Servant Leadership Spreads

Servant Leadership Spreads

Genesis 18: ⁶ So Abraham hurried into the tent to Sarah and said, “Quickly, make ready three measures of fine meal; knead it and make cakes.” ⁷ And Abraham ran to the herd, took a tender and good calf, gave it to a young man, and he hastened to prepare it. ⁸ So he took butter and milk and the calf which he had prepared, and set it before them; and he stood by them under the tree as they ate.

 

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With excitement, Abraham ran into the tent to get her help in serving JESUS and the two angels. He was probably elated that GOD had come back, this time with angels. He enlisted the help of a young man to barbeque a young calf he chose. This must have taken hours.

 

My Observations:

• Abraham’s excitement led him to enlist his wife and a young man to cook a meal.
• Abraham gathered the best food he had to give to the LORD and the angels.
• Abraham acted as a waiter, setting the food before the LORD and the angels, standing there waiting on their needs.

 

Instead of telling people to bring him food, Abraham brought the food out and actively participated in the preparation of the meal. He probably did the washing of the feet himself as he promised earlier. Sarah and the young man probably could not help becoming excited after seeing Abraham’s face.

 

GOD had visited Abraham before, but only to deliver short messages. But this time seemed different. HE was willing to visit for hours. Everyone in the household could see who Abraham had conversations with over the years. This may have solidified their faith in GOD versus their faith in Abraham.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD use words like “hurried” and “quickly” and “hastened” when describing the event to Moses?
• Has GOD ever spoken to you and you got so excited that you wanted the help from others?
• Are you willing to spread your excitement about GOD to others today?

Servant Leader’s Attitude

 

Servant Leader’s Attitude

Genesis 18: Then the Lord appeared to him by the terebinth trees of Mamre, as he was sitting in the tent door in the heat of the day. ² So he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing by him; and when he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them, and bowed himself to the ground, ³ and said, “My Lord, if I have now found favor in Your sight, do not pass on by Your servant. ⁴ Please let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree. ⁵ And I will bring a morsel of bread, that you may refresh your hearts. After that you may pass by, inasmuch as you have come to your servant.”

They said, “Do as you have said.”

 

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Some time after Abraham was circumcised and healed, the LORD appeared to him with two angels. Abraham asked them to stay so he could wash their feet to provide relief. He then wanted them to eat to “refresh your hearts.”

 

My Observations:

• Abraham was a wealthy powerful man who understood GOD’s true power.
• Abraham did not flaunt his power, rather he sprung into action by getting everyone together to serve GOD.
• Abraham did not ask for anything from GOD, rather he wanted to simply serve HIM.

 

The LORD appeared near the terebinth trees. There seems to be something special about these trees because GOD met Abraham there a couple of times. Abraham seemed excited to simply serve. Maybe he wanted to be known as one who is hospitable. He was willing to open his house up to strangers and to share the best food.

 

GOD said HE would stay while Abraham gathered water for HIS feet and food for them to eat. It seems like GOD does not mind being served. It shows the heart of the person who can give a being who has everything a little of what we have.

 

This type of generosity may have stood out to GOD because Abraham did not keep the swag he retrieved from rescuing Sodom. Abraham’s servanthood seemed to come from the heart. He immediately sprung into action looking for ways to make his guests comfortable.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about how hot it was?
• Have you checked your conversations with GOD to see if you are only asking for things?
• Are you willing to serve GOD simply to do it just for HIM versus getting something from HIM?

Exhilaration!

Exhilaration!

Revelation 7: ⁹ After this I looked, and there was an enormous crowd—no one could count all the people! They were from every race, tribe, nation, and language, and they stood in front of the throne and of the Lamb, dressed in white robes and holding palm branches in their hands. ¹⁰ They called out in a loud voice: “Salvation comes from our God, who sits on the throne, and from the Lamb!” ¹¹ All the angels stood around the throne, the elders, and the four living creatures. Then they threw themselves face downward in front of the throne and worshiped God, ¹² saying, “Amen! Praise, glory, wisdom, thanksgiving, honor, power, and might belong to our God forever and ever! Amen!”

 

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Having only been to local carnivals, I was excited to go to one of the more famous amusement parks. I had never been at this park so I did not know what to expect. At a certain time, everyone stopped as a parade went through the crowd. There was singing, laughter and smiles!

 

• For a moment, I was excited!
• It seemed like everyone was excited with me.
• People from every race cheered and celebrated for a small moment.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, is shown the throne of GOD one more time. This time he sees “an enormous crowd—no one could count all the people!” Everyone gathered to worship GOD voluntarily and without holding back!

 

My Observations:

• GOD’s love allows me to choose HIM or not.
• When I choose GOD’s love, I am never be disappointed.
• I look forward to every race, tribe, nation and language celebrating together without holding back.

 

Celebrations are fun! I mean, when I celebrate, I forget all about the cares and worries I carry. But one day there will be no worries, only celebration!.

 

GOD wants us to be with HIM voluntarily. This provides a way to celebrate with choice. A number of people that cannot be counted will be celebrating. I cannot wait!

 

Challenge

• Can you see the excitement from the writer?
• Have you ever been part of a celebration?
• Will you give your life to GOD so you can me part of a family that is so vast that it cannot be counted?

Keeping the Fire

Keeping the Fire

Hebrews 11: ²¹ It was faith that made Jacob bless each of the sons of Joseph just before he died. He leaned on the top of his walking stick and worshiped God.

 

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“Didn’t you try that years ago?” was the question posed to me in disbelief. I was asking some of the same people to get on board of something that took a long, long time to get ready. It took so long, that people forgot what I was working on.

 

• I felt embarrassed that it took so long to get started.
• I felt uneasy about asking the same people to be excited after so many years.
• I felt I needed to keep the same level of excitement as when I first started.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, continues the list of faith examples with Jacob, otherwise known as Israel. Jacob had been a liar and a sneak, but GOD changed his name to Israel, which means GOD preserves. At a very old age, Jacob remained loyal to GOD. He required a walking stick after wrestling GOD at a young age. He remained on fire until his death.

 

My Observations:

• Difficult times may make me want to leave GOD, BUT where would I go?
• Starting off with GOD can be exciting to me, but staying with HIM is more exciting to HIM.
• Being able to praise GOD at an old age is the goal HE wants me to have.

 

Remaining excited about GOD can be difficult. I mean, life can dish out some very rough circumstances. Loss of health, relationships and income, could leave people wondering “Where is GOD?” BUT GOD is there, always!

 

HE provides in ways I cannot see or understand. HE blesses me in spite of me. HE raises me up when I should be torn down. GOD and GOD alone should be praised all the time. I am glad HE cares for me!

 

Challenge

• Why did the writer choose someone sneaky as an example of faith?
• Have you ever gone through some rough times and wanted to give up on GOD?
• Will you examine your thinking about what HE really wants you to “be” and accept HIS love for you so you can praise HIM today and always?

Eagerness

 

Eagerness

Hebrews 6: ⁹ But even if we speak like this, dear friends, we feel sure about you. We know that you have the better blessings that belong to your salvation. ¹⁰ God is not unfair. He will not forget the work you did or the love you showed for him in the help you gave and are still giving to other Christians. ¹¹ Our great desire is that each of you keep up your eagerness to the end, so that the things you hope for will come true. ¹² We do not want you to become lazy, but to be like those who believe and are patient, and so receive what God has promised.

 

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On the first day of my assignment, I could hardly sleep. I woke up before the alarm, and made my way in early. But after a while, I got used to the assignment. I woke up to the alarm and hit the snooze button a couple of times. I didn’t race to get there and when I arrived, I had to do my ritual of getting coffee and chatting with people.

 

• My eagerness had worn off.
• I was not as enthusiastic as I was in the beginning.
• I had become slow to jump into anything “new” because I was comfortable.

 

Paul, the assumed writer” spoke about “better blessings” that belonged to believers in JESUS for salvation. He tried to encourage everyone that GOD sees all actions and will not forget any work don for HIM or any love shown to another person for HIM. He urges everyone to remain “eager” to the end so hope can be achieved.

 

My Observations

• I have to remember that GOD is quite fair in HIS dealings with me.
• I also have to note that GOD sees my work and love I have shown and HE is pleased with it.
• Knowing HE is pleased with my actions makes me continue with my eagerness to serve HIM.

 

Giving up on unmet desires is tempting. I mean, when I have worked hard on something and have not realized the expected benefit, I may get discouraged and give up. BUT GOD saw my work and is pleased.

 

HE doesn’t just show up to tell me I did stuff wrong. In fact, quite the opposite. HE is excited that I try to serve HIM even though I have a sin nature to overcome. HE guides me to meet the desires of my heart that align to HIS will. I am grateful that GOD cares enough about me to give me what HE has promised.

 

Challenge

• What “better blessings” is the writer talking about?
• Have you ever felt discouraged and thought GOD was mad at you?
• Will you understand that HE is excited about what you have done and are doing for HIM and wants you to continue with eagerness nd patience today?

Share With Your Teacher

Share With Your Teacher

Galatians 6: ⁶ If you are being taught the Christian message, you should share all the good things you have with your teacher.

 

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“Thank you for telling me!” was the response I was not anticipating. I simply said “I understand this lesson and gave an example in my own words.” That day, it seemed like the teacher taught with a little more passion.

 

• I didn’t know teachers liked to hear when people “got it.”
• I thought it was the teacher’s job to teach me without getting feedback from me.
• I did not think it mattered to the teacher if I understood the message or not.

 

Paul, being a teacher, makes it known that it is alright to share “good things” with the teacher. He had just said “carry your own load” trying to keep people from comparing themselves to others and being destructively prideful. But he gives everyone a way to be excited about their service to the LORD. Tell the teacher.

 

My Observations

• JESUS sent the HOLY SPIRIT to teach me all things.
• I can feed the HOLY SPIRIT by being thankful for the lessons.
• I can also let GOD’s human teachers know when I understood the inspired message HE spoke through him or her.

 

Saying “I got it” helps the teacher. I mean, when I am lost and a teacher guides me to understanding, it helps the teacher to know what was effective. Sometimes the teacher needs to be picked up, especially those who are not fishing for compliments or seeking to be puffed up.

 

GOD called teachers to spread HIS wonderful message. HE holds teachers to a higher standard so they have to be more careful about their words. This can be discouraging, especially when the message is received twisted, confused or flat out rejected. I am grateful for the many teachers who boldly taught me “the Christian message.”

 

Challenge

• What good things can you share with those who are teaching you?
• Do the words imply you should be taught continuously?
• Will you share what GOD is doing in your life so you can uplift a teacher today?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, please bless the reader with “good things” today. Fill all with YOUR passion. amen

Eagerness

Eagerness

2 Corinthians 8: ¹⁶ How we thank God for making Titus as eager as we are to help you! ¹⁷ Not only did he welcome our request; he was so eager to help that of his own free will he decided to go to you. ¹⁸ With him we are sending the brother who is highly respected in all the churches for his work in preaching the gospel. ¹⁹ And besides that, he has been chosen and appointed by the churches to travel with us as we carry out this service of love for the sake of the Lord's glory and in order to show that we want to help.

 

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“Bring the groceries in from the car” was the directive. It was raining and cold outside and I was cozy and warm inside. I reluctantly obeyed. One of the bags tore, extending my discomfort.

 

On another day in another household a question was asked. “Would you like to go bowling with us?” “Yes!” was my enthusiastic reply. “Okay, but first unload the trunk to make room for the bowling balls.” I was eager to help even though it was raining and cold.

 

• I could not see the blessing of simply being fed, housed and clothed.
• I did not like being uncomfortable, so helping needed to be convenient.
• I could not see the purpose of helping unless I got something out of it.

 

Paul writes about eagerness to help. He explain about a certain type of eagerness that comes only from the HOLY SPIRIT inside those who believe in JESUS as their Savior. This eagerness was to carry out HIS service of love to many others.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to be willing to serve others.
• GOD wants me to be sent.
• GOD wants me to accept the eagerness available to me to preach the Gospel of JESUS.

 

Eagerness to serve GOD is different. I mean, the “what’s in it for me?” turns into “What’s in it for GOD?” When it is cold and rainy and GOD says go and serve, HE loves when I am eager to be obedient. Unfortunately, I like the comfort and coziness of staying out of the rain and cold, so I sometimes act disobedient.

 

GOD understands. The great thing about HIS love is HE keeps coming after me, giving me another chance to get out of my comfort zone and seek to serve others. I am grateful HE is the beginning of eagerness and provides purpose for my life.

 

Challenge

• Can you feel the writer’s excitement to serve?
• Have you ever seen someone excited to serve you?
• Has there ever been a contest, job or competition in which you were eager to work hard so you could get something out of it?
• Will you allow the HOLY SPIRIT fill you up with overflowing love for others so you can be eager to serve on your own free will today?

Exercise Worth Doing

 Exercise Worth Doing

Romans 5: Now that we have been put right with God through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. ² He has brought us by faith into this experience of God's grace, in which we now live. And so we boast of the hope we have of sharing God's glory! ³ We also boast of our troubles, because we know that trouble produces endurance, ⁴ endurance brings God's approval, and his approval creates hope. ⁵ This hope does not disappoint us, for God has poured out his love into our hearts by means of the Holy Spirit, who is God's gift to us.

 

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Malnourishment set in because I did not like most food. In gym class I could not do most of the exercises because I was too weak. I tried climbing the rope, but did not make it far. “Why are we climbing ropes anyway?” I thought to myself. This exercise was not worth doing.

 

• There were some circumstances I avoided because I felt it was not worth it.
• There were some situations I did not want to face because I was too embarrassed or proud.
• There were some troubles I faced and did not want many people to know about it.

 

Paul switches from explaining the Law of Moses to talking about how JESUS has brought us by faith into the experience of GOD’s grace. He emphasizes that since we have peace with GOD we can excitedly share hope to many people. We can also see our trouble differently. Trouble is our new exercise that brings on GOD’s approval when we excitedly share it with the same hope.

 

• GOD knows I will face difficult times.
• GOD knows the way out of difficulty is through the prayers of many.
• GOD wants me to share my trouble with those who will pray with me and for me.

 

Sharing trouble is not fun, especially if there are a lot of them for a long, long, long time. BUT GOD knows this exercise of sharing brings on endurance. HE needs people who can endure long enough to bring others to HIM. The world is busy trying to emphasize trouble and keep people focused on “their” cure.

 

GOD wants the focus. HE knows that when I see my trouble as exercise, HE approves my faith as righteousness and fills me with the HOLY SPIRIT. This is exciting enough to share with the world. Yes, I face many troubles, but I am glad GOD approves of me, even if I am afraid, ashamed or worried.

 

• Are you in trouble and afraid to share your troubles with a group you feel will judge you?
• Are you tired of facing, yet another, trouble?
• Will you take a fresh look at your trouble to see if GOD is giving you an exercise in an area of your life HE wants to strengthen so you can joyously share HIM no matter what storm comes?

Noble Character

Noble Character

Acts 17: ¹⁰ As soon as it was night, the believers sent Paul and Silas away to Berea. On arriving there, they went to the Jewish synagogue. ¹¹ Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. ¹² As a result, many of them believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men.

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“We checked your references and what you said was true” the hiring manager told me. Although I had told them the truth and they were excited to have me on board, they wanted to make sure I really had performed the things I claimed to do.

• Many times I have had background checks.
• Many times I have had my actions questioned.
• Many times I have had to prove what I was saying was true.

Paul and Silas spoke to the Berean Jews, who were of more noble character than those at Thessalonica. While they were excited about what Paul and Silas preached, they check the Scriptures every day to see if what they spoke was true. This resulted in many people believing in JESUS as their Savior.

• GOD wants me to speak the truth about JESUS.
• GOD wants me to receive the message from HIS messengers with eagerness.
• GOD wants me to check the Scriptures to be sure the messenger is telling the truth.

Noble character means living by the truth. When someone claims to speak about JESUS, they should not mind if someone says “wait a minute… let me check the Scriptures to see if what you are saying is true.

GOD wants me to validate what I am saying by using the Scriptures, avoiding twisting the meaning to make it say something that gives me personal gain. I am glad GOD gave the scriptures so I can speak the truth.

• Are you mad because someone checked up on what you are saying?
• Did you speak the truth?
• Will you be excited about what you hear about JESUS and check the Scriptures for yourself to make sure the messenger is speaking the truth?

Mission Accomplished

Mission Accomplished

Acts 8: ³⁸ So he commanded the chariot to stand still. And both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him. ³⁹ Now when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away, so that the eunuch saw him no more; and he went on his way rejoicing. ⁴⁰ But Philip was found at Azotus. And passing through, he preached in all the cities till he came to Caesarea.

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Sitting on the trunk of my broken down car, a couple stopped and asked if I needed a ride. Cautiously I said “yes” to the elderly couple. They convinced me that a rest stop was not too far away and they could drop me there.

“Do you believe in GOD and JESUS, the SON of GOD?” they asked me. I answered “Yes” without too much explanation as I had not been worshiping or even acting like I knew GOD.

• There have been many people sent to me to rescue me.
• There have been many people sent to me to bring me back to GOD.
• There have been many people sent to me to tell me about the great news of JESUS.

Philip was sent to the desert and he went without question. When he arrived he met a eunuch who was studying the prophet Isaiah, reading specifically about JESUS. When the eunuch heard Philip explain who JESUS was and is, he wanted to be baptized. Philip’s mission had been fulfilled.

• GOD wants me to be open to be sent where HE wants me to go.
• GOD wants me to be open to speak about HIS SON wherever HE sends me.
• GOD wants me to be ready to be sent to the next place so HE can speak through me again and again.

“Do not grow weary” is the request of JESUS because the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. GOD wants me to continue to speak to many people about JESUS so they will believe in HIM and do the same. When HE sends me and I speak, the mission is accomplished.

• Are you being used by GOD?
• Is GOD guiding you wo speak about HIS grace?
• Will you accept HIS mission for you and speak about JESUS today?

Gladly Received

Gladly Received

Acts 2: ⁴⁰ And with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation.” ⁴¹ Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. ⁴² And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. ⁴³ Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. ⁴⁴ Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, ⁴⁵ and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need.

⁴⁶ So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, ⁴⁷ praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.

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“Finally!” I said to myself. After this particular leadership class, I got it. I didn’t know if it was the right mix of instructors, or the information or whether I could simply hear the information, but something clicked that I took to heart. Afterwards I was promoted five times.

• When I hear good news I get excited.
• When I hear good news I take it to heart.
• When I hear good news I gladly receive it and take action.

Peter preached to church goers who were led astray by leaders who had their heart set on greed and power. He urged them to “Be saved from this perverse generation” turning them to eh One who truly saves, namely JESUS. They gladly received his message and acted on it.

• GOD wants me to gladly receive HIS message.
• GOD wants me to desire HIS ways.
• GOD wants me to accept the need for salvation so I can tell others about the great news of JESUS.

Heartfelt words are gladly received. Unfortunately some words can come from places opposing GOD. A heart that needs attention or wants something that GOD says “No” to, may choose to go their own way. BUT GOD loves hearts that gladly receive HIS message. HE enables true power and enables gladness and simplicity  of the heart. I am grateful GOD give me joy.

• Are you seeking happiness and think you will find it with superficial relationships?
• Do you think the void in your life can be filled with various philosophies?
• Will you remove yourself out of your own way and accept GOD’s love so HE can fill your heart today?

Motivated

Motivated

Acts 2: ³⁴ “For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he says himself:

‘The Lord said to my Lord,
“Sit at My right hand,
³⁵ Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” ’

³⁶ “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.”

³⁷ Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?”

³⁸ Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. ³⁹ For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”

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“Thank you” were the words I said at lunch. For years I had no idea this person was watching over me. They cleared up misconceptions. Stuck their neck out just for me. This gave me great motivation to serve the living GOD whom they served.

• Many times I have heard things that motivated me to do something.
• Many times I have listened to someone speak with passion and was motivated to act.
• Many times I have been responsive to someone’s acts of love towards me.

After Peter’s passionate plea, the crowd was “cut to the heart” at their actions. They may not have physically killed JESUS, but they may have been in agreement that HE should die. When they heard HE was alive, they were motivated to ask “What should we do?”

• GOD wants me to apologize for my sins.
• GOD wants me to outwardly show those around me that I belong to JESUS by getting baptized.
• GOD wants me to receive the HOLY SPIRIT as a gift I do not deserve.

“Sit at MY right hand” means let “ME” do all the work. JESUS has the power and authority to face any demonic situation that may arise. Though the situation may hurt, HE still is in control. HE wants me to surrender my life to HIM so HE can guide those HE chooses back to HIM. I owe my life to JESUS.

• What motivates you?
• Do you secretly want the spotlight without the consequence of desiring it?
• Will you add surrender to your life so JESUS can reach your heart today?

Recognition

Recognition

John 12: ¹² The next day a great multitude that had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, ¹³ took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Him, and cried out:

“Hosanna!
‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’
The King of Israel!”

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“Want to attend this event?” was a question posed to me by a co-worker. “Sure” I said, not knowing what the event was. When we arrived, there was a red carpet for us to walk on. People took pictures of me as I was walking into the entrance. “Who do they think I am?” I thought to myself. When I got in, there were stars and professional football players. It was one of the athlete’s birthday and he put on a star studded event.

• I have seen people who get a lot of attention.
• I have been in a position where people recognized me.
• I have attended events where only those who had “special” access could get in.

JESUS came into town after performing many miracles that were seen by huge crowds. There could be no denial, this was and is THE KING. People recognized HIM and made sure no mud would get on HIS feet. There were also some who waved the branches in celebration!

• JESUS wants me to recognize HIM as my Savior.
• JESUS wants me to make HIM the celebrity of my life.
• JESUS wants me to get excited about HIS presence, each and every day.

Focusing in on JESUS is something that should be done daily. But sometimes work, or worries or winsome things distract me from celebrating GOD. HE wants me to shout HIS name and say “Thank YOU!” JESUS deserves my praise. I am glad to give it to HIM.

• What celebrities are you following?
• Do you know more about them than you do about JESUS?
• Will you reduce your elevation of other humans and elevate JESUS to GOD of your life today?

Spreading Good News

Spreading Good News

John 10: ⁴⁰ And He went away again beyond the Jordan to the place where John was baptizing at first, and there He stayed. ⁴¹ Then many came to Him and said, “John performed no sign, but all the things that John spoke about this Man were true.” ⁴² And many believed in Him there.

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“Tell your department that they have an extra bonus this year” were the words I was glad to pass on. In fact I was so excited that I dreamed of unique ways to deliver the message. After the spree of wild ideas passed, I settled on a simple lunch celebration. Everyone was excited and they went home and told others.

• When I have good news I get excited.
• When I have good news I cannot wait to tell many people.
• When I have good news I think of who I can share it with and I tell them, hoping they will tell other people.

JESUS went to where John was baptizing. John’s message was unique and full of GOD, unlike the church leaders who were trying to kill JESUS. John dedicated his life to tell people they can have hope. He told many about JESUS before HE arrived. The crowd believed.

• JESUS wants me to tell people a simple message.
• JESUS wants me to let people know they can place all their hope in HIM.
• JESUS wants me to be excited about telling people that HE has forgiven me for all my sins and HE sent the HOLY SPIRIT to comfort me when I have doubts, fears and worries.

What great news! I mean JESUS saw through every sin that I ever did and chose me anyway. HE told me HE loves me, when humans cannot muster up those words. HE knows my faults and doesn’t constantly blame me with bitter retorts. HE then says to me “I forgave you, now go, do the same so others will come to ME.” I am excited to spread the Good News of hope in JESUS!

• Are you excited about JESUS?
• Do you remember when you accepted HIM as your Savior?
• Will you recall the excitement about GOD so you can tell people to place their hope in JESUS today?

Excited Curiosity

John 4: ²⁷ Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why are you talking with her?”

²⁸ Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, ²⁹ “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?” ³⁰ They came out of the town and made their way toward him.

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“Want some concert tickets?” the clerk asked. “Of course!”, I answered. After getting the tickets, I told several people about the music store. I went back more and more. “What else do you have?” I thought to myself.

• Sometimes I am curious about what I can get.
• Sometimes I get excited about something that has been done for me.
• Sometimes I tell other people what I am excited about.

The disciples found JESUS speaking to a woman. “What was she up to?” they thought suspiciously. They also thought, “Are you crazy?”, pointed their thoughts to JESUS. But something amazing happened.

• JESUS wants me to be excited about HIM every day.
• JESUS wants me to tell people about HIM as often as I can.
• JESUS wants me to be bold about HIS goodness to whomever HE sends me.

“Could this be the Messiah?” the woman said to people. She was excited and so should I. When my excitement is met with doubtful questions, I am to remain excited and focus my efforts on HIM. The woman’s excitement and curiosity filled me up. I am glad JESUS went out of HIS way to meet with me the same way HE did for her.

• Are you excited about JESUS?
• Do you feel compelled to tell others about HIM?
• Will you live your life with purpose today and allow GOD to speak through you?

Admiration

Luke 18: ¹⁵ People were also bringing babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. ¹⁶ But Jesus called the children to him and said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. ¹⁷ Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.’

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When I finally found a good leader, I believed almost every word they said. I would schedule as much time as I could just to sit and listen to their words. Whatever they told me, I would do. I trusted that person implicitly.

• Many people have earned my trust.
• Many people have lowered my skepticism.
• Many people have said things that I instantly believe in.

JESUS stopped HIS disciples from forbidding children to approach HIM. I wonder if they thought JESUS was to politically important to deal with childish matters. HE summoned the children over and told the disciples to believe as a child believes.

• GOD wants me to mature to the point where I implicitly believe in HIM.
• GOD wants me to grow to the point where I have instant faith in HIM.
• GOD wants me to increase my value of HIS words in my heart versus constantly proving HIM to be wrong by thinking HE is not meeting “my” expectations.

Admiring GOD in all that HE does is a lifelong journey. It means I have to drop my skepticism, doubt and know it all thinking. I should believe in the promises HE says instead of wavering. But sometimes I stammer. I am glad GOD said “MY grace is sufficient” for I truly need HIS grace. I do believe in HIM today, implicitly.

• Are you skeptical of GOD because HE has not answered your prayer at the exact moment and the exact way?
• Are you losing your trust in GOD?
• Can you return to your childlike belief and admire GOD again?

Meeting Expectations

Luke 3: ¹⁵ Now as the people were in expectation, and all reasoned in their hearts about John, whether he was the Christ or not, ¹⁶ John answered, saying to all, “I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. ¹⁷ His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather the wheat into His barn; but the chaff He will burn with unquenchable fire.”

¹⁸ And with many other exhortations he preached to the people. ¹⁹ But Herod the tetrarch, being rebuked by him concerning Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done, ²⁰ also added this, above all, that he shut John up in prison.

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Nervously I opened my mouth and told a person about my belief in CHRIST. I could not tell if he was joking or not about his thought on GOD’s existence but I was moved to say something at the lunchroom table.

When the words came out, I felt better and did not care as much whether I would be labeled as weird. This was my first time speaking about GOD to someone outside of my comfort zone.

• There were times when I wanted to just blend into the crowd.
• There were times when I wanted to simply be like everyone else.
• There were times when I wanted to meet the crowd’s expectation of me and fit in like the rest.

The people set expectations on John by asking “Who is this guy?” Some said he was The CHRIST, others thought he was a prophet, but all had to listen to him as he spoke candidly about their sins, even royalty. GOD wants me to speak up as well.

• JESUS says to me “I will baptize people with the HOLY SPIRIT and with fire.”
• JESUS says to me “I will gather the wheat you plant in the souls of people I send to you or send you to.”
• JESUS says to me “I will burn up the wasted efforts of those who do not turn to ME.”

Life is short. Everything I do and say will one day be accounted for and it is up to me to listen to the HOLY SPIRIT each day in order to make the best out of life. When I am not selfish and follow what GOD wants me to do, HE counts it as fruit and rewards me generously.

• What are you spending your time on?
• Are you squeezing GOD out of your life to the point that you cannot hear HIM?
• Do you spend enormous amounts of time meeting human’s expectations?
• Can you stop trying to please people and look to pleasing GOD today?

Frightened Excitedly

Mark 16: ⁶ But he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him. ⁷ But go, tell His disciples—and Peter—that He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you.”

⁸ So they went out quickly and fled from the tomb, for they trembled and were amazed. And they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.

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Hearing my name called over the school intercom amongst others was a bit disturbing and intriguing at the same time. I recognized the names so I knew we weren’t in trouble. “You passed the test and got into the high tech high school” the principal said to us. I ran down the hall excited but now a bit disturbed as I had never been to a school this large before.

• Sometimes I get frightened by some exciting news.
• There were times when I heard some great news yet walked away frightened by the next steps.
• Sometimes I hear great things but get nervous about the future of that news.

An angel spoke casually to the two Mary’s. He tried to keep them as calm as possible but the news was just too overwhelming. He told them “You seek JESUS of Nazareth, who was crucified. HE is risen!” This bold statement was too much to comprehend so he tried to show the evidence by telling them to look at the rolled away stone and the empty tomb, but they were too excited and frightened.

• JESUS wants me to know HE is alive and in control of my situation.
• JESUS wants me to “Not be alarmed” but to be excited about HIS daily guidance.
• JESUS wants me to tell many people about HIM rather than focusing on the negatives around me.

Even though the strong military force who was looking for anyone associated with JESUS could find the two Mary’s, that was the least of their concern. They had a flood of emotions that included amazement and fright at the same time. GOD had blessed them with “first response” news that was a huge responsibility to tell. HE does the same with me and it is up to me to respond.

• Are you called by GOD to spread HIS great news?
• Have you gotten frightened by life that you feel paralyzed to speak about JESUS in an excited way?
• Can you get your focus back and begin speaking about CHRIST, who saved you, today?

Practice

Mark 14: ³⁷ Then He came and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “Simon, are you sleeping? Could you not watch one hour? ³⁸ Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

³⁹ Again He went away and prayed, and spoke the same words. ⁴⁰ And when He returned, He found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy; and they did not know what to answer Him.

⁴¹ Then He came the third time and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? It is enough! The hour has come; behold, the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. ⁴² Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand.”

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“Run!” were the instructions of the track coach. “Do we have to?” was my thought. I mean we had already run miles and miles this very day. One teammate whispered to me “We can hide and pretend we practiced.” “I wonder if I should hide” was my thought.

• Sometimes I do not feel like practicing.
• Sometimes I want things to be handed to me.
• Sometimes I do not want to go through the difficulty of being ready.

JESUS brought Peter, James and John with HIM to pray for HIM as HE was about to face death. Not being used to praying on this magnitude, they fell asleep. They more than likely did not know what JESUS was going through. Even the stern warnings JESUS implored were of no use. Their senses were dull.

• GOD says to me “Do not follow the ways of this world for they distract you from MY kingdom.”
• GOD says to me “All are like sheep that go astray.”
• GOD says to me “I stand at the door and knock. If anyone opens the door, I will come in and sup with them.”

JESUS knows the world will dullen my senses. With a constant barrage of murder, sex and drugs on television, my compassion falls to zero and I cannot hear GOD’s small still voice.

BUT GOD knew this and has taken this into account. HE went to the cross for me anyway. HE knew I could not rescue the world so HE took care of it all. HE raises me up to notice HIS power.

• Are you fretting about something so much that you cannot see or hear GOD?
• Are your senses so dulled that you cannot feel for those who are hurting around you?
• Can you wake up to see GOD is guiding you today?

Salt is Good for You

Mark 9: ⁴⁹ “For everyone will be seasoned with fire, and every sacrifice will be seasoned with salt. ⁵⁰ Salt is good, but if the salt loses its flavor, how will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with one another.”

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“Boring, sneaky and money hungry” were just a few labels I applied to church-goers. I mean they don’t help “me” when “I” need it. I left the church to strike it out on my own.

• There have been times when I labeled people quickly.
• There have been times when I was going through a trial I caused myself and wanted to blame others.
• There have been times when I looked at what was good as bad and what was bad for me as good.

I was no good to anyone during this period. Mad at the world, I had lost my perspective. JESUS warns everyone of losing perspective.

• GOD says to me “Salt is good.”
• GOD says to me “I will season you with fiery circumstances and preserve your sacrifices through them.”
• GOD says to me “Have peace with those who want to pick fights with you.”

Salt is a preservative. Salt stings. Sale penetrates. Salt adds flavor. JESUS says “Be salt” and I take it to mean preserve people and give them HIS messages with may sting me and them and penetrate our hearts with HIS goodness. My flavor on each relationship brings a taste that GOD has given me. Having salt in me helps me have peace with others.

• Have you given up on people?
• Have you given up period?
• Will you seek GOD and ask for restoration?
• Will you become HIS servant again and follow HIM with your heart?