Free Will Taken Seriously

Free Will Taken Seriously

Exodus 4: ¹³ But he said, “O my Lord, please send by the hand of whomever else You may send.”

 

¹⁴ So the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses, and He said: “Is not Aaron the Levite your brother? I know that he can speak well. And look, he is also coming out to meet you. When he sees you, he will be glad in his heart. ¹⁵ Now you shall speak to him and put the words in his mouth. And I will be with your mouth and with his mouth, and I will teach you what you shall do. ¹⁶ So he shall be your spokesman to the people. And he himself shall be as a mouth for you, and you shall be to him as God. ¹⁷ And you shall take this rod in your hand, with which you shall do the signs.”

 

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Seeing the miracles of the rod becoming a serpent and his hand becoming leprous may have convinced Moses that he was talking to GOD. He even was talking to a bush on fire but it was not consumed. But Moses declined GOD’s calling.

 

My Observations:

• GOD tries to include humans in HIS plan to save people and has strong feelings when HE is rejected.
• GOD was still gentle with Moses and HE provided him with an alternative.
• When Moses left Egypt, he must have told Aaron and Miriam which direction he would go so he could be found.

 

Being called into GOD’s plan is not what we want as humans. Moses just wanted to live a content life. He did not want to be rich or famous or powerful. He was speaking to GOD and turned down HIS offer. BUT GOD wanted Moses.

 

GOD shows us something strange. HE did not force Moses to do what HE wanted. HE also showed us that HE will not step in to make us do anything. HE takes the free will HE gave us seriously. HE gave Moses an alternative to consider. Moses could have said “No” again but this time he didn’t. GOD asked Moses to help HIM rescue HIS people. I believe HE is doing the same for you and me.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about HIS anger HE had in the response?
• Have you ever turned down GOD because HE asked you to do something difficult?
• Do you want GOD to do everything and not expect HIM to want you to do something for HIM?

Sent with a Purpose

Sent with a Purpose

Genesis 24: ³⁴ So he said, “I am Abraham’s servant. ³⁵ The Lord has blessed my master greatly, and he has become great; and He has given him flocks and herds, silver and gold, male and female servants, and camels and donkeys. ³⁶ And Sarah my master’s wife bore a son to my master when she was old; and to him he has given all that he has. ³⁷ Now my master made me swear, saying, ‘You shall not take a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, in whose land I dwell; ³⁸ but you shall go to my father’s house and to my family, and take a wife for my son.’ ³⁹ And I said to my master, ‘Perhaps the woman will not follow me.’ ⁴⁰ But he said to me, ‘The Lord, before whom I walk, will send His angel with you and prosper your way; and you shall take a wife for my son from my family and from my father’s house. ⁴¹ You will be clear from this oath when you arrive among my family; for if they will not give her to you, then you will be released from my oath.’

 

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Abraham’s servant explained why he was there. He explained Abraham’s wealth and relationship to the family. He then told everyone that he was sent with a purpose whether Rebekah came with him or not.

 

My Observations:

• Abraham’s servant provided the context of why he was there.
• Only the HOLY SPIRIT could orchestrate the story Abraham’s servant told.
• Abraham’s servant made it clear that he had nothing to gain, rather he was sent with a purpose.

 

Showing up as a stranger and asking for Rebekah to just up and leave was a far-fetched request. Abraham’s servant knew this would be a difficult ask, but he wanted the best for Abraham. He explained everything without embellishing. The facts were strange so if Rebekah agreed to go, it was meant to be.

 

Abraham’s servant even explained his conversation with Abraham. He said to Abraham “Perhaps the woman will not follow me.” Abraham then explained how the HOLY SPIRIT “before who I walk” would be with him and prosper his way. GOD still does this. The HOLY SPIRIT clears the way for you and me to prosper in HIS purpose.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD include Abraham’s servant’s synopsis of the situation?
• What is the purpose GOD has given to you?
• Are you ready for purpose that will be prospered by the HOLY SPIRIT?

Go Out

Go Out

Genesis 8: ¹⁵ Then God spoke to Noah, saying, ¹⁶ “Go out of the ark, you and your wife, and your sons and your sons’ wives with you. ¹⁷ Bring out with you every living thing of all flesh that is with you: birds and cattle and every creeping thing that creeps on the earth, so that they may abound on the earth, and be fruitful and multiply on the earth.” ¹⁸ So Noah went out, and his sons and his wife and his sons’ wives with him. ¹⁹ Every animal, every creeping thing, every bird, and whatever creeps on the earth, according to their families, went out of the ark.

 

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“It worked! The ark GOD had me build actually worked!” should have been the thought that crossed Noah’s mind. But it didn’t seem like this was the case. Noah had never seen rain before. He and his family were closed up in an ark for a large portion of a year. He had never seen GOD’s wrath, only heard about it.  He saw the Garden of Eden and knew he could not enter it. He had many conversations with the LORD and understood HIM well.

 

My Observations:

• Every human Noah tried to convince was now gone.
• Noah followed instructions well and was probably nervous to make a mistake.
• GOD had to tell Noah to leave the ark even though he knew the ground was dry.

 

Waiting on the LORD for the next step was a quality that Noah demonstrated well. “I’m not going out there” was shown in his hesitancy and cautious approach. BUT GOD had another stage of life for Noah and his family. “Be fruitful and multiply” were the same instructions given to his ancestors Adam and Eve.

 

These words were a blessing instead of a curse. GOD bestowed confidence in humans to create life, just as HE intended. The ordeal was over. But Noah had become comfortable in the ark and was used to the security of the small space. BUT GOD had a different agenda. HE wanted the earth populated with humans, animals and bugs. Noah had to leave his adopted comfort zone to do what GOD saved him for.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about this conversation with Noah?
• Has GOD ever rescued you and you have become comfortable with something that HE meant to be temporary?
• Have you asked GOD for the faith to “go out” of your comfort zone to do the next step of HIS plan for you?

Headed to Something New

Headed to Something New

James 1:1  From James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ:

Greetings to all God's people scattered over the whole world.

 

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Being “let go” did not feel good at all. No matter how it was phrased, I could not wrap my mind around “Why did this happen to me?” “The position was eliminated” were the only words of comfort.

 

• I felt lost and directionless.
• I was not prepared to be out in the world.
• I did not know GOD had something much better in store for me.

 

James, human brother of JESUS, writes a letter to “GOD’s people scattered over the world.” The scattering did not come easy. In fact, because of belief in JESUS, many people were persecuted. They had to leave their homes, ill prepared, not knowing the future.

 

My Observations:

• GOD scatters HIS people for HIS purpose.
• Change is usually difficult for me, BUT GOD has a reason for it.
• Humans may not provide the right words to comfort me, BUT THE COMFORTER makes it clear that being scattered is not a bad thing.

 

Sometimes it feels like GOD is just not there. I mean, why in the world would HE push me out into the world with no plan? HE replies, “This is MY plan.” When I see HIS plan unfolding, I usually don’t like it. BUT GOD is doing something amazing that I don’t know.

 

GOD addresses my deepest fears by putting me in situations I need.  Ugh! Another problem? Yes. HE keeps allowing me to be scattered so I can be sent somewhere that I would not have otherwise gone. HE then tells me to stand firm for HIM in other places. I am glad GOD has a great and wonderful plan for me that includes “this” situation.

 

Challenge

• How does the writer write a letter to people scattered all over the world?
• Why do you think James refers to himself as a servant of his brother JESUS?
• Have you ever been in a difficult situation and wondered where is GOD?
• Will you look at your current situation as an area that GOD is trying to address so you can look forward to HIS plan for you today?

No Hidden Agenda

No Hidden Agenda

Titus 1: ⁷ For since a church leader is in charge of God's work, he should be without fault. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered, or a drunkard or violent or greedy for money. ⁸ He must be hospitable and love what is good. He must be self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. ⁹ He must hold firmly to the message which can be trusted and which agrees with the doctrine. In this way he will be able to encourage others with the true teaching and also to show the error of those who are opposed to it.

 

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Wanting to be in power, I complained about the current leadership. I spoke about how badly things were being run with another person. Soon the grousing turned into a few people. I would then slip in a few of “my” solutions to show how things would be better if “I” were in charge.

 

• I wanted power.
• I did not think slander was a problem as long as I was doing it.
• I complained, thinking I knew better.

 

Let me say that many men have misused the bible to hold down women. This passage had cultural influences of males being the primary spokespeople in a church structure. Gender bias was not Paul’s battle so he went with the structure of that day. The suggestions he gives to Titus cross genders and apply to all. “Be” genuine when it comes to speaking about JESUS.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to “be hospitable.”
• GOD wants me to “be self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined.”
• GOD wants me to “be trusted and agree with the doctrine” so I can encourage others and correct few.

 

When I have a hidden agenda of being in power, I act differently. I mean I complain about him or her versus praising GOD for what HE Is doing. To “be” in charge of anything, GOD wants to know I can “be” trusted with HIS love for others. This will show in how I treat people.

 

HE wants men and women who are willing to “be” aware of themselves and have the discipline to leave selfishness behind to serve others. I am glad GOD accepts me and you in spite of our sinful nature.

 

Challenge

• What characteristics from the writer sticks out to you?
• Are there some areas in your life that you need GOD to grow you?
• Will you seek growth by GOD by asking for help in areas HE needs to grow you so you can serve HIS Kingdom today?

Letter of Recommendation

 

Letter of Recommendation

Philippians 2: ²⁵ I have thought it necessary to send to you our brother Epaphroditus, who has worked and fought by my side and who has served as your messenger in helping me. ²⁶ He is anxious to see you all and is very upset because you had heard that he was sick. ²⁷ Indeed he was sick and almost died. But God had pity on him, and not only on him but on me, too, and spared me an even greater sorrow. ²⁸ I am all the more eager, then, to send him to you, so that you will be glad again when you see him, and my own sorrow will disappear. ²⁹ Receive him, then, with joy, as a believer in the Lord. Show respect to all such people as he, ³⁰ because he risked his life and nearly died for the sake of the work of Christ, in order to give me the help that you yourselves could not give.

 

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Working hard made me gain a reputation amongst the owners of the bowling alley. It was easy to get them to write a letter of recommendation for me. But on the job that I missed opening the office because I was hanging out partying, I could not get a letter. In fact, I was fired.

 

• Both experiences shaped me.
• I was reliable on one job and unreliable on another.
• I did not know people were paying attention to me nor did I think it had any bearing on my future.

 

Paul spoke highly in his letter about Epaphroditus. He gave his best recommendation because both had gone through a lot together as they dedicated their life speaking about CHRIST. Like Paul, Epaphroditus “risked his life” for the sake of the work of CHRIST. Paul knew his belief was real.

 

My Observations

• All of my actions are seen by GOD.
• What is in my heart for others writes my letter of recommendation for myself.
• GOD knows when I am insincere and when I am sincere, therefore HE places me in charge of things HE cares about based on what I can handle.

 

Faithfulness to me means continuing in the hope when things seem extremely difficult. I mean, when it looks like all hope is lost, my faith has to remain in CHRIST. This may be contrary to what humans recommend. BUT GOD sees my actions and rewards me when I sincerely follow HIM.

 

HE knows the impossible labels people may place on me that may stain my character and HE says “He is tail useful to ME.” Only GOD’s character is perfect, yet he takes imperfect beings like myself, and sends him or her to speak on JESUS’s behalf. I gladly accept the plan GOD has for me and am grateful HE recommends me.

 

Challenge

• What stands out to you in this letter of recommendation?
• Do you think living for GOD has to be hard and uncomfortable for everyone?
• Will you simply “be” so you can live for CHRIST the way HE made you?
• Will you also show respect for more believers and let GOD judge his or her actions so you can be filled with praise to GOD more often?

Ready and Willing

Ready and Willing

2 Corinthians 9: There is really no need for me to write you about the help being sent to God's people in Judea. ² I know that you are willing to help, and I have boasted of you to the people in Macedonia. “The believers in Achaia,” I said, “have been ready to help since last year.” Your eagerness has stirred up most of them. ³ Now I am sending these believers, so that our boasting about you in this matter may not turn out to be empty words. But, just as I said, you will be ready with your help. 

 

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It was time for the missions trip. We drove to the area and when we arrived I noticed a certain flag that represented hatred on a few of the houses. “I don’t know how effective I will be here” I thought to myself. That week we redid a broken down house. I had to pick the couple up who owned the house, so I prayed with them. I was glad to leave but I was also glad I went.

 

• I was very concerned about being in an unwelcome place.
• I questioned “Why me” instead of someone else being sent to this place of sneers.
• I went, but did not go back.

 

Paul spoke about the willingness of many people who went to serve. He went through some very difficult times and knew those who were called to go and serve others for the LORD would face similar issues. He was excited to talk about their willingness to serve.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to be ready to speak about HIS SON to whoever HE sends me to.
• GOD wants me to be willing to serve others to bring them to HIM.
• GOD wants me to be able to put my fears to the side to speak about JESUS in strange places.

 

Speaking about JESUS is not always comfortable. I mean, there are many settings where I can’t seem to bring up HIS name. GOD seems to want people who are willing to mention the love of JESUS in spite of criticism, or social conditions.

 

Politicians may try to steal the name of JESUS and people may even mention HIS name. BUT GOD stirs the heart of those who are HIS and sends them to spread the Good News about JESUS. It may not be comfortable, but I am willing to press forward to bring people back to HIM.

 

Challenge

• Do you see what the writer is excited about in this passage?
• What help do you think the writer is speaking about?
• What do you think the ultimate goal is when being sent?
• Will you accept your calling to be sent by GOD to speak on behalf of JESUS today?

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?

Help Continue in Peace

Help Continue in Peace

1 Corinthians 16: ¹⁰ If Timothy comes your way, be sure to make him feel welcome among you, because he is working for the Lord, just as I am. ¹¹ No one should look down on him, but you must help him continue his trip in peace, so that he will come back to me; for I am expecting him back with the believers.

 

¹² Now, about brother Apollos. I have often encouraged him to visit you with the other believers, but he is not completely convinced that he should go at this time. When he gets the chance, however, he will go.

 

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Instead of being happy that a new person was starting, I felt a bit overwhelmed. Since I had been around longer than most people, it was implied that I would train the new person on how to do things while keeping up with my work.

 

• I was not excited about the new person.
• I almost treated the new person as the problem versus the solution.
• I needed more help with change.

 

Paul provided help with change. People requested Apollos who had a large following. But Apollos was led by the SPIRIT to remain away for a little while longer. Instead Timothy was being sent. Paul urged everyone to receive him with open arms and to help him continue his trip in peace.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to understand that change is inevitable so I need HIS guidance when it happens.
• GOD wants me to embrace change even when it is not going as I expected.
• GOD wants me to desire things to go one way but accept HIS solution which may differ than “my” plans.

 

Continuing in peace is the goal versus getting my way. I do ask GOD “What is going on?” many times when I expect things to go one way and they go another way. When I ask for one resource, I tend to get a different one. “What am I supposed to do with this?” I ask GOD in frustration.

 

“Continue in peace” is the answer. GOD knows what I need way before I need it. HE also knows what I can handle and gives me exactly what I need at the right time. Change is difficult. I am glad GOD does care and wants me to continue with the peace that HE provides which surpasses all understanding.

 

Challenge

• How do you handle change?
• Do you automatically get upset first then calm down?
• How can you help other people embrace change like the writer did?
• Will you look beyond your current situation and see how to add GOD’s peace to it today?

Flexible Plans

Flexible Plans

1 Corinthians 16: ⁵ I shall come to you after I have gone through Macedonia—for I have to go through Macedonia. ⁶ I shall probably spend some time with you, perhaps the whole winter, and then you can help me to continue my trip, wherever it is I shall go next. ⁷ I want to see you more than just briefly in passing; I hope to spend quite a long time with you, if the Lord allows.

 

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“Hello. How are you?” was my polite obligatory statement. I had a full day planned and had finally gotten my schedule straight in my mind. She replied “Terrible” Then she started to tell me why. The longer she talked, the more time ticked off the clock. Unfortunately, I had to say “I have to go” in the middle of her tears.

 

• I have been overscheduled on items not concerning people.
• I have spent a large amount of time on things unrelated to people.
• I have planned my days so full, that I had no time for people.

 

Paul expresses his care for those who he wrote the letter to. He also spoke about entire regions he wanted to affect with the love of JESUS. He made plans to spend time with people, but knew his life was in the LORD’s hands. His plans needed to be flexible.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to make flexible plans that include caring for HIS people.
• GOD wants me to be flexible to be led to places HE wants me to go.
• GOD wants me to seek spending time with people so I and they can be made whole.

 

Worldly success comes with a price. I mean, everyone cheers a rich person, but JESUS spoke about the rarity of the rich entering heaven. HE said “Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”

 

Not knowing the full criteria of the heart, I think JESUS was talking about lack of care for others. It takes a tremendous amount of time and effort to amass great wealth. This time is usually not spent giving or listening or serving. GOD wants time. The little time I spend here on Earth should have some of it focused on bringing people to HIM. I am glad people made time for me.

 

Challenge

• What do you notice about the writer’s heart?
• How can your time conflict with caring for others?
• Will you add flexibility to your schedule so you can be available to GOD’s leading today?

You Are Proof

 

You Are Proof

! Corinthians 9: Am I not a free man? Am I not an apostle? Haven't I seen Jesus our Lord? And aren't you the result of my work for the Lord? ² Even if others do not accept me as an apostle, surely you do! Because of your life in union with the Lord you yourselves are proof of the fact that I am an apostle.

 

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“I accept JESUS as my Savior” the man said to me. I was delighted as not many people had said those words directly in front of me, to me. When I went to check on him a few weeks later, a neighbor told me he had been killed. He was under house arrest.

 

• Life is very short.
• Life, for many, includes death.
• Life needs a solution.

 

Paul explains his relationship with CHRIST to everyone. He saw the resurrected JESUS and studied under HIM. He spoke to many and because he spoke with power and conviction. Many people came to know JESUS in a saving way. This group became proof of Paul’s calling as an apostle of JESUS.

 

• GOD wants me to bear HIS fruit.
• GOD wants me to seek HIS kingdom first.
• GOD wants me to know there is nothing more important than seeking the lost.

 

Living a life with purpose is highly important to GOD. I mean, JESUS said “bear fruit.” This fruit is loving one another for one single purpose, to believe that JESUS is the resurrected Savior. Worldly love will not cut it. GOD wants us to surrender our lives to seek HIM.

 

“You will know them by their fruits” JESUS says. A good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. I hope and pray GOD allows me to bear HIS good fruit.

 

• What kind of fruit are you bearing?
• Do you feel you need help or are you led to help others?
• Will you let go of the deep hidden things in your heart and allow GOD to own your life so you can bear HIS fruit of the SPIRIT today?

Living Example

Living Example

1 Corinthians 4: ¹⁴ I write this to you, not because I want to make you feel ashamed, but to instruct you as my own dear children. ¹⁵ For even if you have ten thousand guardians in your Christian life, you have only one father. For in your life in union with Christ Jesus I have become your father by bringing the Good News to you. ¹⁶ I beg you, then, to follow my example. ¹⁷ For this purpose I am sending to you Timothy, who is my own dear and faithful son in the Christian life. He will remind you of the principles which I follow in the new life in union with Christ Jesus and which I teach in all the churches everywhere.

 

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“How To” videos were not as accessible at the time. I was trying my hand at making furniture from scratch. I asked my uncle for advice. He had won many contests for making furniture and owned a thriving restoration business. I carefully listened to his advice and completed the furniture.

 

• There have been many people who have given me some great advice.
• There have been many people who have shown me how to do things right.
• There have been many people who have been great examples for what I wanted to do.

 

Paul likens himself to a “Father” who has given birth to those who believe in JESUS as their Savior. He brought the Good News to many people and they believed. They became his children and he urged them to “follow his example” to do the same. Spread the “Good News” and become a living example.

 

• GOD wants me to spread the Good News of JESUS’ resurrection.
• GOD wants me to go and make disciples out of many nations.
• GOD wants me to become a parent to many people who believe in JESUS.

 

Being an example of JESUS is great! I mean, I don’t have to be perfect because HE was and is. HE was the one who died for my sins and all I have to do is point people to HIM for forgiveness. My imperfection, flaws and failures draw people to HIM rather than repel.

 

When I admit I am a sinner versus trying to pretend I do not sin, I end up with children who believe in GOD. I am glad GOD put so many living examples of HIS followers in my life.

 

• Do you have an example of a follower of JESUS?
• Do you admire people because of how he or she follow JESUS?
• Will you become a living example of how to spread the Gospel of JESUS today so you may have many children in the Kingdom of GOD?

Tell It With Power

Tell It With Power

1 Corinthians 1: ¹⁴ I thank God that I did not baptize any of you except Crispus and Gaius. ¹⁵ No one can say, then, that you were baptized as my disciples. (¹⁶ Oh yes, I also baptized Stephanas and his family; but I can't remember whether I baptized anyone else.) ¹⁷ Christ did not send me to baptize. He sent me to tell the Good News, and to tell it without using the language of human wisdom, in order to make sure that Christ's death on the cross is not robbed of its power.

 

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An argument over GOD’s existence arose and I felt “prepared.” But when I jumped into the argument, it raised questions that I had no answers. Now I was just trying to get the guy to stop arguing. The argument grew to many people. I have no idea how it ended.

 

• At one time I thought that “I” needed to argue for GOD.
• At one time I thought that “I” was responsible for saving people.
• At one time I thought that “I” had the “power” to change anyone’s mind about their disbelief in JESUS.

 

Paul is thankful he did not seek to baptize a lot of people to build a following. He wasn’t against baptism rather he did not like the results of fame. He knew that humans crave to use their own wisdom to explain the supernatural power of CHRIST’s death and resurrection and a following would further complicate matters.

 

• GOD wants me to rely on HIS power to draw people to HIMSELF.
• GOD wants me to accept the responsibility of being sent to tell the Good News and that is it.
• GOD wants me to have faith in the HOLY SPIRIT who gives the same power to me that raised CHRIST from the dead.

 

It is not me, but the HOLY SPIRIT who lives in me. I mean, I have no wisdom, knowledge or understanding that can explain who and what the HOLY SPIRIT is. I can only say the HE speaks to me daily and I crave to feed HIM regularly.

 

It is the power of JESUS’ death burial and resurrection that I have the honor to speak about. Belief in HIS resurrection is what saved me for eternity. I am glad my wisdom does not rob JESUS of the credit HE is due.

 

• Are you trying hard to use your persuasion to get someone to believe?
• Do you think that if you follow a person or if people follow you, then they will have a chance for salvation?
• Will you relook at human wisdom and power and give JESUS more credit for HIS sacrificial death on the cross to save you and the people you are worried about today?

Find You Own Place

 

Find You Own Place

Romans 15: ¹⁸ I will be bold and speak only about what Christ has done through me to lead the Gentiles to obey God. He has done this by means of words and deeds, ¹⁹ by the power of miracles and wonders, and by the power of the Spirit of God. And so, in traveling all the way from Jerusalem to Illyricum, I have proclaimed fully the Good News about Christ. ²⁰ My ambition has always been to proclaim the Good News in places where Christ has not been heard of, so as not to build on a foundation laid by someone else. ²¹ As the scripture says,

“Those who were not told about him will see,
    and those who have not heard will understand.”

 

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We sublet my roommates portion of the rent to someone we were familiar with. He, in turn invited a guy to live on the couch, rent free. After a week, He was eating food and placing demands. I did not appreciate this. “He has to find his own place” I discussed.

 

Later in life, I was invited into a social group. I had a business and wanted everyone in the group to “buy my stuff.” I started making demands on the group. Someone came to me and asked politely “Why don’t you start your own group?”

 

• There have been times when I was annoyed at someone who took over “my” place.
• There have been times when I was bothered when someone hijacked “my” foundation.
• There have been times when I was the culprit, attempting to hijack someone else’s group.

 

Paul stated that he would use only his own examples to speak to the Gentiles. He had enough examples as GOD did many miracles through him. Paul proclaimed the Good News wherever he went. He stated that his ambition was to go to places where the Good News was not being preached so he would not mess up someone else’s foundation.

 

• GOD wants me to be bold about what HE has done in my life.
• GOD wants me to speak about the many great things HE has done in my life.
• GOD wants me to have “my own place” to speak about JESUS.

 

 

Having a church on every corner was not the intent from Paul’s writing, or so I believe. I mean, GOD’s message is so much bigger than a stationary building. HE wants everyone to hear about HIS SON and there are plenty of people who still need to do so.

 

How do I know? GOD is waiting “until the full number of the Gentiles has come in.”  In other words, there are still people who need to accept CHRIST before GOD does HIS next huge thing. I gladly go out and seek those HE sends me to so they may believe in JESUS as the Savior.

 

• Do you have a message GOD wants you to tell?
• Are you waiting on your church to tell the message?
• Will you be sent and go find the people GOD wants you to find that only you can reach and use your own examples today?

Bring Good News

 

Bring Good News

Romans 10: ¹⁴ But how can they call to him for help if they have not believed? And how can they believe if they have not heard the message? And how can they hear if the message is not proclaimed? ¹⁵ And how can the message be proclaimed if the messengers are not sent out? As the scripture says, “How wonderful is the coming of messengers who bring good news!” ¹⁶ But not all have accepted the Good News. Isaiah himself said, “Lord, who believed our message?” ¹⁷ So then, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message comes through preaching Christ.

 

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“What a rotten day” I said to myself. I was feeling low and down out about the dead end job which made me notice the gloomy weather, which emphasized my broken umbrella and to top it off… I was broke. My future looked grim as the dean told me the bad news of my failure in school. Can it get any worse?

 

• I have had many bad days.
• I have had many trying days where there was no good news to be found.
• I have had many rough days that seemed even rougher when I heard more bad news.

 

Paul spoke about the Great News which is CHRIST. But now he speaks of a dilemma. How can people believe in CHRIST if there are no messengers sent to proclaim HIM? Paul was trying to convince all who would hear to be the messenger.

 

• GOD wants me to bring Good News to everyone who will hear about JESUS.
• GOD wants me to proclaim HIS SON is the only way to peace.
• GOD wants me to be sent so I can tell people Good News.

 

Good news is in short supply these days. The media’s news seems to show what is wrong with the world every second. When difficult situations arise, it is hard for me to find solace anywhere. BUT GOD has a remedy. HE gave me the “Good News” which is JESUS. HE not only died for me, HE was raised from the dead with all power and authority.

 

There was mor Good News. JESUS sent the HOLY SPIRIT to live inside me to comfort me and give me hope in hopeless situations. To top it off, JESUS went away to build a place for me. HIS imminent return unknown, however, HE brings great rewards to those HE finds following HIM with faith. I am glad JESUS is my Good News!

 

• Are you speaking life or death?
• Do your words pick people up or put people down?
• Will you seek GOD and ask HIM to wipe away your gloom so you can be used as HIS messenger to bring the Good News about JESUS to people HE sends you to today?

Letter of Recommendation

Letter of Recommendation

Acts 15: ²² Then the apostles and elders, with the whole church, decided to choose some of their own men and send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas. They chose Judas (called Barsabbas) and Silas, men who were leaders among the believers. ²³ With them they sent the following letter:

The apostles and elders, your brothers,

To the Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria and Cilicia:

Greetings.

²⁴ We have heard that some went out from us without our authorization and disturbed you, troubling your minds by what they said. ²⁵ So we all agreed to choose some men and send them to you with our dear friends Barnabas and Paul— ²⁶ men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. ²⁷ Therefore we are sending Judas and Silas to confirm by word of mouth what we are writing. ²⁸ It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements: ²⁹ You are to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things.

Farewell.

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“Please provide three recommendations” said the potential employer. I had worked jobs I really did not like so I struggled to think of who would recommend me. I had to swallow my pride and ask the bowling alley owner, the janitor foreman and the dorm admin for recommendations. “I hope they say something nice” I worried.

• There were times when I worried about what someone would say on a recommendation.
• There were times when I did not give my best so I could not expect a good recommendation.
• There were times when I did not have experience so any recommendation written about me could not show the expertise I brought with me.

Confusion broke out in cities where Gentiles resided. Some people, who did not believe in JESUS being GOD, were teaching rules to follow GOD. The apostles had to do something, so they wrote a letter with specific recommendations for the Gentiles to follow. They also chose people who could confirm the words written in the recommendation.

• GOD wants me to be a witness to HIS word.
• GOD wants me to provide verification to HIS salvation through my actions and words.
• GOD wants me to be sent with HIS recommendation of what to do.

There is a prime recommendation that JESUS gives. No, it is a commandment. “Love one another.” This commandment solve and resolves every issue I could ever face. Even when people do not love me, GOD tells me to love them.

HIS love for me was so strong that HE died just for me. When HE was raised from the dead, HE put in motion a series of unstoppable events. I am grateful HE chose me to be part of HIS plan.

• When people have problems, what is your recommendation for a solution?
• Do you point people to JESUS as your final destination?
• Will you use your skills to recommend solutions for people, ultimately bringing them to JESUS?

Place to Place

Place to Place

Acts 14: ²¹ They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, ²² strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said. ²³ Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust. ²⁴ After going through Pisidia, they came into Pamphylia, ²⁵ and when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia.

²⁶ From Attalia they sailed back to Antioch, where they had been committed to the grace of God for the work they had now completed. ²⁷ On arriving there, they gathered the church together and reported all that God had done through them and how he had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles. ²⁸ And they stayed there a long time with the disciples.

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Rushing into the gas station bathroom, I held my breath as long as I could. I really had to go, so the super-disgusting surrounding would not deter my mission. Not knowing if I made up a saying or heard it along the way, I remembered “Leave a place better than you found it.” I wiped off the grimy sink.

• There have been some places I’ve been that were disgusting.
• There have been some places I’ve been that were difficult.
• There have been some places I’ve been that were downright disastrous.

Paul and Barnabas returned to the place where Paul was stoned. Their return brought on new life to those who remained. They encouraged the residents to remain true to the faith, explaining the hardships of a true follower of JESUS. They appointed elders, committing them to the LORD. This place was now better.

• GOD wants me to meet people wherever I go.
• GOD wants me to leave people better than I found them.
• GOD wants me to encourage people and prepare them to be strong during persecution.

Some people will remain stationary and reach others for CHRIST. Others, like me, will go from place to place with HIS encouraging message. No matter which of the two, GOD wants HIS kingdom to be encouraged.

Each encounter I have with another human is precious. GOD wants me to see what HE sees in people and encourage them rather than sending up yet another complaint about “that” person. GOD already has the accuser standing before HIM, complaining about each human. GOD wats me to stand firm and pray a blessing on people I meet. I am grateful GOD gives me purpose.

• Are you complaining about people?
• Are you being persecuted?
• If you are planning to leave a place, will you encourage the people before you leave so they can be strengthened in CHRIST?

Something to Say

Something to Say

Acts 13: ¹³ Now when Paul and his party set sail from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia; and John, departing from them, returned to Jerusalem. ¹⁴ But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and sat down. ¹⁵ And after the reading of the Law and the Prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent to them, saying, “Men and brethren, if you have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.”

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“Stop right there” a leader said to me in the middle of my long list of complaints. “If you have a complaint, you must also have three solutions.” All of a sudden, I had nothing to say.

• Sometimes I want to complain.
• Sometimes I want to spout out negative words.
• Sometimes I want to say what’s on my mind and that thing may be bad for others.

Paul has now emerged as the leader of the group. When they arrived in the synagogue on the Sabbath day, the normal order of church service went on. A request came up. “Does anyone have any words of exhortation for the people?” Fortunately, Paul was available.

• GOD wants me to be ready to say something about HIS love.
• GOD wants me to be ready to speak about JESUS at any time.
• GOD wants me to be available to say a word of encouragement to people who need it.

Having something to say is one thing, but being available to say it is another. My heart will speak what is in it. I had to do an experiment. I paid attention to how many negative discussions I started or was part of and then I counted the number of positive conversations I had and the times I mentioned GOD. I found out I spoke negatively most of the time.

GOD wants me to have something to say. I am grateful for HIS love, grace and mercy. HE include me in HIS plans.

• What are you saying?
• Are your words mostly negative or do you have anything positive to say?
• Will you start practicing speaking about JESUS, not just saying ”GOD” to people?

Ready to Go

Ready to Go

Acts 13: Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. ² As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” ³ Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.

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“LORD, what do YOU want me to do ?” was finally a sincere question I had asked. Up until then, I wanted raises and promotions and new cars. Within a week, the reorg was announced. Days later I was told I would be moving to another state.

• There were times when I had to get in the right mind to serve.
• There were times when I had to clear my thoughts in order to hear GOD.
• There were times when I had to be ready for anything in order to be used by GOD.

As the group gathered in Antioch were fasting and ministering to the LORD, the HOLY SPIRIT called Barnabas and Saul for a special work. The group obeyed so they fasted, prayed, laid hands on them and sent them. Fasting may have taken days but they were ready right away.

• GOD wants me to be ready to go where HE wants me to go at a moment’s notice.
• GOD wants me to know that I am sent versus complacent.
• GOD wants me to prepare for HIS journey when HE calls me to a work.

“Preparation” is the action GOD wants when HE calls. Rather than a fight for complacency, HE wants readiness to touch other lives through the power of the HOLY SPIRIT. GOD is always ready to send harvesters, but knows  the laborers are few.

GOD wants me to sincerely ask “LORD, what do YOU want me to do ?” so HE can decide where and when HE wants me to go and plant HIS seeds. Other people are waiting on my gifts and talents. I am glad GOD includes me in HIS plans.

• Are you being sent?
• Does GOD want you to meet new people so you can fast and pray for them?
• Will you accept GOD’s calling and prepare for where HE is sending you to do HIS work?