Reflections On the Journey

Psalm 62:5-8,
For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from Him.
He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken.
On God rests my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock, my refuge is God.
Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. Selah

My journey with the Lord has taken many twists and turns over the years. I've learned many lessons and relearned many more. As I reflect upon these things, one of the greatest lessons that I have learned (and continue to learn) is that of rest. Of all the "disciplines" that we hear about in the Christian faith, rarely do we hear people talking about rest. I'm discovering that there is great power and great peace that comes from fully trusting in the Lord.

Rest is all about trust. It's trusting the Lord for salvation. Trusting the Lord for provision. Trusting the Lord for protection. And quite honestly, trusting the Lord for everything. Jesus promised those who were weary and heavy laden that if they would come to Him - He would give them rest. It would do each of us some good to live in it.

Listen to the words of the psalmist. Hear how he has come to know the faithfulness of the Lord. Even though he is going through great difficulty, he is reminding himself and others to place their confidence in God. When you and I learn what can be accomplished through rest then we will find God to be the refuge that the Word of God declares.

Have you ever wondered how Jesus could sleep in a storm while all the disciples were panicking? It's called rest.
Why were the disciples so concerned about Jesus feeding the 5,000 while He was fully confident? It's called rest.
How is it possible to endure the beatings and suffering of the Cross and still forgive those who are putting you through such pain? It's called rest.
You see, Jesus' confidence wasn't in the weather, His own provision, or His own deliverance. He fully trusted God. Therefore, He was able to enter into every situation confident in what God could do and had the clarity of mind to hear the voice of God.

That my friends is what each of us need to claim for ourselves. When we learn to rest in the Lord, we will have full assurance as well. It will keep us from over-thinking a situation. It will keep us from struggling to hear His voice. We will discover that God doesn't stop speaking, doesn't stop moving, and doesn't stop working on our behalf. We will be able to move from hope - to faith - to sight simply by learning to rest in Him. It's crucial that we learn this lesson.

In the book of Acts we read about Peter and John going through some persecution after the lame man was healed. Upon returning to the other disciples, they gather in a house to pray. Not once do you hear them complaining. You will not read about their anxiety. They simply asked that the Lord would look upon the threats and grant them boldness to continue in all the Lord was leading. Think they learned something from their Master? Think the indwelling Holy Spirit provided some confidence in the midst of difficulty? Think they found God to be faithful and reliable in their lives? I believe so. And their example of resting in the Lord serves as a wonderful reminder to me that God has got this covered.

Resting in the Lord doesn't mean that I stop working for Him. It doesn't mean that I do not labor. It means that in the midst of what I'm doing that I am assured of His ability over mine. I don't have to make things happen. I don't have to figure out all the solutions. I don't have to get God (or myself) out of a jam. I can take a deep breath, pray a simple prayer, and release myself from the burden. I can say with David, "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul."

If there is some encouragement I can bring to you it would be this: Stop Striving, Learn to Rest in Him, & Enjoy the Journey.

Risky Faith?

Depending upon whom you talk with on a regular basis, the thoughts that you have about faith may not be any different than what you see in the picture below. Somewhere along the way, the idea of walking in faith has been associated with walking in risk. I guess that really depends upon where we get our definitions.

There's no doubt about it. If I am viewing things from the world's perspective then every act of faith takes risk.
I risk being called a fool.
I risk missing out on what I'm believing God to do.
I risk not having my needs met.
I risk putting my family into an unfavorable situation.
From the world's perspective, faith is a leap into an empty space believing that something is going to happen.

What does faith look like from God's perspective?
Matthew 21:21
Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done.

Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

2 Corinthians 5:7
We live by faith, not by sight.

John 14:12
I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in Me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.

Another verse that talks about the power of faith is found in Romans "For the Scripture says, 'Everyone who believes in Him will not be put to shame'” {10:11}. I find great comfort in the fact that when we believe in Jesus for salvation that we will not but put to shame. Not only that, but when we choose to believe God in other areas of life, we will not be put to shame there either.

It seems to me that when I view faith from God's perspective that living by faith is not risky. Instead, living by faith should be the norm for every follower of Christ. I think if we can get ourselves to understand that living outside of faith requires risk, then more and more people will begin trusting in the nature of God.

As a pastor I am often confronted with the needs of people. I get asked to pray about various situations. Most of them (and I'm not belittling anyone) typically come when someone is facing a crisis. In other words, there are in a place that will require them to live by faith. The question that I have is why isn't this the norm? Should we not always live by faith? Is not faith critical to the quality of life that we enjoy? Truth be told, most people are very self-sufficient. We learn how to take care of ourselves. We work to supply our needs. We make sure there is a roof over our heads, food on the table, and clothes on our body. Whenever a situation comes up that challenges us in these areas, we are forced to look at life differently. What if we lived every day as if we were totally dependent upon God?

I have some good friends in ministry that decided they wanted to live a "Look what the Lord has done" lifestyle. They have set their hearts to trust the Lord for provision in every area of life. Where they would live, what they would drive, and how/where they would do ministry. It's been quite the journey. And while they may not have what everyone else has, they always have everything they need. They also have quite a testimony about how the Lord gave them a new car. Some may call this risky. But they have found God to be faithful.

In the past I have tried to encourage people by saying that when they are facing difficulty that they get to watch God show off. I'm not trying to trivialize what they are going through by any means. I'm simply reminding them that they get to see God work His nature in and through their lives. He is the One who revealed Himself as the Lord Who Provides. He is the One who chose to reveal Himself as the Lord Who Is Present. If I was in a position of having to trust in something other than Him then I would be worried. However, because I know the Lord is faithful and I know that He cares for His children, I am assured of His faithfulness.

One of my favorite quotes from the Psalms says " I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or His children begging for bread" {37:25}. This is the testimony of the Lord. Jesus assured His followers that seeking first the Kingdom of God would not mean they would lack for what they needed. In fact, He made sure that they understood that ALL of those things would be taken care of. The question then becomes who are you going to believe? Are you going to believe the world that says faith is risky business. Or are you going to believe God who says that you can trust Him?

Here's an option for you:
STOP TAKING RISKS AND START TRUSTING GOD!!!

United We Stand - Divided We Fall

Mark 3:25 tells us that "a house divided against itself cannot stand." Therefore, it is crucial that we learn what it means to stand together. I've always loved the old phrase that I used in the title: "United We Stand - Divided We Fall." It reminds us as a nation, a people, and as a Body of believers that unity is critical to our strength.

Paul's words to the church in Ephesus (Ephesians 4) should serve as a mantra for every church fellowship. Allow me to break it down in such a way that we can hear his heart. Remember, he's talking about how we walk as those who have been called out of darkness into His marvelous light:
WALK WITH ALL HUMILITY
AND GENTLENESS
WITH PATIENCE
BEARING WITH ONE ANOTHER IN LOVE
EAGER TO MAINTAIN THE UNITY OF THE SPIRIT
IN THE BOND OF PEACE

Many of you know that I am not a fan of denominationalism. This does not mean that I have a problem with denominations per say, it just means that I do not like the mindset that comes with the "ism". Like a lot of other "isms" in the world, denominationalism causes schisms (division) that leads to deception, destruction, and defeat. When it comes to the Body of Christ, we need a mentality like the Three Musketeers: "All for One and One for All."

For centuries now the main glue that has been used to hold church unity together has been theology. Denominations have been established to recognize those who are of the same belief system. In other words, you should be able to go into any particular church of any particular denomination and they will believe the same things. Some denomination will take this a step further and focus in on the practices of the individual churches as well. This means that their particular brand of Christianity will look, sound, and function the same. I understand why these things are in place. They are not inherently evil. Division comes when we are not willing to recognize the legitimacy of another denomination. This is what I term as denominationalism. It's the idea that only one denomination is right and all the others are wrong. It creates a mindset that all those other churches out there are deceiving people. While I'm okay with people being able to find a common ground in their faith, I'm not okay with simply marketing our brand of Christianity.

The question then becomes for us: Can I walk in confidence in what I believe and yet recognize that someone else is a legitimate follower of Christ although we differ on some things? Isn't that what walking in humility is all about. It's recognizing that I don't have it all together and that I don't have the final say in all our beliefs. Doesn't gentleness require that I stop being so aggressive with my faith and learn how to walk in patience with others? Does not "bearing with one another in love" require that I walk alongside a brother/sister in Christ regardless of where they stand? I think it does. In fact, I think the world would be better served if all churches would stop harassing other churches. I think if we could learn what it means to walk in true unity - not a unity that revolves around common doctrines - a unity that knows what it means to be in the bond of peace, we would see such a sweeping revival in our communities that we wouldn't know what to do next.

I realize that some people have a problem with this type of thinking. It's quite different than what we have known. I mean...if we are not connected through doctrine then what would be the basis of our fellowship? I'm glad you asked. Listen to Paul's words that are inspired by the Holy Spirit. The BOND that ties each of us to the unity of the Spirit is not "truth" but peace. What we are to endeavor to do as followers of Christ is to keep the unity of the Spirit IN the bond of peace. What denominationalism has created in us is the mindset that the only bond that keeps us united in the Spirit is our belief system. Could it be that we have missed out on what makes for true unity? I think we have.

The bond of peace is a powerful thing. It's none other than the peace that comes from God. It's a peace that was given to us through the finished work of Christ. It's a peace that not only means peace with God but peace with one another. Therefore, the basis for our unity in the Spirit (in my opinion) should not be whether or not we believe the same things but the relationship that we have in Christ. How are we saved? According to Romans 10:9 says that "If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." My plea to the Body of Christ is this: If that is all that is necessary for us to be saved then why isn't that enough for us to base a common fellowship? The unity of the Spirit will be kept in the bond of peace when we learn how to rally around relationships rather than doctrines.

Please hear me out. I'm a pastor so I understand the importance of doctrine. I don't know if we will ever see a time in our lives where believers do not choose their community of faith based upon principles and practices. What I'm after in all of this is that we learn how to live in relationship with those who differ. That we would learn to stop arguing, stop competing, and start walking in love with one another. We also need to stop with the idea that we must win every person who is of a different persuasion than us. Just because people choose to fellowship with other Baptists, Methodists, Pentecostals, etc. does not mean they are wrong or that they are lost. It typically means that this is how they found Christ or found a genuine expression of the love of God. Let's honor that. Let's walk in humility, gentleness, and patience with them. Let's bear with one another in love. AND let's be eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. This is what Paul refers to as "walking in a manner that is worthy of the calling to which we have been called."

A Wise Man Once Said...

A wise man once said, "He that has no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls." {Proverbs 25:28} Many modern translations of this verse talk about the need for self-control, but I think there is more to this verse.

Don't misunderstand me. I do believe Solomon is talking about the need to control ourselves. However, when it comes to dealing with the spirit there is much more that we need to understand.

The Hebrew word used for spirit in this verse gives us the image of a rational being. Man, was made a living soul by the breath of God. We are spiritual beings living in a fleshly body. How we express ourselves and function in relationships is all about the spirit man inside of us. Left uncontrolled our spirit can be like a tempest or a whirlwind. On the other hand, when we are willing to control ourselves, our spirit can be soothing, calm, and reassuring. The difference is usually found in whether we respond to a situation or react.

One of the early lessons we had to teach our son was how to gain self-control. We used the simple tool of interlacing his fingers to give him a picture of what self-control looked like. Whenever he wanted to react out of his emotions, we would encourage him to "get control" and immediately he would bring his hands together. Although he is 13 years old now, we continue to remind him of this lesson. Why? Because learning to control ourselves is one of the most vital lessons of life. If Solomon thought it necessary to pass this instruction down to his son, don't you think we should do the same?

Learning how to respond to what life throws our way can make all the difference. I'm often reminded of this when our nation faces tragedy like we saw in Oklahoma this week. Responding to a disaster rather than reacting to it can be crucial as it relates to the rate of recovery. Response is tied directly to thinking rationally. Reaction is normally linked to being in the heat of the moment. So I want you to think with me: Would you rather be a Responder or a Reactor?

While this verse carries the idea of self-control, I want us to look a little deeper. Learning how to control our spirit also requires learning how to persuade it. We cannot allow ourselves to be fooled by emotions. We must not allow the circumstances of life to dictate what goes on inside of us. We have to master the art of being in control emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and physically. Locked within the spirit of man is the nature of God. Tapping into His nature - regardless of everything around me - can bring about some amazing results.

The good news in all of this: You Have a Helper - aka The Holy Spirit. The fruit of the Holy Spirit in our lives (among many others things) is self-control. When you and I learn what it means to "walk in the Spirit" then self-control will be a natural overflow. We don't have to muster up the strength. We don't have to pick ourselves up by our own boot straps. We simply allow Him to lead the way. Of course, depending upon your faith background, you may have absolutely now idea on how to do this. This is especially true if Christianity has been nothing more than a list of external rules to follow. This is true for many believers. We have lost the understanding of what it means to be spiritual beings. Therefore, everything is rooted in our ability, our determination, and our strength. Where is the grace of God in all of this? It's usually on the back end waiting to forgive us rather than on the front end ready to provide the power we need.

One of the ways that you can prepare yourself to respond is by learning everything you can about your identity in Christ. Knowing who God is for you and who you are in Him is a vital exercise in training your spirit and learning how to respond in the Spirit of Christ. When we do not do these things then that "burst of air" inside of us (our spirit) can become a destructive force. Tied simply to our emotions rather than the Truth of God's Word can lead to actions that will leave us desolate and in danger.

In ancient days, city walls were necessary. They protected the people from the enemies on the outside while trying to ensure that only the right people got inside. Living without self-control is like allowing the enemy to come inside and destroying our lives from the inside out. We have seen this in people who were not willing to give up certain habits, lifestyles, and/or addictions. I have also seen this in people who were unwilling to forgive, give up bitterness/resentment, and were unwilling to live in reconciliation. These things are like a cancerous cell. And when left untreated it brings devastation from within.

Like these ancient cities, you need to surround yourself with the Truth. You need to reinforce your life with your identity in Christ. This is more than just memorizing verses. It's learning how to establish your heart in God. It's living from His viewpoint. It's repenting when your mindset is wrong and renewing your mind in such a way that brings about transformation. It's choosing to live in the Spirit rather than through the emotions.

Don't be fooled into thinking that you don't have a choice in the matter. Never allow the enemy to set the agenda in your life. Decide right now that you will not be a man or a woman who lives without the Spirit's control in your life. Decide how you will respond to the things that come into your life. Discover what is available in the abundant life of Christ. In His nature you can forgive those who hurt you, pray for those who use you, bless those who curse you, and give mercy to those who would bring harm to you. It's all wrapped up in the Divine Nature that is within you called Holy Spirit. He will make sure that you have everything you need for life and godliness. In fact...you already have it.

The Power of Pentecost

This past Sunday we celebrated Pentecost. Pentecost as a Jewish celebration would be celebrated 50 days after the Passover observing the sealing of the Old Covenant on Mt. Sinai. God, in His Divine Providence, chose this day to release His Holy Spirit upon the followers of Christ signifying the sealing of a New Covenant of Grace.

The coming of the Holy Spirit is significant in so many ways. Not only does His coming fulfill the words of Christ, it signifies a new relationship with God. A relationship that is not based upon rules, rituals, and a strict regemine; but a relationship based upon love, grace, and intimacy with the Holy Spirit of God.

According to Scripture the Holy Spirit will:
- Guide us into all truth
- Call to remembrance the words of Christ
- Lead us according to the will of God
- Will Teach us everything we need to know
- Gift us
- Empower us
- Seal us
- Intercede for us

TALK ABOUT A GAME CHANGER!!!

The Holy Spirit will allow us to walk in the same life, same power, same mind, and same ministry of Christ. Jesus came to represent the Father and we get to re-present Christ to the world. In an Old Covenant relationship with God it was all about the rules. In a New Covenant relationship it's all about the relationship.

I want you to consider these truths as we talk about the Power of Pentecost:
~ You have the same Spirit in you that raised Christ from the dead
~ You have the very nature of Christ alive in you (which provides everything you need for life and godliness)
~ The Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. You have that!!!
~ The Spirit of God within you prays for you and prays through you
What could you possibly need in your life that is not supplied by/through the Spirit of God in you?

It's time to rejoice. The voice of God is alive and active in your life. The presence of God that will never leave nor forsake you is always with you. The anointing that made Jesus the light of life is the same anointing that dwells within you. It's in you (according to the Bible) as a fountain and as a river. A fountain that you can draw life from and a river that gives life to others.

As a child of God you have been sealed with a promise. That seal is the Holy Spirit.
As a child of God you have the Spirit inside of you that cries out "Abba Father".
As a child of God you are no longer a slave but an heir and a joint-heir with Christ.
All of this made possible by God through the work of redemption and the coming of the Holy Spirit.

What do you do now? You need to develop a relationship with the Holy Spirit. You need to understand how He moves, what He is saying, and how He is leading. You need to recognize what it feels like and looks like. There are so many ways that He can move in and through our lives that we simply cannot map it all. A personal relationship will help take care of those questions. You have the ability and the opportunity to have a real relationship with the Spirit of God. Don't miss out on it.

In the book of Acts we read that the religious leaders took note of the Apostles and recognized that they had been with Jesus. While we could talk about the many aspects of this statement, one thing is for sure: they carried the same Spirit.

I leave you with the words of Jesus: "Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father." {John 4:12}. Why was it significant that Jesus go to the Father? According to Jesus' own words, it was so that He (Holy Spirit) could come. Take a moment every day of your life to thank God for the gift of His Spirit in you. Be amazed at how He moves in your life, and be ready for the greater works that can come through you because He resides in your life. Be Blessed!!!

Faith IS My Assurance

Hebrews 11:1, "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."

My blog entry today will be brief. I did something yesterday that I have not done in about 8 years. I went to the Doctor. 2 shots and 3 prescriptions later I am on the mend from a slight touch of bronchitis and a sinus infection. What does this have to do with faith? Stay with me and maybe you will find your answer.

Over the last few years I have lived with the belief that our healing is found in the atonement. I have blogged about this subject several times. What that means is that the suffering of Christ accomplished much more than our salvation. I believe that God wants us to be whole physically, mentally, and emotionally. I believe He is about the whole person: body, mind, and spirit. Sozo - the Greek word translated saved - tells us that we are saved, healed, delivered, and made whole.

During this faith journey I have had many challenges. I have talked to people on both sides of the debate. However, the one thing that I continually come back to is believing in the nature of God. One of the ways the Lord revealed Himself to us in Scripture is Jehovah-Rapha (The Lord Who Heals). I have not found Him to be the Lord who brings sickness. I don't see anywhere in the Bible where God decided to change His name or His nature. In fact, when Jesus arrives as the exact representation of the Father, we find that He carries this same nature. All who came to Him that were sick, He made whole.

So...here I am on day 2 of an antibiotic and still sore from my shots. I have not questioned God in the midst of it and I will still approach every day of my existence believing in the Healing that He purchased. Some would argue "BUT...you are sick." My response would be "Yes, but that doesn't change what God has done. It also doesn't change what I believe."

Hebrews 11:1 is a favorite verse for many people. It helps stir up hope. I am learning to use it another way. I'm learning how to fuel my hope through my faith. When you do a word study of this incredible verse you will discover that faith is not empty. Faith is a substance. It is concrete. It is the firm belief in something. What I have chosen to believe in regards to healing and health is that it is firmly rooted in the atonement. The questions I have about any sickness that I endure has nothing to do with the power of the atonement but rather how I got into the shape that I'm in. There's a lot of reasons that I could be sick - faith or lack thereof is not the reason.

Faith is a journey. It's a journey where I refuse to believe that we ever solve the mysteries of God. While there is much that we have learned, there is so much more to understand. There are greater experiences to be had. The life and ministry of Jesus have demonstrated incredible possibilities to us. Life and faith take on a whole new meaning. It shows us what is and what can be available if we have faith.

Allow me to encourage you. I don't know where you are in your faith journey. I have no idea of what you may be struggling through at this moment. My encouragement would be this: Return to the simplicity of your faith. You know, the place where you didn't need an answer - the place where you didn't need Him to map it all out. Just a simple abiding faith. A faith that stirs up the hope that is in you. In the end, I believe that you will learn to be amazed all over again. JUST BELIEVE!

Hebrews 11:6, "...whoever would draw near to God must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who seek Him."

The Crazy Love Thing...

In keeping with the Love & Water theme that I started yesterday, I would like to share one of my favorite quotes from another movie that deals with tragedy in the water. This quote comes from the movie Soul Surfer and is voiced over the scene where Bethany Hamilton is ministering to people during the aftermath of the Tsunami: "Love is bigger than any tidal wave and more powerful than any fear."

This part of the movie just made my heart melt. Here was this young lady who was learning to overcome her own tragedy reaching out to others who were hurting. Choosing to be a part of a disaster relief team became a pivotal part of her own recovery. Talk about changing your perspective!

In all honesty, this is a good lesson for each of us to learn. It's amazing how quickly we can become introspective about our own lives. Always looking in and always seeing what is wrong with us. Many people wouldn't blame Bethany if she had chosen to take a bit longer to get out of the pain and disappointment she was feeling. However, love taught her a valuable lesson.

Limited in what she could do, she did all she could do. She helped carry water and meet basic needs. In the movie she helped a little boy overcome his fear of the water by playing on a surf board. Not only was the little boy encouraged to get back to the simple joys of life, those on the beach were encouraged as well. But this is what love does. Love looks like something and love makes a difference.

Love is Bigger than any Tidal Wave
- I don't think we have truly grasped the power of love in the Spirit. Although we have some understanding of it in the natural, we have yet to see all that can be accomplished. If all we ever did was live out the 1 Corinthians 13 definition of love we could overcome any tidal wave.
Can you imagine never being resentful?
Always being patient?
Never being self-seeking?
Etc.?
Do you know what kind of impact we could have on the world if this was the quality of love that we displayed? I think that is why God's Word teaches about the type of love that we are able to walk in. If we, through the Spirit of God, learn how to tap into this God-quality of love...the world will never be the same.

Love...More Powerful than any Fear
- In John's letters to the church, he spent quite a bit of time talking about love. He makes one of the greatest statements as it relates to the power of love in our lives: "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." [1 John 4:18]
Here's my breakdown of this:
FEAR absent - Perfected in Love / FEAR present - Still areas where I need to be perfected in Love
The reality is that each of us have areas where we still need to be perfected in love. We are all learning how to establish our heart in God. We are learning how to get our identity from Him. The sooner we can do that...the sooner Fear will have no hold on us in any area.

Take a look at the times LOVE is mentioned in Scritpure. Recongize its power and ability in your life.
Did you know that Love covers a multitude of sin?
Did you know that Love can create an atmosphere of peace and community?
Did you know that Love was/is the greatest motivator for serving one another?
Did you know that Loving One Another actually fulfilled the Law?
Love is a truly powerful force that each of us need to embrace.

You know what I think? I think many people have struggled in the area because they didn't want to create a Hippie Culture. What we failed to realize is that we would be creating a Kingdom Culture. And missing out on this incredible opportunity we have isolated ourselves from the world. To quote Mars Needs Moms: "To be alone is to be without the Crazy Love Thing."

As I type these words, an email came in advertising a new book by Danny Silk: "Keep Your Love On"
I think I will!!!

NOTHING...is Impossible

Last night I watched the movie "The Impossible". This movie is based upon the true story of one family during the Tsunami of 2004. With your permission, I'm going to attempt to use my skills in allegory. Of course, you will need to watch the film for yourself to really understand it.

As I thought about the true story of María Belón and her family's experience of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, a verse came to mind. While this verse may be very familiar, and often overused, it accurately describes the power of love. 1 Corinthians 13:7-8, "Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things" (And we know the rest) "LOVE NEVER FAILS..."

LOVE BEARS ALL THINGS
- What can life possibly throw at us that love cannot handle? I'm sure there are some people who would argue with my point, but if you see the depiction of this family's struggles you will discover the power to go on through any circumstance. The love of God, as portrayed in Scripture, is more than an emotion. It is a powerful force that will go through Hell to ensure that no one is lost. His love has carried the weight of the world. It did not buckle under the weight of our humanity. He bore our sorrows, our sickness, and our sin. Is there anything that love cannot help you bear?

LOVE BELIEVES & HOPES ALL THINGS
- I was blown away by their determination to never give up. Their love for one another drove them to face the impossible, to never give up, and to never lose hope. This is the abiding nature of love in our lives. While life may seem chaotic or lying in the wake of destruction, the love of God is the glimmer of hope that keeps us pressing forward. Is it any wonder that Jesus describes Himself as the light of the world? He came to clearly represent the Father in a dark world. His life, ministry, death, burial, resurrection, and ascension give us the hope that is found only in unconditional love.

LOVE ENDURES ALL THINGS
- The endurance of God's unconditional love is seen even today. While our world is far from perfect, we serve a God whose very nature is patient endurance. He longs for us, looks for us, and continually reaches out to us. Whether this family realized it or not, their story is one of the endurance of unconditional love. It's a love that would wade through any mess. It's a love that handled every trial. A love that never, ever, gave up.

LOVE NEVER FAILS
- The story of this family is one of tragedy and triumph. But it does beg the question (at least for me): Why must we wait until tragedy strikes to tap into the love that is within us? I realize that this is the norm for most people. However, everything inside of me screams that this kind of love is possible every day. I don't have to wait for a disaster to pursue my family. I don't have to wait until all Hell breaks loose before my wife and kids are my main priority. I don't have to wait until we are separated before I stop living in selfishness. You may think that I'm living in a fantasy world but I'm not. I am trying to live in an alternate reality. It's called the Kingdom of God and we have the opportunity to see it manifest here on Earth.

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This movie is not for the faint of heart. Some scenes will not be suitable for small children. For those of you who are willing to endure the emotions that will rise up within, you will be inspired. As with most tragic events in our lives, it's easy to revert back to the way we were before. Think about 9/11. Think about the shootings at VT. These events brought out the best in humanity during the aftermath. The struggle in life is to maintain that focus well after the fact. BUT...with Love...NOTHING is Impossible.

Ask the Lord to manifest His love in your life today. See how strong you are while bearing heavy loads. Take notice of the faith and hope that rises to the surface. Rejoice at the endurance that is found in His unconditional love. And be willing to carry this incredible treasure every day. NOW...go love on somebody!!!

Growth Through Encounter

Why are so many of the experiences in the Christian life viewed negatively? Here's a couple of examples: The Refiner's Fire and Pruning. What often gets lost in these two experiences is that we are experiencing God. These experiences are not meant to critique our lives but are the doorway to the secret place where we are conformed into the image of His Son.

A lot has been said about the Refiner's Fire. I have heard countless illustrations that give great description to the process. Most of these messages focus on the heat of the fire, the dross that is taken away, etc. Unfortunately, many of these descriptions have been shared negatively. They typically focus on the dross - the impurities - that is taken away from the metal. What if this isn't a negative experience?

Think about it with me: The removal of dross from our lives is a means to acquire a pure reflection of the Refiner. All of us will go through seasons of purification. It's not always about sin. It's not because we are so screwed up that the Lord can't use us. It's just a process of being conformed to the image of the Son. We are meant to reflect His glory in the Earth. You might as well enjoy the process.

Pruning for growth is another process that we tend to view negatively. I've heard people talk about the pain they go through as the Lord cuts away things that are hindering growth in their lives. This is more of a mindset problem than anything else. We have become so accustomed to having certain attitudes, behaviors, etc. in our lives that it's difficult to see them cut away. But have you ever considered the pain that we go through when those things are allowed to remain?

I don't know too many Christians that do not want to grow in their walk with God. The question is whether or not they are willing to encounter the Lord to experience this growth. Regardless of the circumstances - whether it's the Refiner's Fire, the Launderer's Soap, or the Pruning that leads to growth - be thankful that you are encountering God is the secret place of your life. He is simply creating a more accurate reflection of who you are in Him.

Several months ago I heard Graham Cooke teaching on this very thing. He spoke of people who were going through season's of change. How they expressed themselves during the process is a true reflection of how they view God. "I'm in the winepress of God" (insert whiny voice). "Yeah...the Lord's really changing me" (insert sounds of drudgery). Graham's response: "Isn't the point of all of this that you enjoy what the Lord is doing in your life?" Imagine being excited about the Lord's pruning in your life because you see the end result. Imagine going through the Refiner's fire with joy because you know that God will be able to see a true reflection of His Son in your life. I believe as you change the way you go through these seasons, there's a good chance that they will not last as long and you will be much more enjoyable to be around during the process.

We will all go through the testing of our faith. I'm not saying that all these tests are from the Lord but I will say that He walks with you through them. 1 Peter 1:7 puts it beautifully: "These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold--though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world." [NLT]

Allowing the Lord to purify your life, being pruned for growth, and encountering Truth may seem difficult but they can be just as exhilarating as encountering Him through praise and worship. These moments can be remarkable as you focus on the end result. I want you to consider with me the joy of childbirth. The birthing process is not only difficult for the mother but for the baby as well. Doctors pay just as much attention to the stress on the child being born as they do the mother. Why? Because they want to see a healthy child delivered. How we go through these seasons will determine what is birthed into our lives. If we pay attention to the dross rather than allowing the Refiner to remove it then we will carry around the wrong image. If we fight to keep the things that hinder our growth rather than allow them to be cut away, then we will be deformed. Go through the process with the expectancy of what God is birthing in your life. You will enjoy what He has accomplished in your life as much as He does. Allow Him to have His perfect work in you.

Living Out the Law of Christ

Here's one of my favorite Oswald Chambers quotes of all time: “God never gives us discernment in order that we may criticize, but that we may intercede.”

There's no doubt in my mind that this is one of the most difficult things to live out. The influence of this world in our lives easily leads to criticism. We can find criticism in the media, social clubs, the barbershop, our friends, and even in church. If we aren't careful, the influence of a critical spirit can find its way into our lives and our vocabulary. On the contrary, learning how to help someone carry their burden (or get rid of it) fulfills what is close to the heart of Christ.

I'm always careful when I use the word "Law" because we humans tend to fall into religious ritual when we hear it. The word translated as law in this verse can mean "anything established...a command...approved by God." When I think about the Law of Christ, I'm immediately touched by the things that are close to His heart. When asked what is the greatest commandment He responded by saying that we should "Love the Lord with all of our heart...soul, strength, and mind...Love your neighbor as yourself." This is the standard that has been established. This is the command that has been approved by God. For you and I to fulfill (to make full) the standard lived out by Christ means that we supply what is lacking in His physical absence. In essence, we allow His nature to fulfill His rule of life in our lives: WE BEAR ONE ANOTHER'S BURDENS.

Too often, when we get discernment into the life of another, we adopt a critical spirit. We bring judgment, accusation, and shame into the relationship. To put Oswald Chambers' words another way: We are to pray for them (Intercession), encourage them to walk in the opposite spirit (Prophecy), and love them through the situation (Fruit of the Spirit). Let me see if I can explain.

Intercession - the act of interceding (intervening or mediating) between two parties. In the Christian faith, it is a prayer to God on behalf of others.

This is one of the most vital aspect of walking in discernment. It's one thing to get something about someone and quite another to know how to pray for them. When dealing with negative aspects of someone's character, it's important to know how God wants to work in their lives to bring about change. How can God effectively alter their mindset or their actions. This is critical. My encouragement to you is that you pray for the individual the way you would want someone to pray for you. It's a wonderful form of intercession. It's treating people the way you want to be treated in the Spirit. I realize that it's much easier to go to the individual to confront them and there may be a time for that; but until then learn how to battle for this person in prayer. Not only are you walking out the nature of Christ, you will be growing in your compassion for the individual.

Prophecy - according to 1 Corinthians 14:3 is "edifying, encouraging, and comforting."

Many times when we hear about prophecy we think about Nathan coming to David to declare "YOU ARE THE MAN!" In other words, there is a negative connotation attached to it. New Testament prophecy, on the other hand, is quite different. We are not standing to declare the sins of the nation or to bring judgment upon a group or individual. According to Paul, prophecy in the Body of Christ looks a little different. The Revelation given to John tells us that "the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy" (Rev. 19:10). What we are learning to do through the prophetic is give a testimony of Christ into the life of another. More often than not it is a way for them to operate in the opposite spirit.

Fruit of the Spirit - this is your opportunity to walk in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self control. The good news is that you don't have to produce this - it's the work of the Holy Spirit in your life.

Bearing on another's burdens is all about loving God and loving someone the way that you want to be loved. This is what walking in the Spirit looks like. And when we walk in the Spirit, we will bear the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. Sound easy enough? The truth of the matter is that it is easy enough. God's grace will empower you to walk alongside someone to help carry their burden.

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There is only 1 warning that I want to give you in all of this: While you are seeking to help carry this burden, you cannot carry it for the other person. While you may want it to go away for them, it may be something that they need to walk out. Make sure you have the heart of God for them. Make sure they know that you are there to help. And make sure that you do not work harder than they do.

Interceding for them will be tough work. Prophesying into their lives will require that you hear the heart of God for them. Walking with them in love means that you will exhibit the nature of Christ (Fruit of the Spirit) into their lives. This is the Law of Christ. This is loving someone the way you long to be loved. This is loving God with all that you are. It's a part of the journey. Embrace it.

Deciding What Gets to Stick

Several years ago, I came across a children's book by Max Lucado entitled You are Special. There is so much truth found within the pages of this book that you could totally lead a small group session on its contents. What a perfect lead in to the remainder of your week as you get to decide "what gets to stick."

You are Special is the story about a group of people called Wemmicks. The Wemmicks are a race of small wooden people created by a woodcarver named Eli. Each Wemmick has a box of gold star stickers and a box of gray dot stickers. Those who were deemed special received a gold star sticker. Those who were not special received gray dot stickers.

Punchinello was one of those Wemmicks who always received gray dots. It didn't matter how hard he tried, he could never do anything to receive a gold star. This led Punchinello to stay home. He was embarassed to go out in public because he just wasn't a good Wemmick. When he did go out of his house, he would hang out with other gray dot Wemmicks.

One day he met a Wemmick named Lucia. Lucia was VERY different because she didn't have gold stars or gray dots. Every time someone tried to place a star on her it would fall off. The same was true of the dots, they just would not stick. Punchinello asked her why the stickers wouldn't stick. She responded by saying that every day she spends time with Eli and that if Punchinello would do the same that he would understand why.

What Punchinello discovers upon visiting Eli is that the stars and/or dots do not stick to Lucia because what the other Wemmicks believe about her doesn't matter. She had decided that what Eli believed about her was the only thing that mattered. Eli told Punchinello, "The more you trust my love, the less you care about their stickers."

Here's your lesson for today (and hopefully the rest of your life): You Get To Decide What Gets To Stick!!!

Every day of your life you will be faced with a critical choice. Will you believe what the world or others say about you OR will you choose to live you life based upon what God thinks about you? Unfortunately, there are even those within the church who do not operate out of a true understanding of the love of God. They will define you based upon sin, faults, and character defects. Yes...even in the church there will be people who will place gold stickers or gray dots upon you. You need to decide if they are going to stick or not.

Read what Dr. James Richards says about this subject: "The transformation in your thought life will not happen overnight. You did not get into the shape you are in overnight, either. It will take time and diligent effort for you to change the way you see yourself. You will be defying a lifetime of negative input. You will be resisting the negativity of the people around you. You will be confronting the religious world that would have you see yourself as 'saved, but still a sinner.'" [Taking the Limits Off God ~ Dr. James B. Richards ~ p. 75 ~ Persuading You Heart]

The only way that we will learn how to live a life defined by the love of God is when we choose to believe what His Word says about us. This means we need to talk about it, have pictures/posters with Scripture on our walls, wear bracelets or t-shirts. Do whatever we need to do to hear, see, and say the Word of God until our hearts overflow with His promises. As our hearts become persuaded with who we really are in Christ then we will live from that reality.

I often face this scenario as a pastor. There are plenty of Wemmicks standing in line to place a gray dot upon me and our fellowship. We have been considered too free in certain areas. I've even heard PBC referred to as the "Party Church". I literally laughed out loud on the last one. The point is that when people do not live in freedom, they will always question the freedom you enjoy. Jesus was called a glutton and a drunkard. He was neither. He lived by His Father's definition of Himself: "You are my Beloved Son in whom I am well pleased." Think it made a difference?

What will you allow to stick around? Will you continue to allow your life to be defined by past mistakes and failures? Are you going to allow someone else to define you? Or will you live your life in the love of God? God has a lot to say about you. You are special because He made you. The more you trust in His love, the less you care about their stickers.

Living from the Goodness of God

Lamentations 3:22-23, "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness."

I don't know if it was learned primarily through religion or the culture, but far too many Christians live from the sinfulness/unworthiness of man rather than the goodness of God. To quote Bob Newhart: "STOP IT!"

Hear the words of Jeremiah afresh this morning and allow your heart to be established in them:

The STEADFAST LOVE of the Lord NEVER CEASES
Have you ever considered that God will never stop loving you? His love is steadfast - it can never be moved. His love never ceases - which means it will never end.

His mercies NEVER come to an END
It seems as though somewhere along the way people grabbed hold of the idea that with God you could only go so far. Whether it was religion or the enemy (or both), this mindset has kept people from resting in the goodness of God. The Bible tells us that God delights in mercy. If you delight in something what in the world would keep you from doing it?

They (His mercies) are NEW EVERY MORNING
Tomorrow morning I want you to wake up with this thought: God, I thank you that your mercies are new today.
Start your day with this understanding. Yesterday doesn't matter. Tomorrow isn't even a thought. Today His mercies are new.
Heard this quote last night: "Depression means we are living in the past. Anxiety means that we are trying to live in the future. Peace comes when living in the present."

GREAT is YOUR FAITHFULNESS
Our God is a faithful God. He cannot be compared to any other relationship on this earth. Faithfulness is not something God does but who He is. You need to rest in that faithfulness. You need to trust His heart. And you need to learn to live from the goodness of God.

There is a song by John Mark McMillan titled "I Am A Temple" - here are the lyrics:

Deep inside me there's this burning that just won't let me go
You are my fire, You are my rightesnous, You are my rock and roll
I wish I could fit you down inside my chest, God
I wish that I could swallow you whole
I'd wrap you up in a blanket of my skin and you could call my body home

Cause I am a temple
I am temple
My body is a temple
I am a temple
I am a temple
I am a temple
My body is a temple
I am a temple
So what if I'm not worthy?
So what if I'm not worthy?
You have made me clean!

Well, I can't get over how quickly you recover the pieces of my heart as they shatter
Cause in your hands I am more than just a brand new man
And all my falling down now, well, it just don't matter

I am a temple
I am a temple
My body is a temple
I am a temple
I am a temple
I am a temple
My body is a temple
I am a temple
So what if I'm not worthy?
So what if I'm not worthy?
So what if I'm not worth?
You have made me clean

Now there is someone who has learned or is learning how to rest in the goodness of God. While some may be offended by this type of mindset, we need to understand that trusting in His work in our lives is the greatest form of faith.

The psalmist has said: "Taste and see that the Lord is good." If you have been swamped by religious thinking it may be difficult for you to grasp this. Don't give up. Pick up your Bible and discover who you are in Christ. Thank the Lord daily for His work in your life. And learn to live from His goodness. You will never be the same!!!