It’s not my power!

Acts 3: ¹² When Peter saw this, he said to them: “Fellow Israelites, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? ¹³ The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus. You handed him over to be killed, and you disowned him before Pilate, though he had decided to let him go.

¹⁴ You disowned the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you. ¹⁵ You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. We are witnesses of this.

¹⁶ By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through him that has completely healed him, as you can all see.

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Jealousy of Peter, Paul and Moses is the best word to describe my feelings toward GOD. I mean they did some cool supernatural feats that my puny faith can’t seem to muster up. People I have prayed for died, that person didn’t get the job, or those people got a divorce anyway.

Why does it seem like their prayers were answered and many of mine fall by the wayside?

• When I think I have to be “special” to perform miracles then I have the wrong focus.
• When I think I have to be “sinless” to perform miracles then I have the wrong understanding.
• When I think I have to be “all prayed up” to perform miracles then I have the wrong person.

My problem with performing miracles is “me.”  I think I have to be something I am not. GOD performs the miracles whether I am the messenger or not. HE breathes life into people, heals them, raises them to powerful places and kills them under HIS own power. I have no control of any of GOD’s ways.

• GOD can do anything and the more I believe the more I see HIM doing miracles.
• GOD can solve any issue and the more I point to HIM the more barriers fall by the wayside.
• GOD can heal bodies and broken hearts and the more I depend on GOD to do it the better off I am.

No wonder “I” can’t perform miracles. I don’t have the power. GOD has all power and it’s up to me to understand HIS plan and be accepting of HIS direction.

• Do you need a miracle?
• Can you accept whatever GOD has in store for the situation?
• Have you pointed people to GOD for the “little” things HE does in your life so that HE can do “bigger” things through you?

HE is powerful enough!

Acts 3: ² Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. ³ When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. ⁴ Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” ⁵ So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them.

 ⁶ Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” ⁷ Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong.

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Skepticism was the first word that came to mind when it related to supernatural healing. I mean who in their right mind would believe in healing by a spoken word? That was my immature thinking back then.

• Just because I think supernatural healing should happen like in the movies doesn’t mean it isn’t real.
• Just because we have doctors who are very competent in the anatomy doesn’t mean GOD’s hand isn’t on every person.
• Just because I have doubts doesn’t mean someone else’s faith isn’t greater than mine and their prayer can heal a person.

Healing is such a touchy subject because it cannot be controlled. Science is trying to extend life, but the last time I checked, every human will die. Curing cancer won’t delay death. I once read “every person is appointed a specific time” meaning I will die exactly when GOD tells me to. I also read “you will do greater things than I” meaning GOD HIMSELF expects miracles to be performed through me.

Can this be for real? YES!

• GOD expects me to believe in HIM so much that I should expect my prayer to happen.
• GOD expects me to believe in HIS supernatural power over disease so HE can win a lost soul.
• GOD expects me to believe in HIM to watch over me even through my appointed time to return to HIM.

I act like I don’t want to go to heaven when I say “I don’t want to die.” In reality GOD wants my boldness about HIS SON all the way up to my last breath. Yes I believe in supernatural healing as long as it points solely to GOD.

• Are you or someone you know experiencing a need for supernatural healing?
• Do you believe GOD can and will still heal people supernaturally?
• Are you worried about your health?
• Can you give your worries to GOD and watch HIM perform miraculous acts even through doctors?

Do GOD’s words cut you?

Acts 2: ³⁶ “Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.”

 ³⁷ When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”

 ³⁸ Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

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“Church is useless” I exclaimed as I stormed out of yet another place I had condemned in my mind. I mean it seems like these places are full of hypocrites. “The preachers are only after women and money, the women are only there to marry somebody and the guys only want titles! I’m out of here!” I exclaimed to myself.

“I’m not going to church anymore.” I guess I had dreamt up some great excuses for not going to church, or did I?

• I am mistaken when I think church is a “place to go” rather than a group of broken people.
• I am mistaken when I think church is a “thing to do” rather than a service to GOD.
• I am mistaken when I think church is a “time slot to serve me” rather than a gathering of servants with prepared hearts to worship GOD.

It’s easy to say something is wrong with “this” church or “that” church but it’s harder to say there is something wrong with me. I sought after places I could feel comfortable hiding my sins while looking polished and professional on the outside. GOD wanted me in a different “place.”

• GOD wants me to worship HIM by admitting my sins to HIM “and” HIS people.
• GOD wants me to seek opportunities to serve HIS people rather than always looking to be served.
• GOD wants me to voluntarily open myself up to be vulnerable as an act of trusting HIM rather than guarding my life and protecting my security.

Getting “cut to the heart” actually hurts. GOD’s messages sink deep into my soul and I am moved to serve HIS people the way HE wants me to serve them.  HE wants me to have compassion for those who hate me, restraint from those who tempt me, empathy for those in need and love for those who sin like me.

HIS message of kindness, patience, persistence and peace resonate in my heart and I feel excited to be around GOD’s humans, seeking those whom I can serve. I’m still selfish, BUT GOD has at least opened my eyes to realize I am gathering with other selfish people to serve HIM.

• Are you looking at what “church” can do for you or how you can serve GOD?
• Do you look at the gathering of people at “work” as opportunity to be in “church?”
• Can you realize the gathering of two people in agreement with the ways of CHRIST “is” a gathering of the “church?”

I’m no longer scared!

Acts 2: ²⁴ But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. ²⁵ David said about him:

   “‘I saw the Lord always before me.

   Because he is at my right hand,

   I will not be shaken.

²⁶ Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;

   my body also will rest in hope,

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Future situations seemed to cause this gripping fear that would cripple me. It was the unknown making me ask “what if I fail,” “what if it doesn’t work,” “what if I lose my life,” “what if I get hurt.” Fear of the unknown seemed to hold me back.

• The future can be quite unsettling when I look with my own eyes.
• The future can look quite bleak when I pay attention to the news.
• The future can seem quite depressing when I lose my way to my dream.

I guess in my past training I was taught to consider the worst case scenario but in doing so I can’t seem to see a good scenario. I panic and only see the bad BUT GOD sees beyond this place of wrath and tears.

• With GOD on my side, nothing can go wrong.
• With GOD on my side, I can face all situations head on.
• With GOD on my side, I can be filled with joy which causes me to rest.

GOD is the one who has the plans and HIS plans never fail. As long as I keep my mind focused on HIS plans I will never fail. HE already suffered the agony of death and was too powerful to remain there. HE is always before me, protecting me and leading me. HE gives me “hope.”

• What are you placing your hope in?
• Are you waiting for more money?
• Are you waiting on situations to change before you start serving GOD?
• Will you place your hope in GOD and know your situation has been overcome?
• Can you start serving others in the middle of your situation, showing others you have hope in GOD?

Is talking about the “Last Days” crazy?

Acts 2: ¹⁷ “‘In the last days, God says,

   I will pour out my Spirit on all people.

Your sons and daughters will prophesy,

   your young men will see visions,

   your old men will dream dreams.

¹⁸ Even on my servants, both men and women,

   I will pour out my Spirit in those days,

   and they will prophesy.

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So many people have predicted the end of the world as we know it.  My skeptical mind shuns their psychic babble as each of their predictions have fallen by the wayside. Will there be an end to life as we know it? The Mayan’s said it is supposed to happen December 21, 2012. I wonder if I should plan a Christmas party next year!

• Sometimes I act like GOD will leave everything as is.
• Sometimes I don’t believe GOD will destroy what HE created.
• Sometimes I think GOD doesn’t really mean what HE says about the “last days.”

Quite honestly I don’t like talking about the “end” of life as we know it.  Just speaking about it places me in a group of “crazy” people who seem to have lost touch with reality. BUT GOD says something different.

• GOD says HE will pour out HIS SPIRIT on people.
• GOD says HE will enable people to talk about how great HIS SON is.
• GOD says HE is the only one who knows the true “end” of the world as we know it.

One of the mistakes made when talking about the end is telling people to do something incredibly different when in fact I believe we should “do” the same things but “act” differently. I mean I should go to work and plan vacations but carry GOD’s great news of forgiveness wherever I go.

My concern should be on the present, knowing GOD will return one day, I will focus on serving in the here and now.

• Do you believe GOD will return one day perhaps in your lifetime?
• Will you live your life in a way that enables others to believe in HIS SON?
• Won’t you stop worrying about the future and be present for those who need you?

Is GOD amazing to you?

Acts:2: ⁵ Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. ⁶ When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. ⁷ Utterly amazed, they asked: “Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? ⁸ Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language?

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Sitting in a church in Mexico I heard a familiar sound, it was JESUS CHRIST. The same happened again in Zimbabwe and again in Shanghai. All around the world in their native tongue, JESUS’ name is being exclaimed!

• Sometimes my mind is narrow and I think GOD is only concerned about my country.
• Sometimes my mind is narrow and I don’t believe GOD is bigger than my local situation.
• Sometimes my mind is narrow and I can’t conceive that GOD can speak to people in other countries.

When I went on a mission’s trip for the first time, I thought I was going to “teach” other people about CHRIST, when in reality I found out that GOD is much bigger than I thought. People were already exclaiming HIS name and their praise put me to shame. As I pouted for more trinkets at home, people who had nothing praised GOD for hours on end.

GOD is truly amazing. HE is the master of the incredible and the beholder of the unlimited. HE is infinitely tiny as HE is infinitely large. I sometimes waste my time trying to figure out how GOD was always in existence. Then my head explodes! I can only be amazed at how powerful GOD truly is.

HE can speak in any language and can reach a person in a war torn country. HE is so amazing HE can use a sinner like me.

• Is GOD amazing to you?
• Can HE speak through people and everyone hear the message in their own language?
• Are there parts of the Bible that you simply don’t believe because ‘you’ have not seen it?
• Won’t you turn your doubt into amazement and begin giving GOD more credit for HIS power?

SPIRIT led choices

Acts:  ²¹ Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus was living among us, ²² beginning from John’s baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection.”

 ²³ So they nominated two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. ²⁴ Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen ²⁵ to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.” ²⁶ Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.

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When I got my first job out of college I drove to the small town without directions (typical man). I didn’t know the area or where I worked but I needed to find an apartment.  A car cut me off as I drove around my new “strange” town. Stopping to catch my breath, I glanced over and there was a set of hidden apartments, under my price range.

A feeling came over me saying “this is the place” so I immediately put a down payment on the place then I went to check out where I worked. To my amazement my job was only four blocks from my apartment.

• I don’t have to see burning bushes to see GOD every day.
• I don’t have to see seas splitting open to see GOD working in my life.
• I don’t have to see fire rain down from heaven to see GOD steering me and guiding me.

Okay, there are times when I don’t feel comfortable speaking about the experiences I’ve had with GOD. I mean I feel like I will be looked at like I am a nut or people will brush off my situation as a coincidence or belittle it. BUT GOD says something different.

• GOD is just as concerned about my “little” choices as much as the large ones.
• GOD has a plan for me and has chosen me for that plan.
• GOD protects and guides me.

The disciples were very SPIRIT led when making a choice for a new apostle. They relied on GOD to make the choice for them. Please don’t get me wrong, planning is great, just don’t leave GOD out of the plans!

• Do you have a decision to make?
• Have you considered allowing GOD to guide your direction?
• Are you trying to control every aspect of your life?
• Which decisions have you left up to the SPIRIT to make?

My super power

Acts 1: ⁸ But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

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With my hands stretched forward and a towel as my cape I transformed into Superman. Grabbing a decorative post and scaling our house I was now Spiderman. “I bet I can lift that cinder block over my head” thinking I transformed into the Incredible Hulk. My mother gave me an ice pack to place on the hickey on my head from that stunt. I guess I am no superhero.

• My misconception of what “power” is causes me to be scared of telling someone about CHRIST.
• My fear of being rejected causes me to hesitate and second guess telling someone about CHRIST.
• My image or the titles I have achieved causes me to hide my message of telling someone about CHRIST.

I don’t know what I was looking for when I desired to be a superhero. Maybe they would listen to me, maybe they wouldn’t pick on me or maybe I could fix broken things. GOD said “My power is sufficient to help you with all of those things.”

• By accepting my weakness I can attach myself to GOD’s power.
• By admitting I am a sinner I can receive the most powerful being into my life.
• By facing my troubles instead of running away I can watch GOD work right in front of my eyes.
• By obeying GOD I can bear as much fruit as HE can give me in my neighborhood, city, country and many other countries.

It seems like GOD does not mind using a sinner like me who carries fear, blame, lust, anger, and other opposition to HIS ways. HE has given me “super” power to go out and be an ambassador to HIS kingdom. Whether it is a simple smile, a silent prayer or words that melt the heart, GOD can use my action when my purpose is focused on HIS kingdom.

• Do you want to feel special?
• Do you realize GOD made you specifically to reach “that” person and only you can do it?
• Can you add GOD’s purpose to your life?
• Is GOD telling you to “go?”

Loving GOD, HIS way or mine?

John 21: ¹⁷ The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

   Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”

   Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.

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Waiting has been a weakness of mine since “forever.” I mean what was taking them so long? I interviewed with the top executives and the decision should have been clear “I was the man.” Weeks after they told me I wasn’t the man, I walked around work pouting. I even pouted at GOD.

“LORD, why do YOU do things like this?” “Why do YOU put things in front of my face only to snatch them away?” “I don’t feel like serving YOU anymore.” Uh oh, what was I saying?!

• Just because I have served GOD in the past, I still need to grow.
• Just because I have grown a little, I still have a lot of growing to do.
• Just because I have seen a little fruit to my faith, I still need my faith to be strengthened.

Sometimes I think I have “arrived,” in other words I think I have learned all the lessons “I” need to learn, now it’s everyone else’s turn. This is definitely the wrong attitude. GOD shows me my flaws daily so I won’t get my head too puffed up with confidence in myself.  Don’t get me wrong, my self-esteem is fine, probably a little too fine!

• My confidence needs to be aimed at GOD not in me.
• My worthiness only comes through belief in JESUS as being GOD, not in the things I do.
• My judgment need only be directed at me enabling GOD to work on others without my interference.

Loving GOD HIS way means “feeding HIS sheep.” The only way to do this is to have the right attitude.

• Do you love GOD?
• What are you doing to serve HIM?
• Are you trying to love GOD your way or HIS way?
• What would be the answer if GOD asked you “do you love ME?”
• Are you willing to feed HIS lambs, in other words serve people?

It’s easy for GOD

John 21: ⁵ He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?”

 

   “No,” they answered.

 

 ⁶ He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.

 

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Sometimes I think I have become too smart for my own good.  There is nothing wrong with learning and education, but there are times when I brush off situations as coincidences or I explain them away with my scientific prowess. Do miracles happen daily and I am just numb to them?

• Bullies told me to be scared of them because of their power but GOD said something different.
• My professor told me I would never make it in my field of study but GOD said something different.
• Scientists told me my child could be born with an illness but GOD said something different.

Throughout the years GOD has been there in my life nudging me along to a much better place. HE raised me to levels I should have never been, HE took me to places I would only have dreamt of travelling to and HE has shown me HIS power over and over again. 

 

Many would chock it up to just being lucky or karma or the “universe” just likes me but I say give credit where credit is due. 

• It’s easy for GOD to protect me from that terrible accident.
• It’s easy for GOD to heal my broken body.
• It’s easy for GOD to mend my broken heart.
• It’s easy for GOD to handle any and every situation or obstacle placed in my way.

Even the disciples had stopped following JESUS when HE died. They had seen HIM alive again and yet went back to work like nothing happened. HE wants me to know miracles happen daily, just open my eyes, ears and heart and they will happen.

• Do you doubt GOD’s power?
• Have you placed your belief in other mystical or scientific things outside of GOD’s HOLY SPIRIT?
• Can you give GOD credit for doing more things in your life?

Stop doubting and believe!

John 20: ²⁵ So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!”

   But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”

 ²⁶ A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” ²⁷ Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”

 ²⁸ Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”

 ²⁹ Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

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Confidence is an amazing thing. As my father followed behind me he had let go of my bike and was simply running. I thought he was still holding on. When I was lifting weights some guys pretended to hold each side of the bar but later I discovered I did all the work. I thought they were still holding on.

In either case when I found out “I” was doing what I thought I could not do, my mind overshadowed my faith and I fell off my bike or dropped the weights. I didn’t believe!

• GOD wants me to have faith in HIM.
• GOD wants me to believe HE has overcome all situations.
• GOD wants me to stop doubting HIS methods, HIS motives and HIS love for me.

HE knows when I don’t believe HIM and needs to have patience with me, but HE gets excited when I put my trust in HIM and when I throw away my doubts. HE enjoys when I forget caution, when I stop trying to protect myself and when I fully turn to HIM.

I have not seen GOD yet I believe! HE motivates me and guides me even though my faith is small.

• Are you trying to protect yourself?
• Are you full of fear?
• Can you drop your fears, doubts and worries by “knowing” GOD has taken care of the situation?

Let it go!

John 20:  ²¹ Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” ²² And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. ²³ If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”

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“Won’t these people move faster” was the thought running through my mind as we were slowly exiting the plane. Suddenly an even more impatient man got up from behind me, grabbed his bag, hit me on the head without excusing himself and pushed his way through the crowd. “I hope he’s late” I thought.

• When I look for sins in people I can easily find them.
• When I pick at someone’s scab from the wounds of life blame will flow.
• When I seek to find how “the problem” began in someone we seem to all get wounded.

One strength that is also a flaw is I know healing won’t begin unless there is true admission of sin and wrongdoing. If the person cannot see they have a problem, they will never seek a cure. My problem is that it is easy for me to see the problems in others and difficult to admit problems of my own.

• Forgiving others makes it easier for me to admit my problems to them.
• Forgiving others means I must erase the recording that plays over and over in my mind.
• Forgiving others frees up my thoughts for lovelier peaceful ones.

This is not an easy task for me. Perhaps it’s a defense mechanism or just a major flaw in my character. When GOD told me to “pray for my enemies that they may prosper” I thought HE was crazy, now I understand that grudges are poisonous and even the slightest glance from me will be filled with venom.

My wife asks me the question sometimes, “isn’t that the past, how do we look at the future?” In other words “let it go!” Sometimes it’s necessary to revisit my old wounds to see how they are healing as long as I can let the scab fall off in its natural time instead of picking at them and bleeding blame.

• Is there someone who has wronged you deliberately or by accident?
• Are you still holding onto a grudge?
• How long will you hold onto that grudge?
• Do you realize grudges are immature?
• Can’t you look for the peace that GOD wants you to have by “letting it go?”

Do I really know what to believe in?

John 20: ⁶ Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, ⁷ as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen.

⁸ Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed. ⁹ (They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)

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Pranks could easily be played on me because gullible was stamped on my forehead. Blind faith was my “strength” and a weakness as the con artist or liar covered their tracks well. Soon my blind faith just turned into blindness toward believing in anything. I didn’t want to be burned again.

• Life has a way of making me cynical.
• Life has a way of placing negativity in front of me causing me to want to give up.
• Life has a way of reducing my dreams turning them into the mundane.

Like a whipped animal with a broken spirit, I moped around thinking “why believe?” I mean what good is church or “believing” anyway when it seems like evil people are easily getting their way?

• JESUS died for my sins because HE is concerned about my eternal life.
• JESUS sent HIS HOLY SPIRIT to live in me because HE is concerned about my earthly life.
• JESUS is building a new heaven and a new Earth for me because HE wants an awesome relationship with me forever!

Even the disciples who watched HIM heal people, walk on water, create things right in front of their faces and raise dead people, still did not grasp the magnitude of what JESUS did. Quite frankly I don’t either but I know this, HE has done some incredible things in my life! 

If given the choice of “my way” or “GOD’s strange way”, I nervously choose GOD’s way to guide my path and relieve my worries, doubts and fears. I choose to believe.

• What do you believe in?
• Do you have blind faith that GOD will work everything out?
• Are you fighting against GOD with your lifestyle?
• What are you doing to make changes in your life specifically for serving GOD?

Your problem is finished!

John 19: ²⁸ Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” ²⁹ A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. ³⁰ When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

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Tears flowed from my eyes, I could hardly drive. I had to make it because my kids were in the car and there was no other driver. Another sharp pain shot through my head which seemed like a bolt of lightning striking my face. After making it home I made a futile attempt at relief from some over the counter medications. My tooth was definitely infected!

• When I am going through problems, I can’t seem to see anything outside of the problem.
• When I am going through problems, I want relief NOW!
• When I am going through problems, I try to fix them and I am not always successful.

My toothache required a dentist and my problems in life require GOD. My worries and distress are like the shooting pains of a toothache. I can’t seem to get my mind off of them. GOD has a plan for my worries.

• When JESUS said “It is finished” HE meant HE had fulfilled every requirement it would take to become perfection.
• When JESUS said “It is finished” HE meant HE had taken care of all of my mistakes, issues and problems.
• When JESUS said “It is finished” HE meant He was and is worthy of planning great things in my life and no “one” or no “thing” can stand in HIS way.

HE knows every problem, every pain. HE knows every doubt, every fear. HE reaches the depths of my soul and sees something great in me that no one else can see. When HE says “it is finished” I can believe it!

• What are you going through?
• Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired?
• Can you take a moment in the middle of your pain to praise GOD for taking care of your situation even before it’s done?
• What greatness is GOD preparing you for?

True Power

John 19: ¹ Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged. ² The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head. They clothed him in a purple robe ³ and went up to him again and again, saying, “Hail, king of the Jews!” And they slapped him in the face.

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¹⁰ “Do you refuse to speak to me?” Pilate said. “Don’t you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?”

 ¹¹ Jesus answered, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin.”

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The quest for a title was a journey of mine for years. I thought about the press release that showed me becoming the top of the heap. I wasn’t looking to be bossy or controlling because I was too busy looking for accolades. I wonder how many people would complement me for becoming this great title.

• When I seek power the wrong way I look for people to bow down to me.
• When I seek power the wrong way I win and someone else loses.
• When I seek power the wrong way I dream of a false utopia that doesn’t include GOD.

In my quest for “freedom” to do my thing, I try my best to unchain myself from GOD while consulting with HIM whenever the going gets tough. I want my way, I want my fame and I want to fulfill my lusts and I don’t want GOD telling me about HIS rules! I want power.

• GOD is the only one who has power.
• GOD is the only one I should connect with for power because I am powerless.
• GOD is the only one who I should fear because no human has power.

JESUS showed great restraint and compassion all the way to HIS execution. People say true power is having the ability to crush someone and the restraint not to. The creator showed absolute self-control and wants me to do the same.

HE doesn’t want me to take my salvation lightly by sinning when I want to, nor does HE want me to be judgmental of others in a controlling way. My view of obtaining power should be pleasing GOD and following HIS ways. Maturity in CHRIST brings “true power!”

• Are you seeking “control” of your life?
• Are your ambitions or lustful desires ahead of what GOD wants from you?
• Can you be corrected to follow GOD or are they just being judgmental?
• Will you stop following “your direction” and follow GOD’s ways?

Am I Listening?

John 18: ³⁶ Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.”

 ³⁷ “You are a king, then!” said Pilate.

   Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.”

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Winning is the prime objective in business. If you are not a winner, you are a loser! I took that to heart and “won” quite often. After numerous promotions I was summoned to take on another challenge. Get rid of a large number of employees so the company could remain profitable.

I heard the voice of compassion say “don’t do this.” Was I getting soft? Where did that come from and why now?

• GOD speaks to me every day I just don’t listen to HIM.
• GOD speaks to me and tells me to serve HIM I just want my way.
• GOD speaks to me with love and compassion expecting me to follow HIS example I ignore it and crush my opponents.

People have said to me “I can’t hear GOD” and I tell them I hear HIM every day and ignore HIM often. Because I don’t fully trust HIM or I want my way, I ignore HIS cry to be compassionate or kind, or pure, or loving. But when I do listen to HIM marvelous thing happen!

• When I listen to GOD I reach people for HIM.
• When I listen to GOD I always benefit.
• When I listen to GOD I change my ways instead of getting my way!

Miracles happen in front of my face and situations disappear before my eyes when I listen to GOD long enough. It takes my seeking heart to want to hear HIM.

• Are you seeking GOD or your own way?
• Have you intentionally tried to follow HIS ways?
• Will you try to learn about GOD for the purpose of having a better relationship with HIM?
• Do you know the truth?

Another prayer for you from GOD

John 17: ²⁰ “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, ²¹ that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.

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We arrived five and a half hours late for our ministry outreach.  We promised that we would show a movie and reach the community. Upon arrival, the equipment didn’t work and no one was to be found so we canvased the neighborhood.  “LORD, why do you have me here?” I cried out in sheer frustration.

I mean I came all this way to serve YOU and everything isn’t going my way! One by one people began to trickle in. Soon the room was full and would you believe the movie projector started working. I don’t even know how to describe how stupid I felt for yelling.

• GOD has prayed for me.
• GOD has prayed for my message about HIM to be effective.
• GOD has prayed for the recipient of my message to believe in HIM and be protected in this belief.

When JESUS prayed for me to deliver HIS message, HE didn’t just leave it there.  HE wanted me to act in unity with the people I sent the message to. In other words HE doesn’t want me to just talk “at” people rather HE wants me to act in unity with them so they can change their ways and I change mine.

• GOD wants me to remain in HIM to accept HIS protection.
• GOD wants me to remain in HIM to accept HIS love.
• GOD wants me to remain in HIM to accept HIS salvation from eternal death.
• GOD wants me to remain in HIM to be an example to the world.

Unity is difficult. I want my way and they want theirs. Who gives up their way first? After listening to this prayer, I know it will be me!

• Are you frustrated at GOD about something?
• Do you know GOD has a plan for you especially if you have a message for others?
• Are you talking “at” people or have you unified with them to understand them more?
• Can you accept that GOD has prayed for you?

GOD’s prayer for you

John 17: ¹⁵ My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. ¹⁶ They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. ¹⁷ Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. ¹⁸ As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. ¹⁹ For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.

 

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JESUS walked the earth and was tempted in every way that I have been tempted. HE faced life’s struggles with more intensity because HE knows what HE created. HE knows every doubt, every sinful thought, every joyful moment and every sorrowful time. HE has a purpose for me staying here.

 

• Since GOD has the power to snatch me up and place me into heaven right now, why doesn’t HE?
• Since the world is so sinful why doesn’t HE take all the believers away and leave those who don’t believe here?
• Since GOD knows what trouble I have to go through, why doesn’t HE prevent the pain instead of having me go through it?

 

Once again my questions are selfish. GOD desires that “no one” should perish. No matter how wild and crazy a person may seem, GOD infinitely loves them and doesn’t want to eternally punish them. HE left me in the world to share HIS grace even though at times it I very difficult.

 

• Since GOD left me here, I should make time to tell people about HIS SON.
• Since GOD left me here, I should focus my attention on others as well as on myself.
• Since GOD left me here, I should understand HE loves me and is protecting me and is right by my side.

 

JESUS has full empathy for me. HE knows my every struggle and forgives me for my failure. As HIS follower, I should do the same.

• Will you pray for the person who seems to have no regard for you?
• Will you stop looking at people with disgust and open your heart to them as GOD does for you?
• Will you stop trying to protect yourself or justify your actions enough so “that” person will focus on CHRIST?

Am I missing something?

John 17: ¹ After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed:

  

 “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you.

 

² For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. ³ Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. ⁴ I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.

 

⁵ And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began.

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After reading this, I could not find a situation in my life that would do these words justice. All I know is that there must be something really big that I am missing. A flood of questions came to mind.

• You mean to tell me GOD is greater than science or the human will?
• Can’t I just be good? Yes I sin but compared to “those” people over there I’m doing pretty good. 
• Why can’t GOD just accept the way I want to worship HIM and make everything good the way I want it?

 

Then I realized, all of my questions are coming from a sinful position. With my questions, I am trying to make GOD bow down to me while attempting to justify my ways. It’s a difficult thing to say “I need you to save me LORD” if I think nothing is wrong with me.

 

• What I am missing is a full understanding of what sin is.
• What I am missing is why I have to go through a sometimes difficult life to get to a place I have never seen or touched.
• What I am missing is why I have to be the one who serves or sacrifices my money or gives in to arguments to keep peace.

 

I mean science says life was created by two mega planets colliding, so what if I’m wrong about this “GOD” thing?

 

Faith was the one word that came to mind as I asked “what am I missing?”

 

• It’s actually harder for me to reject the “fact” that GOD always existed rather than two objects always existing.
• It’s harder to believe I can ever be good enough to deserve GOD’s love rather than GOD showing “pure” love by dying for me.
• It’s harder for me to believe everything will be fine on earth when I have seen it deteriorating rather than believing JESUS is building a perfect eternal spot just for me!

 

Do you believe?