Double Life

Double Life

2 Timothy 2: ¹⁴ Remind your people of this, and give them a solemn warning in God's presence not to fight over words. It does no good, but only ruins the people who listen. ¹⁵ Do your best to win full approval in God's sight, as a worker who is not ashamed of his work, one who correctly teaches the message of God's truth.

 

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Choosing a club to go to had some thought to it. “No one would know me at this club” I thought to myself. This way I could pick someone up and no one would know it. The next day I went to Sunday School to perform my assistant duties. “Hey! Didn’t we have a great time at the club?”, someone embarrassingly exclaimed in church. I didn’t know I was seen.

 

• I was ashamed of mentioning GOD when I was at the club.
• I was ashamed of mentioning the club when I was at church.
• I was ashamed of my double life.

 

Paul gives a stern warning to pass on through Timothy. Instead of having religions quarrels, “win full approval in GOD’s sight.” This requires only two things; not being ashamed and teaching correctly the message of GOD’s truth.

 

My Observations

• My life is flawed and through GOD’s forgiveness I am made whole.
• My life is shameful and through JESUS’ death, burial and resurrection I can live eternally.
• My life is broken and through the HOLY SPIRIT I am put back together.

 

All of us are sinners. I mean, if anyone says “I am without sin” he or she is really lost and does not know who GOD is. But there is one who is sinless, namely JESUS. HE is the only one who can forgive me for my sins.

 

HE sent the COMFORTER to live inside me when times get difficult. HE restores my soul. I am no longer ashamed to mention JESUS every day because HE is worthy to be praised.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer mean by “full approval in GOD’s sight?”
• Have you ever tried to please humans and what you were doing conflicts with the word of GOD?
• Will you resolve the conflict you have with GOD and not worry about what humans think so you can be “fully approved” by HIM and teach HIS true message today?

No Longer Ashamed

No Longer Ashamed

2 Timothy 1: ⁸ Do not be ashamed, then, of witnessing for our Lord; neither be ashamed of me, a prisoner for Christ's sake. Instead, take your part in suffering for the Good News, as God gives you the strength for it. ⁹ He saved us and called us to be his own people, not because of what we have done, but because of his own purpose and grace. He gave us this grace by means of Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, ¹⁰ but now it has been revealed to us through the coming of our Savior, Christ Jesus. He has ended the power of death and through the gospel has revealed immortal life.

 

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“Would you take over the inspirational message?” was the question asked by one of my peers at work. We worked at a very large, well-known company and I was on the rise. I had a title to protect and sending an inspirational message, like this one, would not fit. Or at least that’s what I thought.

 

• I was ashamed to admit I followed JESUS.
• I felt that most of my time should be spent with JESUS hidden and covertly implying HIM.
• I thought speaking about JESUS would hurt my chances for advancement.

 

Paul addressed societal pressures Timothy may have faced. At that time, the church leaders had conspired against JESUS and killed HIM. They would never admit there was and is a risen Savior. They may have worked with business owners who would shut out those who mentioned the name of JESUS. Timothy needed “strength.”

 

My Observations

• Societal pressures to harbor worry, fear and hatred can make me ashamed of JESUS, BUT HE is the only way to true strength.
• My plans for “the next level” are laughable to GOD when I am ashamed of JESUS.
• Any plan that does not include JESUS could be used for HIS good, but not for “my” good.

 

GOD’s word will never return void. I mean, if I mention what a preacher said or a Bible verse says, That message will bring glory to GOD. But if I do not believe in JESUS, or believe that I do not need to speak HIS name publicly, especially when I am uncomfortable, I may not benefit from speaking scripture or saying what someone said.

 

Being ashamed of JESUS can come in many forms. I may go to church and mention HIS name boldly on Sunday and never mention HIS name out loud  the rest of the week. No one I know would even know I had a relationship with JESUS, but they will know what I ate yesterday or what “fun” thing I did, or what group activity I participated in.

 

GOD does want a sincere witness that sometimes is quiet, but HE seems to also want us to be bold in living for HIM. I gladly speak for CHRIST now and I am more ashamed of being places where I cannot.

 

Challenge

• What shame is the writer speaking about?
• Have you ever felt that being bold for JESUS is unnecessary or even a problem?
• Will you overcome any thoughts of hiding your relationship with JESUS because of your title, job or status and let GOD control your life so JESUS can be proclaimed boldly from your lips today?

Owning Protection

Owning Protection

John 18: ²⁵ Now Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. Therefore they said to him, “You are not also one of His disciples, are you?”

He denied it and said, “I am not!”

²⁶ One of the servants of the high priest, a relative of him whose ear Peter cut off, said, “Did I not see you in the garden with Him?” ²⁷ Peter then denied again; and immediately a rooster crowed.

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“They did it” was the automated response to blaming my siblings. I mean who wanted to get in trouble for throwing pillows and breaking stuff on accident. I sang like a bird as I told on them. I got in trouble anyway.

What lengths have I gone to in order to protect myself?

What lies have I told in order to protect myself from facing consequence?

What stories have I made up in my mind in order to convince myself, I do not deserve punishment?

Peter did what most people would have done. He lied about his relationship with JESUS to save himself. He slipped into the courtyard with the help of the bold disciple. When he was recognized, he denied any relationship with JESUS. This was predicted by JESUS.

When I am in public, JESUS wants me to share my relationship with HIM.

When I am faced with consequence, JESUS wants me to remember HE is with me.

When I am persecuted by those who are supposed to be on my side, JESUS wants me to know I am blessed.

“Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for MY sake” are the words that should remain when I think I should protect myself. Instead of getting out of trouble, I should face the situation with truth.

GOD wants me to join HIM in truth and accept all responsibilities for my actions. HE also wants me to face ridicule from those who have slandered me to get their way. HE has a greater reward for those who stand with HIM during times of persecution. I am grateful I can face my problems with GOD.

Are you trying to protect yourself by blaming someone else?

Have you made up stories so you can protect your image?

Will you seek GOD’s kingdom in spite of the possibility of being ridiculed, insulted or persecuted?

Will you allow GOD to own your protection today?

Recognized

Recognized

John 18: ¹⁵ And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. Now that disciple was known to the high priest, and went with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest. ¹⁶ But Peter stood at the door outside. Then the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out and spoke to her who kept the door, and brought Peter in. ¹⁷ Then the servant girl who kept the door said to Peter, “You are not also one of this Man’s disciples, are you?”

He said, “I am not.”

¹⁸ Now the servants and officers who had made a fire of coals stood there, for it was cold, and they warmed themselves. And Peter stood with them and warmed himself.

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“Aren’t you the person in charge of the department?” someone said to me. “Thank you for helping us” were the words that made me crave more recognition. As I walked the convention floor, other people recognized me. “Is this how celebrities feel?” I wondered.

• It felt great being recognized by people who were cheering.
• It felt wonderful to be recognized by those who I helped.
• It felt nice to be recognized for something positive.

Peter and another disciple followed JESUS. One disciple was known for being with JESUS, so he went in without fear. Peter, on the other hand was sacred of being recognized, so he stayed out. A servant girl recognized Peter and pointed out his association with JESUS. Peter denied the relationship publicly.

• JESUS wants me to be recognized for my relationship with HIM.
• JESUS wants me to speak about HIM boldly without worrying about the consequence of humans.
• JESUS wants me to associate myself with HIM and go through things with HIM, versus being on the outside, leaving HIM alone.

Disassociation is easy to do with humans who have “messed up.” I mean if most people agree this person is a scoundrel, it is easy to get away from that person. BUT GOD was labeled a scoundrel. HE had only one disciple who followed HIM into the courtyard, willing to face death.

Being recognized because of JESUS is a thing of honor. I mean when I stand in front of GOD, I believe HE will ask “How many people did you tell about MY SON?” HE won’t ask about houses, cars, clothes, jewelry, phones or accumulated wealth. JESUS wants a relationship with me. I desire to be bold with JESUS.

• Does mentioning JESUS seem awkward to you?
• Do you speak about HIS death and resurrection to others regularly?
• Will you allow GOD to make you more bold about your relationship with JESUS, instead of being comfortable?

Disassociation

Luke 22: ⁵⁴ Then seizing him, they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest. Peter followed at a distance. ⁵⁵ And when some there had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together, Peter sat down with them. ⁵⁶ A servant-girl saw him seated there in the firelight. She looked closely at him and said, ‘This man was with him.’

⁵⁷ But he denied it. ‘Woman, I don’t know him,’ he said.

⁵⁸ A little later someone else saw him and said, ‘You also are one of them.’

‘Man, I am not!’ Peter replied.

⁵⁹ About an hour later another asserted, ‘Certainly this fellow was with him, for he is a Galilean.’

⁶⁰ Peter replied, ‘Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!’ Just as he was speaking, the cock crowed. ⁶¹ The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: ‘Before the cock crows today, you will disown me three times.’ ⁶² And he went outside and wept bitterly.

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Wanting to be part of the organization, I went along with the idea of shoplifting some pants. I had no money and this certain pants was a requirement. I was used as a distraction while the others loaded up on our “uniform.” Later, while walking back to our apartment, I was stopped and questioned. “Were you with them?” “No” I replied in a bold faced lie.

• There were times when I lied to save my hide.
• There were times when I disassociated myself from others in order to stay out of “trouble.”
• There were times when I went with the immediate thought, never considering what would happen next.

Bold impetuous Peter, who showed strong faith, denied any association with JESUS. He did this three times only feet away from HIM where JESUS could see and hear him. Peter was reminded of JESUS’s prediction when the rooster crowed. He had officially renounced any association with GOD.

• JESUS wants me to tell people that I am associated with HIM.
• JESUS wants me to shine my light before all humans in order to bring people to HIM.
• JESUS wants me to put HIS life ahead of mine in order to bring those around me to HIM.

Protecting my association with GOD is important to HIM. HE said “For whoever is ashamed of ME and MY words, of him the SON of Man will be ashamed when HE comes in HIS own glory, and in HIS FATHER’s, and of the holy angels.”

It takes practice to not go along with the crowd and to say “yes” to what GOD wants me to do. Usually it means not sinning this time and to help someone in need. Instead of a vacation, maybe GOD wants me to go serve for a change. The world would call me crazy, but GOD loves my attempt to relate to HIM.

• Are there areas of your life in which you have disassociated yourself from GOD?
• Do you go along with the complaining, lustful, power hungry crowd?
• Would GOD say you are telling people about HIM regularly?

Excuses

Luke 14: ¹⁵ Now when one of those who sat at the table with Him heard these things, he said to Him, “Blessed is he who shall eat bread in the kingdom of God!”

¹⁶ Then He said to him, “A certain man gave a great supper and invited many, ¹⁷ and sent his servant at supper time to say to those who were invited, ‘Come, for all things are now ready.’ ¹⁸ But they all with one accord began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a piece of ground, and I must go and see it. I ask you to have me excused.’ ¹⁹ And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to test them. I ask you to have me excused.’ ²⁰ Still another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’ ²¹ So that servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house, being angry, said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in here the poor and the maimed and the lame and the blind.’ ²² And the servant said, ‘Master, it is done as you commanded, and still there is room.’ ²³ Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. ²⁴ For I say to you that none of those men who were invited shall taste my supper.’ ”

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“Will you tell people about GOD in a 30 second message?” someone asked me. Afraid of offending my following and for fear of my job, I said “Not this time, I believe someone else should do this.”

• I remember times when I was too important to speak about GOD.
• I can recall moments when I could have spoken about GOD, but did not.
• I reflect on times when GOD wanted me to speak on HIS behalf, but something “I” wanted got in the way.

JESUS seems to be telling a statement rather than a story as HE speaks to the crowd. HE spoke of three people who made excuses for not coming to the “Great Supper.” Possessions, business or jobs and family were the excuses made for not answering the Master’s call. What should I do when GOD calls me?

• GOD wants me to respond when HE calls me to do something for HIM.
• GOD calls me to serve HIM daily, all I have to do is listen.
• GOD wants me to be excited about speaking about HIS SON, especially to those who will hear it.

Age, race, gender, time, health, finances or worry are all great reasons for me not to speak about GOD. I mean I’m only one person right? Kinda. GOD wants me to see I will always have an excuse not to speak about HIM. There will never be a good time for me to talk about HIM. BUT GOD is still worthy to be praised.

HE wants me to see opportunity to speak about HIM on a daily basis. No longer am I ashamed of JESUS and HE is no longer ashamed of me.

• Are you making excuses for not speaking about GOD?
• Do you speak about GOD only during times of plenty?
• Can you stop being ashamed of GOD and speak of HIS grace today?

Open Lighting

Luke 8: ¹⁶ “No one, when he has lit a lamp, covers it with a vessel or puts it under a bed, but sets it on a lampstand, that those who enter may see the light. ¹⁷ For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light. ¹⁸ Therefore take heed how you hear. For whoever has, to him more will be given; and whoever does not have, even what he seems to have will be taken from him.”

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Ashamed of who I was, I hung out with a group of people who could care less about GOD. We would drink and hang out and that was about the extent of the damage. “No harm, no foul” I thought to myself. I mean, who am I to push “my” values on someone?

• There were times when I was ashamed to be called a follower of GOD.
• There were times when I steered away from people with Bibles in their hands.
• There were times when I was scared to admit I believe in the power of JESUS.

JESUS spoke about hidden things using a parable. I believe HE is speaking about more than enlightenment as it pertains to knowledge. The “Light of GOD” heals, protects, grows and provides shelter for wounded hearts.

• GOD wants me to know that any light that is inside of me was placed there by HIM.
• GOD wants me to use the light HE gave me so many can be reached for HIM.
• GOD wants me to be transparent about my sins and GOD’s victories in my life so many would come to HIM.

Light is not “mine” rather it is GOD’s. HE placed light in me to shine before the world. I can snuff out the light by desiring what the world has to offer. When I keep quiet about GOD I allow the light to get dimmer and dimmer. Eventually, no light shines. GOD wants me to have so much more than the world has to offer. HE gave me light and I want to use it.

• Do you want more out of life?
• Is your life ruled by the world’s standards?
• Can you stop hiding your sin, fear and relationship with GOD so others can come to HIM through you?

Pressure to Deny

Mark 14: ⁶⁶ Now as Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came. ⁶⁷ And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked at him and said, “You also were with Jesus of Nazareth.”

⁶⁸ But he denied it, saying, “I neither know nor understand what you are saying.” And he went out on the porch, and a rooster crowed.

⁶⁹ And the servant girl saw him again, and began to say to those who stood by, “This is one of them.” ⁷⁰ But he denied it again.

And a little later those who stood by said to Peter again, “Surely you are one of them; for you are a Galilean, and your speech shows it.”

⁷¹ Then he began to curse and swear, “I do not know this Man of whom you speak!”

⁷² A second time the rooster crowed. Then Peter called to mind the word that Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” And when he thought about it, he wept.

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Crash, bang, slam were the noises the heavy sleds made as they tumbled off the shelves. I wanted to see one of them and all of them tumbled down. “Were you in that section of the store” was the question posed to me. “I don’t know” was the best answer I could give. I mean was I in trouble?

• There were times when I did not want to face consequence.
• There were times when I denied the truth so I could get out of trouble.
• There were times when I did not want to admit I was the cause of the trouble.

Peter faced a life or death situation. If He told the truth about being with JESUS, he would be captured, tortured and killed. He did what most would do, try to save himself by lying. Unfortunately, I would have done the same.

• JESUS wants me to mature to the point where I will not deny HIM.
• JESUS wants me to grow up so I will not forsake HIS ways.
• JESUS wants me to understand that following HIM means I will be ridiculed by HIS creation.

There are no front page stories about people who dedicate themselves to CHRIST. Even if there is not a word of judgment spoken, people find ways to look at innocent followers of GOD in a bad light.

I get lumped into political “Christians” simply by not doing what others are doing. If I say “I will never drink again”, people look at me as if I had a drinking problem that must have gotten out of control instead of saying “Wow, you are dedicating yourself to GOD.”  JESUS values what I do for HIM and does not want me to be ashamed of HIM so HE will not be ashamed of me.

• Is society pressuring you to hide your relationship with CHRIST?
• Do you feel pressure to act like everyone else so you will fit in?
• Can you stop trying to fit in and listen to GOD who made you for HIS purpose today?

I Can and I Will

Matthew 16: ²⁴ Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. ²⁵ For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. ²⁶ What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? ²⁷ For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father’s glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what they have done.

²⁸ “Truly I tell you, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.”

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“What will they think of me?” was my question when asked to go to church. I was the life of the party for a change. I had been “Goody-goody” for a long time. It seemed like I should be able to do some sinning for a while.

“What will they think of me?” was my question when asked to send a simple faith filled voicemail throughout the company. I mean I was the leader of a very large and influential portion of the company. I had to protect my perception right? Wrong!

• I have been embarrassed to speak about JESUS.
• I have been too filled with sin to speak about JESUS.
• I have been so proud of my accomplishments that I did not want to risk losing “my” position to speak about JESUS.

GOD says to me “If you are ashamed of ME then I will be ashamed of you” and I was truly ashamed of HIM. Human standards got in the way of my living for CHRIST. I bowed to the thought of “You can’t pray here” or “We don’t want you to even speak about JESUS here” even though no one said those words to me.

• JESUS wants me to shine my light before men on a daily basis.
• JESUS wants me to be salt in a world where salt is rejected.
• JESUS wants me to take up my cross by denying myself.

Losing my life means a lot. It means I can pray for all who pass me in the hallways. It means I do not have to be angry at “those” people, instead I can ask GOD for “our” forgiveness. It means I can open my home to my neighbors for JESUS’ purpose instead of hiding my affiliation with HIM.

GOD wants my family, my business, my job, my school, my house, my car, my clothes, my wealth, my desires and lastly my health. HE can do with them as HE pleases and I should learn to praise HIM when I try to hold onto any of them. HE can pry them from my hands in a hurtful way or I can freely give them to HIM, praising HIM along the way.

• What are you holding onto?
• Can you give GOD your home or your office or your school by inviting others into it to learn from HIM?
• Will you take GOD to work with you today and pray for all who pass you?

Speak when spoken to

Amos 3: ⁷ Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing
    without revealing his plan
    to his servants the prophets.

⁸ The lion has roared—
    who will not fear?
The Sovereign Lord has spoken—
    who can but prophesy?

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“What will people think of me?” was my thought as I moved up the ladder. I mean I have to show how accepting I am of various beliefs because “my” department was very diverse in culture. I chose not to speak about GOD or my beliefs in HIS ways. When asked to speak about GOD to the masses, I politely refused.

• There have been times I have hidden my association with GOD.
• There have been times I have remained silent when I was told to speak.
• There have been times I have hidden my values so I could “get ahead.”

My choice was to remain neutral while becoming “tough” enough to carry out the orders of leadership. Soon instead of names, the people were “full time equivalents” on a spreadsheet and could be cut if the numbers were not as they should. BUT GOD wants me to act different.

• GOD wants me to put in a full day’s work as promised to those who hired me.
• GOD wants me to show HIS grace through my hard work because I am working for HIM.
• GOD wants me to speak about HIM at a moment’s notice without being ashamed.

Employers do not hire me to spread GOD’s word, but they also should know I am not ashamed of GOD in any way. I will always work hard and produce the best, but if asked, I will not hide my light from anyone. GOD is my beacon and when the Lion roars I must prophesy.

• Are you hiding your relationship with GOD because of your position?
• Do you feel ashamed of GOD in front of “those” people?
• Can you drop your shame of HIM and listen to what HE wants you to say to “those” people?
• Will you open your mouth when GOD tells you to do so?

Speak Up Anyway

Ezekiel 2: ⁴ The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stubborn. Say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says.’ ⁵ And whether they listen or fail to listen—for they are a rebellious people—they will know that a prophet has been among them. ⁶ And you, son of man, do not be afraid of them or their words. Do not be afraid, though briers and thorns are all around you and you live among scorpions. Do not be afraid of what they say or be terrified by them, though they are a rebellious people.

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“Take over this ministry at work” someone said to me. One person was supposed to speak an encouraging message over voice mail daily and they wanted me to be that volunteer every once in a while. “We’ll see” was my response meaning “No” in reality. I mean what would those above me think?

• There were times I have hidden my relationship with GOD because of my ambitions.
• There were times when I thought it was better to completely separate my beliefs from the workplace and only share them in a couple of hours on weekends.
• There were times when I thought it was not popular to speak about GOD so I didn’t.

I figured people would know my beliefs simply because of my actions. I mean I’m a pretty “good” person, right? Wrong! My actions were no better than the next and no one could tell I was any different than other people who supported “charities.” Something had to change.

• GOD said to me “Go serve MY people and feed MY sheep.”
• GOD said to me “Do not be afraid of what they say or be terrified by them, though they are a rebellious people.”
• GOD said to me “I AM the first and the last, careers are so far beneath MY blessings.”

No matter what the situation is, GOD wants me to make it known that I AM HIS. HE wants me to not only show examples, but open my mouth in tough situations and say “GOD should decide the path.” Too many times “money” has decided the path when GOD should have. HE wants more shepherds to bring people to HIS ark. The laborers are few and HE wants me to be one.

• Are you ashamed of GOD?
• Do you feel you should not mix your beliefs where you learn, work or hang out?
• Why are you silent about GOD?
• Can you open your mouth about GOD in spite of what’s going on around you? 

No More Shame

Isaiah 29: ²² Therefore this is what the Lord, who redeemed Abraham, says to the descendants of Jacob:

“No longer will Jacob be ashamed;
    no longer will their faces grow pale.
²³ When they see among them their children,
    the work of my hands,
they will keep my name holy;
    they will acknowledge the holiness of the Holy One of Jacob,
    and will stand in awe of the God of Israel.
²⁴ Those who are wayward in spirit will gain understanding;
    those who complain will accept instruction.”

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“Move out of the way, it’s my turn” were the words that caught my attention as I saw a small group of guys huddled next to doors that were not exit doors. My curiosity climbed so I went to investigate. When I got my “turn” I peeked through a hole carved in the crease of the door. I got a glimpse of nakedness that made me want to stay there the whole day!

• There have been times where I tried to hide my thoughts.
• There have been times that I tried to cover up my actions.
• There have been times I tried to pretend I had not fallen, but I had truly fallen.

Late for class I decided to get a better glimpse. I wondered why there was no one around. Then a gym teacher came in and caught me. I was ashamed. I am glad I was caught, because I was headed down the wrong path.

• GOD says to me “You will no longer be ashamed.”
• GOD says to me “I will open your eyes and heal your heart.”
• GOD says to me “I will help you gain understanding and guide you with MY instruction.”

He simply yelled, “Get away from that door!” and off I ran. He gave me a strange look every time he saw me from then on. They fixed the door and I was glad. BUT GOD fixed my life. HE put me on a better path that includes acknowledging my need for HIM. By confessing, the sin no longer has power over me. I give the power to GOD who in turn gives it back to me.

• Do you feel powerless?
• Do you feel like your prayers are not being heard?
• Can you acknowledge the hidden things in your heart?
• Will you confess your sins and enable GOD to heal your soul?

Praise to Everyone

Psalm 57: ⁹ I will praise you, Lord, among the nations;
    I will sing of you among the peoples.
¹⁰ For great is your love, reaching to the heavens;
    your faithfulness reaches to the skies.

¹¹ Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;
    let your glory be over all the earth.

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Ambivalent was my emotion towards airing my beliefs at work. On one hand I have a large crowd who I spent an immense amount of time, on the other I had people who worked with me who “may have” gotten offended by my show. GOD put it on someone’s heart to challenge me to leave the daily spiritual voicemail that would go around the company. “No thanks” was my answer. I mean, what if someone got offended?

• There have been times where I hid my relationship with GOD.
• There have been times where my job was more important than showing my relationship with GOD.
• There have been times where I was ashamed to mention GOD.

Money and power have a strange way of squeezing GOD out of the picture in my life. If I praise GOD daily I look like a religious freak. If I mention GOD in public I would be ridiculed and labeled as a nut. BUT GOD loves praise.

• GOD says to me “Praise ME to the nations”
• GOD says to me “If you are ashamed of ME then I will be ashamed of you.”
• GOD says to me “Sing about ME among the peoples.”

“Praise GOD” seems like a canned response but really should be said daily. As a person who follows GOD, I should make it known to everyone that I am HIS regardless of the position or the place. It’s easy for me to say this, living in a country who allows me to speak about GOD freely. BUT GOD has enabled me to speak about HIM in other places around the world where HIS message was not wise to speak. GOD wants me to open my mouth, speak about HIM and never be ashamed.

• Are you hiding your relationship with GOD because of your status?
• Do you feel embarrassed speaking about GOD?
• Can you praise GOD in public without feeling embarrassed?
• Can you drop the feeling of embarrassment by opening your mouth and saying JESUS to someone, knowing there is power in HIS name?
• Will you praise GOD today regardless?

Standing Firm

Esther 3: After these events, King Xerxes honored Haman son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, elevating him and giving him a seat of honor higher than that of all the other nobles. ² All the royal officials at the king’s gate knelt down and paid honor to Haman, for the king had commanded this concerning him. But Mordecai would not kneel down or pay him honor.

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Each morning I would perform my ritual of listening to a well thought out GODLY message at work. One person took it upon himself to start a network where he would give the message and people would forward the voicemail to people throughout the company.

When that person left the company people looked around for another person who would take on this daily daunting task. When they asked me I thought to myself “I can’t show I follow JESUS, I may offend my employees who do not believe.” I declined.

• There have been times where I have been ashamed of GOD.
• There have been times where I have hidden my beliefs in order to gain whatever.
• There have been times where I have backed away from GOD because I was in a business setting.

I went to church so wasn’t that enough? I mean the company policy says we need to have extreme diverse views so I had to be quiet, right? Wrong!

• GOD says to me “Do not be afraid of humans who can harm the body but fear GOD who can harm the soul.”
• GOD says to me “If you are ashamed of ME then I will be ashamed of you.”
• GOD says to me “I raised you up to certain levels for MY purpose.”

God did not put me in a job just to become rich and hide who HE is. HE cannot be secondary to my life, but many times I treated HIM like HE was a closet genie. I would pull HIM out in secret and put HIM away when HE fixed the problem, meanwhile I could sin and be part of the crowd. It seemed like a pretty good life.

GOD wants me to follow HIM, proclaim HIS word, profess HIS SON and when someone threatens my livelihood, move on knowing HE will protect me. GOD is the answer, not mankind.

• Are you bowing down to the god of money?
• Do you fear being as bold as GOD is calling you to be?
• Do you think you will hurt someone’s feelings if you spoke up about your relationship with GOD?
• Can you start by confessing your relationship with GOD, having no expectations of people converting to your beliefs right away?

Hiding my faith

1 Kings 18: ²¹ Elijah went before the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him.”

But the people said nothing.

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Nervous and quite embarrassed, I asked for a coke in a drink glass. Everyone was drinking and laughing and drinking some more. Someone approached me and asked “What will you have?” I didn’t have an answer for him. About a week prior, I had taken a vow that I would never drink again. I did this as part of my journey back to the LORD and I wanted to take HIM seriously by taking a vow. That was the only reason and I didn’t want to say this to the guy.

“I don’t drink” I said to him. “Why?” he replied. “Should I tell him about my vow?” I frantically thought. I panicked and said nothing about GOD. “I just don’t drink.” I wonder if I missed an opportunity.

• There are times that I felt I could have shared my faith and didn’t.
• There are times that I felt like hiding my faith in order to “get ahead” in business.
• There are times that I felt like going with the crowd instead of showing my faith because I didn’t want to be looked at as being weird.

When I looked out the window of life and saw a bunch of people playing in the street of sin, I felt left out.  I mean they seemed to e having so much fun, meanwhile I’m over hear struggling not to do those things AND I’m struggling to make it. It didn’t seem “fair.”

• GOD said “Don’t hide your light under a bushel” meaning let people know “whose” I am.
• GOD said “If you are ashamed of me I will ashamed of you.”
• GOD said “Be ready to speak about ME and I will give you the words.”

I sometimes forget that I am GOD’s creation. HE created me with a purpose to spread the great news about HIS SON. It seems like such a simple task but the world doesn’t want to hear my message and wants me to “say nothing” or join in on the “do anything that feels good” message.

I do know it’s confusing to talk about grace verses working my way into heaven, BUT GOD want me to be prepared to speak about HIM at a moment’s notice. HE will give me the right words to douse the confusion and make HIM known. HE doesn’t want me to “hide” my faith in order to get ahead.

• Are you hiding your faith?
• Do you feel ashamed to say “JESUS” out loud?
• Do you act different around one crowd?
• Can you drop your shame of GOD?
• Can you start by showing your faith in a small way and build on it daily for GOD’s purpose?

I can be bold!

2 Timothy 1: ⁷ For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

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Seems like whenever I want to do something wrong, I hide my relationship with GOD. When the fellas were standing around with their chatter, the last thing I wanted them to know was I follow GOD.

I mean it seems like as soon as I mention GOD, JESUS or the HOLY SPIRIT the whole room would turn dull grey and the mourning march song would start playing. “Maybe I should just join in” is the thought that popped in my mind.

• Whenever I want to cut GOD out of my life I’m on the wrong path.
• Whenever I feel GOD is being unfair or too harsh I’m on the wrong path.
• Whenever I think the crowd’s ways are better than GOD’s ways I’m on the wrong path.
• Whenever I feel it necessary to hide my relationship with GOD I’m on the wrong path.

GOD wants me to be bold about my relationship with HIM.  HE doesn’t want sin to get in the way of the example HE is trying to show through me.  This means I have to part company with some of the people who want me to remain unfocused.

• GOD’s SPIRIT makes me bold.
• GOD’s SPIRIT makes me brave.
• GOD’s SPIRIT makes me believe.

Now instead of lust for things I can show love to people. HIS SPIRIT shows me the way to self-discipline and couples me with HIS unmatched power so I need not hide. I can tell people about my relationship regardless of human consequences. I may not be part of “that” group anymore but remaining in the LORD brings me eternal rewards and favor.

• Are you hiding your relationship with GOD to do what you want to do?
• Do you find yourself mentioning GOD less and less?
• Can you take a deep breath and be bold about your relationship with GOD today?

No longer hiding from GOD

Romans 1: ¹⁶ For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. ¹⁷ For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”

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Broken vase, black electrical tape, fixed, they’ll never know. Magazine, bathroom hamper, hidden, they’ll never know. Dented car, spray paint, repaired, they’ll never know. Woman flirting at work, it’s at work, they’ll never know. Fear, doubt, worry, anger, they are all inside, they’ll never know.

• Sin makes me ashamed of what I have done.
• Sin makes me ashamed to be called a follower of CHRIST.
• Sin makes me ashamed of telling people about the Great News about JESUS because I think they will judge me instead of accepting.

I have many reasons to be ashamed of GOD when I want to keep sinning. Whether it is blatant or hidden sin, my shame is toward GOD not humans. In fact the more I sin, the more ashamed of GOD I become. How can I become righteous? How can I not be ashamed?

• JESUS died specifically for me and HE knew every sin I would ever do.
• JESUS was raised to life, has overcome death and is now entrusts me with HIS message.
• JESUS gave me the HOLY SPIRIT and now I have help staying away from sin.

I sin, but now I despise the sin I do. I know GOD does not like the sin and that it’s more difficult to be used by HIM in the middle of my sin. HE is faithful and just to forgive me of my sins and cleanse me of all unrighteousness. That’s it! GOD has made me righteous through my belief in HIM! Wow, that is Great News!

Now I no longer have to stay in the same pattern of sin rather I can spread HIS Great News!

• Are you doing some shameful things either blatant or hidden?
• What sin can you hide from GOD?
• Do you feel forgiven?
• Are you acting forgiven?
• Won’t you change your life and live for GOD instead of living for sin?

Take Courage GOD is right there!

Acts 23: ¹⁰ The dispute became so violent that the commander was afraid Paul would be torn to pieces by them. He ordered the troops to go down and take him away from them by force and bring him into the barracks.

 ¹¹ The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, “Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.”

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Tossing and turning I spent one night futilely trying to get to sleep.  The speech was on my mind because I had to explain why things weren’t working.  When I got out on stage I could see the hostile faces.  It seemed like everyone wanted to rip my heart out. “LORD where are you?” I thought to myself.

• There are times when humans will get mad at me and I feel I have no place to turn.
• There are times when humans will be disappointed with the way I act or something I did.
• There are times when humans will make me the fall guy because it’s convenient.
• There are times when humans will be hurt by things I have said or actions I have taken.

I have been in violent situations but never a mob circumstance like Paul. He was trying to change the minds of those who were blind to GOD and treated HIM like a figurehead rather than the leader of their lives.  The Pharisees and Sadducees talked about GOD and even went to church weekly but never turned their lives over to HIM.

They felt threatened when someone tried to correct them in love and never once admitted they had a problem. In fact they rioted to keep their lifestyle because it was lavish and cushy and respectful. I mean how could you go wrong talking about GOD and getting paid for it? They didn’t have to “believe” in the stuff, just talk about it right? Wrong!

• GOD wants me to stand firm even if it means I get embarrassed in the process.
• GOD wants me to admit to others I sin regularly, but I am sinning less and less.
• GOD wants me to point people to HIS perfection and take eyes off of me.
• GOD wants me to understand HE is right here next to me in the middle of any trouble.

I just noticed it wasn’t an angel who came to talk to Paul it was JESUS. HE said “take courage!” and HE meant it.  HE wants me to have courage to face any situation without running away! HE has the power to fix, heal and mend any problem I have.

• Are you busy drawing attention to yourself?
• Are you busy holding onto a lifestyle that you know in your heart is against GOD?
• Do you realize it take admission of a problem in order to be healed?
• What problem is too big for GOD?
• What sins are you trying to take to the grave with you?

Am I ashamed of GOD?

Luke 9: ²⁶ Whoever is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.

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“Born again people are so annoying” a person said to me. They went on to say “they stopped me and tried to force their religion down my throat.” “This is awkward” I thought to myself. “What should I say? Should I tell them I am a follower of CHRIST? No way, that would be too embarrassing! I know… I’ll just keep it to myself and avoid the conflict.”

• I get ashamed of GOD when I am in the middle of sin.
• I get ashamed of GOD when I want to fit in.
• I get ashamed of GOD when my position in life is more important than telling people about GOD’s one and only SON.

I never use the words “I’m ashamed of GOD” but my actions speak volumes. GOD wants me to never be ashamed of HIM or HIS ways. I have to admit, some of GOD’s ways are weird. That’s because I am looking at them through tainted lenses.

• It’s weird to give when I don’t have much BUT GOD loves when I do.
• It’s weird to pray for my enemies to prosper BUT GOD loves when I do.
• It’s weird to be humble especially when passive aggressive arrogance is the way to a fortune BUT GOD loves when I am humble.

GOD loves when I take my will and submit it to HIS structures. One such structure is telling people about my sin and the forgiveness JESUS gives me all while not being ashamed. This boldness will bring persecution from humans and I won’t have my lustful way. BUT GOD will be pleased and will not be ashamed of me when HE returns.

• Are you ashamed of GOD?
• Do people know you are a child of GOD?
• Does “that” person know you are a child of GOD?
• Do people know the sinful you or the GODLY you?

Ashamed of GOD?

Mark 8: ³⁵ For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. ³⁶ What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? ³⁷ Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?

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Our missions trip was scheduled and we were getting packed to go to a different country this time. I went to work to verify my vacation time and my boss at that time asked me “what are you going to do on your vacation?”

My mind quickly went into defense mode. I thought of all sorts of statements that would satisfy his curiosity without letting on that I am a follower of CHRIST who wants to preach the gospel. “We are going to teach English” I blurted out. This was no lie but that wasn’t the primary reason for the trip. Why was I so ashamed?

• At times I don’t want to be embarrassed so I hide my light for CHRIST.
• There are times when I feel like business is business and my CHRIST life is separate.
• Many times I have worn my title as a businessman on my sleeve but when it came to my CHRIST life I tried to hide.

It’s amazing how many times I have thought about telling someone about CHRIST or even that I am HIS follower but didn’t because I was too embarrassed. I mean I don’t want to be viewed as some sort of weirdo otherwise I might not get that promotion.

I stripped all service related items from my resume and tried to look as generic as I could to the world. Business is business right?

• GOD does not like when I act ashamed of HIM.
• HE desires that I act different than those who do not follow HIM.
• GOD wants my business life to point to HIM as well.

Everything I do should point to GOD.  I should never be ashamed of talking about HIM or living for HIM.  HE is the reason for my existence and I should never forget that. My soul should never be exchanged for my pride.

• Are you trying to hide your relationship with CHRIST from “that” group of people?
• Why do you feel ashamed sometimes and not ashamed other times?
• Can you be bold for CHRIST today?