I have had the opportunity of having many spiritual conversations over the past few weeks. I've been surrounded by a more than usual number of people who either don't believe, or are disillusioned with the Church.
It's been an interesting journey. I've prayed to God for opportunities to share my faith journey. I've prayed for opportunities to listen to theirs. I've prayed for openings to share Christ. What I've discovered is that it takes time to build trust in a relationship. But, nevertheless, God has worked through these conversations. He's taught me a LOT about listening over the past few weeks. He's reminded me that I don't know it all. I know what matters--that Jesus Saves. But, I don't have "it" (walking "the Way") all figured out.
This morning, after much wrestling with God throughout the night about a variety of topics, He gave me one verse. It's a verse I've known practically my whole life. But it's one that in its simplicity is a hard thing to live out. In Mark 12:28-31, the teachers, the ones who KNEW the law, came to Jesus and asked him, "Of all the commandments, which is most important?" Jesus answered them, "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this, 'Love your neighbor as yourself. THERE IS NO COMMANDMENT GREATER THAN THESE."
Simple words to live by, and yet so profound. First, we are to love God. If we line up our lives according to our relationship with Him, all else will fall into place. Secondly, we are to love others as we love ourselves. THIS IS HARD! I can't tell you how many times I want to curse people for simple things like the way they drive or because we don't share a similar viewpoint on things. It's so easy to fall into the trap of making man our enemy. We only have one enemy, and we need to be reminded of that. Satan lurks around every corner waiting to trip us up or keep us from winning another soul to Christ.
I love these words of scripture in Mark because they help us prioritize. First, God. Then, man. I have to admit, as a worship leader, that's a difficult thing. We hear so much from people about styles of music or things they like or don't like. It's an easy thing to fall into the pitfall of pleasing man over God. And yet, there's nothing satisfying in pleasing man when it's not God honoring. Just look at the leadership of David and Saul. Saul spent his kingship trying to please man, and failed miserably. David was "a man after God's own heart." As a worship leader, I hope that is someday said of me. "I am a woman after God's own heart." So, this scripture teaches us about priorities.
Finally, the focal word for me is "love". The world has polluted this word. People equate "love" with "lust", "sex", "greed". They've cheapened it. But God, as usual, has such a much higher goal. We are to LOVE the Lord our God! That means living in a daily relationship with Him. I live next door to my neighbor, but I don't talk to her everyday. I care about her, but I'm not growing daily in my relationship with her. God desires us EVERY DAY...EVERY MOMENT. He calls us to be "living sacrifices", to "pray without ceasing," to be carriers of His message of love and grace. Part of being in that oh so special relationship with Him is loving others...yes...even the difficult ones. Even the ones who cut you off in traffic or steal your parking spot. Even the child who calls your kid a name, or the person who criticizes you without any thought or idea of the "big picture". We are called to LOVE. We are called to lives bearing witness to the love of Christ. We are called to LIVE LOVE!
A simple scripture. A challenging message. Please pray for me as I attempt to live this out. I'm praying for you as you do the same! It's not easy. It's messy. But, it's the highest calling:
Love God, love others.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Power Sources
Daryl B. is a “jack of all trades.” He does sound, video, editing, producing. He helps people with their computers, coaches his girls’ team, fixes cars and is a wonderful husband and father to his wife and girls. I remember several years ago calling Daryl and asking him to come fix my computer. My keyboard that entered music into my PC wasn’t working. No matter what I tried, I couldn’t get my Finale program on my computer to recognize it. I’ll never forget Daryl walking into my office that day. The first thing he checked turned out to be the culprit.
IT WASN’T PLUGGED IN!
Somehow, the plug had slipped out of the wall. I just assumed it was still connected and never even thought of checking something so simple.
I tell this story because I think it often times parallels our Christian journeys. There are times when we get frustrated and work and work to find solutions, when the simple answer is, “we’re not plugged in” to the right source. We’ve lost our intimate connection with the Father. I think this is particularly challenging in American churches. Especially Baptist churches! We are so geared towards service that sometimes we get used to operating out of our own strength, which fizzles out. We have to constantly renew our spirits and our work by daily, unbroken time with God. “Pray without ceasing.” “…offer your bodies as living sacrifices…” “…be transformed…”
Secondly, we need accountability. As much as I had tried to figure out the problem with my computer, I was focused on the wrong thing. I was messing with the software when it was the hardware that was the problem. I needed Daryl’s eye to come in and see the problem and show it to me. We need people in our lives who can do that for us spiritually. We need people we can trust and confide in. We need people who can see with a clearer vision that we are capable of at the time, and who can help us correct our course.
Lately, I’ve gone through such a time spiritually. I’ve felt anxious and worried. I finally realized that I wasn’t plugged in to the right source. It wasn’t that I was being intentionally rebellious or committing awful acts. It was simply that I was relying on the wrong things to sustain me. I was relying on my own strength, my own intellect, my own schedule, etc. I was relying on ME. That’s quite a poor substitute for God’s unyielding power! As anxiety, insecurity and doubt crept into my life, I began asking lots of questions from people I trust. Through their loving accountability, God cleared my vision and helped me get plugged back into a vibrant, growing, intentional relationship with Him. It has been amazing how that slight course correction has turned the things in my life that were becoming work into joy!
So, I want to encourage you. As worship leaders, it’s easy to get focused on the tasks at hand. But to be effective, we must first and foremost focus on the Father!
Trust the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path. Proverbs 3:5-6
Monday, August 15, 2011
Desert Song
Do you ever go through dry times spiritually? Are you ever in a funk about things? Can I be honest? I've felt like that's where I've been for the past two months. I have been spiritually numb. That's a dangerous thing for a church staff person to say. It's not to say I haven't been growing. I believe that God has used this time to grow me (not a fun growing season). But, it's just to say, I've been in a place where I've had to fight to stay spiritually attached and not to become apathetic or complacent. That's definitely not the norm for me.
As I sat at home last Friday night watching TV, I was thinking about how numb I felt. I was asking God why I was feeling so alone. I have a great marriage, incredible children, a job I love, family all around me. There's no clear reason why I should feel so detached. As I was thinking about these things, I heard my husband on the phone in the other room with a co-worker who had lost his job that day. Dennis was comforting him, praying for him and helping him make contacts for new employment. In that moment, I was so proud of the Christian example my husband was being. But, I also recognized that I was in a serious drought.
Finally, Sunday morning, between services, I just cried on my husband's shoulder. I confessed to him how I have been feeling in my spiritual walk. I was reminded in such a mighty way that when I am weak, God surrounds me with strong people. My husband reminded me that there have been many reasons why I've felt down--everything from life circumstances to loss of a loved one to the blazing heat we've experienced this summer. He's right. When there's a drought like we've had, and a financial crisis like our country is facing, that can deeply affect us, even though we may not realize it. But, he also reminded me that God loves me, and cares deeply what happens to me. Dennis reminded me that God is strong even when I am not, and occasionally, it's okay to ask Him to carry me through.
After that good cry, and that solid confession, something in me awakened. I felt encouraged, and knew that I was NOT alone (it's satan who wants us to feel alone). I went on through my day, and met encouraging word after encouraging word. New believers who shared scripture with me. Friends who shared faith songs with me. I even had a new believer come to me with a faith crisis that caused me to verbalize my deep faith and reclaim it!
I was reminded in a very tangible way how blessed I am to be a part of this body of believers. The CHURCH! I was also reminded that our naturally inclination when we feel down is to withdraw, but in fact, that's when we need Him (God) and it (the Church) the most.
Since then, I haven't been able to get this song out of my head. So, I hope its text will bring you hope and determination:
This is my prayer in the desert
And all that's within me feels dry
This is my prayer in my hunger and need
“My God is the God who provides.”
And this is my prayer in the fire,
In weakness or trial or pain.
“There is a faith proved
Of more worth than gold
So refine me Lord through the flames.”
And this is my prayer in the battle
When triumph is still on its way
“I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ
So firm on His promise I'll stand.”
This is my prayer in the harvest
When favor and providence flow
“I know I'm filled to be emptied again
The seed I've received I will sow.”
And I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon formed against me shall remain
I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and He is here
All of my life
In every season
You are still God
I have a reason to sing
I have a reason to worship.
Lyrics by Brooke Fraser
As I sat at home last Friday night watching TV, I was thinking about how numb I felt. I was asking God why I was feeling so alone. I have a great marriage, incredible children, a job I love, family all around me. There's no clear reason why I should feel so detached. As I was thinking about these things, I heard my husband on the phone in the other room with a co-worker who had lost his job that day. Dennis was comforting him, praying for him and helping him make contacts for new employment. In that moment, I was so proud of the Christian example my husband was being. But, I also recognized that I was in a serious drought.
Finally, Sunday morning, between services, I just cried on my husband's shoulder. I confessed to him how I have been feeling in my spiritual walk. I was reminded in such a mighty way that when I am weak, God surrounds me with strong people. My husband reminded me that there have been many reasons why I've felt down--everything from life circumstances to loss of a loved one to the blazing heat we've experienced this summer. He's right. When there's a drought like we've had, and a financial crisis like our country is facing, that can deeply affect us, even though we may not realize it. But, he also reminded me that God loves me, and cares deeply what happens to me. Dennis reminded me that God is strong even when I am not, and occasionally, it's okay to ask Him to carry me through.
After that good cry, and that solid confession, something in me awakened. I felt encouraged, and knew that I was NOT alone (it's satan who wants us to feel alone). I went on through my day, and met encouraging word after encouraging word. New believers who shared scripture with me. Friends who shared faith songs with me. I even had a new believer come to me with a faith crisis that caused me to verbalize my deep faith and reclaim it!
I was reminded in a very tangible way how blessed I am to be a part of this body of believers. The CHURCH! I was also reminded that our naturally inclination when we feel down is to withdraw, but in fact, that's when we need Him (God) and it (the Church) the most.
Since then, I haven't been able to get this song out of my head. So, I hope its text will bring you hope and determination:
This is my prayer in the desert
And all that's within me feels dry
This is my prayer in my hunger and need
“My God is the God who provides.”
And this is my prayer in the fire,
In weakness or trial or pain.
“There is a faith proved
Of more worth than gold
So refine me Lord through the flames.”
And this is my prayer in the battle
When triumph is still on its way
“I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ
So firm on His promise I'll stand.”
This is my prayer in the harvest
When favor and providence flow
“I know I'm filled to be emptied again
The seed I've received I will sow.”
And I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon formed against me shall remain
I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and He is here
All of my life
In every season
You are still God
I have a reason to sing
I have a reason to worship.
Lyrics by Brooke Fraser
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Fear
I had an interesting experience a couple of weeks ago. One of my neighbors invited Abby and me to her daughter's Quinceañera. She thought it would be a neat experience for Abby to experience this aspect of their culture. I agreed. So, Abby and I went to the mass for her daughter. As we stood in the back of the Sanctuary, people were all speaking the Nicene Creed together. Then, they pulled out the kneeling benches at the appropriate times and participated in the different aspects of the mass. I had been to a Catholic mass many times before, so I was perfectly comfortable in that setting. My daughter was not.
About ten minutes in, she said, "Mom, I'm scared." I thought, "Scared...what's there to be scared of?" Abby went on, "I don't understand what they're doing. Why are they kneeling? Why is the guy at the front saying something and then they're all answering him? What's that thing that they all said together?" It was foreign to her, so her response was fear--a perfectly natural response.
I think many of us have that same reaction when we experience new or unknown things. As a matter of fact, I once had a teacher who made herself learn something new every year to combat that fear. One year, she decided she was going to learn how to build Legos sets. Another year, she decided she was going to learn the ukelele. Another year, it was relearning how to play the violin backwards (right hand on the neck and left hand on the bow). She wanted to remind herself what it felt like to her students to learn something completely foreign.
I never much thought about fear in worship in that way. Of course, I've thought about the reverent "fear of God". But, not the fear that comes because of something new. I've worshiped in many different environments. I've worshiped in customs in Mexico. I've worshiped at the top of a mountain. I've worshiped in a foreign culture with a language I didn't understand. I've worshiped in a Catholic Mass. This Sunday, I'll be worshiping with a group of our youth at the opening pavilion of the Chicago Zoo!
I guess I'm writing this because I saw through my daughter with fresh eyes. I saw how the unknown can sometimes make us afraid--and that it's okay--a perfectly natural reaction. But, as I talked her through it, she became more comfortable, and I was reminded that I need to continue to broaden her worship vision.
The other thing I was reminded of is that God doesn't want us to be afraid. If anything, I believe He wants us to continue to grow our vision and our perspective. He wants us to embrace other cultures and worship experiences. He wants us to value genuine worship the way He does--not just see it as the "have it your way", consumerism worship that we sometimes have a tendency to want. Ultimately, He just wants us--our hearts, our minds, our bodies. He asks us to live worship (Romans 12:1-2). That's really a pretty incredible thought! We can live everyday, unceasingly in worship of Him. One day, that will be a literal thing for all believers around the Throne!
So, embrace Him. Embrace the new things He has to teach us. And above all, don't be afraid. God may show you something beautiful in something new. He did me, just this week. He showed me a new song (and funny enough, it addresses fear) -- Forever Reign. The text is below.
You are good, You are good
When there's nothing good in me.
You are love, You are love
On display for all to see.
You are light, You are light
When the darkness closes in.
You are hope, You are hope
You have covered all my sin.
You are peace, You are peace
When my fear is crippling.
You are true, You are true
Even in my wandering.
You are joy, You are joy
You're the reason that I sing.
You are life, You are life,
In You death has lost it's sting.
Oh, I'm running to your arms,
I'm running to arms.
The riches of your love
Will always be enough.
Nothing compares to Your embrace.
Light of the world forever reign.
You are more, You are more
Than my words will ever say.
You are Lord, You are Lord
All creation will proclaim.
You are here, You are here
In your presence I'm made whole.
You are God, You are God
Of all else I'm letting go.
My heart will sing no other name -- JESUS!
Credits :
songwriters: ingram, jason; morgan, ruben
© shout publishing;sony/atv sounds d/b/a timber pub co;windsor hill music
About ten minutes in, she said, "Mom, I'm scared." I thought, "Scared...what's there to be scared of?" Abby went on, "I don't understand what they're doing. Why are they kneeling? Why is the guy at the front saying something and then they're all answering him? What's that thing that they all said together?" It was foreign to her, so her response was fear--a perfectly natural response.
I think many of us have that same reaction when we experience new or unknown things. As a matter of fact, I once had a teacher who made herself learn something new every year to combat that fear. One year, she decided she was going to learn how to build Legos sets. Another year, she decided she was going to learn the ukelele. Another year, it was relearning how to play the violin backwards (right hand on the neck and left hand on the bow). She wanted to remind herself what it felt like to her students to learn something completely foreign.
I never much thought about fear in worship in that way. Of course, I've thought about the reverent "fear of God". But, not the fear that comes because of something new. I've worshiped in many different environments. I've worshiped in customs in Mexico. I've worshiped at the top of a mountain. I've worshiped in a foreign culture with a language I didn't understand. I've worshiped in a Catholic Mass. This Sunday, I'll be worshiping with a group of our youth at the opening pavilion of the Chicago Zoo!
I guess I'm writing this because I saw through my daughter with fresh eyes. I saw how the unknown can sometimes make us afraid--and that it's okay--a perfectly natural reaction. But, as I talked her through it, she became more comfortable, and I was reminded that I need to continue to broaden her worship vision.
The other thing I was reminded of is that God doesn't want us to be afraid. If anything, I believe He wants us to continue to grow our vision and our perspective. He wants us to embrace other cultures and worship experiences. He wants us to value genuine worship the way He does--not just see it as the "have it your way", consumerism worship that we sometimes have a tendency to want. Ultimately, He just wants us--our hearts, our minds, our bodies. He asks us to live worship (Romans 12:1-2). That's really a pretty incredible thought! We can live everyday, unceasingly in worship of Him. One day, that will be a literal thing for all believers around the Throne!
So, embrace Him. Embrace the new things He has to teach us. And above all, don't be afraid. God may show you something beautiful in something new. He did me, just this week. He showed me a new song (and funny enough, it addresses fear) -- Forever Reign. The text is below.
You are good, You are good
When there's nothing good in me.
You are love, You are love
On display for all to see.
You are light, You are light
When the darkness closes in.
You are hope, You are hope
You have covered all my sin.
You are peace, You are peace
When my fear is crippling.
You are true, You are true
Even in my wandering.
You are joy, You are joy
You're the reason that I sing.
You are life, You are life,
In You death has lost it's sting.
Oh, I'm running to your arms,
I'm running to arms.
The riches of your love
Will always be enough.
Nothing compares to Your embrace.
Light of the world forever reign.
You are more, You are more
Than my words will ever say.
You are Lord, You are Lord
All creation will proclaim.
You are here, You are here
In your presence I'm made whole.
You are God, You are God
Of all else I'm letting go.
My heart will sing no other name -- JESUS!
Credits :
songwriters: ingram, jason; morgan, ruben
© shout publishing;sony/atv sounds d/b/a timber pub co;windsor hill music
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Sing Over Your Children
My personal verse for this year is Zephaniah 3:17. That verse says (NIV1984),
"The LORD your God is with you,
he is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
he will quiet you with his love,
he will rejoice over you with singing.”
I know my God is mighty to save. I never tire of hearing that or saying that. My GOD is MIGHTY TO SAVE! When I hear of the death of a terrorist, MY GOD IS MIGHTY TO SAVE. When I think of how someone so evil could walk into a church and murder my friend, I remember MY GOD IS MIGHTY TO SAVE! When I see people suffering through divorce or depression, I remember MY GOD IS MIGHTY TO SAVE! I never tire of hearing or saying that. I'm not talking about the type of salvation where He'll rescue you from a life threatening situation. He doesn't promise that. I'm talking about ETERNAL salvation. He saves through the blood of the Lamb--through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. No matter our sins, no matter our past, no matter our disappointments, if we confess with our mouths that "Jesus is Lord" and believe in our hearts that God raised him from the dead, we WILL be SAVED. OUR GOD IS MIGHTY TO SAVE.
Even though I could stop at 3:17a, my favorite part is yet to come. It comes in those three actions:
"He TAKES DELIGHT"
"He will QUIET you"
"He REJOICES over you"
Our God is not a passive God. He is a God of action. He doesn't merely stand by and watch the world spiral out of control. He's a God of order. He's a God with a plan. He's a God who builds relationships with each one of us individually. This verse is very personal. Our God is a very personal God. The God of the Universe takes delight in me. He will quiet ME with His love. He will rejoice over ME with singing.
This Sunday, our Grad ensemble will sing a song based on Zephaniah 3:17. It's a Matt Maher song called, "Sing Over Your Children." Here's what the writer has to say about it:
"I knew subconsciously of Zephaniah 3:17 - that God sings joyfully over His people (aka, the shout of the King) - and that song, that voice can soften the hardest of hearts. Our relationship with God is initiated by Him and His love - freely given as gift; despite my constant temptation with the things of earth, God's love doesn't waver." (Matt Maher, www.mattmahermusic.com)
The chorus simply says this,
Out of the depths you cry,
Come and be satisfied.
Father, You sing, Father You sing over Your children.
Let us see through Your eyes
We are Your great delight
Father, You sing, Father You sing over Your children.
No matter what circumstances you may face this week, remember that God is actively a part of your life. You are His delight. He hears your cries and He is mighty to save. He responds by taking delight in you, quieting you with His love and rejoicing over you with singing.
"The LORD your God is with you,
he is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
he will quiet you with his love,
he will rejoice over you with singing.”
I know my God is mighty to save. I never tire of hearing that or saying that. My GOD is MIGHTY TO SAVE! When I hear of the death of a terrorist, MY GOD IS MIGHTY TO SAVE. When I think of how someone so evil could walk into a church and murder my friend, I remember MY GOD IS MIGHTY TO SAVE! When I see people suffering through divorce or depression, I remember MY GOD IS MIGHTY TO SAVE! I never tire of hearing or saying that. I'm not talking about the type of salvation where He'll rescue you from a life threatening situation. He doesn't promise that. I'm talking about ETERNAL salvation. He saves through the blood of the Lamb--through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. No matter our sins, no matter our past, no matter our disappointments, if we confess with our mouths that "Jesus is Lord" and believe in our hearts that God raised him from the dead, we WILL be SAVED. OUR GOD IS MIGHTY TO SAVE.
Even though I could stop at 3:17a, my favorite part is yet to come. It comes in those three actions:
"He TAKES DELIGHT"
"He will QUIET you"
"He REJOICES over you"
Our God is not a passive God. He is a God of action. He doesn't merely stand by and watch the world spiral out of control. He's a God of order. He's a God with a plan. He's a God who builds relationships with each one of us individually. This verse is very personal. Our God is a very personal God. The God of the Universe takes delight in me. He will quiet ME with His love. He will rejoice over ME with singing.
This Sunday, our Grad ensemble will sing a song based on Zephaniah 3:17. It's a Matt Maher song called, "Sing Over Your Children." Here's what the writer has to say about it:
"I knew subconsciously of Zephaniah 3:17 - that God sings joyfully over His people (aka, the shout of the King) - and that song, that voice can soften the hardest of hearts. Our relationship with God is initiated by Him and His love - freely given as gift; despite my constant temptation with the things of earth, God's love doesn't waver." (Matt Maher, www.mattmahermusic.com)
The chorus simply says this,
Out of the depths you cry,
Come and be satisfied.
Father, You sing, Father You sing over Your children.
Let us see through Your eyes
We are Your great delight
Father, You sing, Father You sing over Your children.
No matter what circumstances you may face this week, remember that God is actively a part of your life. You are His delight. He hears your cries and He is mighty to save. He responds by taking delight in you, quieting you with His love and rejoicing over you with singing.
Monday, May 2, 2011
From the Inside Out
I have the wonderful privilege each Sunday of meeting with a group of six girls, ages 17-18. We talk about life, pray for each other, ask questions and study the Word together. Right now, we are working through a book by Beth Moore entitled "When Godly People Do Ungodly Things." The purpose of this book is not to point the finger at others, but rather to recognize our areas of weakness and fortify them with the Truth so satan can't penetrate them. Easier said than done!
This week, we read the following passage:
"Satan knows that the nature of humankind is to act out of how we feel rather than what we know. One of our most important defenses against satanic influence will be learning how to behave out of what we know is TRUTH rather than what we feel." (p.22)
We set the goal to make our decisions this week based on the TRUTH we know, rather than behaving out of how we feel. Setting that goal was like begging satan to come and attack.
Moore goes on to say, "Satan's desire is to modify human behavior to accomplish his unholy purposes. 2Timothy 2:26 tells us that Satan's objective in taking people captive is to get them to do his will. If we have received Christ as our Savior, Satan is forced to work from the outside rather than the inside. Thus, he manipulates outside influences to affect the inside decision-makers of the heart and mind."
So, how do we combat that? We must be transformed from the inside out!
Proverbs 4:23 (NLT) says, "Guard your heart above all else,
for it determines the course of your life."
Philippians 4:6-7 says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
We have to literally stand guard over our hearts. We have to constantly be pouring into them TRUTH so our hearts and minds walk in TRUTH and don't give in to deceit. It's an active thing.
So, at the end of our discussion this week, the girls asked me one simple word, "How?"
We pray...without ceasing. (1 Thessalonians 5:17) We meditate on the Word...daily. (Psalm 119:148) We edify one another and hold each other accountable. (Hebrews 3:13) We press on and never give up. (Philippians 3:14) We write on our hearts (2 Corinthians 3:3) and speak aloud songs, hymns and spiritual songs (Colossians 3:16, Ephesians 5:19). We give thanks (Psalm 100).
We ACT OUT Romans 12:1-2 (NIV1984):
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
No, it's not easy. But the good news is, we're not alone. We are a body of believers on this journey together. We have the ONE, TRUE God as our shield and His WORD as our guide.
This week, we read the following passage:
"Satan knows that the nature of humankind is to act out of how we feel rather than what we know. One of our most important defenses against satanic influence will be learning how to behave out of what we know is TRUTH rather than what we feel." (p.22)
We set the goal to make our decisions this week based on the TRUTH we know, rather than behaving out of how we feel. Setting that goal was like begging satan to come and attack.
Moore goes on to say, "Satan's desire is to modify human behavior to accomplish his unholy purposes. 2Timothy 2:26 tells us that Satan's objective in taking people captive is to get them to do his will. If we have received Christ as our Savior, Satan is forced to work from the outside rather than the inside. Thus, he manipulates outside influences to affect the inside decision-makers of the heart and mind."
So, how do we combat that? We must be transformed from the inside out!
Proverbs 4:23 (NLT) says, "Guard your heart above all else,
for it determines the course of your life."
Philippians 4:6-7 says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
We have to literally stand guard over our hearts. We have to constantly be pouring into them TRUTH so our hearts and minds walk in TRUTH and don't give in to deceit. It's an active thing.
So, at the end of our discussion this week, the girls asked me one simple word, "How?"
We pray...without ceasing. (1 Thessalonians 5:17) We meditate on the Word...daily. (Psalm 119:148) We edify one another and hold each other accountable. (Hebrews 3:13) We press on and never give up. (Philippians 3:14) We write on our hearts (2 Corinthians 3:3) and speak aloud songs, hymns and spiritual songs (Colossians 3:16, Ephesians 5:19). We give thanks (Psalm 100).
We ACT OUT Romans 12:1-2 (NIV1984):
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
No, it's not easy. But the good news is, we're not alone. We are a body of believers on this journey together. We have the ONE, TRUE God as our shield and His WORD as our guide.
Your will above all else, my purpose remains
The art of losing myself in bringing you praise
Everlasting, Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending, Your glory goes beyond all fame
My heart, my soul, Lord I give you control
Consume me from the inside out Lord
Let justice and praise become my embrace
To love You from the inside out.
--Hillsong
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
K.I.S.S.
This week, I have to admit, I have been a bit overwhelmed. This has been a weird 2011. There was the ice that shut down so much of February and put us behind on rehearsals, shut down Superbowl plans, etc. Then, there was Clint's murder and Judy's beating, which shocked us to the core and will forever change us. Then, a month later, my grandmother passed away. And there have been a million things in between. It's been an overwhelming and emotional time.
This past week, Easter week, was the first time I felt like I was "back in the game". It seems like it was my first "normal" week in a long time. But with that normalcy came the reality of how far behind I've gotten the last two months.
When I get busy and overwhelmed, anxiety creeps in. When anxiety takes root, my first reaction is to try to control it all. I tend to take it all on myself, and not trust the Lord with "it" (fill in the blank--whatever "it" is). I realize, though, that when I become that way, it's because somewhere deep down I don't trust God enough. Isn't that crazy to say? That I don't trust God? Because in my mind and in my heart, I absolutely do. But my sinful nature competes with that trust, and somehow plants that little seed of doubt. It may come in the form of "This is such a little thing, God doesn't really have time for this. He's got bigger things to do." Or, maybe me seeing someone else nearby in such incredible pain, that I need to let God just take care of her and not bother Him with my little problems. Or perhaps, I don't even give God a thought. I just simply go on auto-pilot and tackle "it" myself. And, needless to say, whenever that happens, I fail miserably. Sure, I may accomplish the task, but at what cost? In accomplishing a task, I might hurt a relationship, or yell at my kids. It never works well when I try to control things and operate on my power alone.
This week, as I was feeling overwhelmed, I read 2 Peter 3:8, "But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day." As I read that, I paused and asked God why today couldn't be like a thousand years so I could get everything done that I needed to get done. I felt as if He answered me, saying, "Who has placed these deadlines on you? Are they real deadlines or arbitrary ones? What about MY time with you?" As I read on, this conviction became even stronger. Verses 11-12 say, "Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming."
It seemed really simple to me right then (you've heard the old adage "Keep It Simple, Stupid). Everything that was overwhelming me faded away. What I am to do is LIVE, and live a life that is holy and godly. If I'm doing that, everything else falls into place. Now, I realize Peter's talking about end times in this passage, but isn't he also talking about "now" times? We won't know the time nor the hour of the Lord's coming. So, he's not asking us to live that way in 10 years when we're more mature. He's telling us to live that way every day. "You ought to live holy and godly lives."
It's amazing. As I spent this time with the Lord, asking Him questions about this passage, and sharing with Him the things that were overwhelming me, He reminded me that I'm not insignificant. He reminded me that no problem is too small for Him to handle. He reminded me of Peter's first letter, where Peter says in Chapter 5 verses 6-7, "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast ALL your anxiety on Him because He cares for you."
He cares for me. The God of the Universe cares for me. What a glorious thought. Not just a thought, but an absolute TRUTH. He cares for you, too. So, my prayer for you is that as you feel these times of anxiety, don't try to take it on yourself, but simply do what you know. Tap into the power of the Almighty! He has big shoulders that are waiting for every one of your burdens...big or small. What a mighty God we serve!
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace.
This past week, Easter week, was the first time I felt like I was "back in the game". It seems like it was my first "normal" week in a long time. But with that normalcy came the reality of how far behind I've gotten the last two months.
When I get busy and overwhelmed, anxiety creeps in. When anxiety takes root, my first reaction is to try to control it all. I tend to take it all on myself, and not trust the Lord with "it" (fill in the blank--whatever "it" is). I realize, though, that when I become that way, it's because somewhere deep down I don't trust God enough. Isn't that crazy to say? That I don't trust God? Because in my mind and in my heart, I absolutely do. But my sinful nature competes with that trust, and somehow plants that little seed of doubt. It may come in the form of "This is such a little thing, God doesn't really have time for this. He's got bigger things to do." Or, maybe me seeing someone else nearby in such incredible pain, that I need to let God just take care of her and not bother Him with my little problems. Or perhaps, I don't even give God a thought. I just simply go on auto-pilot and tackle "it" myself. And, needless to say, whenever that happens, I fail miserably. Sure, I may accomplish the task, but at what cost? In accomplishing a task, I might hurt a relationship, or yell at my kids. It never works well when I try to control things and operate on my power alone.
This week, as I was feeling overwhelmed, I read 2 Peter 3:8, "But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day." As I read that, I paused and asked God why today couldn't be like a thousand years so I could get everything done that I needed to get done. I felt as if He answered me, saying, "Who has placed these deadlines on you? Are they real deadlines or arbitrary ones? What about MY time with you?" As I read on, this conviction became even stronger. Verses 11-12 say, "Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming."
It seemed really simple to me right then (you've heard the old adage "Keep It Simple, Stupid). Everything that was overwhelming me faded away. What I am to do is LIVE, and live a life that is holy and godly. If I'm doing that, everything else falls into place. Now, I realize Peter's talking about end times in this passage, but isn't he also talking about "now" times? We won't know the time nor the hour of the Lord's coming. So, he's not asking us to live that way in 10 years when we're more mature. He's telling us to live that way every day. "You ought to live holy and godly lives."
It's amazing. As I spent this time with the Lord, asking Him questions about this passage, and sharing with Him the things that were overwhelming me, He reminded me that I'm not insignificant. He reminded me that no problem is too small for Him to handle. He reminded me of Peter's first letter, where Peter says in Chapter 5 verses 6-7, "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast ALL your anxiety on Him because He cares for you."
He cares for me. The God of the Universe cares for me. What a glorious thought. Not just a thought, but an absolute TRUTH. He cares for you, too. So, my prayer for you is that as you feel these times of anxiety, don't try to take it on yourself, but simply do what you know. Tap into the power of the Almighty! He has big shoulders that are waiting for every one of your burdens...big or small. What a mighty God we serve!
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
A Simple Act of Obedience Can Affect Generations
Last Tuesday, I was sitting on the golf course with my friend Ginger. We were watching our 14 yr old sons take golf lessons together. We were also watching our 10 yr old daughters playing and laughing together. Ginger is one of those friends that really knows me. We met 20 years ago, and she has been a friend through good and bad, through my low points and my high points. She has loved me even when it was hard. She's one of those friends that really KNOWS you, and she LOVES you completely.
I was telling Ginger about my grandmother's illness, and some of the decisions she was facing. Ginger reminded me that it was my Granny that introduced us.
You see, Ginger was a Missionary Kid to Brazil. Back in the late '80s, Ginger's family was getting ready to come home to the US for furlough and were going to be staying in our church's Missions Residence. My grandmother knew they would be coming, and knew we were the same age, so she asked me to write Ginger. She felt God leading her to make this family feel welcome and encouraged me to do the same. I took that address, and wrote Ginger in Brazil.
Ginger and I ended up being great friends. I helped her find some community here, and she helped me to grow in my walk with Christ. For the past 20 years, she has been a friend and confidante. God blessed us both with children at the same time, so not only did we get to experience each others friendship, but our children have grown up together and are now doing life together. My grandmother's calling to missions and act of obedience in responding to this missionary family is now affecting its second generation through incredible friendship in the Lord.
This week is one of my favorites because it is the week where we are reminded another act of obedience affected 2000 yrs and counting worth of generations forward, not to mention all of those preceding it. For me, the most moving part of the events leading up to Christ's crucifixion is the prayer he prays in the garden. In that moment, the disciples have fallen asleep. Jesus is alone in the garden. He could have tucked tail and run from what was about to happen to him. He was fully human, so I don't believe he could foresee the events that were to come. But he also knew the Scripture and the prophecy, so I believe he had a pretty good idea of what it would take for the prophecy to be fulfilled. "He was despised and rejected...bruised for our transgressions...pierced for our iniquities." No way around that...it doesn't sound like a path anyone would want to take. So, he had every reason to bow out. But there in that garden, Jesus has that moment where he basically says, "Father, if there's any other way for this to be accomplished, then let this way pass from me. But, since it doesn't appear that there is, I love you and trust you enough to take the next step forward in accomplishing Your purpose." Talk about an act of obedience that has affected generations!
I love this week. It is a painful week as we walk through that last week in Jesus' life. It is painful as I reflect upon the initial sin of Adam and Eve that led to this means of God reconciling Himself to man. It's painful as I reflect upon my own sin that held Jesus to that cross. But it's a glorious week, as we witness how Jesus' life and death of obedience resulted in the Resurrection and hope for ALL of man -- past, present & future. As we move through this week, let's commit ourselves to be a little more obedient. Who knows when God might use one simple act of obedience to affect generations to come!
I was telling Ginger about my grandmother's illness, and some of the decisions she was facing. Ginger reminded me that it was my Granny that introduced us.
You see, Ginger was a Missionary Kid to Brazil. Back in the late '80s, Ginger's family was getting ready to come home to the US for furlough and were going to be staying in our church's Missions Residence. My grandmother knew they would be coming, and knew we were the same age, so she asked me to write Ginger. She felt God leading her to make this family feel welcome and encouraged me to do the same. I took that address, and wrote Ginger in Brazil.
Ginger and I ended up being great friends. I helped her find some community here, and she helped me to grow in my walk with Christ. For the past 20 years, she has been a friend and confidante. God blessed us both with children at the same time, so not only did we get to experience each others friendship, but our children have grown up together and are now doing life together. My grandmother's calling to missions and act of obedience in responding to this missionary family is now affecting its second generation through incredible friendship in the Lord.
This week is one of my favorites because it is the week where we are reminded another act of obedience affected 2000 yrs and counting worth of generations forward, not to mention all of those preceding it. For me, the most moving part of the events leading up to Christ's crucifixion is the prayer he prays in the garden. In that moment, the disciples have fallen asleep. Jesus is alone in the garden. He could have tucked tail and run from what was about to happen to him. He was fully human, so I don't believe he could foresee the events that were to come. But he also knew the Scripture and the prophecy, so I believe he had a pretty good idea of what it would take for the prophecy to be fulfilled. "He was despised and rejected...bruised for our transgressions...pierced for our iniquities." No way around that...it doesn't sound like a path anyone would want to take. So, he had every reason to bow out. But there in that garden, Jesus has that moment where he basically says, "Father, if there's any other way for this to be accomplished, then let this way pass from me. But, since it doesn't appear that there is, I love you and trust you enough to take the next step forward in accomplishing Your purpose." Talk about an act of obedience that has affected generations!
I love this week. It is a painful week as we walk through that last week in Jesus' life. It is painful as I reflect upon the initial sin of Adam and Eve that led to this means of God reconciling Himself to man. It's painful as I reflect upon my own sin that held Jesus to that cross. But it's a glorious week, as we witness how Jesus' life and death of obedience resulted in the Resurrection and hope for ALL of man -- past, present & future. As we move through this week, let's commit ourselves to be a little more obedient. Who knows when God might use one simple act of obedience to affect generations to come!
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Lead Me to the Cross
A few years ago, I was in Glorieta. I was introduced to quite a bit of “new” worship music. There was one song that they introduced that I couldn’t sing because I didn’t believe it was scripturally true. I found out later that it was a direct quote of scripture, but it was taken so far out of context that it made the theology of the song misleading. What that conference taught me was to evaluate carefully the things we use in worship (whether music or video or testimony).
When I listen to a worship song, or sing it for that matter, I look for the scriptural truth behind it. We all have favorite songs—songs where a text has spoken to our hearts, or where the music has stirred an emotion deep within. But as I evaluate the worship music we sing, I look first and foremost for spiritual truth.
This Sunday, we are singing a newer song for our congregation—“Lead Me to the Cross”. I’d like to take us through the text and point out the scriptural truths that have jumped out at me as I’ve meditated on its text. Perhaps you will find others that I’ve missed—I’d love to hear your thoughts as we journey together! (emilyk@fbca.org) The song lyrics will be in italics. They are followed by the passages those lyrics brought to light in my journey with this text.
Savior, I come, quiet my soul. – As I reflect on this line, I hear my favorite verse Zephaniah 3:17 being sung “…He will quiet you with His love…”
Remember Redemption's hill where Your blood was spilled for my ransom –Hebrews 9:14-15 “How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God! 15 For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.”
Ev'rything I once held dear I count it all as lost. Philippians 3:8 “What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.”
Lead me to the cross where Your love poured out. Bring me to my knees, Lord I lay me down. Rid me of myself, I belong to You. – John 1:27, 29 John the Baptist speaking: “He [Jesus] is the one who comes after me, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie…Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” James 4:10 “Humble yourselves before the Lord...”
Oh lead me, lead me to the cross.You were as I, tempted and tried, human. – Matthew 26:39 “Going a little farther, he [Jesus] fell with his face to the ground and prayed, ‘My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.’”
The word became flesh, Bore my sin and death. – Acts 7:52-53 Stephen’s Speech to the Sanhedrin: “And now you have betrayed and murdered him—you who have received the law that was put into effect through angels but have not obeyed it.”
Now you're risen. – Acts 2:24 “But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it is impossible for death to keep its hold on him.”
As you sing the texts to all of the worship songs this Sunday morning—When I Survey the Wondrous Cross, Nothing But the Blood, Lead Me To the Cross, Jesus the Very Thought of Thee—spend some preparation time meditating on these truths and writing them on your heart. Sunday’s going to be a great day of corporate worship together as we come to the Lord’s Table and recognize His suffering and rejoice in His grace!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
My Attitude Adjustment
Yesterday morning started off terribly. Have you ever had one of those days where you just acted badly? That's how it was at my house. Everything seemed to set me off. I wasn't just grumpy--I was unbearable. I let things outside of my family's control dictate my mood and anxiety level. I walked into Staff meeting, honestly not feeling like being very spiritual. Funny how when you least expect it, that's when God speaks.
I walked into a prayer time with our staff where concerns were being lifted up. I walked into a place where people were sharing their stories and their struggles. At the end of an emotional request time, Nick Pitts prayed. God spoke to me through His prayer. Here were the two things that Nick prayed that struck my heart:
1. God, be at work in these situations so that man won't be glorified, but you will be glorified through the result of your mighty work in these struggles and difficulties.
2. Use these struggles to help us focus on You, so that we might become less and You would become more.
Every once in awhile, I need the reminder that the world doesn't revolve around me or my bad mood or my anxiety. That's sin at work in my life. But it was in that moment as Nick prayed, that I righted myself and my perspective with God, and restarted the day with a fresh vision and attitude. First of all, I thanked God for who He is. Secondly, I thanked Him for surrounding me with godly people like Nick, like my husband who puts up with me, and like the rest of our staff who are willing to share and love and pray for one another.
The song we sing this Sunday, sums up who God became to me in that moment--my Messiah. Whether you're like me and need to refocus, or whether things are hunky dory right now, I pray it will be a blessing to you:
He became sin who knew no sin
That we might become His righteousness.
He humbled Himself and carried the cross.
Love so amazing, love so amazing.
Jesus Messiah Name above all names
Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel
The Rescue for sinners,
The Ransom from heaven,
Jesus Messiah, Lord of all.
All our hope is in You.
All our hope is in You.
All the glory to You, God
The Light of the world.
I walked into a prayer time with our staff where concerns were being lifted up. I walked into a place where people were sharing their stories and their struggles. At the end of an emotional request time, Nick Pitts prayed. God spoke to me through His prayer. Here were the two things that Nick prayed that struck my heart:
1. God, be at work in these situations so that man won't be glorified, but you will be glorified through the result of your mighty work in these struggles and difficulties.
2. Use these struggles to help us focus on You, so that we might become less and You would become more.
Every once in awhile, I need the reminder that the world doesn't revolve around me or my bad mood or my anxiety. That's sin at work in my life. But it was in that moment as Nick prayed, that I righted myself and my perspective with God, and restarted the day with a fresh vision and attitude. First of all, I thanked God for who He is. Secondly, I thanked Him for surrounding me with godly people like Nick, like my husband who puts up with me, and like the rest of our staff who are willing to share and love and pray for one another.
The song we sing this Sunday, sums up who God became to me in that moment--my Messiah. Whether you're like me and need to refocus, or whether things are hunky dory right now, I pray it will be a blessing to you:
He became sin who knew no sin
That we might become His righteousness.
He humbled Himself and carried the cross.
Love so amazing, love so amazing.
Jesus Messiah Name above all names
Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel
The Rescue for sinners,
The Ransom from heaven,
Jesus Messiah, Lord of all.
All our hope is in You.
All our hope is in You.
All the glory to You, God
The Light of the world.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Why LEARN?
This past Sunday, our Pastor shared with us more about the growth area LEARN. Early in his sermon, he made a statement about this growth area--that it was fundamental in our growth as Christians. Basically, a growing Christian must be a learning Christian. LEARN helps us equip ourselves for each other growth area: LOVE, OBEY, TRUST, SHARE, WORSHIP. When DW made that statement, I made a mental note of it--one that stuck with me. And God began to reveal to me its truth.
Remember the video from Sunday--the testimony about transformation? There's always a back story. I want to share some of that with you, and focus on the couple of kids who led that young man to Christ for a moment.
1.LEARN -- Those kids were nourished in the WORD. When words and reason and difficult questions came about, they had hearts and heads full of the knowledge of Scripture -- the revealed WORD -- and could share effectively.
2. SHARE--This was a natural extension of learning for them, even though it wasn't necessarily the "cool" thing for a 16 year old to do.
3. TRUST -- When he got off the phone after sharing that first verse, the youth asked his Dad -- "Dad, did I say the right thing?" His dad reassured him. This kid was a good steward of what he had been given. He was able to trust God to grow the seed that was planted, and God was able to trust him, because they were in relationship with one another, and the kid had been faithful in his walk with the Lord.
4. LOVE (& SHARE) -- Another youth (along with the first one) spent years loving on this kid--before and after sharing that initial verse. If you'll remember in the video, it took a year and a half before that kid fully accepted Christ. But it wasn't a year and a half without significant spiritual conversations. It was built on a lifetime of friendship, so when it came time to have that conversation and others it came naturally. It was a relationship built between people, a respect, so that an invitation to camp could be extended, and accepted.
5. OBEY-- As I mentioned earlier, sharing came easy because the kids were nourished in the WORD and practiced their faith. Remember, this kid didn't just see them with their church clothes on. He saw them everyday at school. If they'd been living disingenuous lives, he'd never have listened to a word they said.
6. WORSHIP -- Before that kid went to camp (this wasn't in the video, but he told me this), he came and checked out High Tide, the Wednesday night youth worship. Watching his friends from school authentically and passionately worship God affected him. He went home, and called another lost friend and said, "Dude, I think I'm going to camp for God..." Through the worship of others, he was directed to the Living God!
What these youth had LEARNed through relationship with Christ provided the foundation for each of these other areas of growth and for the contribution to another's story of transformation.
One quick Abby story and I'm done...
Two weeks ago, Abby was late getting to the car after school. I wasn't paying much attention because I was on a phone call, had had a terrible day, and she was not my focus. She got in the car and waited for me to get off the phone. She was so excited. She said, "Mom, do you want to know why I'm late?" I looked at the clock...the first time I realized that she actually was late...like I said, I was in my own little world. She said, "I think I had the opportunity to touch someone's heart for God today." I can tell you, I immediately put the phone down, and she had my entire focus.
She was late because she was sharing with another little girl. Abby had taken her Bible Drill memory cards to school. They are like flash cards. During their independent study time, she took them out and was memorizing them. A little girl, who is unchurched, saw them and asked Abby about them after school. Abby pulled them out and shared some of the verses with her. The girl didn't know anything about the Bible, but she thought it looked like a "cool game." She asked Abby, "Could you get ME some cards so I can learn about the Bible, too?" Of course, Abby couldn't wait to get the cards and share them with her friend.
WOW! God will use us if we just daily live in relationship with Him and follow Him. He will reveal Himself to us through His WORD and through being in relationship with Him.
The verse that the youth in Sunday's video shared was 2 Corinthians 4:18, "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." After he said that verse, we sang "Hosanna" by Brooke Frasier which contains the line, "Heal my heart and make it clean. Open up my eyes to the things unseen. Show me how to love like You have loved me." That's my prayer for us this week--that He will open our eyes to the things unseen and show us how to grow daily in His love as we reach this world for Christ! Who knows who's transformation story WE could be a part of this week?!
Remember the video from Sunday--the testimony about transformation? There's always a back story. I want to share some of that with you, and focus on the couple of kids who led that young man to Christ for a moment.
1.LEARN -- Those kids were nourished in the WORD. When words and reason and difficult questions came about, they had hearts and heads full of the knowledge of Scripture -- the revealed WORD -- and could share effectively.
2. SHARE--This was a natural extension of learning for them, even though it wasn't necessarily the "cool" thing for a 16 year old to do.
3. TRUST -- When he got off the phone after sharing that first verse, the youth asked his Dad -- "Dad, did I say the right thing?" His dad reassured him. This kid was a good steward of what he had been given. He was able to trust God to grow the seed that was planted, and God was able to trust him, because they were in relationship with one another, and the kid had been faithful in his walk with the Lord.
4. LOVE (& SHARE) -- Another youth (along with the first one) spent years loving on this kid--before and after sharing that initial verse. If you'll remember in the video, it took a year and a half before that kid fully accepted Christ. But it wasn't a year and a half without significant spiritual conversations. It was built on a lifetime of friendship, so when it came time to have that conversation and others it came naturally. It was a relationship built between people, a respect, so that an invitation to camp could be extended, and accepted.
5. OBEY-- As I mentioned earlier, sharing came easy because the kids were nourished in the WORD and practiced their faith. Remember, this kid didn't just see them with their church clothes on. He saw them everyday at school. If they'd been living disingenuous lives, he'd never have listened to a word they said.
6. WORSHIP -- Before that kid went to camp (this wasn't in the video, but he told me this), he came and checked out High Tide, the Wednesday night youth worship. Watching his friends from school authentically and passionately worship God affected him. He went home, and called another lost friend and said, "Dude, I think I'm going to camp for God..." Through the worship of others, he was directed to the Living God!
What these youth had LEARNed through relationship with Christ provided the foundation for each of these other areas of growth and for the contribution to another's story of transformation.
One quick Abby story and I'm done...
Two weeks ago, Abby was late getting to the car after school. I wasn't paying much attention because I was on a phone call, had had a terrible day, and she was not my focus. She got in the car and waited for me to get off the phone. She was so excited. She said, "Mom, do you want to know why I'm late?" I looked at the clock...the first time I realized that she actually was late...like I said, I was in my own little world. She said, "I think I had the opportunity to touch someone's heart for God today." I can tell you, I immediately put the phone down, and she had my entire focus.
She was late because she was sharing with another little girl. Abby had taken her Bible Drill memory cards to school. They are like flash cards. During their independent study time, she took them out and was memorizing them. A little girl, who is unchurched, saw them and asked Abby about them after school. Abby pulled them out and shared some of the verses with her. The girl didn't know anything about the Bible, but she thought it looked like a "cool game." She asked Abby, "Could you get ME some cards so I can learn about the Bible, too?" Of course, Abby couldn't wait to get the cards and share them with her friend.
WOW! God will use us if we just daily live in relationship with Him and follow Him. He will reveal Himself to us through His WORD and through being in relationship with Him.
The verse that the youth in Sunday's video shared was 2 Corinthians 4:18, "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." After he said that verse, we sang "Hosanna" by Brooke Frasier which contains the line, "Heal my heart and make it clean. Open up my eyes to the things unseen. Show me how to love like You have loved me." That's my prayer for us this week--that He will open our eyes to the things unseen and show us how to grow daily in His love as we reach this world for Christ! Who knows who's transformation story WE could be a part of this week?!
Thursday, January 20, 2011
you are not a god: You are God Alone!
Romans is a deep letter. In our TWOG4TPOG readings Jan 17-21, we read the first 12 chapters. But, there were days I would get stuck contemplating just one or two verses. Thursday, (Romans 10-11) was such a day.
Here are the verses I'm referencing:
"For I can testify about them (the Jews) that they are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge. Since they did not know the righteousness that comes from God and sought to establish their own, they did not submit to God's righteousness." -- Romans 10:2-3 (NIV1984)
The Jews practiced their religion with so much zeal, the Scripture says, but they placed that zeal in something they created rather than something that God created. What a human thing to do!
This next week, we will kick off an 8 week series on LEARN where we will begin to learn and communicate the meta-narrative -- the BIG Story. Our first Sunday focuses on "Who is God?" As I read this verse in scripture, it reminded me that first and foremost God is God and we are NOT. Next Sunday, January 30th, we will sing a song that says exactly that. Here are the lyrics, penned by Billy J & Cindy Foote. I hope they will bless you as you spend some time focusing on God and who He is.
You are not a god created by human hands;
You are not a god dependent on any mortal man.
You are not a god in need of anything we can give.
By Your plan, that's just the way it is.
You're the only God whose power none can contend.
You're the only God whose name and praise will never end.
You're the only God Who's worthy of everything we can give.
You are God, that's just the way it is.
Chorus: You are God alone;
From before time began
You were on the throne;
You were God alone.
And right now in the good times and bad,
You are on Your throne;
You are God alone!
This week, my prayer is that we have zeal--that we pray and sing and live life with ZEAL. But, that we have ZEAL based on knowledge of the one and only True God! He is God alone!
Here are the verses I'm referencing:
"For I can testify about them (the Jews) that they are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge. Since they did not know the righteousness that comes from God and sought to establish their own, they did not submit to God's righteousness." -- Romans 10:2-3 (NIV1984)
The Jews practiced their religion with so much zeal, the Scripture says, but they placed that zeal in something they created rather than something that God created. What a human thing to do!
This next week, we will kick off an 8 week series on LEARN where we will begin to learn and communicate the meta-narrative -- the BIG Story. Our first Sunday focuses on "Who is God?" As I read this verse in scripture, it reminded me that first and foremost God is God and we are NOT. Next Sunday, January 30th, we will sing a song that says exactly that. Here are the lyrics, penned by Billy J & Cindy Foote. I hope they will bless you as you spend some time focusing on God and who He is.
You are not a god created by human hands;
You are not a god dependent on any mortal man.
You are not a god in need of anything we can give.
By Your plan, that's just the way it is.
You're the only God whose power none can contend.
You're the only God whose name and praise will never end.
You're the only God Who's worthy of everything we can give.
You are God, that's just the way it is.
Chorus: You are God alone;
From before time began
You were on the throne;
You were God alone.
And right now in the good times and bad,
You are on Your throne;
You are God alone!
This week, my prayer is that we have zeal--that we pray and sing and live life with ZEAL. But, that we have ZEAL based on knowledge of the one and only True God! He is God alone!
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Leadership
I read an interesting article this week in Worship Leader Magazine by Vicky Beeching about Deborah. She referenced the story of Deborah's leadership in Judges 3-5. Think about that time and place in history and the role of women at that time. Specifically, think about what it must have been like to be a woman in leadership at that time. Here's what it says about Deborah:
v.4 "Deborah, a prophetess,...was leading Israel at that time. She held court...and the Israelites came to her to have their disputes decided." Pretty amazing!
She had enough respect among men to arbitrate their disputes. She led the military with Barak and led their nation to victory. But the remarkable thing is not that Deborah was a woman, though this was unusual. The remarkable thing here is that she knew how to lead. Beeching says, "She wasn't just a political and military leader. Her role also involved helping people know what to do in life." Beeching goes on to say one of the most profound things that has stuck with me all week:
No matter who is in leadership or what their gender, the important thing is that leaders are called first and foremost to follow God. Whatever we try to accomplish is empty without His truth, guidance, and inspiration. Deborah reminds us that God is the true leader. Our role is to be in tune with His direction; then we are privileged to share that vision with others.
After she led Israel to victory, Deborah sang a beautiful song of worship. Here's one of the lyrics from that song: Judges 5:2 "When the people willingly offer themselves--praise the LORD!"
As we prepare for worship this Sunday, and for this year of Tranformation, my prayer is that we will first and foremost willingly offer ourselves for God's Kingdom. My prayer is that we will tune into His truth, His guidance and His inspiration so that we have the privilege of sharing who God is with others.
Come, Thou Fount of every blessing, Tune my heart to sing Thy grace.
v.4 "Deborah, a prophetess,...was leading Israel at that time. She held court...and the Israelites came to her to have their disputes decided." Pretty amazing!
She had enough respect among men to arbitrate their disputes. She led the military with Barak and led their nation to victory. But the remarkable thing is not that Deborah was a woman, though this was unusual. The remarkable thing here is that she knew how to lead. Beeching says, "She wasn't just a political and military leader. Her role also involved helping people know what to do in life." Beeching goes on to say one of the most profound things that has stuck with me all week:
No matter who is in leadership or what their gender, the important thing is that leaders are called first and foremost to follow God. Whatever we try to accomplish is empty without His truth, guidance, and inspiration. Deborah reminds us that God is the true leader. Our role is to be in tune with His direction; then we are privileged to share that vision with others.
After she led Israel to victory, Deborah sang a beautiful song of worship. Here's one of the lyrics from that song: Judges 5:2 "When the people willingly offer themselves--praise the LORD!"
As we prepare for worship this Sunday, and for this year of Tranformation, my prayer is that we will first and foremost willingly offer ourselves for God's Kingdom. My prayer is that we will tune into His truth, His guidance and His inspiration so that we have the privilege of sharing who God is with others.
Come, Thou Fount of every blessing, Tune my heart to sing Thy grace.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Carpe Diem
One of my favorite movies as a teenager was Dead Poet's Society. It's a story about this incredibly shy kid, Todd Anderson (Ethan Hawke), who attends a boy's school. He has an outgoing roommate, Neil, and an incredibly inspiring English teacher, Mr. Keating (Robin Williams), who encourages Todd to come out of his shell. The theme of the movie is Carpe Diem -- Seize the Day. This professor is encouraging the kids not to merely conform, but to transform their world--to make a difference. Each student does so in a different way.
I watched this movie over the holidays with my husband and son. It truly is one of those timeless movies. Even though it came out ten years before Ben was born, it spoke to him. The teacher in this movie, "O Captain, my Captain," wanted to inspire these kids to be true to themselves. He encouraged them to live life to the fullest. In a sense, he encouraged them to be rebels--to challenge conformity and think outside the box. He wanted them to wrestle with life, with ideas, and LIVE!
As I watched, I thought that often we as Christians can be like these kids in this movie. We can walk the way we think others want us to walk. We can shy away from sharing Jesus because ___ (fill in the blank) ...we each have our own list of excuses. We can put in our time at church on Sundays, and follow the "rules", but not ever really challenge ourselves to think, meditate on the Word and allow it to truly transform our lives. We can go through life without ever creating waves. But I'm not sure that's what God intended.
One of our focal passages for this preparation time in our church is Acts 17:1-9. It's the story of Paul and Silas in Thessalonica at Jason's house. The Jews didn't like Paul & Silas being in town, so they went to Jason's house to find them. The Scripture tells us "they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob and started a riot in the city." When they didn't find Paul and Silas, here's what they said about them: "These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come here...saying that there is another king, one called Jesus."
My favorite moment during the entire Christmas season was one Sunday when we were selling t-shirts in the Welcome Center. Helping me sell the shirts was a new Christian, and while we were selling, he shared his testimony with me. He was going through a rough time, and a believer shared a verse with him, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." (Matt. 11:28-29). The guy responded to the shared verse with, "Man, why'd you have to go there? I don't want to talk about that religion stuff." But the believer had already stirred up the soul of the unbeliever. This kid wrestled for a solid year with God, and finally surrendered his life to the LORD this past June.
That's the kind of trouble I'm talking about. The kind where all we do is be bold enough to speak the Truth that we know, and allow God to use it to penetrate a heart, and wrestle that heart to surrender. So, I'm praying that each of us prays for and expects these opportunities to come our way, and then are faithful enough to embrace each opportunity and stir up some trouble.
There's a song called "Until the Whole World Hears" by Casting Crowns. Here's a portion of the text, or you can check out the video online at www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6BW_5WosgA :
Lord, I want to feel your heart
And see the world through Your eyes
I want to be your hands and feet
I want to live a life that leads
Ready yourselves, Ready yourselves,
Let us shine the light of Jesus in the darkest night
I hope these words will inspire you as you put feet to God's commands. Carpe diem -- let's "seize the day" and shine the light of Jesus from now until the whole world hears!
I watched this movie over the holidays with my husband and son. It truly is one of those timeless movies. Even though it came out ten years before Ben was born, it spoke to him. The teacher in this movie, "O Captain, my Captain," wanted to inspire these kids to be true to themselves. He encouraged them to live life to the fullest. In a sense, he encouraged them to be rebels--to challenge conformity and think outside the box. He wanted them to wrestle with life, with ideas, and LIVE!
As I watched, I thought that often we as Christians can be like these kids in this movie. We can walk the way we think others want us to walk. We can shy away from sharing Jesus because ___ (fill in the blank) ...we each have our own list of excuses. We can put in our time at church on Sundays, and follow the "rules", but not ever really challenge ourselves to think, meditate on the Word and allow it to truly transform our lives. We can go through life without ever creating waves. But I'm not sure that's what God intended.
One of our focal passages for this preparation time in our church is Acts 17:1-9. It's the story of Paul and Silas in Thessalonica at Jason's house. The Jews didn't like Paul & Silas being in town, so they went to Jason's house to find them. The Scripture tells us "they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob and started a riot in the city." When they didn't find Paul and Silas, here's what they said about them: "These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come here...saying that there is another king, one called Jesus."
My favorite moment during the entire Christmas season was one Sunday when we were selling t-shirts in the Welcome Center. Helping me sell the shirts was a new Christian, and while we were selling, he shared his testimony with me. He was going through a rough time, and a believer shared a verse with him, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." (Matt. 11:28-29). The guy responded to the shared verse with, "Man, why'd you have to go there? I don't want to talk about that religion stuff." But the believer had already stirred up the soul of the unbeliever. This kid wrestled for a solid year with God, and finally surrendered his life to the LORD this past June.
That's the kind of trouble I'm talking about. The kind where all we do is be bold enough to speak the Truth that we know, and allow God to use it to penetrate a heart, and wrestle that heart to surrender. So, I'm praying that each of us prays for and expects these opportunities to come our way, and then are faithful enough to embrace each opportunity and stir up some trouble.
There's a song called "Until the Whole World Hears" by Casting Crowns. Here's a portion of the text, or you can check out the video online at www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6BW_5WosgA :
Lord, I want to feel your heart
And see the world through Your eyes
I want to be your hands and feet
I want to live a life that leads
Ready yourselves, Ready yourselves,
Let us shine the light of Jesus in the darkest night
I hope these words will inspire you as you put feet to God's commands. Carpe diem -- let's "seize the day" and shine the light of Jesus from now until the whole world hears!
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On Top of Pecos Baldy
...what a memory!
