fight. </div>
JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-18699791291649641752012-08-05T16:34:00.004-07:002012-08-05T16:37:54.169-07:00God is More than Enough<span style="font-family: inherit;">Have you ever considered God and His goodness? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In this post I would like to make a few observations I have gained this past weekend. I attended the Seasons of Life Seminar by Mr. Gregg Harris and he gave me some insight into God's goodness. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Question, have you thought of food and how it tastes in relation to God's goodness? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">There is a LOT of food that tastes absolutely delicious! There's Pizza, Alfredo, Ice creme, Cheese burgers the list goes on. All of this food is satisfying and filling. But have you thought of how God didn't have to make this be? He could have simply created tasteless edible food that's only purpose was for nutrients. But what did He do? He created incredibly delicious satisfying food. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">God is good. Very good. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So that is one small portion of what I learned at the seminar. Now today I was studying this a little more and found my own insights:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">God is absolutely more than enough. God doesn't just satisfy our needs, He goes above and beyond our needs. God sees a situation that we desperately need help from and God saves us, then goes a step further. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jesus is known to have said: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Mat 5:41 And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is of course where we get the adage "Go the extra mile". Interestingly back during the time of Jesus this was a fascinating political commentary. One with historic effects. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Jesus was instructing the Jewish people of the time to passively fight against the Roman oppression. The example in this verse of "going the extra mile" was in regards to the Roman Impressment Law. Under this law if a Roman Soldier passed you he could (by law) force you to carry his pack for up to one mile. However, by law the soldier could not force a Jewish person to carry the pack one inch further than one mile. Jesus telling the Jews to go another mile with him, was a tricky way of exposing the injustice that was happening. Simply put, at the end of the mile when the soldier asks for his pack back, simply say, "it's ok, I'm good" and keep walking. Eventually this soldier would be pleading with you to get the pack back or else he may get in trouble. Furthermore Jesus was planting a seed in the minds of his listeners that it doesn't hurt to do a little more. It doesn't hurt to bless those who curse you. Also looking upon His words of saying bless those who curse you. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">But I see a connection between all of this historicity and what God shows us in creating tasty food. God is good and God is more than enough. God is our greatest role model for life and is proving that through the words of Jesus. God wants us to go the extra mile just as He goes the extra mile for us. We are slaves to Christ, we are fools, we are evil sinners, God does NOT need us. Yet even with all this what does He do? He loves us, gives us good food, and is more than enough for all of our needs. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">What has God done in your life that has proven He is more than enough? In what ways in your life has God gone the extra mile for you? </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">I think it's fair to say we should do the same for those around us. </span>Practice what your preach, God practices what He preaches, we should do the same!</span><br />
<br />JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-67096947762208022662012-08-01T14:01:00.002-07:002012-08-01T14:01:23.418-07:00Saving Grace<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQ8dE0q7BmNxgI0kji88yPwD3E5FahMtCpU3RuANQv_6-yocXjtAKuz9SRdIHXoQviYhICywomve2mplHVssm2E6LC4GphEMqKBGmlD-0Zp10lBtZXW_7kE0pdyl_NpL0TEi-7DDLJoc/s1600/0724121459_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQ8dE0q7BmNxgI0kji88yPwD3E5FahMtCpU3RuANQv_6-yocXjtAKuz9SRdIHXoQviYhICywomve2mplHVssm2E6LC4GphEMqKBGmlD-0Zp10lBtZXW_7kE0pdyl_NpL0TEi-7DDLJoc/s320/0724121459_0001.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yesterday afternoon I was shocked with the news that my
little nephew Andrew had fallen out of his bouncy-chair and onto the floor. My
brother and mom rushed to her place to see what happened and take the poor kid
to the Dr and see if he needed to go to the Emergency Room. Upon arriving
there the Dr. examined him and found that he had probably broken his nose, but
that he would be alright in time. Precautions were made and my sister brought
him back home. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After his appointment he looked pretty badly bruised. Last
night he look pretty bruised but improving. I saw little Andrew this morning
and he was grinning and happy and barely bruised at all. In fact, at first I
couldn't see anything at all wrong with him! God had healed him quickly,
miraculously. </div>
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<br /></div>
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This experience has taught me a couple things that I would
like to share with you. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Prayer works. I sent out a facebook prayer request that
was responded to by quite a few people. I was praying, my siblings and parents
were praying. A lot of people were praying. I can tell by this traumatic situation
that the prayers worked. People kept their cool, and the baby was brought home
safe and sound. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) God is watching over us. ALL of us. Even the little ones.
God watches, protects, and keeps his children safe. Even when something
horrible and life-threatening happens, God is there. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) God has a saving grace. We are just like my nephew.
Children, babies, to God. We are His children. Just as He can pick up an infant
and save him from harm, he can save us. He is willing to save us. He will do
everything to take our heart and love us. We must simply choose to follow Him.
If we do that, we can be just like Andrew. Saved from a dangerous world, saved
from harm and brought into His saving grace. </div>
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<br /></div>
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God is ALWAYS good. And God is ALWAYS there.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Psalm 139: 7-18--</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I
flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are
there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on
the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there
your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.<b><sup> </sup></b>If
I say, 'Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around
me,' even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine
like the day, for darkness is as light to you.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For you created my inmost being; you knit me
together in my mother’s womb. <b><sup> </sup></b>I praise
you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are
wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from
you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven
together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed
body; all the days ordained for me were written in your
book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are your
thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count
them, they would outnumber the grains of sand — when I
awake, I am still with you."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-56993609525024558242012-07-30T15:22:00.003-07:002012-07-30T15:22:20.247-07:00Money Possessions and Eternity (Part 2)<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
"No servant can serve two masters. Either he will hate
the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the
other. You cannot serve both God and money." (Luke 16:13)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In this second installment of "Money Possessions and
Eternity" we will look at a little more of what Mr. Randy Alcorn has to
say. Today I ask these questions: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What spiritual effect does money have on your
life? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What impact does your money have on your day-to-day living? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>"Jesus clearly said that we can and should use money
for good purposes, both for this life and the next. Human hearts can be
redeemed by Christ, and in the hands of the redeemed, money can serve
redemptive purposes." (Money Possessions and Eternity pg. 18)</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Just as the only saying goes, "Guns don't kill people,
people kill people", we could also posit that "Money does not cause
sin/selfishness etc, people cause those things." Yes, it doesn't help, but
in the end it is a matter of our heart and what we choose to do. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>"To regard money as evil, and therefore useless for
purposes of righteousness, is foolish. To regard it as good and therefore
overlook its potential for spiritual disaster is equally foolish. Use it, Jesus
said, but don't serve it." (pg. 19)</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bible also consistently warns us to not be foolish. Proverbs
urges us many times to consider this: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of
knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction." (Prov 1:7)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
"Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is
more hope for a fool than for him." (Prov 26:12)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
"The vexation of a fool is known at once, but the
prudent ignores an insult." (Prov 12:16)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Foolishness is greatly discouraged by Solomon and
(obviously) by God. As Mr. Alcorn puts it to say dealing with money is a black
and white issue is foolish. Money has the potential to be dangerous, but only
if we allow that to happen. Money has equally great potential to be incredibly
helpful to God's kingdom and to our lives.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>"Once we allow money to have lordship over our lives,
it becomes Money with a capital M, a god that jealously dethrones all else.
Money makes a terrible master, yet it makes a good servant to those who have
the right master - God." (pg. 19)</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Exodus 20 very plainly states that we are to have no other
gods before the truth God. We can turn money into our god and this is very,
very dangerous. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Furthermore Mr. Alcorn takes the idea of material wealth not
being inherently evil a step further:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>"Do we imagine Jesus using his bare hands to cut wood,
or can we assume he used the best affordable tools in his carpentry? And if our
Lord were living in today's society, wouldn't he take advantage of the current
technology in his trade? Would he abstain from using power saws, believing that
handsaws are more spiritual? would he hesitate to travel in a car any more than
he did a boat? would he avoid using a microphone even if it would allow the
crowds to hear him better? It would be disastrous if every believer dropped out
of society's mainstream and stopped making money." (pg. 26)</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I encourage you to consider these words very carefully.
Examine your heart and ask yourself these questions:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Do I think about my money incessantly? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Do I worry about how much or how little money I have every
day? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think it wise to consider materialism and make sure that
we aren't obsessed with wealth or possessions. There is SO much more to life.
Yes, wealth is not a bad thing if used correctly, but wealth should not be our
only goal. We must allow wealth (or lack of wealth) to be a slave to us, and us
its master. We must not be a slave to wealth. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-89993517918197866452012-07-25T16:33:00.002-07:002012-07-25T16:33:38.230-07:00Vessels of Wrath<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
At some point in all our lives we have had that scenario
where we wished someone would just die. Or we wished that someone would be hurt
because of the harm they have done to us or to someone else. Indeed, just this
last week in the Colorado shooting I found myself thinking time and time again,
"That man deserves to die. No trial. No court. Just death. He deserves
it." </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have been thinking, however, and have come to the conclusion
that this is absolutely false. This is a sinful mindset and a dangerous one. No
one "deserves to die" because of a sin they commit. Because the truth
of the matter is this: We ALL deserve to die. Every one of us is just as sinful
as the man who chose to take the lives of those people. Every one of us has
done wrong. I live off the premise that sin is absolutely not relative. Sure
there are sinful actions that have greater consequences, but a sin is still a
sin no matter the size. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But I would like to ask this question: What is the proper
response to the Colorado shooting? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Certainly we can rule out anger, hatred, harsh words.
Anything that would cause US to sin is the wrong response. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, after many a political argument and a conversation
with one of my brothers on the subject, I have also discovered that the wrong
response is to say there should have been more guns. We needn't get into a huge
argument about why there weren't more guns, saying that if there had been less
blood would have been spilled. Because here are the facts: There weren't more
guns there. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The response should be this: Why wasn't Jesus there? This may
seem weird at first but hear me out. The only true way to have stopped the
shooting would have been if that man, the shooting, had had a personal
relationship with Jesus. If that man was a Christian and lived a life to glorify
God then none of that would have happened. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So the real question is, why wasn't there anyone in that
man's life to point him to God? This should be sobering for us as Christians.
Are we really trying? Are we really reaching out not to the 3rd world countries,
not to the homeless, but to those who are living next door? Those who have
degrees and are working toward PhD's. Those who have plenty of money and are
simply wasting away their lives. Yes, mission trips are fantastic, but not if
the person 5 feet away from us at school is lost!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At the same time we can ask this question: What message was
God trying to send through that shooting? We can look through the Bible and see
countless times when God brought fire upon evil doers. But this shooting was
not against evil doers, in fact many Christians were significantly harmed by
this! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I find the redeeming qualities to this tragedy as this: God
showed us that</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) We need to reach out to our neighbors now more than ever. We need to spread the Gospel, the good news to everyone we can. We must be ever vigilant in speaking to those around us about God.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Miracles are not a thing of hundreds of years ago, they
are a current, active, incredible happening. See the story of Petra Anderson
and others. She was born with a birth defect that she and no one around her
knew of until the shooting. A defect that saved her life. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
sub point 2) God proved that He has formed us before the
creation of the world. Before we were in the womb God knew us. God has created
us all special for His purpose and glory. He has reached down and handed us
physical, current evidence of His power. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So by sending this Vessel of Wrath. This man that caused
terror and shocked the core of our nation, God showed His almighty glory.
Equate this to Pharaoh in Egypt and the Israelites. For years and years God
used the Vessel of Wrath, the evil dictator of Egypt to teach God's people many
valuable lessons. And in the end God proved His awesome glory and might by destroying
the man who tortured His people.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>God uses horrific situations in mighty ways. We simply need
to look deeper than the surface and see what He is trying to teach us. </u></b></div>JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-18996271719322863782012-07-23T09:36:00.006-07:002012-07-23T09:36:50.750-07:00Money Possessions and Eternity (Part 1)<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wealth. Money. Riches. How often do we think to ourselves,
"If I only had a million dollars!" Or... "If only I could have
more money!" I know I have many, many times. If I had a money tree in my
backyard life would be SO much easier! Pay bills, buy food, purchase a car,
move on. Not have to worry about finances at all. In my mind I see this as an
absolute plus. If I don't have to think about money then I can think about
other things. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I've been reading a book that you should definitely read,
and I'll be using it to talk about the Biblical response to Wealth/Money. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The book is: <b>"Money Possessions and Eternity"</b> by
<i>Randy Alcorn</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The words he wrote down in this book really convicted me but
also allowed my entire perspective on money to change. Hopefully I can do the
same for you:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"What follows are Solomon's statements in Ecclesiastes
5:10-15. The italicized paraphrases after each statement are mine. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
'Whoever loves money never has money enough.'</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The more you have, the more you want. </i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
'Whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income.'</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The more you have, the less you're satisfied.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
'As goods increase, so do those who consume them.' </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The more you have, the more people (including the
government) come after it.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
'And what benefit are they to the owner except to feast his
eyes on them?'</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The more you have, the more you realize it doesn't meet your
real needs. </i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
'The sleep of a laborer is sweet, whether he eats little or
much, but the abundance of a rich man permits him no sleep.'</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The more you have, the more you have to worry about.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
'I have seen a grievous evil under the sun: wealth hoarded
to the harm of its owner.' </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The more you have, the more you can hurt yourself by holding
onto it. </i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
'Or wealth lost through some misfortune.'</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The more you have, the more you have to lose. </i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
'Naked a man comes from his mother's womb, and as he comes,
so he departs. He takes nothing from his labor that he can carry in his hand.'</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The more you have, the more you'll leave behind. </i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After his years as the world's richest man, Solomon said, 'When
I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve,
everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under
the sun' (Ecclesiastes 2:11). The more Solomon had, the more meaningless his
life became. Most people chase their mirages with money, but they run out of
money before they run out of mirages. So they still believe the lie that 'If
only I had more money, then I'd be happy.' But Solomon had it all. He had more
money than he could possibly spend. He chased down every mirage. He ran out of
mirages before he ran out of money."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-- Money Possessions and Eternity (Page 49)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Randy Alcorn</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I plan to post much more in the future from this book, and
my thoughts on Alcorn's words. Here is simply a taste, an introduction. That
wasn't even a full page. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Go get the book.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In conclusion think about these questions today: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Do I seek money over God?</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Do I consider money as an "idol" rather than tool?
</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Look ahead to some of my posts being additional parts to this concept of wealth and money. Alcorn has a lot to say on the topic and so do I.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
God bless!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-65727150248350147992012-07-19T09:39:00.001-07:002012-07-19T09:39:14.502-07:00Sinless and Holy<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Have you ever considered the difference between the words
"Sinless" and "Holy"? I had not until just two nights ago.
I think it's fascinating and want to share my thoughts with you. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Webster's 1828 Dictionary: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sinless: "Free from sin; pure; perfect. Christ yielded
a sinless obedience."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Holy: "Properly, whole, entire or perfect, in a moral
sense. Hence, pure in heart, temper or dispositions; free from sin and sinful
affections. Applied to the Supreme Being, holy signifies perfectly pure,
immaculate and complete in moral character."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<u><b>Being sinless is to be without sin. Being Holy is to be
incapable of sinful action. </b></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Therefore I would say this: We can definitely work toward
being sinless. We can strive to do our best and be sinless. Indeed I'm sure
there are some people out there, and people in the past who have been almost
sinless. Able by the grace of God to control their hearts and minds and do only
as God would want</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, per these definitions I would also posit this: No
one on earth, no human being is holy. There is not a single person who is ever
"incapable" of sinful action. We are all perfectly capable. But who
IS holy? God. God is holy. He is one-hundred percent free from sin, as WELL as
absolutely incapable of performing any sinful action. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To me this is truly wonderful. Here's why, if man can attain
a certain level of being sinless (never entirely) but God has proven to go
above and beyond that to the place of absolute perfect holiness, doesn't that
prove how desperately we need Him? Doesn't that prove how God doesn't need us? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At which point I can stand in awe of this thoughts: God has
zero reason to need us. He even has perfect Angels to worship Him. He doesn't
need us. In fact we just make Him look bad most of the time. Yet He keeps us.
He loves us. He takes care of us. He tends to EVERY. Single. One of us. This
should hit us right at our core. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To close, here are a few Bible verses for thought: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1st Peter 1:14-16 "As obedient children, do not be
conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is
holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be
holy, for I am holy.'"</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Romans 8:8-13 "Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot
please God. You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the
realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if
anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. But
if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death
because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness. And
if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he
who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because
of his Spirit who lives in you. Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have
an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. For if
you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you
put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live."</div>JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-58048011440143661522012-07-16T11:58:00.003-07:002012-07-16T11:58:59.806-07:00Live By Faith<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Are any of you as tired as I am of people constantly
arguing? What's worse in my opinion is people arguing about
Christianity. People who supposedly believe in the same God, the same Bible,
the same truths... yet are still arguing over semantics. Yes, I do appreciate a
good debate. I do see the "goodness" in stretching your fellow
brothers and sisters by having the good talks. But when I hear people arguing
over the most frivolous little details it upsets me. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So in this post I would simply like to give one exhortation:
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<u>Live by faith. And live with actions that prove your faith.</u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We don't need to have petty conflicts over differing words
in the Bible. We don't need to fight over which commandments are more
important. The entirety of the Bible is important. Every single word is needed.
But more importantly, we need to just live by faith. We don't have to argue
little details when in the end we believe in the same God. If we truly are
like-minded in our core principles (The Bible being inerrant and God being the
only Creator) then nothing else matters. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Bible even speaks to this end. I would posit that as
people down here fight over little details, He is up in heaven shaking His head
and laughing at us for our ignorant behavior. God says we are to live by faith
and not by sight (2nd Cor 5). Furthermore God fully emphasizes the fact that we
are:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Suppose to not fight and to watch what we say in every
area of life. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Proverbs 17:14 "The beginning of strife is like letting
out water, so quit before the quarrel breaks out."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Matthew 12: 36-37 "I tell you, on the day of judgment
people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words
you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Trust God and not ourselves. And if we trust God and not
ourselves then we would trust that the little things in the Bible aren't worth
arguing about and rather focus on working together in what matters and that's winning souls for Christ.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Psalm 9:10 "Those who know your name trust in you, for
you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Isaiah 26:3-4 "You will keep in perfect peace those
whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for
the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The final point I would like to make is this, we must live
by faith, but we must also accompany that faith with deeds. I can exhort you to
live by faith, I can say forget all the nonsense and just live by faith, but
that is not enough. We must help others, we must speak to others in a loving
manner, we must encourage and love everyone around us. We cannot have this selfish
Christianity that says, "Well I'm living by faith I don't know about all
of you but I am so I'm good!" That does NOT work. It is our incredible
duty as Christians to spread His Word, to show love and compassion to those in
need, and to strive always to live in a manner worthy of God's calling. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I read this chapter from James today and it got me
incredibly excited about this topic. The way I see it, what better way to summarize
my thoughts on this than from the Bible itself? The words are straight-forward
and beautifully written. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What does God have to say on this? Are we to live just by
faith? Or are we to have actions that prove our faith? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims
to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a
brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food.<b><sup> </sup></b>If
one of you says to them, 'Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,' but does
nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way,
<b>faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But someone will say, 'You have faith; I have deeds.'<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my
faith by my deeds.<b><sup> </sup></b>You believe that there is one
God. Good! Even the demons believe that —and shudder.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You foolish person, do you want evidence that faith without deeds
is useless?<b><sup> </sup></b>Was not our father Abraham considered
righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar?<b><sup> </sup></b>You
see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith
was made complete by what he did.<b><sup> </sup></b>And the scripture was
fulfilled that says, 'Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as
righteousness,' and he was called God’s friend.<b><sup> </sup>You
see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith
alone.</b> In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous
for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a
different direction?<b><sup> <o:p></o:p></sup></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><sup><br /></sup></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<u>As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead."</u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">~~ </span><span style="background-color: white;">James 2:14-25 ~~</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-53386766217710471412012-07-12T09:14:00.001-07:002012-07-12T09:14:18.606-07:00The Truth About Friendship<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
It's a pretty safe assumption to think that everyone has
lost a "bestie" at least once in their life. Some have lost more,
some have lost many. It's also safe to say that everyone will let at least one
of their friends down this year. Probably even this month. The main pitfall to
friendships is that we are all human. We are void of perfection and therefore
unable to be the best friend possible one-hundred percent of the time. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In this post I would like to discuss a couple different
aspects of friendship. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
1) (As already stated) We will fail each other. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
2) What will our reaction be when a friend fails us? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
3) We don't need to worry about friendship because we always
have God. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think we all understand our fallibility. So let's move to
#2. I would like you to take a moment to ponder the question. Consider a time
when a friend, a close friend, has failed you. Whether it be something truly
horrible or just a small instance. Consider those moments and the time
following and think very carefully about what your reaction was to that friend.
Was it good or bad? Are you proud of how you reacted? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I encourage you to take to heart the words of the Bible and
maybe look at some passages in a different light than you have before. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Matthew 5:43-44 -- "You have heard that it was said,
‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your
enemies and pray for those who persecute you,"</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here's the thing, when someone fails us, and we react
poorly, that causes a tension between the two of you. This could start an
argument/fight and then suddenly you are "enemies". The word enemy
may seem like strong language at first, but if you are really upset at someone
then let's face it, you're not on the same side anymore. And if you think enemy
in this case is a strong word, then just heed these words: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
1 John: 3:15 -- "Anyone who hates his brother is a
murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life in him."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yeah... I don't think enemy is too strong a word. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This brings me to my
next sub-point: Have you hated your "brother"? In this case I'm
meaning both in the familial and the non-familial sense (And yes, this includes
sisters). I know I have. I have had the worst feelings for my siblings. Anyone
in my family can attest to the fact that I have been enraged by one or more
family members in the past. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What's the Bible say to this? According to the verse above
I'm a murderer. Thus I have also broken the Ten Commandments in my anger (Exodus
20:13). This should be a very sobering thought for all of us. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here's another thought. In the family when you are angry or
upset it's obvious. The whole family knows you are the one to steer clear of
for that day. And it's also usually pretty obvious to whom you wish to take your
anger out. But what about when it's directed to someone outside of your
home? This is where the conviction should really set in. At least it does for
me. I can sit in my room and murder people all day long and no one on this
earth will know. The problem? God knows. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Ecclesiastes 12: 13-14 "Fear God and keep his
commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring
every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is
good or evil."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Every. Hidden. Thing. So yes, that includes your thoughts. And
don't you love the extra push off the edge when it says "Whether it is
good or evil". It's as simple as that. We must refrain from evil thoughts,
we must cease the murder in our own hearts. We are better than that, and God is
certainly more deserving than that. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let's move onto the final point. We don't need to worry about
friendship because we always have God. Any of you out there struggling with
friendship? Have any of you had a good friend turn their back on you and just
walk away? We will always fail each other. It's ok. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the end we need to put our money on God. We need to rest
our hope and faith in Him and not in other fallible people. God will be there
for us through thick and thin. Yes, you'll have a friend or two who will
"always" be there for you. But I promise you they will fail you at
some point. If they don't downright leave you, they will certainly mess up. But
it doesn't matter. Forgive and forget. Move on. Because the truest of friends
is God. The One who, "will never leave you nor forsake you.”
(Deuteronomy 31:6)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don't want to use the cliche of we "have a friend in
Jesus" (The Bible verse at the end covers that). I just want to put it this way. We HAVE Jesus. He died on the
cross. He rose from the dead. All for US. We can tell our besties all day long
that we would die for them but the reality is that Jesus already did that! He
beat us to it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<u>Can we rely on God more and accept each other for who we
really are? </u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“This is my
commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no
one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. You are my
friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for the
servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends,
for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
John 15:12-15</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-61203685921513010492012-07-09T11:57:00.003-07:002012-07-09T11:57:57.164-07:00Success and Failure<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
"Success consists of getting up just one more time than
you've fallen down."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I read this quotation today and it got me thinking about
success. My first reaction to this saying is that it is false. I would not
quantify "Success" as a numbers game compared to "Failure".
Being the type of guy that I am I love to define terms. So let's begin with a
definition of Success: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"The favorable or prosperous termination of anything
attempted; a termination which answers the purpose intended; properly in a good
sense, but often in a bad sense." (Webster's 1828)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I absolutely love this definition because of its depth. What
we see first is that Success is generally a favorable, positive word. Webster defines
it as a prosperous termination. Interestingly, the definition of prosperous is:
"The state of being successful" (Webster). Ergo the definition is redundant.
I think Webster did this on purpose. He wants to press the fact that we are
dealing with a "win". </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white;">But a vital question must be asked: do you define your success by your failure? I think I am
guilty of having done this before. What is the purpose of saying, "Oh yes,
I succeeded because all the other times I failed!" Reminds me of the
famous phrase:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that
won't work." (Edison)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I fear that in this day and age we focus too much on failure
and compare that failure to our (or others) success. Let's tie some Bible
verses into the beginning quotation. I believe that the Bible speaks against
this saying in a few areas. We are not suppose to count our falls. We are not
intended to think so much about our failures, but rather focus on the goal. Just so long as we do as God would
like, live for His purpose and glory and not for our own glory. For if we do
this, we will succeed. They go hand in hand.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Indeed, God even says that those who are righteous, those
who do believe in God, will be able to pick themselves up (By God's grace) but
the wicked will not. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Proverbs 24:16 - </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise
again, but the wicked stumble when calamity strikes."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Furthermore I think it is key to note that the most
important thing to do is follow God. Let's use an analogy: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Consider a minefield. One of the deadliest, most dangerous
parts of any battlefield. Say you are a soldier, you know in front of you is a
mile long mine field. You have two options to choose from:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Just go for it. Run. Try to see if you can just get
through it without getting killed. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) There's a minesweeper. You can pick up that minesweeper
and carefully pick your way through the field. Sure this will take longer, but
you have a incredibly higher chance of not dying. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I'm sure you can see the connection. We have two options to
get through life:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) Just go for it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) Accept and use God as our guide. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don't know about you, but I think I'll go with option 2 in
both scenarios. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Trust in the
LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your
ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I would like to
posit this conclusion: God will guide us to success. No matter how many
"failures" we have. If we lean and live for God. We will succeed.
Because we will succeed in what matters. Let's live for God!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
"And David had
success in all his undertakings, for the LORD was with him." (1 Samuel
18:14)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
"Save us, we
pray, O LORD!O LORD, we pray, give us success!" (Psalm 118:25)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-30194664844993952922012-07-06T09:15:00.001-07:002012-07-06T09:15:15.540-07:00What We Believe<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the Debater world there is this philosophy that works off
the idea that it doesn't matter what you (as a person) believe, it only matters
what the facts state. Now, for debate this is perfectly reasonable, if we tried
to have a formal debate about, for example, the Criminal Justice System, then
our own personal beliefs on the matter shouldn't be taken into account if the
Facts disprove them. If we have empirical studies that prove X number of people
are having their rights taken away from them, it is absurd to think someone
could come back with, "Well. I believe you are wrong!" And sit down.
It doesn't work that way. In this instance, it truly doesn't "matter"
what you believe. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Facts are facts. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, there is another aspect of our lives that the
belief is all that matters. Christianity holds its foundation in faith and our
belief is vital. Yes facts prove Christianity, yes archeology proves it, but we
still must hold our beliefs. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A.W. Tozer once said, "What we believe about God is the
most important thing about us." </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hebrews 11:6 reads:
"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who
comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who
earnestly seek him."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Faith and belief are
vital to our walk with Christ. Many times through the Bible we see
"Faith" written in accordance with the core of our beliefs. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I do want to point
this out though, they are similar but NOT the same. Let's see how:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Webster's 1828
defines them separately as-<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Belief: "A
persuasion of the truth, or an assent of mind to the truth of a declaration,
proposition or alleged fact, on the ground of evidence, distinct from personal
knowledge."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Faith: "In
theology, the assent of the mind or understanding to the truth of what God has
revealed. Simple belief of the scriptures, of the being and perfections of
God."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As we can see here
both are known as "an assent of mind". In other words, in both cases
your mind agrees. You set yourself in the ways taught to you. You have
"assented" to the idea(s). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The difference we
see is in the latter part. Belief comes through a "declaration,
proposition or alleged fact, on the ground of evidence". To believe you
must have evidence. Which if you think about it is fascinating because how many
times do we say "I believe" without having proof of said belief? I
found this happened quite a few times this year during debate rounds. One
debater (even myself on occasion) would say "I believe" this or that
and then never prove it with evidence. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
How about Faith? The
difference with faith lies in the ideal that you see "the truth of what
God has revealed". It is specific, pointed to our "Faith",
pointed to God. In the end both of these words coincide with each other and
both should be held in reverence. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let's equate this to
our current day and age. Many people speak out and say they believe this or
that. They say that their faith lies in something other than God. We do not
want to be Bible thumpers but we do need to call them out. If you are having a
conversation and hear phrases such as those, ask for the evidence. What
evidence is there, spiritually or physically to prove their assertions? This is
vital to any discussion. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1st Corinthians 15:14-17
Is incredibly powerful and speaks on this issue:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is
useless and so is your faith. More than that, we are then found to
be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised
Christ from the dead. But he did not raise him if in fact the dead are not raised. For
if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised
either. And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you
are still in your sins." (14-17)<b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 11.25pt;">
Let's look back at the debate analogy. If we state a fact, but do not
prove it's truth, it is nothing. It is useless. Just as Paul says, if we have
been saying how Christ was raised, if we have been speaking about the
resurrection, but it never actually happened, it is useless. Indeed he goes so
far as to say our faith is FUTILE (Adj: Incapable of producing any useful result;
pointless). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 11.25pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 11.25pt;">
What's
the good news? It DID happen. The Resurrection happened, Christ was risen from
the dead, those who were dead in sins can now be saved by His cleansing grace. Our
faith is NOT futile for we have the evidence, the proof, the facts are on our
side. We should go forth boldly for the Gospel knowing that no matter what
anyone says, we do have faith. We have belief and faith in our Lord Jesus
Christ and when the time comes it will all be proven to be the truth. I exhort
you, please do not let slanderous words or deeds weaken your faith. God is on
your side.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 11.25pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white;">
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Romans 8:28-31:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="background: white;">
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="background: white;">
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">And we know that in all things God works for the good</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">of
those who love him, who</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">have been called</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">according to his purpose.</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">For
those God foreknew</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">he also predestined</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">to
be conformed to the image of his Son,</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">that
he might be the firstborn</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">among many brothers and sisters.</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">And
those he predestined,</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">he also called;</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">those he called, he also justified;</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">those
he justified, he also glorified.</span></span></div>
<div style="background: white;">
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-align: center;">
<u><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">What, then, shall we say in response to these things?</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">If
God is for us,</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">who can be against us?</span></span></u><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white;">
<u><span class="text"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></u></div>JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-11397432716799837522012-07-03T09:27:00.001-07:002012-07-03T09:27:47.606-07:00Freedom<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The 4th is tomorrow and the sounds of freedom, liberty and
revolution will be echoing across the plains of our great nation. People will
be reading words of our Founding Fathers as they celebrate the heroic event
wherein just a handful of people chose to sign a document in direct revolt
against the Motherland and vow for freedom for the States. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This got me thinking. We have Easter, Reformation Day,
Christmas. I suppose Easter would be the closest for a "4th of July"
kind of celebration for Christianity. Celebrating Christ's death and
resurrection, His denying death its sting and rising once again to be at His
Father's right hand. But my question is... where are the Fireworks? </div>
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Do you suppose that God looks down from Heaven every 4th of
July with a smile? Thinking, "Those American's enjoy their freedom (that I
gave them). Celebrating those great men (that I created). And the founding of
the nation (that I created). Reading the documents (that I created) through
those men (I created)." </div>
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It just feels to me like we worship the Founding Fathers on
the 4th a little too much. Granted this may not be the case in your circles,
but I can guarantee it is across the nation. Shouldn't we hold this day in
reverence to the One who created it all? Think about it! God created a handful
of men to be born at roughly the same time, and to be sent to the exact same
location at the exact same time to all have the heart for Freedom and
revolution to all work together and to fight, then sign a document they were
all apart of making! </div>
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Coincidence? I THINK
NOT!!</div>
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So it brings me then to this thought: If as a nation we
don't hold much Divine Reverence in the 4th. Yet we celebrate with massive
explosions, tons of food, games, etc... What are we doing on Easter? </div>
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Yeah... an Egg hunt. </div>
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Awkward....</div>
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I'm not necessarily advocating we buy up a bunch of mortars
and launch them off on Easter (Though... now I think about it that's a
fantastic idea), all I'm saying is that we should check our priorities.
Tomorrow you will be going to parties, celebrating, shooting off fireworks and
having a grand 'ole time. I encourage you to do the following: Remind those
around you of the majesty of our Nation, and how none of it, absolutely NONE of
it would be here if it were not for God. And then try discussing the
"Coincidence" of God creating so many brilliant thinkers and
liberty-fighters at the same time so as to create this nation. Let's get talking
about the stuff that matters.</div>
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The Founders wrote:</div>
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"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men
are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain
unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of
Happiness."</div>
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Paul wrote: </div>
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"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand
firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery."</div>
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Christ HAS set us free. God created Franklin, Washington,
Jefferson etc to free a nation. but God Himself freed our souls. </div>
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Live for freedom!</div>
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<br /></div>JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8175413200107279022.post-21428752988921792092012-07-01T14:48:00.003-07:002012-07-01T14:48:45.500-07:00Outside Looking In<br />
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At some point in all our lives we have had those times when
we thought, "I REALLY want to be with those people." Or... "I
REALLY wish I could go to that." </div>
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<u>Do we live lives that cause
unbelievers to wish they were apart of the Christian community? </u></div>
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This post serves two purposes, <b>1)</b> To exhort my fellow
believers to "Shine", and <b>2)</b> To encourage us all to keep fighting the
good fight. </div>
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I have been sick for the last couple days, and had a lot of
time to just sit and think. This morning while I was doing my Bible study the
most random song popped into my head. Any of you remember the Album WOW 1996?
Yeah... the greatest hits one? What about this song: </div>
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Yes you can now proceed to pull out your awesome 90's dance
moves. I won't judge you. </div>
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As old-school and dated as this song is, it delivers a very
true message. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Shine</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Make 'em wonder what you've got</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Make 'em wish that they were not</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">On the outside looking bored</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Shine</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Let it shine before all men</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Let'em see good works, and then</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Let 'em glorify the Lord</span></div>
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I ask again, do we live lives that cause this kind of
reaction?</div>
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<b>Matthew 5:14-16</b> Parallels this idea: “You are the light of
the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp
and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light
to everyone in the house. <a href="http://bible.cc/matthew/5-16.htm"></a>In
the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good
deeds and praise your Father in heaven."</div>
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Not only are we suppose to live in a manner pleasing to the
Lord <b>(Col 1:10-14)</b>, but we suppose to be an actual Light. We ARE the light of
the world. We ARE suppose to shine. Do we shine? </div>
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I would like to look at the first verse of "Shine".
Now back in the days I didn't really listen to anything but the chorus of this
song. So this morning I looked up the lyrics, and this verse really caught my
eye: </div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Dull as dirt</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">You can't assert the kind of light</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">That might persuade</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">A strict dictator to retire</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Fire the army</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Teach the poor origami</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">The truth is in</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">The proof is when</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">You hear your heart start asking,</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">"What's my motivation?"</span></div>
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Now, as confusing as the lyrics are I think we can glean at
least this one idea, we, on our own, cannot do anything. We are helpless,
pathetic little creatures. As the Newsboys put it, "You can't ssert the
kind of light that might persuade a strict dictator to retire". You
thought a sick panda or a one week old kitten was adorable, what do you think
God says every time He looks at us? That aside, often I find myself "dull
as dirt". And I ask God, beg God to explain to me what exactly my purpose is
here on earth. Eventually I will receive a complete answer, but for now I feel
God telling me that my purpose is to shine. If I don't have marching orders, if
I don't have a clear path to take, why not spend my time doing the little
things? What's the harm in living a life that shines for everyone to see God's
glory. Isn't that a perfectly satisfying task? </div>
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Being a boy, I tend to sway toward militaristic analogies. <span style="background-color: white;">Let's
try this one out:</span></div>
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The private in the army has no "power". He has no
"authority". In fact, officers call him the "grunt". On all
accounts this man appears to be useless. But this is absolutely not the case.
When it comes down to it, that man will be fighting for his country. That man
WILL be making a difference. So if he is sitting in the fox hole, with no
orders, just told to sit there and wait, should he just sit there and be bored?
Absolutely not. He can check the horizon for incoming enemies, he can spur his
fellow soldiers on with encouraging words and actions. That one, seemingly
useless man, can cause a great wave of change. </div>
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We have all heard the analogies of us as "Soldier's for
Christ" and how we "March into battle" and I think we've heard
them too much. I think we have forgotten that we are actually, physically in a
war with the enemy. And it's times like these in my life, when I feel useless,
when I feel purposeless, that I must remember I ALWAYS have a purpose. No
matter where we are in life we are called to do HIS work. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Two exhortations:</span></div>
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<b>1)</b> Are you shining now? If so, are you encouraging others to
do the same? If you don't feel that "shine", if you feel dull, pray,
seek counsel, find someone you know who shines and use their wisdom to increase
your own. </div>
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<b>2)</b> We are never without purpose. The only way we can be
purposeless, is if we give up. Let's not give up. Let's continue to push and
fight for the Gospel. Pick those up around you who need some encouragement, and
minister to those who know not of our God. </div>JustinKhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12602343352927536164noreply@blogger.com0