Here's an excerpt from the Equipper's Network Blog (http://equippersnetwork.blogspot.com).. I find this very clear and thought-provoking! I love this article because it rings true from the Bible alone!
When you look at your church and its core values and vision how would you define success? How would you compare the success of your church's core values and vision with the priorities of Jesus and the teachings of scripture?
One place to evaluate success in the local church is to examine the priorities of Jesus and the New Testament writers.
Another way to evaluate Biblical success is to study the lives of people in the Old Testament who were considered pleasing and favored of God.
Scripture points to two specific areas that make a person pleasing to God in the Old Testament. 1. The first is having 'a heart after God' 1 Sa 13:14: But now your kingdom will not endure; the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him leader of his people, because you have not kept the Lord’s command." NIV.
2. The second is obedience to God's Word. 1 Sam 15:22: Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. NIV
Jesus also came 'to do the will of the Father' powered by the Holy Spirit.
1. In fact Phil 2:5-11 says that Jesus humbled or emptied Himself. 'Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. 8 Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE WILL BOW, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. NASU'
2. He operated by the father’s authority and the Holy Spirit's power so that he would be the perfect model for us. Jn 17:4 “I glorified You on the earth, having accomplished the work which You have given Me to do. NASU
3. Mt 3:16-17: 16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. 17 And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased." NIV
The next two places we need to look are the command of Jesus and teaching of the Apostles.
1. First, to continue His work by making disciples of all nations. Mt 28:19-20, Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."NIV
2. Second, to equip God’s people. Eph 4:11-13, And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ. NASU
If you evaluate what we are doing and compare it with these verses, how is your church doing? Is the next generation of leaders flourishing among us or are they being driven away or held in captivity to our old ways of doing things? We are commanded to be making, equipping and releasing into leadership the next generation of disciples on a continual basis. We could follow the model of Paul and continue our relationship as partners and co-laborers with the next generation of leaders as we release them to lead and make disciples of all nations.
We will need to allow them their vision and their God inspired methods. New wine needs new wineskins! God is raising up young Davids and Debras. They should be doing Great exploits for God and not starting God's work over again.
Can it be said of us that we are equipping the next generation to do great and mighty things and become men and women of valor as they do the will of the Father, empowered by the Holy Spirit in our world today?
IF WE CAN SAY YES, THAT IS SUCCESS!
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Pimp My Tent (Body)
This is an awesome article written by Kasia Kedzia..
There is a show in the U.S. called "Pimp My Ride." The show is about people who get a car makeover. Basically, their old, run down car gets completely redone inside and out, everything from a new engine to a pool in the trunk. Since the show started there have even been rumored spin off shows such as "Pimp My Cubical." Why do I bring this random show up since I am in a foreign country with no television? Well, it came to mind as I studied out 2 Corinthians 5 recently.
2Cor5:1-21 (NIV) 1Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. Now it is God who has made us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.
I have slept in a tent before. It is not the most comfortable thing in the world. Tents are portable, flimsy, temporary. You know, it really doesn't matter if I am in Sudan, Poland, or the U.S. everywhere I have been I've desired more, I have longed for more and known people who are unhappy, unsatisfied and not fulfilled. And although God desires to give us life to the full while we are here, He continually reminds us that this place is not our final destination. This life is just camping; it is not my home. I lost sight of that. I have been groaning and yearning and lost my perspective! I tried to 'pimp my tent'. I forget that my body will be destroyed. Heaven is my home and it waits for me.
6 Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. We live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.
It is so easy for me to live by sight. It is easy to trust and desire someone providing for me, caring for my physical needs, nurturing me, idolizing me. But the reflection I see of myself in them is only temporary and this person too will let me down and I them. The security I feel is a temporary illusion. It is yet another way that I am trying to fill my life here, rely on self or someone else. If I strive to please God it enables me to be faithful. I tried to find fulfillment and security in other things, and it is true, at the end of the day the void is still there, the longing remains for something more. But when I put my faith in God and live by faith I am calmer, I stop grasping for other things and I am able to hope for Heaven and be so much more at peace. I am also able to find the strength to let go of my earthly desires and let God love me. I am able to share that love with others in it's purest form and not perverse it selfishly.
11Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience. We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart. If we are out of our minds, it is for the sake of God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
Even at my worst God's grace engulfs me. When I feel like He should turn his back on me and say, "Enough!", He wraps his arms around me tighter and restores my hope. When I was feeling hopeless and searching my heart and grasping to turn away from sin, He reassured me. He continues to reassure me. All of a sudden the calls and emails came and the gears started moving. I am no longer idle, but am starting to work and do things. It was really humbling as I am sure God looked down from heaven and said, "If you could have just held on another day, but even though you lost faith and turned from me I will still give you what you long for. I will restore you." To feel God's love I have to continually seek it and recognize that it is His voice calling out to my heart to not lose heart, to restore it. I have gotten to a place where I am not broken about my sin because I fear judgment; I am broken by the pain I cause Jesus. I draw strength from Him and am able to share that strength with those around me. I am lighter because my conscious is clear. I am compelled by His love.
16 So for now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
And so I spend time with my first love. I cling to Him and hope in Him, as only He can guard my heart and yet simultaneously allow me to share love (His love) with others. But this is a constant daily battle - die to self and trade human affection for God's love. There have been days this week when I have lost the battle and days I have won. This battle has raged inside of me for two weeks and it continues as I persevere to fight my way through it and seek God's wisdom and His answers. And somehow a part of me knows there is something I am still holding onto that is preventing me from fully turning back to God. I am still trying to 'Pimp My Tent'. I have accepted and seen what God's will is in my mind, but I am still fighting for my heart to surrender all.
"Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love." Revelation 2:4 (niv)
There is a show in the U.S. called "Pimp My Ride." The show is about people who get a car makeover. Basically, their old, run down car gets completely redone inside and out, everything from a new engine to a pool in the trunk. Since the show started there have even been rumored spin off shows such as "Pimp My Cubical." Why do I bring this random show up since I am in a foreign country with no television? Well, it came to mind as I studied out 2 Corinthians 5 recently.
2Cor5:1-21 (NIV) 1Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. Now it is God who has made us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.
I have slept in a tent before. It is not the most comfortable thing in the world. Tents are portable, flimsy, temporary. You know, it really doesn't matter if I am in Sudan, Poland, or the U.S. everywhere I have been I've desired more, I have longed for more and known people who are unhappy, unsatisfied and not fulfilled. And although God desires to give us life to the full while we are here, He continually reminds us that this place is not our final destination. This life is just camping; it is not my home. I lost sight of that. I have been groaning and yearning and lost my perspective! I tried to 'pimp my tent'. I forget that my body will be destroyed. Heaven is my home and it waits for me.
6 Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. We live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.
It is so easy for me to live by sight. It is easy to trust and desire someone providing for me, caring for my physical needs, nurturing me, idolizing me. But the reflection I see of myself in them is only temporary and this person too will let me down and I them. The security I feel is a temporary illusion. It is yet another way that I am trying to fill my life here, rely on self or someone else. If I strive to please God it enables me to be faithful. I tried to find fulfillment and security in other things, and it is true, at the end of the day the void is still there, the longing remains for something more. But when I put my faith in God and live by faith I am calmer, I stop grasping for other things and I am able to hope for Heaven and be so much more at peace. I am also able to find the strength to let go of my earthly desires and let God love me. I am able to share that love with others in it's purest form and not perverse it selfishly.
11Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience. We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart. If we are out of our minds, it is for the sake of God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
Even at my worst God's grace engulfs me. When I feel like He should turn his back on me and say, "Enough!", He wraps his arms around me tighter and restores my hope. When I was feeling hopeless and searching my heart and grasping to turn away from sin, He reassured me. He continues to reassure me. All of a sudden the calls and emails came and the gears started moving. I am no longer idle, but am starting to work and do things. It was really humbling as I am sure God looked down from heaven and said, "If you could have just held on another day, but even though you lost faith and turned from me I will still give you what you long for. I will restore you." To feel God's love I have to continually seek it and recognize that it is His voice calling out to my heart to not lose heart, to restore it. I have gotten to a place where I am not broken about my sin because I fear judgment; I am broken by the pain I cause Jesus. I draw strength from Him and am able to share that strength with those around me. I am lighter because my conscious is clear. I am compelled by His love.
16 So for now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
And so I spend time with my first love. I cling to Him and hope in Him, as only He can guard my heart and yet simultaneously allow me to share love (His love) with others. But this is a constant daily battle - die to self and trade human affection for God's love. There have been days this week when I have lost the battle and days I have won. This battle has raged inside of me for two weeks and it continues as I persevere to fight my way through it and seek God's wisdom and His answers. And somehow a part of me knows there is something I am still holding onto that is preventing me from fully turning back to God. I am still trying to 'Pimp My Tent'. I have accepted and seen what God's will is in my mind, but I am still fighting for my heart to surrender all.
"Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love." Revelation 2:4 (niv)
Monday, February 26, 2007
What Inspires You? (Top 10)
What inspires me?
1. God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
2. The Bible.
3. My family & church family.
4. Committed Christians (undying commitment to do the Lord's will!!)
5. Christians with the example of Christ - humility (resignation), love, faith, obedience...
6. Christians with "Other-centered" heart & mentality (not me-centered).
7. Giver (not takers).
8. Positive people (Negative people annoys me unless they have a perfectly good reason for it.)
9. Knowing there's Heaven waiting for me (I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world!)
10. Knowing there's Hell waiting for me (It inspires me to keep my faith with God)!
1. God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
2. The Bible.
3. My family & church family.
4. Committed Christians (undying commitment to do the Lord's will!!)
5. Christians with the example of Christ - humility (resignation), love, faith, obedience...
6. Christians with "Other-centered" heart & mentality (not me-centered).
7. Giver (not takers).
8. Positive people (Negative people annoys me unless they have a perfectly good reason for it.)
9. Knowing there's Heaven waiting for me (I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world!)
10. Knowing there's Hell waiting for me (It inspires me to keep my faith with God)!
A Stormy Weekend!!
I've had encountered a couple of storms over the weekend!
Our basketball kids had quite a scare last Saturday morning when a loud-mouth father of a daughter on our opponent's team stormed the floor yelling at our coach, referees and the crowd. It was quite shocking. This would be a perfect video to include in a segment called, "When A Parent Attacks (at ballgames)!"
I saw a video on television not long ago showing a father running across the football field and hit the opponent's player flat on the ground because this football player apparently gave a "late-hit" on his son. He got arrested and spent a day in jail plus heavy fine. Then Michelle and I got to see it, "LIVE", right in front of me. I didn't have my hearing aid on so I wasn't sure how loud he was until one of our team parent came up to me and said, "I'm glad you didn't hear this obnoxious guy! (chuckle)".
What apparently happened was one of the players on the opponent's side got too rough on our star player and our coach informed the other coach to calm their players down. Then the play resume and apparently one of our players got rough on this "Obnoxious Dad's Girl", the girl cried covering her face then the dad stormed the floor wreaking havoc! The opponent's coach yelled at our coach and said, "Then you tell yours to calm down!! Look at this poor girl!!" The referees gave the dad a warning and the wife of the dad yelled at him for making a scene. I could read her lips a mile away. She said, "You do this in every game! Come on! It's just a game!"
Quite a storm, huh?
Another storm... This time, it's weather-related.. 4.5 inches of snow in 6 hours!! We woke up yesterday morning wondering if there will be services at church. Checked the internet and my email. Still on. Walked out the door finding myself on a slippery walk. Started to sleet then quarter to half-dollar chunk size snow came down. Roads accumulating super fast! Managed to get to church. We worshipped God with all our hearts, minds, souls and strengths! By the time worship was over, there was approximately 2 inches of snow on the ground and still snowing!
We had Dr. Hughes from Pepperdine as our guest speaker yesterday. He preached the Word! He opened the lesson with a cute story about "Frederick" written by Leo Lionni. Then he quoted several verses in the Scripture including Matthew 25:32 (ff) where Jesus talked about those on His right and left, sheep and goats. Then he concluded the lesson asking people to get themselves into the "Story" where God continues to witness our love, faithfulness and obedience to His loving commands. Hope you've begun your journey with God and the "chapters" are continuing in your love story with God.
Another final storm of the weekend! It is, however, still brewing in the world today! What saddens me is that there are people in relationships that are on the brink of a fallout. Satan has been successful in destroying marriages. Either one or both of the spouse side with him rather than siding with God, the Designer of Marriage. Once a marriage falls apart, either one or both also depart God and close the love story with a final chapter. I often tell couples in any relationships to keep Jesus at the center, in between them. When you look at the person you're having a relationship with and before you "react in anyway" to the person, you must go through Jesus first. Here's an example, if you're going to "yell" at the person you love, you'll have to "yell" at Jesus first. If you're going to "hate" the person, you'll have to "hate" Jesus first. Every action and words must pass by Jesus first. Indeed, He'll be hurt because many of us, including myself, have hurt Him with words. This is the storm I hate!
May the Lord continue to be a blessing to you all this week!!
Our basketball kids had quite a scare last Saturday morning when a loud-mouth father of a daughter on our opponent's team stormed the floor yelling at our coach, referees and the crowd. It was quite shocking. This would be a perfect video to include in a segment called, "When A Parent Attacks (at ballgames)!"
I saw a video on television not long ago showing a father running across the football field and hit the opponent's player flat on the ground because this football player apparently gave a "late-hit" on his son. He got arrested and spent a day in jail plus heavy fine. Then Michelle and I got to see it, "LIVE", right in front of me. I didn't have my hearing aid on so I wasn't sure how loud he was until one of our team parent came up to me and said, "I'm glad you didn't hear this obnoxious guy! (chuckle)".
What apparently happened was one of the players on the opponent's side got too rough on our star player and our coach informed the other coach to calm their players down. Then the play resume and apparently one of our players got rough on this "Obnoxious Dad's Girl", the girl cried covering her face then the dad stormed the floor wreaking havoc! The opponent's coach yelled at our coach and said, "Then you tell yours to calm down!! Look at this poor girl!!" The referees gave the dad a warning and the wife of the dad yelled at him for making a scene. I could read her lips a mile away. She said, "You do this in every game! Come on! It's just a game!"
Quite a storm, huh?
Another storm... This time, it's weather-related.. 4.5 inches of snow in 6 hours!! We woke up yesterday morning wondering if there will be services at church. Checked the internet and my email. Still on. Walked out the door finding myself on a slippery walk. Started to sleet then quarter to half-dollar chunk size snow came down. Roads accumulating super fast! Managed to get to church. We worshipped God with all our hearts, minds, souls and strengths! By the time worship was over, there was approximately 2 inches of snow on the ground and still snowing!
We had Dr. Hughes from Pepperdine as our guest speaker yesterday. He preached the Word! He opened the lesson with a cute story about "Frederick" written by Leo Lionni. Then he quoted several verses in the Scripture including Matthew 25:32 (ff) where Jesus talked about those on His right and left, sheep and goats. Then he concluded the lesson asking people to get themselves into the "Story" where God continues to witness our love, faithfulness and obedience to His loving commands. Hope you've begun your journey with God and the "chapters" are continuing in your love story with God.
Another final storm of the weekend! It is, however, still brewing in the world today! What saddens me is that there are people in relationships that are on the brink of a fallout. Satan has been successful in destroying marriages. Either one or both of the spouse side with him rather than siding with God, the Designer of Marriage. Once a marriage falls apart, either one or both also depart God and close the love story with a final chapter. I often tell couples in any relationships to keep Jesus at the center, in between them. When you look at the person you're having a relationship with and before you "react in anyway" to the person, you must go through Jesus first. Here's an example, if you're going to "yell" at the person you love, you'll have to "yell" at Jesus first. If you're going to "hate" the person, you'll have to "hate" Jesus first. Every action and words must pass by Jesus first. Indeed, He'll be hurt because many of us, including myself, have hurt Him with words. This is the storm I hate!
May the Lord continue to be a blessing to you all this week!!
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Church on Sunday with Mr Bean
Not Jelly Bean but Silly Bean! :) I had a great laff at the end of this video. He's very expressive. Even without captioning, he does make those who don't hear, laff! :) Enjoy!
Amazing Grace
Lots of repetitions but neat showing all the "sinners" like 'me', 'us'! We need God's grace because we do not deserve anything! Thank You, Lord, for giving us Your grace and truth!
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
March of the Unqualified
Yes! Get in line! Love this short video!! Each of us have a "gift" from God. Use it for His glory!
The Last Painting
Whoooo! This is really touching!! Stay fixed to the end!! Just Ultimately Awesome!
Monday, February 19, 2007
Big, Bad Wolves
During yesterday's powerful bible class, Matt led us into the gospel of John, chapter 10, where Jesus talks about "thieves and robbers" and "wolves". (Read John 10:1-18) After class, I was informed, in private, that there were "wolves" on the outside of the Lord's church at Fairfax persuading some of our members to leave Fairfax and join another denomination/church. Not long ago, I got a comment from someone explaining how they really enjoyed our deaf services and how I continue to be an inspiration to them are the ones that passes "hollow and deceptive words" (Col. 2:8). They are the very ones trying to destroy other churches (not only Fairfax) for their own gain.
If the "so-called sheep" leaves the flock for another "pasture" (church), they're either "confused", "deceived", or "one of the first three soils" mentioned in the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13). In my previous blog, "Let It Go", if they do not want to remain with us, we can, at least, try and work things out. But most of the time, they prefer to simply "vanish into thin air" without a reason. I will never know except that only God knows. It's not really my problem. If their "story" ends with a final chapter with us, then I leave that up to God.
Such "so-called sheep (Christian)" did not follow the Scripture, "..did not wholeheartedly obey the form of sound doctrine.." as shown here, "But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which you were entrusted." Romans 6:17 (niv)
The church knows whom are "vital servants of the Lord" and "who are not". The church ought to be considered as internally sanctified. There will always be "hypocritical actors/actresses" connected to the church that those outside have already identified by observing their "unmasked action".
"For if they "had" belong to us, they would remained with us" was clearly quoted in 1 John 2:19. This has been happening not only for centuries but today and until Jesus comes again! Now, returning to the "Parable of the Sower", there will be approximately 75% (3 out of 4 will fall away from the truth) of the people whom have "connected" themselves to the Lord will fall away with either a "hard heart" (without understanding), or "unrooted" (temporary servant), or "worry wort" (deceitfulness of wealth and worries of life chokes this person).
Believe me.. The grass (pasture) you're eating at now may be delicious for a time-being (exciting church, exciting worship, instrumental music, lights & sounds, liturgical dancing, and others). Then you'll begin looking for a better pasture to eat. But, again, it'll become "manna and quail" to you then you'll begin looking elsewhere. This clearly explains the "first" and "second" person in the Parable of the Sower. Such a person is never "rooted" in the truth, in His church. They've temporarily rooted then de-rooted themselves in/from"organizations".
Here's an interesting article @ this site: http://www.thepropheticyears.com/reasons/Wolves%20in%20sheeps%20clothing.HTM
Be forewarned of the Big, Bad Wolves out there! "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." John 10:10 (niv) Jesus identified the "thieves" as other "religous leaders" during His days: Pharisees, Saduccees, and teachers of the law. Satan was using them in effort to destroy the Lord's church!! And that's exactly what's happening around the world today! We have other "deaf churches" criticizing, ridiculing, stealing to/from other "deaf churches".
The Apostle Paul had the same issue as we're having today. He had "wolves" whom have infiltrated the Lord's church in Galatia, "[This matter arose] because some false brothers had infiltrated our ranks to spy on the freedom we have in Christ Jesus and to make us slaves." Galatians 2:4 (niv)
Christians, stop being the "Big, Bad Wolves". We're not to fight against each other. We're to fight against Satan. There are souls out there without Christ Jesus, without access to Heaven. They are the ones we're to steal away from Satan and "kill and destroy" his/her relationship with evil. Let's lead them to Jesus whom is the gate leading them to green pasture (Kingdom of God; church), "I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture." John 10:9 (niv)
If the "so-called sheep" leaves the flock for another "pasture" (church), they're either "confused", "deceived", or "one of the first three soils" mentioned in the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13). In my previous blog, "Let It Go", if they do not want to remain with us, we can, at least, try and work things out. But most of the time, they prefer to simply "vanish into thin air" without a reason. I will never know except that only God knows. It's not really my problem. If their "story" ends with a final chapter with us, then I leave that up to God.
"They went out from us, but they did not really belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us; but their going showed that none of them belonged to us."
1 John 2:19 (niv)
Such "so-called sheep (Christian)" did not follow the Scripture, "..did not wholeheartedly obey the form of sound doctrine.." as shown here, "But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which you were entrusted." Romans 6:17 (niv)
The church knows whom are "vital servants of the Lord" and "who are not". The church ought to be considered as internally sanctified. There will always be "hypocritical actors/actresses" connected to the church that those outside have already identified by observing their "unmasked action".
"For if they "had" belong to us, they would remained with us" was clearly quoted in 1 John 2:19. This has been happening not only for centuries but today and until Jesus comes again! Now, returning to the "Parable of the Sower", there will be approximately 75% (3 out of 4 will fall away from the truth) of the people whom have "connected" themselves to the Lord will fall away with either a "hard heart" (without understanding), or "unrooted" (temporary servant), or "worry wort" (deceitfulness of wealth and worries of life chokes this person).
Believe me.. The grass (pasture) you're eating at now may be delicious for a time-being (exciting church, exciting worship, instrumental music, lights & sounds, liturgical dancing, and others). Then you'll begin looking for a better pasture to eat. But, again, it'll become "manna and quail" to you then you'll begin looking elsewhere. This clearly explains the "first" and "second" person in the Parable of the Sower. Such a person is never "rooted" in the truth, in His church. They've temporarily rooted then de-rooted themselves in/from"organizations".
Here's an interesting article @ this site: http://www.thepropheticyears.com/reasons/Wolves%20in%20sheeps%20clothing.HTM
Be forewarned of the Big, Bad Wolves out there! "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." John 10:10 (niv) Jesus identified the "thieves" as other "religous leaders" during His days: Pharisees, Saduccees, and teachers of the law. Satan was using them in effort to destroy the Lord's church!! And that's exactly what's happening around the world today! We have other "deaf churches" criticizing, ridiculing, stealing to/from other "deaf churches".
The Apostle Paul had the same issue as we're having today. He had "wolves" whom have infiltrated the Lord's church in Galatia, "[This matter arose] because some false brothers had infiltrated our ranks to spy on the freedom we have in Christ Jesus and to make us slaves." Galatians 2:4 (niv)
Christians, stop being the "Big, Bad Wolves". We're not to fight against each other. We're to fight against Satan. There are souls out there without Christ Jesus, without access to Heaven. They are the ones we're to steal away from Satan and "kill and destroy" his/her relationship with evil. Let's lead them to Jesus whom is the gate leading them to green pasture (Kingdom of God; church), "I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture." John 10:9 (niv)
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Lowenstein's Mountain
Here's the icy slope that I was talking about in my previous blog. It's too dangerous to go sledding or tubing on this slope. There are fences at the bottom of the slope as well as some trees and electric generator (boxes)..
My daughter, Angela, managed to slide down the lower portion. She was actually stuck on the upper part where I had to rescue her. :)
Enjoy your weekend!
Friday, February 16, 2007
Ice Age 3
Yup! We're living in "Ice Age" now!! It's a "three-quel" now with tons of action. We have this huge hill just in front of our home and the snow is all iced up!! You can literally slide down without a sled. My daughter's friend, Hanna, literally zoomed from the top to the mid-point of the slope and has a sore bottom. I just couldn't believe my eyes when I saw her have this "guts" to do that! Ouch! Then my daughter, Angela, got stuck on the brim of the upper slope. I had to walk all the way around the neighborhood to enter from the top instead of climbing the slope. Then cracked the ice creating a "mile-long" path leading up to where she needed to be rescued. Amanda helped create a "yard-worth" path and got to Angela first. But Angela refused to allow Amanda to be her "Savior" and waited for Daddy to come to her rescue. LOL!
Anyways, it was an interesting day. I saw my neighbor trying to remove the ice from around his car with a snow-shovel. I knew it wouldn't budge. You will need a metalic ground shovel to crack away the ice around the cars. I saw that he had simply given up and decided to ring his doorbell and offered my help. We went on attacking the ice and they got to move two of their vehicles out of "ice-way".. I told my neighbor that I'm doing this for God and then said, "God bless you this icy day!" :)
Here are a couple of pictures of me sliding down the ice. I'll try and get the picture of the slope tomorrow and post it in my blog. Stand by but for now, here's me on the ice!! Whoopee do!!
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
He Died For You
"Warning": Graphic video..
While Jesus is being crucified on the cross, watch His eyes as He looks up into Heaven. His pupils are being dilated meaning He's approaching His final breath. Interesting special effects.
Game Of Life: Night School Pt 1
Game of Life: Keep Asking Questions sermon from Sunday, February 4th..
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Game of Life: God-sized Goals Part one
This is the fourth of seven lesson series on the Game of Life. Part one..
Let It Go!
Thanks to John Holton for forwarding this article.. Point #2 caught my eye because of the word, "story".. When each soul commits his/her life to Jesus and His church, his/her "story" with God begins. But it ends when he/she cease to be faithful with God. Read on!
Let it go for 2007 By T. D. Jakes
1. There are people who can walk away from you. And hear me when I tell you this! When people can walk away from you: let them walk. I don't want you to try to talk another person into staying with you, loving you, calling you, caring about you, coming to see you, staying attached to you. I mean hang up the phone. When people can walk away from you let them walk. Your destiny is never tied to anybody that left. The bible said that, they came out from us that it might be made manifest that they were not for us. For had they been of us, no doubt they would have continued with us. [1 John 2:19] People leave you because they are not joined to you. And if they are not joined to you, you can't make them stay. Let them go!
2. And it doesn't mean that they are a bad person it just means that their part in the story is over. And you've got to know when people's part in your story is over so that you don't keep trying to raise the dead. You've got to know when it's dead. You've got to know when it's over. Let me tell you something. I've got the gift of good-bye. It's the tenth spiritual gift, I believe in good-bye. It's not that I'm hateful, it's that I'm faithful, and I know whatever God means for me to have He'll give it to me. And if it takes too much sweat I don't need it. Stop begging people to stay. Let them go!!
3. If you are holding on to something that doesn't belong to you and was never intended for your life, then you need to...... LET IT GO!!!
4. If you are holding on to past hurts and pains. LET IT GO!!!
5. If someone can't treat you right, love you back, and see your worth.....LET IT GO!!!
6. If someone has angered you .......LET IT GO!!!
7. If you are holding on to some thoughts of evil and revenge......LET IT GO!!!
8. If you are involved in a wrong relationship or addiction......LET IT GO!!!
9. If you are holding on to a job that no longer meets your needs or talents….. LET IT GO!!!
10. If you have a bad attitude.......LET IT GO!!!
11. If you keep judging others to make yourself feel better......LET IT GO!!!
12. If you're stuck in the past and God is trying to take you to a new level in
Him...... LET IT GO!!!
13. If you are struggling with the healing of a broken relationship.......LET IT GO!!!
14. If you keep trying to help someone who won't even try to help themselves...... LET IT GO!!!
15. If you're feeling depressed and stressed .......LET IT GO!!!
16. If there is a particular situation that you are so used to handling yourself and God is saying "take your hands off of it," then you need to......LET IT GO!!!
Let the past be the past. Forget the former things. GOD is doing a new thing for 2007 !!! LET IT GO!!!
"The Battle is the Lord's!"
During the next 60 seconds, Stop whatever you are doing, and take this opportunity. (Literally it is only ONE minute!) All you have to do is the following: You simply say "The Lords Prayer" for the person that sent you this message:
The Lords Prayer Our Father, who are in Heaven,
Hallowed be Thy Name, Thy Kingdom Come,
Thy Will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.
Give us this day, our daily bread
and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
For Thine is the Kingdom, and the Power, and the Glory, forever.
Amen.
Next, stop and think and appreciate God's power in your life, for doing what you know is pleasing to Him. Jesus said, If you are ashamed of me, I will be a shamed of you before My Father" If you are not ashamed, send this message only if you believe. "Yes, I love my God. He is my fountain of Life and My Savior. He Keeps me going day and night. Without Him, I am no one. But with Him, I can do everything, Christ is my strength." If you love God and you are not ashamed of all the great things that He has done for you send this on. God loves you and watches over you everyday.
"Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle"
Let it go for 2007 By T. D. Jakes
1. There are people who can walk away from you. And hear me when I tell you this! When people can walk away from you: let them walk. I don't want you to try to talk another person into staying with you, loving you, calling you, caring about you, coming to see you, staying attached to you. I mean hang up the phone. When people can walk away from you let them walk. Your destiny is never tied to anybody that left. The bible said that, they came out from us that it might be made manifest that they were not for us. For had they been of us, no doubt they would have continued with us. [1 John 2:19] People leave you because they are not joined to you. And if they are not joined to you, you can't make them stay. Let them go!
2. And it doesn't mean that they are a bad person it just means that their part in the story is over. And you've got to know when people's part in your story is over so that you don't keep trying to raise the dead. You've got to know when it's dead. You've got to know when it's over. Let me tell you something. I've got the gift of good-bye. It's the tenth spiritual gift, I believe in good-bye. It's not that I'm hateful, it's that I'm faithful, and I know whatever God means for me to have He'll give it to me. And if it takes too much sweat I don't need it. Stop begging people to stay. Let them go!!
3. If you are holding on to something that doesn't belong to you and was never intended for your life, then you need to...... LET IT GO!!!
4. If you are holding on to past hurts and pains. LET IT GO!!!
5. If someone can't treat you right, love you back, and see your worth.....LET IT GO!!!
6. If someone has angered you .......LET IT GO!!!
7. If you are holding on to some thoughts of evil and revenge......LET IT GO!!!
8. If you are involved in a wrong relationship or addiction......LET IT GO!!!
9. If you are holding on to a job that no longer meets your needs or talents….. LET IT GO!!!
10. If you have a bad attitude.......LET IT GO!!!
11. If you keep judging others to make yourself feel better......LET IT GO!!!
12. If you're stuck in the past and God is trying to take you to a new level in
Him...... LET IT GO!!!
13. If you are struggling with the healing of a broken relationship.......LET IT GO!!!
14. If you keep trying to help someone who won't even try to help themselves...... LET IT GO!!!
15. If you're feeling depressed and stressed .......LET IT GO!!!
16. If there is a particular situation that you are so used to handling yourself and God is saying "take your hands off of it," then you need to......LET IT GO!!!
Let the past be the past. Forget the former things. GOD is doing a new thing for 2007 !!! LET IT GO!!!
"The Battle is the Lord's!"
During the next 60 seconds, Stop whatever you are doing, and take this opportunity. (Literally it is only ONE minute!) All you have to do is the following: You simply say "The Lords Prayer" for the person that sent you this message:
The Lords Prayer Our Father, who are in Heaven,
Hallowed be Thy Name, Thy Kingdom Come,
Thy Will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.
Give us this day, our daily bread
and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
For Thine is the Kingdom, and the Power, and the Glory, forever.
Amen.
Next, stop and think and appreciate God's power in your life, for doing what you know is pleasing to Him. Jesus said, If you are ashamed of me, I will be a shamed of you before My Father" If you are not ashamed, send this message only if you believe. "Yes, I love my God. He is my fountain of Life and My Savior. He Keeps me going day and night. Without Him, I am no one. But with Him, I can do everything, Christ is my strength." If you love God and you are not ashamed of all the great things that He has done for you send this on. God loves you and watches over you everyday.
"Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle"
Monday, February 12, 2007
Transforming Worship
Yes. I'm sharing my thoughts aloud! Sometimes I feel like Isaiah when he cried out to God,
"Woe to me!" I cried. "I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty." Isaiah 6:5 (niv).
Doesn't that make you shiver?? If not, you're standing far from God!
"These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men." Matthew 15:8-9 (niv).
I hate superficial praise. I hate worshippers who comes in with an intentional "half-heartedness". In my experience, discussions about worship tend to focus on the mind, what you know or what you have learned (traditions & knowledge), not in the heart. "True" worship -- we are often taught -- is more about the mind thinking right about God rather than the heart's hunger for Him.
But the words of our Savior resound the undeniable call to worship that enters the intellect: "God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth" (John 4:24).
We've been inclined to conclude that mind is the spirit, but the Bible shows that heart is a better candidate, indeed! "In truth" certainly suggests "participation of the mind" in worship, but it is inescapably the second and most dependent on the heart first.
The heart is controlled by affections but more vulnerable to deception than the mind. But to base worship on the mind is to entertain delusion:
The mind is less subjected to deception than the heart.
The mind is the main means to "contact" God in worship as quoted in Job 11:7, "Can you fathom the mysteries of God?"
Of course! What you know about God contributes to worship but the Word of God clearly indicates that such a person may not be looking for something brilliant but something that is broken. I love this verse, "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and contrite heart - these, O God, You will not despise." Psalm 51:17. If we're to exercise worship with our minds, it may deduce God. Only hearts ignited in worship and delighting God will, in turn, experience His desire to delight us back!
Allow me to be specific in how we are to delight God in worship:
1. True worship treasures God's presence.
God welcomes those into his presence who want him. The quest may be one of desperation or of delight, of frantic need or of a loving hunger for fellowship, but the motivation is clear-and so is his pleasure with it.
In Exodus 33 and 34, a tender and powerful exchange takes place between God and Moses, spanning the range from an intimate face-to-face encounter to a dramatic declaration by the Almighty. Central point of this Scripture is the cry of Moses: "Now therefore, I pray, if I have found grace in your sight, show me now your way, that I may know you and that I may find grace in your sight." To which God replies, "My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest" (Ex. 33:13-15). Shortly following this, God displays his glory to Moses-as sure a sign of his pleasure and presence as he ever gives (Ex. 40:33-38; 1 Kings 1:8-11).
One author quoted in regards to a constant repetitions in how we worship God: "We've been vigilant in seeking constant renewal of the practice because we know that even the finest spiritual habits are vulnerable to the arthritis of ritualism-when form loses its focus. But with gentleness, the Holy Spirit has a way of drawing us back to our "first love"-to a renewed hunger and thirst for the Living God."
How true this is, "arthritis of ritualism - when form loses its focus".. It is necessary, when we gather together in worship, that we surrender our traditions and thoughts to the Lord allowing the Holy Spirit to work in the very deep core of our hearts. Certainly, this will draw us back to God with a renewed sense of worship. This eliminates comparison between our past worship experiences to the current worship experience.
Such worship encourages people to "fall in love" with God. If the phrase fall in love offends anyone (as it once did me-it wasn't sufficiently "objective") perhaps we might learn to be equally offended by "reason" that distances the heart from a passion to simply know and love God.
2. True worship humbles the heart.
In Isaiah 6:1-8, the abject cry of a sinful man, "Woe is me, for I am ruined," was not something that came to mind, but of the heart, a self-discovery made upon entering God's presence. In other words, Isaiah was pierced in his heart knowing he's doomed!
Isaiah says "I saw the Lord" with neither apology nor arrogance; it was a breakthrough of grace that produced a breakup of pride. Isaiah, a member of the educated elite of Judah, demonstrates a childlike humility and teachability. Therefore, Isaiah modeled to us how we're to worship God, "his cry, without a consciousness, shows an unreserved availability to God." We're to follow Isaiah's example of deep, hard-core humility!
Because of the importance of humility, years ago I began encouraging people to become more expressive in worship. Of course, a few things do challenge our pride more than the simplest summons to expressiveness. We're to be like a child because Jesus commanded us to be like little children. In this way, we can experience a childlike liberty in expressing themselves in worship.
One of our members, with the best of motives, once suggested, "Mark, if the leaders teach and invite people to lift their hands in worship, I think our church would grow faster," and then added, "I think you might injure some people's pride." "Injure pride?" I said gently. "Why, I was hoping to kill it altogether."
Though we're to "come as little children before the Father", pride tends to insist on finding a way to justify and preserve itself (even in church). I try to help people learn the humility of Isaiah. If you have seen a fellow brother or sister falling flat on the floor, or raising his/her arms up in the air, what would your response be? Only this will help them view God afresh and pave the way to deeply felt confession and purification. Few things challenge our pride more than the simplest summons to expressiveness.
3. True worship sacrifices and then expects something from God.
Hebrews 11:6 puts it clearly: "He that comes to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of those who humbly seek him."
Worship always brings a sacrifice to God, that "he that comes," whether with praise, an offering, or by "laying down" something instructed by the Holy Spirit, is presenting something of himself to God. Simultaneously we are told that the worshiper is to believe something will be given in return by God himself-something rewarding, benevolent, and good.
Some try to defend God against human selfishness and refuse all talk of "reward." But the truth is, God freely offers the reward of his blessing and delights to do so. He doesn't yell, "Don't you dare give me something and suppose you're manipulating me to give back!" Instead, his Word simply says, in effect, "Since you come to me, I would expect you to believe I will reward your quest."
Of course, tithes or offerings (which are, indeed, appropriate and biblical "sacrifices") aren't to be a tit-for-tat bargain with God! But God's call to worship is attended by his own commitment to bless us. The promise of God in Malachi 3:10 ("Try me now in this ... if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it") reveals a largess in the heart of God toward human giving-and the justice of our expecting a blessing in return.
4. True worship extends God's love.
If God-pleasing worship addresses human need, it also will extend God's love to others. It is, thus, unsurprising that the "greatest commandment" issues into "the second, which is like (in importance) unto it." Vertically, we're to love and worship God while horizontally, to love the neighbor. This means such things as: Forgiving others, seeking peace and reconciliation day-by-day. Gracious, lifestyle evangelism in both conduct and communication, living out a believable, winsome witness.
We're to have an unselfish, servant-minded attitude in reaching out to others in need. Such a person has a "heart" to care for victims of neglect and injustice. It's not always that easy to do but it's a privilege to serve and bring our community to Jesus.
Perhaps, we ought to have a "Ministry time," which can lasts about 10 minutes as we prepare then direct people to form small groups, to share needs, then pray. This can be an essential act to our effectiveness as a congregation.
"Ministry time" accomplishes four things:
(1) it is a way to express God's love evoked during worship,
(2) it helps people use their ministry gifts in the assembly,
(3) it allows people to express themselves personally and to care and pray for one another, and
(4) it lays the foundation for the invitation-it is infinitely easier to invite people to receive the love of God in Jesus Christ after they have had a personal encounter with some people who have shown it!
With such sacrifices, God seems to be well pleased!!
"Woe to me!" I cried. "I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty." Isaiah 6:5 (niv).
Doesn't that make you shiver?? If not, you're standing far from God!
"These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men." Matthew 15:8-9 (niv).
I hate superficial praise. I hate worshippers who comes in with an intentional "half-heartedness". In my experience, discussions about worship tend to focus on the mind, what you know or what you have learned (traditions & knowledge), not in the heart. "True" worship -- we are often taught -- is more about the mind thinking right about God rather than the heart's hunger for Him.
But the words of our Savior resound the undeniable call to worship that enters the intellect: "God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth" (John 4:24).
We've been inclined to conclude that mind is the spirit, but the Bible shows that heart is a better candidate, indeed! "In truth" certainly suggests "participation of the mind" in worship, but it is inescapably the second and most dependent on the heart first.
The heart is controlled by affections but more vulnerable to deception than the mind. But to base worship on the mind is to entertain delusion:
The mind is less subjected to deception than the heart.
The mind is the main means to "contact" God in worship as quoted in Job 11:7, "Can you fathom the mysteries of God?"
Of course! What you know about God contributes to worship but the Word of God clearly indicates that such a person may not be looking for something brilliant but something that is broken. I love this verse, "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and contrite heart - these, O God, You will not despise." Psalm 51:17. If we're to exercise worship with our minds, it may deduce God. Only hearts ignited in worship and delighting God will, in turn, experience His desire to delight us back!
Allow me to be specific in how we are to delight God in worship:
1. True worship treasures God's presence.
God welcomes those into his presence who want him. The quest may be one of desperation or of delight, of frantic need or of a loving hunger for fellowship, but the motivation is clear-and so is his pleasure with it.
In Exodus 33 and 34, a tender and powerful exchange takes place between God and Moses, spanning the range from an intimate face-to-face encounter to a dramatic declaration by the Almighty. Central point of this Scripture is the cry of Moses: "Now therefore, I pray, if I have found grace in your sight, show me now your way, that I may know you and that I may find grace in your sight." To which God replies, "My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest" (Ex. 33:13-15). Shortly following this, God displays his glory to Moses-as sure a sign of his pleasure and presence as he ever gives (Ex. 40:33-38; 1 Kings 1:8-11).
One author quoted in regards to a constant repetitions in how we worship God: "We've been vigilant in seeking constant renewal of the practice because we know that even the finest spiritual habits are vulnerable to the arthritis of ritualism-when form loses its focus. But with gentleness, the Holy Spirit has a way of drawing us back to our "first love"-to a renewed hunger and thirst for the Living God."
How true this is, "arthritis of ritualism - when form loses its focus".. It is necessary, when we gather together in worship, that we surrender our traditions and thoughts to the Lord allowing the Holy Spirit to work in the very deep core of our hearts. Certainly, this will draw us back to God with a renewed sense of worship. This eliminates comparison between our past worship experiences to the current worship experience.
Such worship encourages people to "fall in love" with God. If the phrase fall in love offends anyone (as it once did me-it wasn't sufficiently "objective") perhaps we might learn to be equally offended by "reason" that distances the heart from a passion to simply know and love God.
2. True worship humbles the heart.
In Isaiah 6:1-8, the abject cry of a sinful man, "Woe is me, for I am ruined," was not something that came to mind, but of the heart, a self-discovery made upon entering God's presence. In other words, Isaiah was pierced in his heart knowing he's doomed!
Isaiah says "I saw the Lord" with neither apology nor arrogance; it was a breakthrough of grace that produced a breakup of pride. Isaiah, a member of the educated elite of Judah, demonstrates a childlike humility and teachability. Therefore, Isaiah modeled to us how we're to worship God, "his cry, without a consciousness, shows an unreserved availability to God." We're to follow Isaiah's example of deep, hard-core humility!
Because of the importance of humility, years ago I began encouraging people to become more expressive in worship. Of course, a few things do challenge our pride more than the simplest summons to expressiveness. We're to be like a child because Jesus commanded us to be like little children. In this way, we can experience a childlike liberty in expressing themselves in worship.
One of our members, with the best of motives, once suggested, "Mark, if the leaders teach and invite people to lift their hands in worship, I think our church would grow faster," and then added, "I think you might injure some people's pride." "Injure pride?" I said gently. "Why, I was hoping to kill it altogether."
Though we're to "come as little children before the Father", pride tends to insist on finding a way to justify and preserve itself (even in church). I try to help people learn the humility of Isaiah. If you have seen a fellow brother or sister falling flat on the floor, or raising his/her arms up in the air, what would your response be? Only this will help them view God afresh and pave the way to deeply felt confession and purification. Few things challenge our pride more than the simplest summons to expressiveness.
3. True worship sacrifices and then expects something from God.
Hebrews 11:6 puts it clearly: "He that comes to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of those who humbly seek him."
Worship always brings a sacrifice to God, that "he that comes," whether with praise, an offering, or by "laying down" something instructed by the Holy Spirit, is presenting something of himself to God. Simultaneously we are told that the worshiper is to believe something will be given in return by God himself-something rewarding, benevolent, and good.
Some try to defend God against human selfishness and refuse all talk of "reward." But the truth is, God freely offers the reward of his blessing and delights to do so. He doesn't yell, "Don't you dare give me something and suppose you're manipulating me to give back!" Instead, his Word simply says, in effect, "Since you come to me, I would expect you to believe I will reward your quest."
Of course, tithes or offerings (which are, indeed, appropriate and biblical "sacrifices") aren't to be a tit-for-tat bargain with God! But God's call to worship is attended by his own commitment to bless us. The promise of God in Malachi 3:10 ("Try me now in this ... if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it") reveals a largess in the heart of God toward human giving-and the justice of our expecting a blessing in return.
4. True worship extends God's love.
If God-pleasing worship addresses human need, it also will extend God's love to others. It is, thus, unsurprising that the "greatest commandment" issues into "the second, which is like (in importance) unto it." Vertically, we're to love and worship God while horizontally, to love the neighbor. This means such things as: Forgiving others, seeking peace and reconciliation day-by-day. Gracious, lifestyle evangelism in both conduct and communication, living out a believable, winsome witness.
We're to have an unselfish, servant-minded attitude in reaching out to others in need. Such a person has a "heart" to care for victims of neglect and injustice. It's not always that easy to do but it's a privilege to serve and bring our community to Jesus.
Perhaps, we ought to have a "Ministry time," which can lasts about 10 minutes as we prepare then direct people to form small groups, to share needs, then pray. This can be an essential act to our effectiveness as a congregation.
"Ministry time" accomplishes four things:
(1) it is a way to express God's love evoked during worship,
(2) it helps people use their ministry gifts in the assembly,
(3) it allows people to express themselves personally and to care and pray for one another, and
(4) it lays the foundation for the invitation-it is infinitely easier to invite people to receive the love of God in Jesus Christ after they have had a personal encounter with some people who have shown it!
With such sacrifices, God seems to be well pleased!!
Friday, February 09, 2007
Righteous Anger
What really angers me???
I'm not talking about my personal pet peeves. Like when someone near you in the theatre kicks your chair through an entire movie. Or when an inattentive driver leaves on his turn signal for fifty miles. Neither are we talking about annoyances that triggers your temper tantrums because of sinful issues in your heart.
Rather, what stirs righteous anger inside you?
What makes you made on God's behalf?
What offends your sense of justice and morality?
Seriously, I have plenty of that! Is it wrong to be "angry" with a righteous anger? Jesus did!
There are a couple of things that made Jesus angry. He once entered the temple in Jerusalem and found a bunch of merchants who had turned the "House of Worship", "The Place of Prayer" into a "worship emporium". They weren't interested in "honoring God"; all they wanted was a profit. So Jesus made a whip and drove them out!
Once of His core values, then, was the sanctity of worship.
Another time, He got so fed up with the hypocrisy of the Jewish religious leaders that He chewed them out. If there was ever a time Jesus yelled Himself hoarse, this was it!
So another of Jesus' core values was integrity.
I'll tell you one thing that makes me real mad. I hate when Christ's followers; those supposedly devoted Christians, become so self-focused that we think the church is here for us. You hear and see them through thick walls asking themselves:
"What about me?"
"What about my needs?"
"I don't like the way our leaders are doing this."
"I want to see more of this than that."
It's nothing but "me's", "my's" and "I's".. All of this is simply a "me-centered mentality!"
Hello!? Sometimes, Christians forget that we are the church, and we're here for the world, not for ourselves!! Where's the "Christ-centered mentality or the Other-centered mentality" when God needs it!! I don't care what your grandparents, or your parents, or your Philosophy teacher or your brother, or your sister, or your aunt told you what you need to be "forewarned" about church. We overlook the things Jesus knows best and what He's done for humanity!! Yet, in the church, we're arguing over change, systems, belief, and other petty stuff. We hold on to traditions. Then ignoring those hurting out in the world.
One of my core values is reaching out to those without Jesus!!
Unfortunately, I'm not bringing them into the quagmire in the church right now.. Would you have a surgery done in an infected operating room? Clean (repent) what is going on inside before we bring in the those hurting in the world!!
So, what drives me up the wall for God?
In my next post, I'll tell you what brings me joy for God?
I'm not talking about my personal pet peeves. Like when someone near you in the theatre kicks your chair through an entire movie. Or when an inattentive driver leaves on his turn signal for fifty miles. Neither are we talking about annoyances that triggers your temper tantrums because of sinful issues in your heart.
Rather, what stirs righteous anger inside you?
What makes you made on God's behalf?
What offends your sense of justice and morality?
Seriously, I have plenty of that! Is it wrong to be "angry" with a righteous anger? Jesus did!
There are a couple of things that made Jesus angry. He once entered the temple in Jerusalem and found a bunch of merchants who had turned the "House of Worship", "The Place of Prayer" into a "worship emporium". They weren't interested in "honoring God"; all they wanted was a profit. So Jesus made a whip and drove them out!
Once of His core values, then, was the sanctity of worship.
Another time, He got so fed up with the hypocrisy of the Jewish religious leaders that He chewed them out. If there was ever a time Jesus yelled Himself hoarse, this was it!
So another of Jesus' core values was integrity.
I'll tell you one thing that makes me real mad. I hate when Christ's followers; those supposedly devoted Christians, become so self-focused that we think the church is here for us. You hear and see them through thick walls asking themselves:
"What about me?"
"What about my needs?"
"I don't like the way our leaders are doing this."
"I want to see more of this than that."
It's nothing but "me's", "my's" and "I's".. All of this is simply a "me-centered mentality!"
Hello!? Sometimes, Christians forget that we are the church, and we're here for the world, not for ourselves!! Where's the "Christ-centered mentality or the Other-centered mentality" when God needs it!! I don't care what your grandparents, or your parents, or your Philosophy teacher or your brother, or your sister, or your aunt told you what you need to be "forewarned" about church. We overlook the things Jesus knows best and what He's done for humanity!! Yet, in the church, we're arguing over change, systems, belief, and other petty stuff. We hold on to traditions. Then ignoring those hurting out in the world.
One of my core values is reaching out to those without Jesus!!
Unfortunately, I'm not bringing them into the quagmire in the church right now.. Would you have a surgery done in an infected operating room? Clean (repent) what is going on inside before we bring in the those hurting in the world!!
So, what drives me up the wall for God?
- Christians decided to skip church for other activities.
- Christians do not take the time in reading the Bible before Sunday's services. Boy! I tell you that many come to church unprepared. They don't even have an answer.
- Christians comes to church with a "half-heart".
- Christians comes to criticize, ridicule, and looking for faults.
- Christians who are rude.
- Christians who put on a mask (fake) on Sundays but live a different life the rest of the week. I desire authenticity!!
- Christians who doesn't understand my vision for the deaf church (I can't move on without the leaders support and blessings.)
- Christians who knows they're giving excuses why they "can't" serve, worship, fellowship, praise, pray, study and love God.
In my next post, I'll tell you what brings me joy for God?
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Blogging...
Bloggers,
In the past two weeks, I've been carefully watching the hit counter and noticed "THE NIKE FORMULA" has not been visited as much as it ought to be. So, I decided to take a break from blogging and use my energies on other things that proves to be more effective than this. I'm not able to get much help from Blogger and YouTube with problems in posting videos on my blog after transitioning from the Old Blogger to the New Blogger. I can see a spike in "hits" when I post videos on my blog but a sharp decline when my postings are typewritten.
It's been a fun 2+ years blogging.. Obviously, my bloggers are more focused on other things in life. And, I guess I'll move on, too.. :)
If you see a post in the future, that'll be more of my journal recording my thoughts, spiritual inspriation, etc..
In the past two weeks, I've been carefully watching the hit counter and noticed "THE NIKE FORMULA" has not been visited as much as it ought to be. So, I decided to take a break from blogging and use my energies on other things that proves to be more effective than this. I'm not able to get much help from Blogger and YouTube with problems in posting videos on my blog after transitioning from the Old Blogger to the New Blogger. I can see a spike in "hits" when I post videos on my blog but a sharp decline when my postings are typewritten.
It's been a fun 2+ years blogging.. Obviously, my bloggers are more focused on other things in life. And, I guess I'll move on, too.. :)
If you see a post in the future, that'll be more of my journal recording my thoughts, spiritual inspriation, etc..
Monday, January 29, 2007
Your Final Chapter
Questions to consider when you write the "Final Chapter" of your life:
What did my life add up to?
Did I really matter?
What did I live for?
Who will remember me?
What will they say about me when I'm gone?
Why was it important that I existed?
So many questions. So much time. Will you lie there with no regrets? Some regrets? Or nothing but regrets?
Imagine these questions to yourselves. Reflect them upon yourselves. Imagine, if today is the day of your death, how would the final chapter be written? If it's not a pretty chapter, you can start today and begin anew!
"Where there is no vision, the people perish." Proverbs 29:18 (kjv)
What did my life add up to?
Did I really matter?
What did I live for?
Who will remember me?
What will they say about me when I'm gone?
Why was it important that I existed?
So many questions. So much time. Will you lie there with no regrets? Some regrets? Or nothing but regrets?
Imagine these questions to yourselves. Reflect them upon yourselves. Imagine, if today is the day of your death, how would the final chapter be written? If it's not a pretty chapter, you can start today and begin anew!
"Where there is no vision, the people perish." Proverbs 29:18 (kjv)
And your answer will be?
What is more powerful than God?
What is more evil than Satan?
Rich people don't have it.
Poor people have it.
If you eat it, you will die.
What is more evil than Satan?
Rich people don't have it.
Poor people have it.
If you eat it, you will die.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Evangelism Linebacker
Here are two links to a video, "The Evangelism Linebacker". There's another one with a "Christmas message".. *Warning* No caption on the two though I'm sure you get the message. It's pretty funny seeing a "Linebacker" tackling those who do not wish to share Jesus with their friends, neighbors, co-workers and you name it. :)
http://www.sermonspice.com/cart/?p=product&id=722
http://www.sermonspice.com/videos/3859/Christmas-Linebacker
http://www.sermonspice.com/cart/?p=product&id=722
http://www.sermonspice.com/videos/3859/Christmas-Linebacker
Florida Christian Conference for the Deaf
Mark your calendars, PDA's and fridge...
Florida Christian Conference for the Deaf (FCCD) will take place in Jacksonville, Florida on April 19-22, 2007.. Check out their web @ http://www.fccd.us/index.htm. Plan on being there for a wonderful Christian fellowship and instruction of His eternal Word!
Heroes
Each and every church need healthy leaders and servants. The church need people modelling spiritual fervor. I personally wouldn't want to be around critical and Spirit-fire-dousing people. I want to be around people who hunger for God and the truth. I want to be around committed people that aren't easily swayed by Satan's schemes. I have a few people that I love to be around because such people encourage into the next level with God.
Here are a few biblical people that I wish I could spend time with while on earth. Their leadership qualities and love for God still inspires me today:
1. Paul -- Believe in something bigger than yourself. "I have placed you as a light for the Gentiles, that you should bring salvation to the end of the earth" (Acts 13:47, NASB). He was thoroughly & excessively submissive to the will of God, and he was committed to a specific, meaningful mission. Paul had courage in the face of opposition because he had limitless horizons in his mission. He believed in himself, but he believed in something bigger than himself -- Jesus Christ and him crucified. Jesus is the reason for his undying motivation!
2. Nehemiah -- Build on what God has given you. Nehemiah's leadership was built on His faithfulness with God. He would build the walls of faith. He was not seen in comparison to other great Old Testament heroes. God has given each leader specific gifts. Some are not as visible. All are useful. Some minister's gifts will never be recognized with shouts of joy or approval. Some minister's lives will be spent in out-of-the-way places and unheard of names to the adoring public, but God knows. The measure of a man is faithfulness, not as a person favorably known.
3. Joshua -- Bring the best people to the table. I believe this is very important to God. God wants to use people who desires to serve His will. And ministers will find people with a burning desire to serve God. Joshua had been in the presence of God. "Put off thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest is holy. And Joshua did so" (Joshua 5:15 ASV). Because of this special blessing, he was appointed as one with judicial powers and responsibilities in Joshua 14:6-15. He didn't say to God, "Come back to me later and ask tell me to take my show off another time. I'm tied up with these priorities of my own." He was courageous as indicated by the spy scenario in Numbers 13:31. He was most likely the envy of other young leaders. But Moses brought him to the table of leadership because he was the best person for the job. My guess is that he had skills Moses admired. Ministers need to bring the best people to the table and then trust them to do their work. Healthy ministers encourage staff. They believe in them because they have skills that are better than their own.
4. Barnabas -- Bridge the gaps of differing opinions. Barnabas was nicknamed "son of encouragement" (Acts 4:36, RSV). He bridged the gap between the Greek and Jewish worlds. Born a Cypriot and reared a Levite, he linked the Hellenistic world and the Jerusalem church. He was not an "out-front" kind of person but rather stayed in the background as a fan and supporter of Paul. The most memorable aspect of effective leadership of a minister is when he has survived the various of differing opinions and modeled having each side respect the other.
5. Moses -- Blind your eyes to petty criticism. This is where people do not understand my motive against critical people. I tend to listen in then decide whether it is worth the argument to continue the debate. It all depends on the "critique" and his/her heart. Moses was seen as a patient leader of a people with little faith (Exodus 16:8, 16-20). They complained and whined at every inconvenience (Exodus 15:24, 16:2-3). He did get disgusted. He struck the rock and disobeyed God, but his patience had worn thin. He had had enough. The wise leader will work hard at blinding his or her eyes to the pettiness of church members' criticism. If that doesn't work, he outlasts them. Just about every minister has "struck the rock" at one time or another, but then, like Moses, the same minister usually has the resilience to see things through.
6. Elijah -- Bind the ties of love and courage. Today's phrase calls it "tough love." Some call it a "tough mind and a tender heart." Elijah had both. He loved God. He had the courage to speak to the evils of his day. Where is your God? he asked. "Perhaps he is asleep and must be awakened" (1 Kings 18:27, RSV). His sarcasm showed his disappointment for those who had forsaken God. In every effective leader's life, there is a time for love but also a time for courage. Effective leaders have the courage to speak even when it is unpopular to speak because they speak the truth with love. This is where ministers are attacked when they touch sensitive spots.
7. Peter -- Bounce back after you are knocked down. In Matthew 16, Peter was seen as both a "rock" and a "stumbling block." He was both blessed and disgraced almost in the same breath. Discouraged by the disapproval of Jesus, yet blessed by the warmth and affection of Jesus, Peter was down but not out. Resilience may be the cornerstone of effective leadership. You get knocked down, but you bounce back.
Here are a few biblical people that I wish I could spend time with while on earth. Their leadership qualities and love for God still inspires me today:
1. Paul -- Believe in something bigger than yourself. "I have placed you as a light for the Gentiles, that you should bring salvation to the end of the earth" (Acts 13:47, NASB). He was thoroughly & excessively submissive to the will of God, and he was committed to a specific, meaningful mission. Paul had courage in the face of opposition because he had limitless horizons in his mission. He believed in himself, but he believed in something bigger than himself -- Jesus Christ and him crucified. Jesus is the reason for his undying motivation!
2. Nehemiah -- Build on what God has given you. Nehemiah's leadership was built on His faithfulness with God. He would build the walls of faith. He was not seen in comparison to other great Old Testament heroes. God has given each leader specific gifts. Some are not as visible. All are useful. Some minister's gifts will never be recognized with shouts of joy or approval. Some minister's lives will be spent in out-of-the-way places and unheard of names to the adoring public, but God knows. The measure of a man is faithfulness, not as a person favorably known.
3. Joshua -- Bring the best people to the table. I believe this is very important to God. God wants to use people who desires to serve His will. And ministers will find people with a burning desire to serve God. Joshua had been in the presence of God. "Put off thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest is holy. And Joshua did so" (Joshua 5:15 ASV). Because of this special blessing, he was appointed as one with judicial powers and responsibilities in Joshua 14:6-15. He didn't say to God, "Come back to me later and ask tell me to take my show off another time. I'm tied up with these priorities of my own." He was courageous as indicated by the spy scenario in Numbers 13:31. He was most likely the envy of other young leaders. But Moses brought him to the table of leadership because he was the best person for the job. My guess is that he had skills Moses admired. Ministers need to bring the best people to the table and then trust them to do their work. Healthy ministers encourage staff. They believe in them because they have skills that are better than their own.
4. Barnabas -- Bridge the gaps of differing opinions. Barnabas was nicknamed "son of encouragement" (Acts 4:36, RSV). He bridged the gap between the Greek and Jewish worlds. Born a Cypriot and reared a Levite, he linked the Hellenistic world and the Jerusalem church. He was not an "out-front" kind of person but rather stayed in the background as a fan and supporter of Paul. The most memorable aspect of effective leadership of a minister is when he has survived the various of differing opinions and modeled having each side respect the other.
5. Moses -- Blind your eyes to petty criticism. This is where people do not understand my motive against critical people. I tend to listen in then decide whether it is worth the argument to continue the debate. It all depends on the "critique" and his/her heart. Moses was seen as a patient leader of a people with little faith (Exodus 16:8, 16-20). They complained and whined at every inconvenience (Exodus 15:24, 16:2-3). He did get disgusted. He struck the rock and disobeyed God, but his patience had worn thin. He had had enough. The wise leader will work hard at blinding his or her eyes to the pettiness of church members' criticism. If that doesn't work, he outlasts them. Just about every minister has "struck the rock" at one time or another, but then, like Moses, the same minister usually has the resilience to see things through.
6. Elijah -- Bind the ties of love and courage. Today's phrase calls it "tough love." Some call it a "tough mind and a tender heart." Elijah had both. He loved God. He had the courage to speak to the evils of his day. Where is your God? he asked. "Perhaps he is asleep and must be awakened" (1 Kings 18:27, RSV). His sarcasm showed his disappointment for those who had forsaken God. In every effective leader's life, there is a time for love but also a time for courage. Effective leaders have the courage to speak even when it is unpopular to speak because they speak the truth with love. This is where ministers are attacked when they touch sensitive spots.
7. Peter -- Bounce back after you are knocked down. In Matthew 16, Peter was seen as both a "rock" and a "stumbling block." He was both blessed and disgraced almost in the same breath. Discouraged by the disapproval of Jesus, yet blessed by the warmth and affection of Jesus, Peter was down but not out. Resilience may be the cornerstone of effective leadership. You get knocked down, but you bounce back.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Game Of Life Rule #2 Promo
Check out www.fxcc.org/deaf for the promo on "The Game of Life" Rule #2 coming up this Sunday.. :) I'm struggling with Blogger & Google to get my videos uploaded on Blogger since Blogger asked me to use the new Blogger features.. Bear with me as I work with Blogger & Google to get the glitch straightened out. That's one reason why I have not been blogging since..
Your patience is appreciated!! :)
Your patience is appreciated!! :)
Thursday, January 18, 2007
The Game Of Life
This Sunday, we're beginning "The Game Of Life" (LIFEgame) sermon series where we’ll talk about us as Family.
We love them.
We loathe them.
Sometimes both at the same time! But we can’t just leave them. How do we mend old wounds, deal with difficult people, and break free from the baggage we carry? I will reveal wisdom and advice from the book of Proverbs in hope to help you overcome past hurts, navigate the future, and win in your “Family LIFE.”
LIFEgame enables the congregants to experience what their life could have been like without God's purposes. Though, some of you might still be stuck in a "life without God's purpose". Such experience enforces the need and urgency to have God's purposes for their lives. Ranging from a faithful few to many of God's faithful drift away from God's purposes for their lives.
Similar to the game, "The Game Of Life", here in the D.C. metro area, you'll find a city has already been created, complete with a university, banks, a post office, city hall, a police station, court house, prison, private companies, a shopping complex, country clubs, a cemetery and other institutions normally found in a town. Congregants may choose to get a job or start their own business to earn money, and they can opt to acquire properties like cars, houses and luxury items. Or they may choose to do something worse, rob banks, sit in jail, go to court and receive a sentence. Everyone makes choices whether they are good or bad.
Players (congregants) may decide to marry and have children, climb the ladder of success or even run for Gallaudet presidency. But in their pursuit of desirable circumstances, they may encounter obstacles such as unemployment, inflation, lawsuits, health problems and other negative life influences. The game deepens with new Christians struggling to continue their material lifestyle while learning to live by God's principles.
Before this Sunday, let's read the first three chapters of Proverbs. Take a look at the picture. Since many of us are "in driving mode", it may be time to exit the busy freeway and take off our sandals then enjoy the scenic route. You don't even need a Mapquest to find this location. Just take the next exit and enjoy God's favor!
Monday, January 08, 2007
New Year's '07 Bash
On December 31st, we hosted our first New Year's Eve Bash anticipating the arrival of the '07 year! 44 were at hand for the festivities beginning with the Deaf Worship at 6 p.m. and ending with the New Year at midnight!! Enjoy these pictures of the glorious fellowship!
Deaf Worship
FXCC members swarm the buffet filled with Boston Market grubs.
Two-Zero-Zero-Seven!!! From left to right: Robin Forshay, Zhi Lin, Jasmine & Jason Bard wishes you a spirit-filled 2007!
Our lovely sister in Christ, Dorothy, received our recognition for her faithfulness in attending the deaf worship service. Kathy Flavin, Fred Orr and Neil Ferris also received recognition for their faithfulness in worship.
Neil Ferris, Kathy Flavin, Melanie Williams, Sally Newman and others play a game of Scattergories.
Alyson Lowenstein, Jill Young and Angela Lowenstein were all smiles during this New Year's Eve Bash.
Everyone gathered together to countdown toward the New Year of 2007!
Deaf Worship
FXCC members swarm the buffet filled with Boston Market grubs.
Two-Zero-Zero-Seven!!! From left to right: Robin Forshay, Zhi Lin, Jasmine & Jason Bard wishes you a spirit-filled 2007!
Our lovely sister in Christ, Dorothy, received our recognition for her faithfulness in attending the deaf worship service. Kathy Flavin, Fred Orr and Neil Ferris also received recognition for their faithfulness in worship.
Neil Ferris, Kathy Flavin, Melanie Williams, Sally Newman and others play a game of Scattergories.
Alyson Lowenstein, Jill Young and Angela Lowenstein were all smiles during this New Year's Eve Bash.
Everyone gathered together to countdown toward the New Year of 2007!
Friday, January 05, 2007
i n c o m p e t e n t s
Don't you hate that word? Incompetent... Incompetent to stand trial. Incompetent to perform normal duties. Incompetent to make decisions. Incompetent to serve our Great and Living Lord. Sounds discouraging. Even worse, if someone close to you would dare say this to you.
I've felt this way before. It happened in 1994 after I gave my life and buried it in baptism giving the Lord my sacrifice. A couple months later, my beloved minister of the Lord, Jose Abenchuchan, came to me and said, "Mark, would you like to preach in two weeks?" Good question. I have absolutely no bible knowledge, not even a quote.. I was still learning by attending the Men's bible class memorizing the Scriptures and learning the timeline and maps. My mind wasn't taking in the Scripture which should be like water absorbed to a sponge. Then I said, "Sure.. Why not." But I wasn't exactly sure how or what or where to start.
Jose took me to the library at the old Overland Park church of Christ building. My eyes gazed around and see hundreds of books. Jose showed me some books written by Christian authors, concordances, dictionaries, bible college class books, etc., etc. Then Jose said, "Now, that'll get you started.." then he left. I was appalled as I was being clouded with these hundreds of books. My heart wasn't telling me anything. I skimmed through a few books but nothing came to mind. Until, finally, something did come to mind. I was thinking about how the deaf are so involved with stocks, mutual funds, and investing for their future. And my thoughts about it: it was a sin! Now, don't get me wrong.. It's nice to have an investment for future retirement. I'm all for it. If that's the only thing you worship today, then it becomes what God calls it, "idolatry". Anyway, I began looking at the concordances (my favorite) where it shows me the verses from a word such as "lust", "money", "power" and others.
My first lesson on Sunday. The room was packed with more than a normal deaf worship service. Jose was shocked! In the back of my mind, I thought to myself, "Perhaps, I should use my lesson for the next week. Not today.." I preached. One hour later. (Yes, I preached for one hour!) And the worse of all is, I only quoted the verses without explaining the meaning of each verse! Ouch! I sweated. People were yawning. Eyes were rolling. The chairs in the back sleeps ten. And a few deaf investors squirming in their chair. I got a bad review from them but a laughing review from Jose. I know Jose means well.. (I'm still chuckling today because it was a moment I'll never forget.)
And yes.. At that point, I did feel incompetent to preach the gospel to the deaf in the world. I don't think I ever preached again until I got into Bible school. When I decided to give up my home and career to become a full-time servant of the Lord, I still have these feelings of incompetence. I thought to myself, "God will give me a gift other than preaching the gospel." I'm thankful that I'm not a powerful orator. If I was, I would be impressing people instead of God. God is only interested in my heart, not how I preach. During Bible school, everyday, we have this "preaching lab" where ministers-in-training will have the opportunity to preach and receive criticism. It's nice to get criticism like "You need to emphasize Jesus more", "You didn't clearly explain the Scripture", "That's not what the Scripture says", "You took the Scripture out of context" and stuff like that. There were positive comments, of course. But the critiques I received still showed my incompetency to preach the gospel.
Later in my studies at Sunset International Bible Institute, I learned a whole lot more. It's about how Jesus choose His men to change the world!! Jesus didn't go to the wise. Nor did He go to the strong in faith. He didn't go to the Pharisees whom were already "teachers of the law" in the wrong way. He didn't look for spiritual elite! Jesus wasn't looking for a hunky-looking guy or a person that was chosen as the "Most Likely To Succeed" by his Jewish school classmates. Jesus chose..... Twelve.... Ordinary..... Sinful.... Insecure people like you and me!
Fishermen.
Tax collector.
Accountant.
Political activist.
They were outcast before the eyes of the Pharisees. They were partiers, cheaters, liars, deceivers. But Jesus surrounded Himself among them. Jesus prefers an ordinary guy. I've been there. I partied. I had several dates. I dumped them. I hurt people. I cheated. Pride loves me and I love pride. I was a backstabber. I was too stupid, too sinful and made many mistakes. I wasn't good enough.
But God prepared me to make a difference in this dark world. God is using me and He can still use you if you're still living the ordinary, worldly ways.
I just couldn't believe, now, how God has led me through these trials beginning on August 29th, 1994 when I first met Jose. We studied the Scripture. God pierced my heart. I looked back to all that I've done to people, and worse, myself! Then I thought to myself, "Me, a preacher". Moses been there..
Moses wanted God to choose someone else. But God is determined that Moses is da man to do the job. Moses gave his excuse, "Oh Lord, I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue." (Exodus 4:10) And that would be me, too.. I love to sing, but to preach is a the very bottom of the "To-D0-List". What if someone ask me a question where I don't know the answer? What if I say the wrong thing or quote the Scripture out of a context? I am subjected to blame. I am the center of attention. I see bananas, apples, cream pies ready to receive a beating if I give a bad message.
I read a book where a friend of the writer quoted,
"God doesn't choose the prepared. He prepares the chosen."
Wow!! That's it!! That's exactly it!! No matter how unprepared you feel, it's God's business to prepare you!! You've experienced the delicacies of the world now He wants you to taste the delicacies of Heaven! He's teaching you how to touch, taste, and smell Heaven! So you might never feel ready and that's okay.. In fact, since you might not feel ready, God will still call you and prepare you for the job. Jesus came to Matthew, the tax collector, and said, "Come and follow me." That was it! Matthew was doing his business of collecting taxes probably for years. He could say to himself, "Ha! I haven't been trained to do whatever you want me to do." Matthew didn't do that.. Instead, he dropped everything, abandoned his bank and followed Jesus where Jesus will train Matthew and the rest of the eleven to change the world!
If you're feeling incompetent today, that's wonderful!! God works better with the incompetents than with competents!!! God is ready to use you. Believe it or not, you'll be ready for His use!
I've felt this way before. It happened in 1994 after I gave my life and buried it in baptism giving the Lord my sacrifice. A couple months later, my beloved minister of the Lord, Jose Abenchuchan, came to me and said, "Mark, would you like to preach in two weeks?" Good question. I have absolutely no bible knowledge, not even a quote.. I was still learning by attending the Men's bible class memorizing the Scriptures and learning the timeline and maps. My mind wasn't taking in the Scripture which should be like water absorbed to a sponge. Then I said, "Sure.. Why not." But I wasn't exactly sure how or what or where to start.
Jose took me to the library at the old Overland Park church of Christ building. My eyes gazed around and see hundreds of books. Jose showed me some books written by Christian authors, concordances, dictionaries, bible college class books, etc., etc. Then Jose said, "Now, that'll get you started.." then he left. I was appalled as I was being clouded with these hundreds of books. My heart wasn't telling me anything. I skimmed through a few books but nothing came to mind. Until, finally, something did come to mind. I was thinking about how the deaf are so involved with stocks, mutual funds, and investing for their future. And my thoughts about it: it was a sin! Now, don't get me wrong.. It's nice to have an investment for future retirement. I'm all for it. If that's the only thing you worship today, then it becomes what God calls it, "idolatry". Anyway, I began looking at the concordances (my favorite) where it shows me the verses from a word such as "lust", "money", "power" and others.
My first lesson on Sunday. The room was packed with more than a normal deaf worship service. Jose was shocked! In the back of my mind, I thought to myself, "Perhaps, I should use my lesson for the next week. Not today.." I preached. One hour later. (Yes, I preached for one hour!) And the worse of all is, I only quoted the verses without explaining the meaning of each verse! Ouch! I sweated. People were yawning. Eyes were rolling. The chairs in the back sleeps ten. And a few deaf investors squirming in their chair. I got a bad review from them but a laughing review from Jose. I know Jose means well.. (I'm still chuckling today because it was a moment I'll never forget.)
And yes.. At that point, I did feel incompetent to preach the gospel to the deaf in the world. I don't think I ever preached again until I got into Bible school. When I decided to give up my home and career to become a full-time servant of the Lord, I still have these feelings of incompetence. I thought to myself, "God will give me a gift other than preaching the gospel." I'm thankful that I'm not a powerful orator. If I was, I would be impressing people instead of God. God is only interested in my heart, not how I preach. During Bible school, everyday, we have this "preaching lab" where ministers-in-training will have the opportunity to preach and receive criticism. It's nice to get criticism like "You need to emphasize Jesus more", "You didn't clearly explain the Scripture", "That's not what the Scripture says", "You took the Scripture out of context" and stuff like that. There were positive comments, of course. But the critiques I received still showed my incompetency to preach the gospel.
Later in my studies at Sunset International Bible Institute, I learned a whole lot more. It's about how Jesus choose His men to change the world!! Jesus didn't go to the wise. Nor did He go to the strong in faith. He didn't go to the Pharisees whom were already "teachers of the law" in the wrong way. He didn't look for spiritual elite! Jesus wasn't looking for a hunky-looking guy or a person that was chosen as the "Most Likely To Succeed" by his Jewish school classmates. Jesus chose..... Twelve.... Ordinary..... Sinful.... Insecure people like you and me!
Fishermen.
Tax collector.
Accountant.
Political activist.
They were outcast before the eyes of the Pharisees. They were partiers, cheaters, liars, deceivers. But Jesus surrounded Himself among them. Jesus prefers an ordinary guy. I've been there. I partied. I had several dates. I dumped them. I hurt people. I cheated. Pride loves me and I love pride. I was a backstabber. I was too stupid, too sinful and made many mistakes. I wasn't good enough.
But God prepared me to make a difference in this dark world. God is using me and He can still use you if you're still living the ordinary, worldly ways.
I just couldn't believe, now, how God has led me through these trials beginning on August 29th, 1994 when I first met Jose. We studied the Scripture. God pierced my heart. I looked back to all that I've done to people, and worse, myself! Then I thought to myself, "Me, a preacher". Moses been there..
Moses wanted God to choose someone else. But God is determined that Moses is da man to do the job. Moses gave his excuse, "Oh Lord, I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue." (Exodus 4:10) And that would be me, too.. I love to sing, but to preach is a the very bottom of the "To-D0-List". What if someone ask me a question where I don't know the answer? What if I say the wrong thing or quote the Scripture out of a context? I am subjected to blame. I am the center of attention. I see bananas, apples, cream pies ready to receive a beating if I give a bad message.
I read a book where a friend of the writer quoted,
"God doesn't choose the prepared. He prepares the chosen."
Wow!! That's it!! That's exactly it!! No matter how unprepared you feel, it's God's business to prepare you!! You've experienced the delicacies of the world now He wants you to taste the delicacies of Heaven! He's teaching you how to touch, taste, and smell Heaven! So you might never feel ready and that's okay.. In fact, since you might not feel ready, God will still call you and prepare you for the job. Jesus came to Matthew, the tax collector, and said, "Come and follow me." That was it! Matthew was doing his business of collecting taxes probably for years. He could say to himself, "Ha! I haven't been trained to do whatever you want me to do." Matthew didn't do that.. Instead, he dropped everything, abandoned his bank and followed Jesus where Jesus will train Matthew and the rest of the eleven to change the world!
If you're feeling incompetent today, that's wonderful!! God works better with the incompetents than with competents!!! God is ready to use you. Believe it or not, you'll be ready for His use!
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
The Holidays...
Guess what!!? I'm just glad the holidays are OVER!!! I feel like I've gained 50 lbs!! Those M&M's are surely good every single time.. And you know how many of them are in a bag! Man!!
We had a wonderful night last Sunday night!! 44 people (adults and children) attended the New Year's Eve worship service. Following worship, we all had a wonderful time of fellowship with grubs from Boston Market and various games on several tables. We also gave four awards (with gift certificates to Starbucks) to Neil Ferris, Kathy Flavin, Fred Orr and Dorothy Eckert for their faithfulness to Sunday's Worship. Each of them missed almost 1 to 5 services throughout the whole year! They are a wonderful example to us all!! Most of us remained until the midnight bell ringing in the new year of 2007.. We didn't get home until 1:45 a.m.!! We really enjoyed it very much, a good, clean and non-alcoholic fellowship.. And we got a hang-over!!! Hang-over from having such a great time with Christians and friends.
***
Bear with me that I couldn't contain all that had happened last night. Last night, I went to bed again at 1 a.m.. No.. I'm not going to make this a "habit"!! Just that I couldn't turn off the television because of the super thriller game between Boise St (Broncos) and Oklahoma (Sooners)!! Boise St were leading like 24 to 7 at halftime. But during the third quarter, Oklahoma caught up and took over the lead.. Everyone thought it was all over, including me. But after several bowl games consisted comeback victories, I decided to stay with them. Sure enough, Boise St came back to tie the game with just 8 seconds left from the 40 yard line with a fake play!!! Overtime!! Oklahoma scored on just one play with a Peterson touchdown. Boise St had trouble getting through the Oklahoma defense but managed to overcome several 4th down conversions until finally getting a touchdown. Remember, they need a field goal to re-tie and bring the game into a double OT. Well, Boise St. decided to gamble by going for a two-point conversion to win the game, or to lose if failed. My jaw dropped through the floor!!! Boise St scored the two-point conversion, easily!!! I just didn't see how it was played until the replay!! Man!! They had us all "fooled"!!! Sorry Ohio State and Florida..
Boise St. 13 - 0 National Champs! No question!
***
Last Sunday, I gave a message before the new year rang in. I encourage you to check out this lesson @ http://www.fxcc.org/deaf/sermons.asp titled, "Brand Spankin' New You" which will be posted in a few days.
2006 is gone! Whatever happened to you during that year is old. It's in the past. You, during 2006, have vanished away. Now, the new year of 2007 is here. Develop new wine. Bring it into a new wineskin. Let's begin with a fresh and new heart, new goals, new visions and new plans. Bring God into it. But, be prepared for new problems, new pressures and new possibilities. Don't use whatever you have tried in the past, especially during 2006, to solve these new issues in 2007. Be creative. Be convinced. Be courageous.
"I said, 'Plant the good seeds of righteousness, and you will harvest a crop of my love. Plow up the hard ground of your hearts, for now is the time to seek the LORD, that he may come and shower righteousness upon you.'" Hosea 10:12 (nlt)
1. Return to the practice of good works.
2. Seek others (leaders & faithful servants) who sow righteousness. Stay away from others who sow unrighteousness (attitudes of the world)
3. Look up to God for His grace.
And when do we do these things? The Lord says, "..for now is the time.." (v. 12)
1. Seeking the Lord is to be "everyday's work"!!
2. If we do our part, God will do His!
3. If we sow righteousness, we reap mercy (love). If we sow to the Spirit, we will, of the Spirit, reap eternal life!
It is encouraged that we do not do the same things we've done during the 2006. I'm not saying that you make a "New Year's Resolution" for God. It's destined to be broken. It's a time for new wine and a wineskin. This year, change your hearts for God and work out your salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12)!!
"..but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity." 1 Timothy 4:12 (niv)
We had a wonderful night last Sunday night!! 44 people (adults and children) attended the New Year's Eve worship service. Following worship, we all had a wonderful time of fellowship with grubs from Boston Market and various games on several tables. We also gave four awards (with gift certificates to Starbucks) to Neil Ferris, Kathy Flavin, Fred Orr and Dorothy Eckert for their faithfulness to Sunday's Worship. Each of them missed almost 1 to 5 services throughout the whole year! They are a wonderful example to us all!! Most of us remained until the midnight bell ringing in the new year of 2007.. We didn't get home until 1:45 a.m.!! We really enjoyed it very much, a good, clean and non-alcoholic fellowship.. And we got a hang-over!!! Hang-over from having such a great time with Christians and friends.
***
Bear with me that I couldn't contain all that had happened last night. Last night, I went to bed again at 1 a.m.. No.. I'm not going to make this a "habit"!! Just that I couldn't turn off the television because of the super thriller game between Boise St (Broncos) and Oklahoma (Sooners)!! Boise St were leading like 24 to 7 at halftime. But during the third quarter, Oklahoma caught up and took over the lead.. Everyone thought it was all over, including me. But after several bowl games consisted comeback victories, I decided to stay with them. Sure enough, Boise St came back to tie the game with just 8 seconds left from the 40 yard line with a fake play!!! Overtime!! Oklahoma scored on just one play with a Peterson touchdown. Boise St had trouble getting through the Oklahoma defense but managed to overcome several 4th down conversions until finally getting a touchdown. Remember, they need a field goal to re-tie and bring the game into a double OT. Well, Boise St. decided to gamble by going for a two-point conversion to win the game, or to lose if failed. My jaw dropped through the floor!!! Boise St scored the two-point conversion, easily!!! I just didn't see how it was played until the replay!! Man!! They had us all "fooled"!!! Sorry Ohio State and Florida..
Boise St. 13 - 0 National Champs! No question!
***
Last Sunday, I gave a message before the new year rang in. I encourage you to check out this lesson @ http://www.fxcc.org/deaf/sermons.asp titled, "Brand Spankin' New You" which will be posted in a few days.
2006 is gone! Whatever happened to you during that year is old. It's in the past. You, during 2006, have vanished away. Now, the new year of 2007 is here. Develop new wine. Bring it into a new wineskin. Let's begin with a fresh and new heart, new goals, new visions and new plans. Bring God into it. But, be prepared for new problems, new pressures and new possibilities. Don't use whatever you have tried in the past, especially during 2006, to solve these new issues in 2007. Be creative. Be convinced. Be courageous.
"I said, 'Plant the good seeds of righteousness, and you will harvest a crop of my love. Plow up the hard ground of your hearts, for now is the time to seek the LORD, that he may come and shower righteousness upon you.'" Hosea 10:12 (nlt)
1. Return to the practice of good works.
2. Seek others (leaders & faithful servants) who sow righteousness. Stay away from others who sow unrighteousness (attitudes of the world)
3. Look up to God for His grace.
And when do we do these things? The Lord says, "..for now is the time.." (v. 12)
1. Seeking the Lord is to be "everyday's work"!!
2. If we do our part, God will do His!
3. If we sow righteousness, we reap mercy (love). If we sow to the Spirit, we will, of the Spirit, reap eternal life!
It is encouraged that we do not do the same things we've done during the 2006. I'm not saying that you make a "New Year's Resolution" for God. It's destined to be broken. It's a time for new wine and a wineskin. This year, change your hearts for God and work out your salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12)!!
"..but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity." 1 Timothy 4:12 (niv)
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Total Commitment
One day a chicken and a pig were going down an old dirt road, when they noticed a sign telling of a banquet to be given for a charitable organization. Both the chicken, and the pig thought they should help, but could not think of a way. Suddenly, the chicken said, "I know, I'll donate a dozen eggs, and you donate the ham." "Hold on," said the pig. "For you that's just a contribution; but for me, it's a total commitment!"
How many chickens does God have in His church?
How many chickens does God have in His church?
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Caged Christians
A special thanks to my dear sis in Christ, Cario Stewart, for forwarding this link to me!! Man!! I love this post by Mark Batterson:
The last chase the lion evotional is going out this week. For a free subscription you can sign-up @ theaterchurch.com/evotional. Just thought I'd share an evotional excerpt.
Caged Christians
A few months ago I was in the Galapagos Islands on a mission trip. It almost felt like we were flying into the Garden of Eden. The Galapagos are like a zoo with no cages! And I'm not sure how to say it, but there was something so exhillirating about seeing a wild animal in its natural habitat.
It's one thing to see a caged bird. It's an altogether different thing to see a blue-footed booby circling about 100 feet up in the air and dive-bombing ten feet into the ocean and catching a fish two feet from your boat.
It's one thing seeing a dolphin show in a manmade pool. It is an altogether different thing swimming with sea lions or walking a beach at night with dozens of sea lions barking at you and chasing you.
We were surrounded by 250 year-old tortoises, beautiful marine iguanas, and pelicans that looked pre-historic. And what made it so amazing was that there weren't any cages!
So after returning from the Galapagos we took our kids to the zoo and it wasn't the same. I'm ruined for zoos! I love zoos, but it's just not the same seeing a caged animal. It's too safe. It's too controlled. So we were walking through the ape house and I had this thought as I looked at a caged gorilla: I wonder if churches do to people what zoos do to animals.
We take something that is wild and we domesticate it. And we put it in a cage called church for easy observation. We remove the danger. We remove the risk. And the end result is a caged Christian. Nice to look at. But I just don't think that was the original idea. Jesus handpicked a dozen disciples who were about as uncultured and undomesticated as you can get! And He unleashed them!
In fact, he used a zoological metaphor in Matthew 10:16 when he sent them out on their inaugural mission: "I am sending you like sheep among wolves."
Imagine a zookeeper putting a bunch of sheep in the wolf cage. That is what Jesus says he is doing. And that's why he tells them they need to be innocent as doves and shrewd as snakes. Jesus doesn't shelter them. He plops in the middle of a wolf pack!
The goal of church isn't to take people out of their natural habitat and domesticate them--make them look like and talk like and act like Christians. When we pronounce the benediction at the end of the service we're releasing people back into the wild. And they go back into their natural habitat as an ambassador of God's grace.
I love the way Erwin McManus says it in his book Unstoppable Force: The center of God's will is not a safe place but the most dangerous place in the world. To live outside of God's will puts us in danger; to live in his will makes us dangerous.
Unleash the lion chaser within!
The last chase the lion evotional is going out this week. For a free subscription you can sign-up @ theaterchurch.com/evotional. Just thought I'd share an evotional excerpt.
Caged Christians
A few months ago I was in the Galapagos Islands on a mission trip. It almost felt like we were flying into the Garden of Eden. The Galapagos are like a zoo with no cages! And I'm not sure how to say it, but there was something so exhillirating about seeing a wild animal in its natural habitat.
It's one thing to see a caged bird. It's an altogether different thing to see a blue-footed booby circling about 100 feet up in the air and dive-bombing ten feet into the ocean and catching a fish two feet from your boat.
It's one thing seeing a dolphin show in a manmade pool. It is an altogether different thing swimming with sea lions or walking a beach at night with dozens of sea lions barking at you and chasing you.
We were surrounded by 250 year-old tortoises, beautiful marine iguanas, and pelicans that looked pre-historic. And what made it so amazing was that there weren't any cages!
So after returning from the Galapagos we took our kids to the zoo and it wasn't the same. I'm ruined for zoos! I love zoos, but it's just not the same seeing a caged animal. It's too safe. It's too controlled. So we were walking through the ape house and I had this thought as I looked at a caged gorilla: I wonder if churches do to people what zoos do to animals.
We take something that is wild and we domesticate it. And we put it in a cage called church for easy observation. We remove the danger. We remove the risk. And the end result is a caged Christian. Nice to look at. But I just don't think that was the original idea. Jesus handpicked a dozen disciples who were about as uncultured and undomesticated as you can get! And He unleashed them!
In fact, he used a zoological metaphor in Matthew 10:16 when he sent them out on their inaugural mission: "I am sending you like sheep among wolves."
Imagine a zookeeper putting a bunch of sheep in the wolf cage. That is what Jesus says he is doing. And that's why he tells them they need to be innocent as doves and shrewd as snakes. Jesus doesn't shelter them. He plops in the middle of a wolf pack!
The goal of church isn't to take people out of their natural habitat and domesticate them--make them look like and talk like and act like Christians. When we pronounce the benediction at the end of the service we're releasing people back into the wild. And they go back into their natural habitat as an ambassador of God's grace.
I love the way Erwin McManus says it in his book Unstoppable Force: The center of God's will is not a safe place but the most dangerous place in the world. To live outside of God's will puts us in danger; to live in his will makes us dangerous.
Unleash the lion chaser within!
Monday, December 18, 2006
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Thursday, December 14, 2006
God Is Already There..
Here's an interesting quote:
“It is not that we good Christians take God outside the walls of the church. We go outside because God is already there.”
In other words, we personally say we need to take the Gospel out into the world (outside the walls of the church) and preach the good news about Jesus Christ but failed to do what we personally say.
God is already out there (outside the walls of the church). And He's waiting for us.
“It is not that we good Christians take God outside the walls of the church. We go outside because God is already there.”
In other words, we personally say we need to take the Gospel out into the world (outside the walls of the church) and preach the good news about Jesus Christ but failed to do what we personally say.
God is already out there (outside the walls of the church). And He's waiting for us.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Seeking Opportunities
"Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." Ephesians 5:15-16 (niv)
In the previous passages, Apostle Paul tells us, first, "Be ye therefore followers of God.." and to "walk in love" just as Christ Jesus did! Then Paul changed the tone a bit to discuss about the evil ways of the world: fornication (which means sex outside of marriage), and all uncleanness, coveteousness (always want more). Filthiness or foolish talking that comes out of our mouths and hands (sign language) or passing accusations. And be assured that no person who idolizes evil ways will ever enter the kingdom of Christ and God. A word of warning: let no one deceive you with vain words and it is guaranteed that God will pour out wrath on the Deceivers.
Most important of all is that we refrain from being "partakers of evil" or in other words, mingle around with evil people whom may plague you with evil influence. If you're around a very "negative person", you're more likely to become a "negative person". If you're around a drunkard, you could become one. If you're around a "critical person", you'll become a "critical person".
But, those who surrendered their life to the Lord, baptized into His death, into His blood to wash away our sins, we have become the light in the Lord. Walk as children of light proving what is acceptable unto the Lord!
Now, we're given opportunities. But, first, we need to be very careful IN HOW WE LIVE. Of course.. The world are watching Christians like we look at a fish in a fishbowl. They won't understand one, two or hundreds of mistakes we do and accuse us of being "hypocrites" (actors). Even worse, they'll think faith is futile, that we're chasing after the wind.
It is impossible to maintain purity and holiness of the heart and life without great wisdom and care. We're to walk wisely, not as unwise. We shouldn't declare to the world that we're the light of Christ but walking blindly and stumbling at every corner. We cannot do one and the other. Such a person doesn't comprehend all that God was trying to tell him/her in His Word. Such a wise person is thoroughly taught of God through His Word (Bible). Without the Word living in each of our hearts, we're walking blindly and living unwisely.
Two avenues.
The one that walks wisely seeks to be godly husbands/wives, worshipping God faithfully, possessing a serving heart, daily seeking the Lord in prayer, watching for temptations and refraining from them, have better use of tongue/hands (no profanity/finger-pointing) and takes care of his/her life improving it to the best of God's purposes. They seek opportunities leading up to the gate of Heaven!
But the one that walks unwisely are in jeopardy every hour, stumbles into trouble and wickedness. They are troublesome and prone to fall into dangerous situations that threatens their entrance into eternity with God.
That's why Jesus died for us all! He died on the cross to save us from unwise and evil living. He wants us to always remember that He knows what it is like to be "tempted". He experienced that for 40 Days and 40 Nights! He didn't stumble into the three temptations Satan offered Him. He allowed the Scripture to prevail against such temptations. He quoted them. He stood by them. He sought opportunities that lasts for eternity!
In the previous passages, Apostle Paul tells us, first, "Be ye therefore followers of God.." and to "walk in love" just as Christ Jesus did! Then Paul changed the tone a bit to discuss about the evil ways of the world: fornication (which means sex outside of marriage), and all uncleanness, coveteousness (always want more). Filthiness or foolish talking that comes out of our mouths and hands (sign language) or passing accusations. And be assured that no person who idolizes evil ways will ever enter the kingdom of Christ and God. A word of warning: let no one deceive you with vain words and it is guaranteed that God will pour out wrath on the Deceivers.
Most important of all is that we refrain from being "partakers of evil" or in other words, mingle around with evil people whom may plague you with evil influence. If you're around a very "negative person", you're more likely to become a "negative person". If you're around a drunkard, you could become one. If you're around a "critical person", you'll become a "critical person".
But, those who surrendered their life to the Lord, baptized into His death, into His blood to wash away our sins, we have become the light in the Lord. Walk as children of light proving what is acceptable unto the Lord!
Now, we're given opportunities. But, first, we need to be very careful IN HOW WE LIVE. Of course.. The world are watching Christians like we look at a fish in a fishbowl. They won't understand one, two or hundreds of mistakes we do and accuse us of being "hypocrites" (actors). Even worse, they'll think faith is futile, that we're chasing after the wind.
It is impossible to maintain purity and holiness of the heart and life without great wisdom and care. We're to walk wisely, not as unwise. We shouldn't declare to the world that we're the light of Christ but walking blindly and stumbling at every corner. We cannot do one and the other. Such a person doesn't comprehend all that God was trying to tell him/her in His Word. Such a wise person is thoroughly taught of God through His Word (Bible). Without the Word living in each of our hearts, we're walking blindly and living unwisely.
Two avenues.
The one that walks wisely seeks to be godly husbands/wives, worshipping God faithfully, possessing a serving heart, daily seeking the Lord in prayer, watching for temptations and refraining from them, have better use of tongue/hands (no profanity/finger-pointing) and takes care of his/her life improving it to the best of God's purposes. They seek opportunities leading up to the gate of Heaven!
But the one that walks unwisely are in jeopardy every hour, stumbles into trouble and wickedness. They are troublesome and prone to fall into dangerous situations that threatens their entrance into eternity with God.
That's why Jesus died for us all! He died on the cross to save us from unwise and evil living. He wants us to always remember that He knows what it is like to be "tempted". He experienced that for 40 Days and 40 Nights! He didn't stumble into the three temptations Satan offered Him. He allowed the Scripture to prevail against such temptations. He quoted them. He stood by them. He sought opportunities that lasts for eternity!
Friday, December 08, 2006
Jesus
Our "Resigned" Savior
With a piano played beautifully in the background, the color of the film does reduce its "graphicity", yet I see the emotions and expressions of Jesus' endurance from the garden to the cross!
Thank You, Jesus, for resigning (humbling) your life with a purpose to save us all from the pool of sins!
Our "Resigned" Savior
With a piano played beautifully in the background, the color of the film does reduce its "graphicity", yet I see the emotions and expressions of Jesus' endurance from the garden to the cross!
Thank You, Jesus, for resigning (humbling) your life with a purpose to save us all from the pool of sins!
Monday, December 04, 2006
BE STILL
Wow! Psalm 46:10!!
Think of the days of Elijah! He escaped in fear for his life. He hid. But God found him in a cleft of a rock. Earthquake. Fire. Storms. And God is in none of these. But listen, Elijah! Listen carefully.
Elijah listened. And he heard. He heard a gentle whisper.
And the whisper is God.
You may not hear God because you're hearing and seeing storms, earthquake, fire of life. God said, "Forget them. Pay no attention to them and listen to Me."
Awesome!
Wow! Psalm 46:10!!
Think of the days of Elijah! He escaped in fear for his life. He hid. But God found him in a cleft of a rock. Earthquake. Fire. Storms. And God is in none of these. But listen, Elijah! Listen carefully.
Elijah listened. And he heard. He heard a gentle whisper.
And the whisper is God.
You may not hear God because you're hearing and seeing storms, earthquake, fire of life. God said, "Forget them. Pay no attention to them and listen to Me."
Awesome!
The Reality Of Hell
Doesn't this make you think!! How many of your friends, families, co-workers and you-name-them are bound for the gates of hell.
After watching a person or two people falling down into the fire, it does make me squirm in my seat to continue praying for those God wants to save!
Remember Jesus' Great Commission:
1. He has the authority.
2. Therefore, Go in all nations.
3. Make Disciples.
4. Baptize them.
5. Teach them.
6. So Jesus will be with them til the end!
Doesn't this make you think!! How many of your friends, families, co-workers and you-name-them are bound for the gates of hell.
After watching a person or two people falling down into the fire, it does make me squirm in my seat to continue praying for those God wants to save!
Remember Jesus' Great Commission:
1. He has the authority.
2. Therefore, Go in all nations.
3. Make Disciples.
4. Baptize them.
5. Teach them.
6. So Jesus will be with them til the end!
New And Improved
Good morning, Bloggers...
I'm feeling good this morning!! I feel "New And Improved" after my rotator cuff surgery last Wednesday morning.. I had two tears: a rotator cuff tear and a labria tear. But, it wasn't as bad as the surgery I had on my right shoulder years ago. Some of you have visited me at my home and noticed that I possess a character named Linus from the Charlie Brown gang. He's the one with a blankie. I don't have a blankie, exactly, but a fluffy pillow to put under and between my left arm.
Everyday, I'm feeling a bit tired. I guess it's the cells in my body that's working hard to heal my shoulder. It does take up alot of energy to bring things to par one. Also, I've been doing some painful exercises to bring mobility to my arm and shoulder.
But, I know one thing. I'm on the road to a complete recovery. And for that, I praise God! Thank you all for the prayers for me. Also, two families brought food for us and do wanted to take the time to ask God for His blessings on them! May God bless you!!
I'm feeling good this morning!! I feel "New And Improved" after my rotator cuff surgery last Wednesday morning.. I had two tears: a rotator cuff tear and a labria tear. But, it wasn't as bad as the surgery I had on my right shoulder years ago. Some of you have visited me at my home and noticed that I possess a character named Linus from the Charlie Brown gang. He's the one with a blankie. I don't have a blankie, exactly, but a fluffy pillow to put under and between my left arm.
Everyday, I'm feeling a bit tired. I guess it's the cells in my body that's working hard to heal my shoulder. It does take up alot of energy to bring things to par one. Also, I've been doing some painful exercises to bring mobility to my arm and shoulder.
But, I know one thing. I'm on the road to a complete recovery. And for that, I praise God! Thank you all for the prayers for me. Also, two families brought food for us and do wanted to take the time to ask God for His blessings on them! May God bless you!!
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