tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69839301781596718822024-03-13T14:07:43.086-07:00There Is A Word...Pastor Wadlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01222031704202864950noreply@blogger.comBlogger11125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983930178159671882.post-74968033758654134292013-08-28T14:09:00.000-07:002013-08-28T14:09:28.265-07:00Two Choices Everyone Makes<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>TWO CHOICES <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>EVERYONE MAKES</span></i></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Psalms 1:1-2</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If
one is to be a man or woman of God, it is essential that to face the impossible
situations of life with faith. Our faith will show itself through one of two
fundamental directions in our lives – the choices we make! The two choices
everyone makes are nowhere better summarized than in Psalm 1. In spite of all appearances
to the contrary, in spite of the wooing’s of the multi-faceted world around us,
in spite of the seemingly endless variety of struggles we endure, in spite of
the many faces of evil – we should not be deceived – there are only two
choices.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Crucial to this Psalm is the word <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">blessed</i></b>.
There are two Hebrew meanings for the phrase “to bless.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One is the word used by “a greater” to “a lesser.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Examples include a father to a son, a king to
a subject, God to a person. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It means to confer
<span style="color: red;">abundances </span>or <span style="color: red;">effectiveness
</span>on someone or something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Old
Testament sees God as the true source of this blessing, abundance, or
effectiveness in life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The second use of
the word “blessed” is not used by God. This is the word used by man.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where our first word speaks of divine favor
from a greater to a lesser, this second word speaks of one’s accomplishment,
achievements, or congratulations. For our second word to be used, man has to “do
something.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One could say, “Blessed are
the Miami Heat - the NBA champions!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When we say the latter, we are not speaking of divine favor conferred –
although some may think that’s how they won. We are saying “accomplishment”
which goes to “achievement” which goes to “congratulations” and congratulations
go to “winners”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They did things that
were right, they made choices on the court that caused them to accomplish the
championship win. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The second word is the word used in
Psalm 1. This Psalm describes the “blessed man.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This man makes a variety of choices. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He makes choices about people; he makes
choices about his path; and he makes choices about priorities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He or she must make some specific choices for
their life. The question becomes does it really matter? Does it make any
difference if you just “do your own thing?” Does it really make any
difference?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Choices like – not to be in
the flow, perspective, advice, or viewpoint of the wicked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
blessed person does NOT traffic in the perspectives of evil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The word walk talks about everyday life where
you have a choice to make about which way to go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The blessed person makes a choice to NOT look
at life, listen to life, or think of life from the viewpoint of the ungodly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>A second choice for a blessed life
or life of accomplishment is to NOT stand in the path of the sinners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These sinners are people who don’t
acknowledge God and people who blatantly break God’s design. People who stand
in the path of sinners are those who move from “being in the flow of” to
“taking the position with,” to “identifying clearly with those who violate
God’s design.” A life of accomplishment or achievement makes a choice about who
to identify with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The reason we don’t
fill our heads with viewpoints of the ungodly is so we don’t find ourselves
deceived and begin identify with them! Choices make a difference!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>A third choice for life is to NOT
sit in the seat of the scoffers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To sit
with scoffers implies taking a position of teaching, guiding, leading or
instructing another contrary to God’s design. A scoffer is someone who looks
down on God’s wisdom. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lives that make
contributions, lives that accomplish, do not mock God’s wisdom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Deterioration comes when certain things are
rejected and other things are accepted; when choices are made and courses are
followed. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a basic choice that
is ALWAYS made when there is a blessed life and it departs from evil. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .5in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Finally, a blessed life makes
choices, ask questions, listens to the words of the songs, and doesn’t let the
content of the movie or TV show slide by; but pays attention to what the crowd
says and thinks about life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A blessed
person makes a choice NOT to go away from God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A blessed person delights in the law of the Lord, and in His law he
meditates day and night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now meditation
does NOT mean distancing one’s self from people, or going into some trance of
semi-consciousness. Meditation is to reading what digestion is to eating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You take it in and it becomes a part of
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You do it day and night. This
figure of speech doesn’t mean unbroken activity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It means “at all times and in all
circumstances” God’s truth is being chewed on, thought about, and applied to
the issues of life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I
don’t let life “just happen.” I make choices! And you can’t choose God’s wisdom
if you don’t know God’s way!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A blessed
life, a life of accomplishment and achievement says we must make choices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are two choices that are made over and
over by the person who is blessed. One path is despised, rejected, and
refused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One path is a delight, joy, and
the focus of affection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Psalm 1 calls us
to partake of God, enjoy God, and find a productive worthwhile life because we
have made a choice for Him and His way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The foolish believe that they can go wherever they like and do whatever
they want and it does not make a difference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The wise know that choices do make the difference!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .5in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .5in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983930178159671882.post-13023361561971180982012-08-24T08:00:00.000-07:002012-08-24T08:00:01.372-07:00
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
IT’S NOT MY JOB<o:p></o:p></div>
<o:p> </o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
Recently, I was walking around the
grounds of the church with a member talking about some things that needed to be
done when the individual emphatically responded, “That’s not my Job!” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was shocked at the response; however, my
belief is that every member in any church has a duty and a responsibility for
Kingdom building. If involvement is not a high priority on a member’s list as
it relates to ministry, then that member should rethink his purpose and God’s
purpose for his life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
As a child growing up, I distinctly
remember two men whose ministry was parking cars for the church members who arrived
for worship service. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because the church
was in the county, there were no marked lines for the cars to park, so the
members needed the assistance of these two men who used whistles and flags to provide
direction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Needless to say, these men
took their assignments very seriously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
were not Bible scholars, nor did they participate in Church School, or come
inside of the church to worship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They would
often listen to the worship service through the windows. While this may seem
like meager service to some, these men’s gesture was genuine and they made a
very important contribution to Kingdom building. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
When we come to church, isn’t it
nice to have the lights already turned on? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most people like coming to church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We should be glad that we have in place worship
leaders, teachers, and others who take leadership roles in various ministries seriously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, it takes a lot to run a church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some people will see trash on the pews or
floors and instead of removing it, they will say, “It’s not my job!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The truth of the matter is the church cannot
afford to have members with the mindset of, “It is not my job!” Each and every
one of us has an important role in building God’s church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
Paul sets forth by saying in the
book of Ephesians 4:11-12, “And he gave some apostles, and some as prophets,
and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of
the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He describes in these verses the equippers;
those that help prepare others for service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is the equippers who prepare individuals to become volunteers in
church ministry. Volunteers make up the vast majority of individuals who serve and
help the church fulfill its purpose of the perfecting of the saints. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
Each of us has an important role
with an important purpose which produces important results. We do not belong to
the church just because we worship in a nice edifice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We belong to the church because we are in the
Body of Christ, and it is our responsibility to help others grow in Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then the church can be a strong influence in
the world. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
The body grows when we all work and
function according to God’s plan! When everyone is willing to go above and
beyond the call of duty, then everything that needs to be done which improves
the body of Christ becomes our job - even if it is parking cars or picking up
trash.<o:p></o:p></div>
Pastor Wadlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01222031704202864950noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983930178159671882.post-69377808637051417092011-08-22T07:19:00.000-07:002011-08-22T07:22:50.731-07:00Are You Listening?<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:documentproperties> <o:version>14.00</o:Version> </o:DocumentProperties> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> 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0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify;text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;">The first half of this year has been a busy one. Preparing for the National Baptist Congress of Christian Education, attending the District and State Conventions, teaching the Union District’s COPP specialized course, along with other responsibilities has taken its toll on me.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And I find myself guilty of what I used to accuse my children of and that is “Not Listening.”<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You see, I used to give my children specific commands to do something and it was as if I had said nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>For example, I would tell my boys to get up from watching television and take out the trash.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>And they would continue watching as if I had said nothing.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>So in my frustration, I would accuse them of not listening.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Oh, yes, they heard the command but it was obvious they weren’t listening because if they had been they would have immediately complied. After all, I was supplying them with everything they needed, so why wouldn’t they comply.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Like so, it is important for us to understand the spirit behind the commandments of the Bible. When the Old Testament urges us to “obey” God, the first meaning of the Hebrew and Greek words is often “to listen” or “to give attention to.” For instance, the Hebrew word that frequently shows up as “obey” in the English Bible is translated “hear” <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>as in the famous <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Shema</i> where he says, “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” (Deut. 6:4)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>In the New Testament, the Greek word translated “obey” means to be persuaded. According to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Vine’s Dictionary, </i>the emphasis is not on submission to authority, but on action resulting from being convinced by reason and truth.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>That is, letting ourselves be persuaded by the truth is the idea of the author of Hebrews in communication when he says, “Obey those who rule over you, and be submission, for they watch out for your soul.” (Heb. 13:17)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Would it make a difference if, instead of saying “Obey me,” Jesus said, “Listen to me.” <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>“I want your attention; I don’t just want your compliance; I want you to do it willingly because you love me and I love you.”<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>For example, picture the husband and wife who keep talking at each other with growing frustration. He says to her, “Just tell me what you want me to do and I’ll do it. Be specific. Don’t make me keep guessing about what you want.” And her response is, “I’ve already told you and obviously, you weren’t listening. Plus, I don’t want you complying because I told you. I want you to do it because you want to.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>That’s the kind of talk that drives some of us crazy. But it is sometimes needed. Even God Himself doesn’t tell us exactly how to show our patience, self-control, and love for Him in the specific moments of our lives. He shows us how much He loves us, gives us principles, and then asks us to respond to His heart with our own.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:12.0pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>So what would a life of listening look like? What can we do to hear more rather than less of God?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Do we need to ask Him to help us hear more?<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Often we should stop talking long enough to hear Him whisper, “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) We would do better. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>What if, while trying to get His help and favor, we began to listen, really listen, to one another, to our spiritual and political enemies, and even to our own hearts? It would be more likely to hear Jesus saying, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me”. (John 10:27)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:12.0pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>This kind of following is so different from being forced to keep a demand. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When we listen carefully to His voice in Scripture, we don’t hear someone consumed by authority and control. Instead, we hear a love that says, “Come to me, all ye who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. My yoke is easy and my burdens are light”. (Matt. 11:28-30)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:12.0pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Even though Jesus has every right to demand our immediate obedience, He approaches us gently, appealing not only to our will but to our minds and hearts. He is still saying to His stubborn and distracted children, “Behold I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with me”. (Rev. 3:20) </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:12.0pt;text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Are you listening? </span></span></p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983930178159671882.post-20578561907310558452011-03-05T16:13:00.000-08:002011-03-05T17:01:13.524-08:00WELCOME, 2011!Prior to the dawning of a new year, it is wise for us to do some soul-searching. We must look within our hearts to get a glimpse of where we stand spiritually and determine whether we are ready to tackle those same issues that we were faced with in the previous years. Two thousand and eleven is akin to the years past in that we are still faced with the same problems such as hunger, poverty, health care, education, or the lack thereof, unemployment, and racial injustice (racism). Injustice has no respecter of person, and we cannot allow inferior thoughts and feelings of hatred and malice to infiltrate our hearts and minds. As children of Christ, we must exemplilfy Christlike characters and stand in the gap for our brothers and sisters as a part of kingdom building. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy path."<br /><br />We have hit the ground running trying to help make better lives for those who have little or no hope. It seems there are not enough hours in a day to deal with all the issues that come across my desk. For example, when I have to minister to those who have fallen gravely ill, and to the families of those who have succumbed to death weigh heavily upon my heart. I know that God never, ever does anything wrong, but because He knows we will become weary, He gives us consolation in John 14:1. "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God believe also in me." In other words, we must keep our faith and trust in Christ Jesus.<br /><br />Further, I wish to encourage our congregation and others who have the desire to get involved in some type of ministry, within or outside of the church. There is a secular saying that "if you don't stand for something, you will fall for anything." While there may be some truth associated with this saying, satan must never make us lose our focus. Christians, when we stand, we should know for what and for whom we are standing. We must keep our eyes on the cross. Jesus has given us another year, another day, another month to get our house in order. This year, as with previous years, will cause some to step up to the plate; others will challenge my vision and revert back to the status quo. Nevertheless, there is no turning back.<br /><br />"I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase." (I Cor. 3:6). Paul planted the seed of God's Word in people's hearts. He brought the message of salvation. Apollos' role was to water - to help the believers grow stronger in their faith. Paul founded the Church in Corinth, and Apollos built on that foundation. The preacher's work was completed, but God kept on and keeps on making Christians grow. Our leaders should be respected, but we should never place them on pedestals that create barriers between people or as a substitute for our devotion to Christ. Having said that, we should guard our hearts for ministry, but in so doing, when the Church takes it rightful place in society, it must weed out unproductive ministries that usurp the authority of those in leadership. We see all the adversity being brought against God's children where men, women, and children are dying senseless deaths everyday. We are to pray, protect, teach God's Word of Salvation, and offer God's peace that passes all understanding which only He can give.<br /><br />Finally, my brethren and sisters, the visibility of the fruits of our labor for 2011 has been ushered in. We have moved from "I Can" to "I Will"; from "A Fresh Start and a New Beginning" to "Embarking upon a Kingdom Culture for Ministry". This Kingdom Culture can be accomplished harmoniously through five specific areas: (1) The Spirit of Unity is where we work together toward a shared purpose and vision; (2) The Spirit of Integrity is being committed to biblical truth; (3) The Spirit of Excellence means to work as unto the Lord with the highest degree of professionalism, productivity, and skill; (4) The Spirit of support encourages us to give courageously and favorably; and (5) The Spirit of Giving supports giving generously through tithes, offerings, gifts, and/or pledges. These values are essential for kingdom building, and every member must make a commitment to God.<br /><br />Stand firm on your faith, and remember that the darkest of nights are followed by the brightest of days. With God, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!Pastor Wadlingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01222031704202864950noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983930178159671882.post-60573067688778085202010-10-01T12:56:00.000-07:002010-10-01T13:00:43.727-07:00Hypocrites in the Church<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:verdana;" >Not long ago I was doing leadership training at a particular church. During the breakout session, the young people in attendance made a profound statement. They said, “The folks here are nothing but hypocrites.” Of course, this was nothing foreign for me to hear so I attempted to explore the issue and determine the validity of the statement. After pursuing the matter, it was determined that these young people were like many in the congregation, they just didn’t feel they had a place that or their ideas were being considered as important. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:verdana;" > Barna Research Group conducted a survey among various religious congregations of people from ages 16-29, specifically to whether many people within this age bracket didn’t go to church or left church because of hypocrisy. The results showed overwhelmingly that it was a lack of being allowed to participate that caused them to not go or to leave because “the folks were hypocrites. The Barna Group’s survey also revealed that most people never actually left a congregation because of hypocrisy. The results showed that most people in the targeted age group left because the congregation was too insensitive, didn’t have enough activities for kids, had differing theology, or there was a small issue that was brushed aside and never addressed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:verdana;" > Now don’t get me wrong, hypocrisy is alive and well. It is an issue in almost every congregation. Jesus himself addressed the issue. I noticed, however, the only time Jesus hurled the charge of hypocrisy was when people were doing something deliberately to appear outwardly different from what they were inwardly. For example, He spoke about people who gave to charity “…so that they may be praised by others.” (Matthew 6:2) Likewise, He spoke against those who “…love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corner, so that they may be seen by others.” (v. 5) He also scolded the scribes and Pharisees for putting on the appearance, saying, “ For you are like whitewashed tombs, which on the outside looks beautiful, but inside they are full of the bones of the dead and all kinds of filth.” (Matthew 23:27). Jesus called all of those people hypocrites, and the Greek word that is translated “hypocrites” actually means “actor” or “stage player.” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:verdana;" > How many people do you think get up on Sunday morning and think, “I’m going to church so I can pretend to be righteous and appear to be holy?” Not many. When church people admit to being hypocrites, we aren’t usually confessing to playacting. But more often, we mean that we have failed to follow through on our good intentions or that we still see the gap between the people we feel called to be, and the people we actually are. But most of us are not intentionally trying to deceive anyone; we’re seeing where we still need to work to bring our behavior up to the level of what we really believe.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:verdana;" > The great challenge of the church is to give all people a place in their congregations. We must strive to make everyone feel a part and have everyone know their ideas are heard and, at least, considered. And if someone complains about hypocrites in church, the response should be, “</span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:verdana;" >there is always room for one more</span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-family:verdana;" >.” </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983930178159671882.post-48999219249372146512010-07-17T19:32:00.000-07:002010-07-17T19:33:23.846-07:00ADOPTED INTO THE FAMILY - Ephesians 1:3-5I returned to my home church this 4th of July weekend and preached the Annual Homecoming message. While there, so many memories flooded my mind. As the reunion choir performed some of the old songs we used to sing, I was held in awe! As I viewed the people of years past, I remembered one particular family in the congregation. This family went through the process of adopting a son. He’s all grown now, has a family of his own, and is now living in Tupelo, Mississippi. I remember the tenacious tasks Harvey and Myrtle went through to get Tracy. I remember their asking for prayer in hopes of finally getting a son and their joy when bringing him into the Harrisonville church family for the first time. <br /><br /> In reading the words from Ephesians, I discovered we all go through a dramatic series of events. We go from being condemned orphans with no hope to being adopted children with no fear. How does it happen? Well, first we come before the judgment seat of God full of rebellion and mistakes. Because of His justice He cannot dismiss our sin, but because of His love, He cannot dismiss us. So, in an action -- which I think stunned even the heavens -- He punished Himself on a cross for our sins. Think about it, God’s justice and love are equally honored. And we, God’s creation, are forgiven. But the story doesn’t end with God’s forgiveness.<br /><br /> It would be enough if God just cleansed our name, but He does more. He gives us His name. It would be enough if God just set us free, but He does more. He takes us home. And adoptive parents understand this concept more than anyone. They know what it means to fill and empty space inside. They know what it means to set out on a mission, and take responsibility for a child with a spotted past and uncertain future. Yet God has adopted us. God sought us, found us, signed papers, and took us home.<br /><br /> And you really thought God adopted you because you were good looking. You thought He needed your money or your wisdom. I’m sorry to burst your bubble. God adopted you simply because He wanted to. You were in His good will and pleasure, knowing fully well the trouble you would be and the price He would pay; yet He signed His name next to yours and changed your name to His and took you home.<br /><br /> I think you and I both know that an adoption is not something we earn; it’s something we receive. To be adopted into a family is not something that one achieves, but rather a gift one accepts. The parents are the active ones. Adoption agencies don’t train children to recruit parents; they seek parents to adopt children. The parents make the call and fill out the paper and endure the interviews and pay the fees and wait and wait. Can you imagine prospective parents saying, “We’d like to adopt Tracy, but first we want to know a few things? Does he have a house to live in? Does he have money for tuition? Does he have a ride to school each morning and clothes to wear every day? Can he prepare his own meals and mend his own clothes?”<br /><br /> No agency would stand for such talk. Its representative would lift their hand and say, “Wait a minute. You don’t understand. You don’t adopt Tracy because of what he has, you adopt him because of what he needs; and he needs a home.”<br /><br /> The same is true with God. He doesn’t adopt us because of what we have. He doesn’t give us His name because of our wit, or wallet, or good attitude. God is not a fair-weather Father, one that owns me only when I’m doing good, I can count on Him to be in my corner no matter how I perform. <br /><br /> Long ago, even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. His unchanging plan has always been to adopt us unto His own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. And this gave him great pleasure (Eph. 1:3-5 NLT). <br /><br /> I’m delight to be adopted into His family as one of His sons. <br /><br /> What about you?Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983930178159671882.post-4654351148647291572010-05-11T19:47:00.000-07:002010-05-11T19:50:09.598-07:00PASS IT ON - 2 Timothy 1:5<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 12"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 12"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CUsers%5CYolana%5CAppData%5CLocal%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><link rel="themeData" href="file:///C:%5CUsers%5CYolana%5CAppData%5CLocal%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_themedata.thmx"><link rel="colorSchemeMapping" href="file:///C:%5CUsers%5CYolana%5CAppData%5CLocal%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_colorschememapping.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> 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<br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">I have discovered there are generational blessings in my family that have been passed down when it comes to motherhood.<span style=""> </span>Passing these qualities down from one woman to the next has been the mandate of cherishing this important role. It was preached or taught in such a way that it became somewhat natural for each new generation to understand the privilege and importance of parenting. It was not a responsibility I saw being taken lightly. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">What I observed, and from the stories I heard from others in our family, there was a sense of nurturing.<span style=""> </span>This nurturing really is a privilege given to all life-givers whether they accept the responsibility or not.<span style=""> </span>Every mother should be emotionally charged with the job of taking care of their children – of loving them; educating them; imparting words of light, words of healing, and words of well-being to their offspring. All should do this. But unfortunately, all do not.<span style=""> </span>And this is the tragedy whose impact can be seen in years that follow.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">When we look at many young mothers today, we can see they don’t have a clue as to the importance of their role. As a result, often grandmothers or others are left with the responsibility of trying to raise their daughter’s child with the challenges of this 21<sup>st</sup> century staring them in the face.<span style=""> </span>The foundation for motherhood somehow didn’t get passed and is wrecking our society today. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">The bible points to Timothy as being an example of the teaching of generational mothering.<span style=""> </span>The apostle Paul admonishes Timothy to stir up the gift or gifts that are within him from the nurturing of his mother Eunice and grandmother Lois.<span style=""> </span>These women planted in Timothy the principles necessary to impart in him good morals and Christian character.<span style=""> </span>Through their parenting, Timothy was strong in faith and understood that challenges in life were not insurmountable.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size:12pt;">If you have been given the unique opportunity to form and create the life of another human being, take seriously your charge and get on with the business at hand. You have much work to do, with great rewards to follow. Give of yourself and your love, that you may nurture a life of love.<span style=""> </span>As with all important work, what you put into this priceless task is what you’ll get out of it.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size:12pt;"><span style=""> </span>Henry Beecher says, “<b style=""><i style="">What a mother sings to the cradle goes all the way to the coffin.”<o:p></o:p></i></b></span></p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983930178159671882.post-43856349000280399602010-02-09T19:13:00.000-08:002010-02-09T19:23:03.686-08:00TOUGH STUFF - Philippians 4:13I don’t care how old you are, where you live or what you do for a living; if you’re single or married; childless or have a house full of kids; own your home or rent your place…<span style="font-style: italic;">it’s always something</span>. It makes no difference which hobby you enjoy, who you know, how much money you make, whether you’re a workaholic or completely retired from the workplace, whether you’re a person who has little or no faith or you’re strong-hearted follower of Jesus…<span style="font-style: italic;">it’s always something</span>! Life and <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">tough stuff</span> go hand in hand. It typically appears as a gradually intensifying storm. Sometimes sudden winds of adversity hit hard against us as our barometers take a dive to the bottom of the gauge. Maybe you’re there right now.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Tough stuff</span> seems easier managed when you see it coming. But how often does that happen? It’s the treacherous assaults beyond the horizons, those mental muggings we cannot see, that buckle our knees. Anybody know what I’m talking about?<br /><br />Adversity has a way of cutting us down. After the initial blunt blow, we’re left stunned, wondering what hit us. Occasionally the blows are so brutal they alter life as we know it. The <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">tough stuff</span> tests the core of our beings, leaving us with contrasting results. It will either strengthen our deepest beliefs, or unravel the very fabric of our faith. Everything depends on our response.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Tough stuff</span> happens in life; and will continue to happen. Sometimes we bring it on ourselves. More often, however, we had nothing to do with why it occurred. There is simply no escape from the trials and the turmoil related to living on this planet. A quick glance at the past six months of most of our lives is all it takes to convince us of this truth. Who would have guessed a year ago that you had all this in front of you? Who would have thought the devastation would happen in Haiti? Who would have imagined that after years of a marriage and children, you two would be going in separate directions? How could you imagine that after so many years with a successful company you would now be unemployed? Your physical two years ago presented you as a healthy and vibrant individual. How can the doctor now tell you it’s cancer? That’s <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">tough stuff!</span><br /><br />The<span style="font-weight: bold;"> good news</span> is that God has provided us with the right perspective. He has made available a Savior, and His name is Jesus. He wants to take the blows for you, to help you through the <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">tough stuff</span>. He can become the rudder of your life when fierce winds blow your compass, when you’ve lost your bearing, and when your sailing on doesn’t seem possible. He knows your situation because He himself had his own share of <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">tough stuff</span>, and He’s not unfamiliar with anything you’re facing.<br /><br />The Apostle Paul said it best, “I can do all things though Christ Jesus which strengthens me.” That word strengthens means he puts <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">a dynamo in me</span>. Isn’t that Great?! When Christ comes into our lives, He places an unseen power in us. It’s a power pack that can be adjusted, adapted, tightened up, or even let loose if need be. It can release or hold back, depending on the terrain. It can keep things on a fairly even plain. How? Why? Because HE is present!<br /><br />Getting though the tough stuff is neither quick nor easy. It’s what makes life sometimes seem harsh and unfair; sometimes even impossible. But knowing that we have our Father near can be just enough to keep us on our feet and able to take on whatever tomorrow may include.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">It’s always something</span>…but the <span style="font-weight: bold;">good news</span> is: <span style="font-weight: bold;">when <span style="font-style: italic;">tough stuff</span> shows up, Jesus is already there!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983930178159671882.post-29025235110728483262009-12-15T19:40:00.000-08:002009-12-15T19:43:17.287-08:00Two Kinds of Forgiveness<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 12"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 12"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CUsers%5CYolana%5CAppData%5CLocal%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><link rel="themeData" 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class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;" align="center"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">TWO KINDS OF FORGIVENESS<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style=""> </span>I approached the end of the year here at Pilgrim preaching a series on forgiveness. Forgiveness is a constant continuing process in our lives. And as a church family we must understand the need to forgive one another and keeping the bond of peace.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style=""> </span>Ultimately there are two types of forgiveness. Imagine with me that a relative has deeply wronged you in a way that could result in severe legal consequences.<span style=""> </span>Although the one might fully deserves the full weight of the law to come down upon him, you choose because he is a member of the family, to release him from all legal liability.<span style=""> </span>He is judicially forgiven, and the relationship between the two of you is clear of all legal impediments. That does not mean that problems do not exist between you.<span style=""> </span>The issue may put a serious strain on your personal relationship, but they do not jeopardize ones legal status.<span style=""> </span><i style="">Judicial forgiveness does not remove the need for relational forgiveness.<o:p></o:p></i></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style=""> </span></span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">By God’s grace in Christ, we are the recipients of <i style="">judicial forgiveness, </i>which means that we have perfect standing with God. We are members of His family forever. But <i style="">relational forgiveness</i> is about my ongoing enjoyment of a warm, intimate relationship with others. For example, I love my boys and girls dearly and sometimes their actions cause a serious strain on our relationship. But nothing they do, no matter how bad, can make me disown them. But because we are sinners, things sometimes happen that damage our enjoyment of one another and that, left unresolved, could do serious damage to our relationship with one another.<span style=""> </span>A healthy family relationship requires the consistent extending and receiving of forgiveness. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style=""> </span>I think this same principal applies to our relationship with our heavenly Father. As our Judge, He pardoned us once and for all when we trusted the Lord Jesus.<span style=""> </span>But as our Father He forgives us many times, as we deal with the sins that enter our lives.<span style=""> </span>This distinction lies behind the often misunderstood words of the Lord’s Prayer:<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;" align="center"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors<o:p></o:p></span></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;" align="center"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">(Matthew 6:12)<o:p></o:p></span></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;" align="center"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style=""> </span></span></i><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">We must remember that the so-called Lord’s Prayer is, in fact, a believer’s prayer, taught by the Lord to His followers as their distinctive prayer.<span style=""> </span>We cannot view it as a generic prayer (which many often do) that could be prayed by anyone, regardless of their relationship to Christ. It is for those who have already been forgiven through faith in Christ. But we are still to pray for a forgiveness that is all about our fellowship with the Father. It stands to reason that, if I refuse to forgive my fellow-believer who is also a beloved child of the Father, I cannot expect my relationship to our mutual Father to be unaffected, any more than I would expect my dad to be unconcerned if I were in the midst of a nasty quarrel with one of my four brothers.<span style=""> </span>My status in the family would not be at stake; my fellowship in the family would be.
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<br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style=""> </span>Judicial forgiveness is unconditional, grounded on the finished work of Christ. It is once-for-all forgiveness. But just as the petition in the Lord’s Prayer is for daily bread, not a once-for-all provision of food, the petition for forgiveness is also about daily forgiveness as needed. I need forgiveness daily because I sin daily! And the forgiveness I seek is relational, not judicial. This relational forgiveness is conditional, based upon my relationship with others.<span style=""> </span>And this is the challenge to every Christian, “If you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, our Father will not forgive your sins” (Matthew 6:14-15).
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<br /><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style=""> </span>I share with you again the story of two brothers from a small South African Village. The older brother was tall, athletic, a good student and a natural leader. The younger brother was not. He had a back deformity and was very sensitive to that fact. However, he did have a wonderful singing voice. They both attended the same school away from their village.<span style=""> </span>One night some older boys dragged the younger brother out and ripped off his shirt and made fun of the deformity in his back until he cried to his older brother for help. The older brother was there, didn’t try to help defend his younger brother or rescue him from an abandoned water tank they eventually place him in and forced him to sing.<span style=""> </span>The younger brother was eventually rescued; he survived but was crushed in spirit. He returned to the family farm, lived a reclusive life, and never sang again.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><o:p>
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<br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style=""> </span>The older brother was eventually called to service during World War II and had a dream in which he realized how much heartache he caused his brother.<span style=""> </span>After getting out of service, he made the difficult journey back to South Africa and asked his brother’s forgiveness. Later that night in the dark of the night he heard a beautiful song – it was his brother singing a song for the first time since that awful night.<span style=""> </span>And it was a song the older brother had written for him to sing when they were young boys. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><o:p>
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<br /></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style=""> </span>Pilgrim this dynamic of forgiveness within the spiritual family is so important. In order that we may move forward together in fellowship, in the work of ministry, and in love – it requires forgiving one another.<o:p></o:p></span></p> Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983930178159671882.post-79896630496819636442009-09-27T20:22:00.000-07:002009-09-27T20:49:27.314-07:00How We Should View Trouble (James 1:2)I’ve never liked riding roll-coasters. For me it was always an experience, even in my youth and adolescence, I hated. I would often take rides because of female friends that were thrilled by the coaster rides at the Mid-South Fair. While they would be screaming with excitement, having held hands in the air as the dips and turn took place, I would be holding on for dear life. I am thankful that I had enough tolerance to not get sick on the ventures. What a greater embarrassment that would have been!<br /><br />Getting through a season of trouble is a lot like surviving a roller-coaster ride – except we do not volunteer for trouble; and trouble was never intended to be fun. Trouble is filled with stomach-wrenching drops, dips, and sudden curves. And just when we think we’ve caught out breath, we’re dropped again. If we didn’t know better, we might think that this roller-coaster ride is a random experience – that somehow the forces that lift us up and push us down are acts of fate. It is not a random ride at all. Those who understand the work of God, in and through our troubles, know that He does not abandon us to disaster. Rather, with all the strength of His character, He provides a well-engineered superstructure that supports the process along with a carefully planned set of tracks and guardrails. Even when the ride is hectic, unsettling, and too twisted for us to sense the presence of His support and guidance, He is still there. Our only hope is to stay in the car and find something solid to hold on to through every turn of the experience.<br /><br /> When trouble invades our comfort zone, two needs rise to the top: (1) The need for understanding (to find answers to the probing and disturbing questions that crowd our mind and souls) and (2) the need for healing (to feel better and to finish the problem). Of the two, understanding is the key to managing the problem effectively to its ultimate outcome. Without the understanding that produces the right answers, there is no sense of direction.<br /><br />When James wrote, Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials (Jas. 1:2 NASB), his choice of words was strategic. The Apostle James uses a specific word for trouble (trials) that leads to a helpful understanding of what trouble is. Barnes, in his notes, paraphrases James 1:2 by saying that when troubles come, “Don’t resist them as intruders, but welcome them as friends!”<br /><br />The Greek word for trials is a word that means, “To examine or test for the purpose of providing or revealing something about the thing tested.”Trials, then, is “a test that reveals something for a specific purpose. Of all the things we could say about trials – that they are disappointing, discouraging, humiliating, uncomfortable, painful, and disheartening – God sees them, among other reasons, as tests that reveal our true selves. In times of trouble the “real me” becomes apparent. So trouble is revelatory.<br /><br /> Trouble is one of God’s ways of examining our lives. When we are on “Easy Street” – and thank the Lord He lets us come up for air periodically – it is hard to know what we are really like. We can carry on a cosmetic existence, fooling ourselves and most people, about our true nature. But when troubles hit our lives, what we are really like is quickly revealed. Trouble shows our friends, our spouses, our children, and our acquaintances what we are like. Even more unsettling, it forces us to start seeing ourselves for who and what we really are.<br /><br /> So what good is trouble? Well, among other things, trouble reveals where I am in the growth process in terms of my conformity to the image and character of Christ. It gets me beyond assumptions to reality. Am I a forgiving person? Am I kind? Understanding? Just? Loving? Helpful? Patient? Or am I angry, slanderous, self-centered, inflexible, manipulative, weak and not equipped to respond to trials correctly.<br /><br /> No, I don’t like riding roller-coasters. And I don’t like the “various trials” which often enter my life. But because I know they have a unique purpose; and because I know Romans 8:28 says, And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. I’m willing to catch hold of the Master’s hand, hold tight, and ride out my troubles!<br /><br />What about you?Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6983930178159671882.post-62284012045110478982009-06-11T20:11:00.000-07:002009-06-11T20:15:38.558-07:00Different Kinds of Wisdom (1 Kings 3:9-11)<div align="left">I have always been taken by the scriptures which constitute Solomon’s request to the Almighty after he became King of Israel at such a young age. As I look about our church and community, wisdom is something which seems to be lacking, especially, among the young of this world.<br /><br />According to Buddhist folklore, two traveling monk reached a river where they met a young woman. Wary of the current, she asked if they could carry her across. One of the monks hesitated, but the other quickly picked her up onto his shoulder, transported her across the water, and put her down on the bank. She thanked him and departed. As the monks continued on their way, the hesitant one said to the other, “Brother, our spiritual training teaches us to avoid any contact with women, but you picked that one up on your shoulder and carried her!” The other responded, “Brother, I set her down on the other side. But you are still carrying her.”<br /><br />I believe the insight of the second monk raises an interesting question for followers of Christ. When the opportunity arises that we can help someone, someone who might not be connected to our faith, do we weaken the distinctiveness of our own faith? Does wisdom tell us to only deal with other saved folk? I believe the Bible commands us build bridges to those outside our faith, without compromising the distinctiveness of Christ in the process. In other words, we have a moral obligation to assist others, regardless, of race, religion or national origin. We are in the world but not of the world.<br /><br />It is through wisdom that we should navigate our lives daily. Without wisdom we can be easily tricked by those who only want to take the advantage. This is the real test is today. Many individuals, especially young people, do not have the wisdom to see when others are taking advantage of their good morals and spiritual training which says, “We’re to be nice and be helpful” because that is what Jesus did. This niceness often results in unwed mothers; this niceness has caused some to get in trouble financially; this niceness has resulted in the destruction of entire families because of the cons who prey upon our “religious faith.”<br /><br />Wisdom tells us to stop and simply think. Wisdom lets us know to every cause there is an effect. Wisdom allows is to know you can’t get something for nothing without paying a price, even if the price comes later. Wisdom allows us to look for the end results and not the excitement of the moment. Wisdom allows us to understand it takes time and hard work to acquire wealth, and a quick track to wealth is deadly. Wisdom allows one to know that all who grin in your face do not necessarily have your best interest at heart.<br /><br />When I first came to Indianapolis, I was told that I needed to become “STREET WISE” because I was no longer in a country town. I was told that hustlers make their living hustling the church, church folk or anyone else that will give them an ear or audience. Well, I didn’t have to come here to acquire that knowledge. The only difference here is the scale is larger. So, like Solomon, “I asked the Lord for wisdom that I would be able to discern the things of God and the things of man.” And what I’ve learned is it takes wisdom to operate not only outside the church, but in the church as well. The church also has its share of cons, crooks, and those who use the church for selfish gains.<br /><br />The Bible shows how to recognize (1) natural, (2) religious, and (3) moral insights in the world around us. More important, the Bible shows how these three kinds of wisdom can help us to see our need for (4) the redemptive wisdom of the cross.<br /><br />Let’s stop being naïve and embrace wisdom. Let’s stop being players or being played. Wisdom will help us deal with others without diminishing our religious convictions. It will allow us to help others across the difficult streams of life without compromising. It will even help us lead others to a better life in Jesus Christ. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com