Eighth Commandment – No Stealing

Eighth Commandment – No Stealing

Exodus 20:  ¹⁵ “You shall not steal.

 

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GOD told Moses and the children of Israel not to steal. This was HIS eighth commandment.

 

My Observations:

• GOD may have been addressing a mindset of stealing that was adopted from the Egyptians.
• GOD may have seen how powerful people steal to remain in power.
• GOD may have also been addressing the fact that the people may have ignored HIS provision

 

 

Being a god was important to the Egyptian Pharaoh. They would go to great lengths to obtain the status of a god and to keep it. One method they may have used was stealing from those who served them. During the plagues, all of the Egyptian animals were killed by GOD. The Egyptians may have used force to steal some of the living animals from the children of Israel.

 

This mindset was dangerous to the LORD. Thievery is a form of trying to be a god. The thought behind it is “I want what you have and I have decided to take it by force or by sneaky activity.”

 

Stealing reduces GOD’s power and provision. The thief may feel GOD’s timing or current provisions were inadequate. GOD provided manna, turned bitter water sweet and provided water from a rock. HE wants you and me to know HE is the provider. But when wee take matters in our own hands, we become thieves.

 

The result of getting more money or more food or a better living space may not be pleasing to GOD. Undercutting and devaluing may be a form of stealing that also surfaces from the Egyptian mindset. Over valuing a house or under paying for a car could be an example of adjacent thievery that is more complex.

 

GOD was addressing a mindset that keeps a person from asking for something. They take without giving and make decisions for how they treat the people around them as justification for their thievery.

 

GOD is the provider, but when we steal, HE no longer is viewed as the provider. Fortunately, GOD is merciful. JESUS was hung on the cross between two thieves. One thief gave a testimony about JESUS not deserving to be put to death. The thief was forgiven.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about HIS warning to not steal?
• Have you stolen something that should have been provided by GOD?
• Is GOD your provider?

Everything Craved

Everything Craved

Revelation 5: ¹¹ Again I looked, and I heard angels, thousands and millions of them! They stood around the throne, the four living creatures, and the elders, ¹² and sang in a loud voice:

“The Lamb who was killed is worthy
    to receive power, wealth, wisdom, and strength,
    honor, glory, and praise!”
¹³ And I heard every creature in heaven, on earth, in the world below, and in the sea—all living beings in the universe—and they were singing:
“To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb,
    be praise and honor, glory and might,
    forever and ever!”

¹⁴ The four living creatures answered, “Amen!” And the elders fell down and worshiped.

 

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After struggling for years to pay my bills, it felt good to be able to pay for rent and a car payment. After a while, I was able to get a house and another new car because I got a “better” job. This wasn’t enough. I needed to be a decision maker so I climbed the corporate ladder in pursuit of a title.

 

• I tied a personal cause to it to justify the enormous amount of hours spent seeking power.
• I thought I needed a title to “help” other people.
• I thought “I” was the answer to other people’s problems and I needed to be strong.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, is given another look at the throne area where GOD sat and JESUS was standing. Thousands of millions of powerful angels surrounded the throne, possibly protecting it, but also engaged in worship. Another son was sang, this time with a chorus. The song was about JESUS receiving power, wealth, wisdom, and strength, honor, glory, and praise!”

 

My Observations:

• GOD is so powerful and I am so weak and I sometimes want the things JESUS deserves.
• GOD has everything and since HE is made of pure love, is willing to share it with me.
• JESUS did what no other could do and that is die for my sins and be raised from the dead.

 

All the things I want, JESUS has. I mean, I sometimes want power, wealth, wisdom, and strength, honor, glory, and praise!” I may even work a little longer and harder when I get even a couple of these items on the list. BUT JESUS is the only one who deserves these items.

 

JESUS did what no other being did, namely gave HIS life for HIS creation. HE is placed over everything. No power can come up against JESUS. The throne room scene by John shows the FATHER, the SON and the HOLY SPIRIT with all power, wealth, wisdom, and strength,  honor, glory, and praise!” My crave is to yield my desires to GOD.

 

Challenge

• Did the writer present the presence of GOD as a weakling?
• Have you ever thought GOD was a pushover because HE is showing you grace and mercy?
• Will you contemplate your view of power, wealth, wisdom, and strength,  honor, glory, and praise so you can give it to JESUS and HE will share it with you?

Understanding Power

Understanding Power

Acts 5: ¹² And through the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were done among the people. And they were all with one accord in Solomon’s Porch. ¹³ Yet none of the rest dared join them, but the people esteemed them highly. ¹⁴ And believers were increasingly added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women, ¹⁵ so that they brought the sick out into the streets and laid them on beds and couches, that at least the shadow of Peter passing by might fall on some of them. ¹⁶ Also a multitude gathered from the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all healed.

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“Don’t worry. I have your back” one leader told me. Not knowing how the system worked, I still wondered if I was going to get what I wanted. I acted extra “leader-ish.” Days seemed like weeks but the announcement finally came out. I was the new leader. When I saw how powerful the person was who got me the position, I wanted to bring more people to them for promotions and guidance.

• There were times when I did not understand power.
• There were times when I saw power in action.
• There were times when I wanted the power I saw.

Many signs and wonders were performed by the apostles. After a while the people started holding them in “high esteem.” They knew something special was going on and they brought the sick and those who were oppressed by demons. The people believed and all were healed.

• GOD wants me to see HIM as the only source of power.
• GOD wants me to understand that all power comes from HIM.
• GOD wants me to recognize that every request has to go before HIS throne for permission.

Recognizing where true power comes from is a big problem. I mean I used to look at humans with titles, thinking they had power to oppress or help many people. BUT GOD opened my eyes to HIS unmatched power, showing me that there is nothing that is done without HIS permission.

This understanding made me dig a little deeper into a question. “Why do bad things happen?” GOD told humans the answer, but we fail to believe HIM. HE said He threw Satan out of heaven to this earth. When humans sinned, GOD cursed the earth and our relationship with HIM was broken. BUT GOD made a way back to HIM through JESUS. I recognize HIS power and accept it.

• Are you placing all of your belief in humans?
• Do you spend most of your time watching people with titles and degrees, placing your hope only in them?
• Will you turn to GOD and place your total hope in HIM today?

Reaching for Powerful Titles

2 Chronicles 10: ¹⁴ he followed the advice of the young men and said, “My father made your yoke heavy; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions.” ¹⁵ So the king did not listen to the people, for this turn of events was from God, to fulfill the word the Lord had spoken to Jeroboam son of Nebat through Ahijah the Shilonite.

¹⁶ When all Israel saw that the king refused to listen to them, they answered the king:

“What share do we have in David,
    what part in Jesse’s son?
To your tents, Israel!
    Look after your own house, David!”

So all the Israelites went home. ¹⁷ But as for the Israelites who were living in the towns of Judah, Rehoboam still ruled over them.

¹⁸ King Rehoboam sent out Adoniram, who was in charge of forced labor, but the Israelites stoned him to death. King Rehoboam, however, managed to get into his chariot and escape to Jerusalem. ¹⁹ So Israel has been in rebellion against the house of David to this day.

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Power is something I didn’t know I wanted. “When I am in charge of this department, I will fire several of these people” I thought to myself. I worked hard and jumped through political hoops and became the head of the department. My plan was in place with one flaw, I had not considered GOD’s grace and soon I found ‘myself’ leaving the company instead of them.

• At one point in my life I thought a title would enable me to get my way.
• At one point in my life I thought things would be better if I had the title.
• At one point in my life I thought the title meant people had to follow what I said.

True leaders do not depend on titles. In fact the most powerful person I met was the administrative assistant to the CEO. Yes, my title was higher than hers, but her authority kept me from seeing him and if she didn’t like me, I would be tossed out of the company. Where would I get my “power” from then?

• GOD says to me “I AM alpha and omega, beginning and end.”
• GOD says to me “I AM the most high. There is no authority greater.”
• GOD says to me “I AM.”

GOD’s authority, title and power should be recognized by everyone. I must seek HIS face and point all power to HIM. I can get no credit for my success and no blame to HIM for my failures. GOD is the one who is in charge and HE will not be taken lightly. HE wants me to lead HID people with the same grace HE bestows on me.

While leadership is difficult, following GOD is not. HE said “MY yoke is easy and MY burden is light.”

• Are you trying to obtain power?
• Are you busy trying to get your way?
• Can you seek GOD’s everlasting power?
• Won’t you turn to HIM today and let HIM bless your efforts?

True Power

1 Chronicles 11: ⁹ And David became more and more powerful, because the Lord Almighty was with him.

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Frustrated after years of being passed over, I moved on to another company. When I arrived me and another guy received the highest scores on the internal testing and we were soon quite known in the “freshmen” crop of the company. One of the partners picked me to work with him on an assignment. Wow, I’m getting the power I wanted and I did it all by myself!

Thinking more highly of myself messed me up. Yes I understood the material but had no examples or information to back up my knowledge. I crashed and burned!

This kind of thing happened over and over throughout my career.  I would think more highly of myself and felt I “deserved” a raise of promotion because “I” was too valuable to the company. GOD says different.

• GOD says “Do not think more highly of yourself.”
• GOD says “Worship the LORD as your one and only GOD.”
• GOD says “No one can stand against you with MY strength.”

I had to realize that it is GOD who raised me to the heights I was at. It wasn’t my knowledge or quick thinking or self-promotion that got me to where I was, nor was it an eggshell that I stepped on to take me to lows in my life.

GOD cannot be controlled by my acts of faith nor does HE react to every sin I commit, otherwise I could manage GOD to get HIM to do my bidding. GOD wants me to understand HIS vast and marvelous power.

He is supreme which means even when I am doing everything right, HE can tear me down and put me on another course of HIS choosing. HE can also build me up even when I don’t believe in myself or HIS power enough to do HIS plan.

GOD is amazing and unpredictable. HE wants me to rely on HIS power to accomplish HIS plan for me.

• Are you complaining about where you are working?
• Do you think more highly of yourself?
• Do you feel you “deserve” a raise?
• Can you pay attention to where GOD has you and be content?

Who is HE?

Revelation 1: ⁸ “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”

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Sometimes I just ponder what and “who” GOD is. I have no story or situation I can relate to HIS being.

The FATHER is GOD

JESUS is GOD

The HOLY SPIRIT is GOD

They never act alone but are in agreement with one another therefore “they” can be referred to as HE and the plural is “GOD”, not “gods” for they are one.

They always exist and have always existed and will always exist.

They are all powerful, all knowing and all seeing.

JESUS speaks to us by saying “I am” for HE is the one who became a human and died for my sins. Every sin I have ever committed is erased. HE was murdered by people who attended church but did not believe “in” the church. Yet HE stands. HE forgives. HE blesses.

GOD has all authority.

GOD has all power.

GOD has all glory.

I think I will place my faith in HIM today. Won’t you?

How to gain “power”

Romans 5: ⁶You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. ⁷ Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. ⁸ But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

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Twelve forty five had arrived and my next class was quickly approaching. The card game was getting good and I was definitely winning. I decided to blow off the class. I mean what could they be talking about that I couldn’t pick up later? Well I found out they talked about a lot after failing the class.

My Dean had a discussion with me and told me he was developing my schedule for the next semester. I felt powerless.

• I feel powerless when I sin.
• I feel powerless when I am not following GOD.
• I feel powerless when I have not followed GOD and I am in trouble.

When I have gone on my own path and things are messed up I feel powerless to the point that I can’t even ask GOD for help. I mean HE can’t be that forgiving right? Wrong!!

• GOD saw every one of my sins and died for me anyway.
• GOD saw my entire life and knew I would not choose HIM so HE chose me.
• GOD saw the sin I’m going to commit next month and decided HE would take the punishment.

GOD demonstrates HIS love for me this way, in the middle of my sinful habits JESUS died for me. HE longs for me to stop my sinful habits but knows my limitations. HE had to do something for me because I wouldn’t give HIM a second look. I would go through life powerless.

Power is what GOD wants me to have, not like a superhero where it is internal but as a utensil that gets plugged into HIS omnipotence. HE has all the power I need and HIS grace is truly sufficient to clean my sin. HE is the judge and has determined me righteous even though I don’t deserve it. With GOD I can have unimaginable power to be used for HIS purpose alone.

• Do you feel powerless about some situation?
• Do you feel powerless about your sin?
• Do you know GOD took care of all of your sins from birth to death?
• Knowing what GOD has done for you, what do you want to do for HIM?

There is no problem that GOD can’t handle!

Acts 11: ⁸ Then the angel said to him, “Put on your clothes and sandals.” And Peter did so. “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,” the angel told him. ⁹ Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision.

¹⁰ They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him.

 ¹¹ Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from Herod’s clutches and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen.”

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Worries, fears and doubts have attacked me throughout the years. Whether it was someone close who was sick or that boss who seemed overbearing, I have wondered in my mind if I was going to make it through “this” situation.

With my mind racing in every situation the only thing I could think of was doom or maybe a little gloom.

• In the middle of my problems it’s hard to see GOD.
• In the middle of my fears it’s hard to see solutions.
• In the middle of my worries it’s hard to understand the positive side.

Problems can blind me into doubting GOD’s power BUT GOD is faithful to deliver me anyway. HE delivered Peter from an impossible situation because HE had another plan for him. GOD says don’t look at the doom and gloom. HE wants me to look at HIM when trouble comes.

• GOD is there to rescue me no matter how difficult the situation.
• GOD is there to protect me even though there may be danger.
• GOD is there to comfort me in the middle of any pain.

I truly believe GOD has major plans for me and no problem or situation can stop HIS plans!

• Are you worried about something?
• Do you realize the problem you are going through is part of GOD’s great plan for you?
• Can you focus on GOD for a little while and watch HIS deliverance?

It’s not my power!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is GOD amazing to you?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

My super power

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

True Power

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What the “Good News” is all about.

John 1: ¹⁴ The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

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 ¹⁶ Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. ¹⁷ For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. ¹⁸ No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.

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Wow! I guess the Bible is clear about JESUS being GOD especially in that last verse. I really could not think of a life lesson I could share today because this recording of history says it all.

The “final say” became a human and lived with us. People brought their problems to HIM and had expectations that HE would resolved everything the way they wanted HIM to resolve them. They mistreated JESUS without knowing HE was GOD.

I treat JESUS the same way.  I put an expectation in my mind and blame GOD when HE does something different. Fortunately for me GOD has limitless grace and unshakeable mercy. Sometimes I say, “Who cares, JESUS died for my sins, so what does that have to do with my current situation?”

• In a world of uncertainty JESUS is the only one who provides me with absolute truth.
• In a world where hatred reigns JESUS is the only one who gives me grace to its fullest.
• In a world of egotistical, power hungry, manipulative, greedy whoremongers JESUS is the only one who provides me with forgiveness for being that way.

Any and every one who can see their need for a savior can reach out to JESUS and be saved from eternal separation from HIM. HE gave me a lifetime to serve HIM, how much of it is squandered on a worthless path? JESUS, GOD, decided to forgive me, that is “Great News!”

• Do you say to GOD “what have YOU done for me lately?”
• Have you tried to make GOD your servant?
• Will you praise GOD for coming to your rescue?
• Are you willing to take off your spiritual blindfold and see how GOD is working in your life?
• Can you audibly tell someone about JESUS today?

My Quest for Power!

Luke 14: ¹³ But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, ¹⁴ and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”

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The Chief Operating Officer of the Japan division was due to land in a matter of hours. We scurried to do research on his background to ensure our alliance would remain solid. Dinner that evening cost, well let’s just say it was a lot. On the way home, I felt proud that we had struck a good deal.

Dinners like this were a common occurrence and not once did I think about treating someone who could not help my career to this lavish lifestyle.

• When it comes to serving the poor I sometimes give my leftovers.
• When it comes to serving the lame I sometimes cringe, not wanting to see missing limbs or broken bodies.
• When it comes to serving the crippled I sometimes try to assess how they got like that so I can judge their lifestyle justifying my “non-action.”
• When it comes to serving the blind I sometimes fear blindness and I stay as far away from them as possible.

Networking with the rich and powerful was a quest I had for a while. I don’t know when it started but I could sniff out the leaders and get next to them quickly to “show my stuff.” They would embrace me and I would get the best projects and the largest budgets. But what about serving?

• The best reward comes from GOD when I do something for those who cannot repay.
• The best reward comes from GOD who sees what I do for others in secret.
• The best reward comes from GOD especially when I seek those who need help.

It’s real easy to ignore those in need to “get ahead.” I call them the “throw away people.” These are the less fortunate, less powerful and less desirable people who I tried to avoid, not on purpose, they just did not have anything to offer, or so I thought.

GOD wants me to have compassion for the masses so HE steered me in the direction of “seeing” the less fortunate now whereas before I could not see them. Serving them draws to HIM.

• When is the last time you served the poor?
• Will you reach out to the person who is crippled, lame or blind?
• Can you find time to serve the powerless today?
• Will you help someone in need as an act of worshipping GOD?

Fearing GOD is more important!

Luke 12: ⁴ “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. ⁵ But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.

⁶ Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. ⁷ Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

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Interview day had arrived and I was meeting with the entire senior management team. Needless to say I couldn’t sleep the night before. When they called my name fear went through my entire body. “This is my chance” I said to myself which made me more nervous.

For the first time in my life, my hand actually trembled as I sat in the room with the steely eyed intimidating team. Where did this fear come from? I never had it before, why now?

• Lust can drive fear in my life.
• Titles of people can drive fear in my life.
• Losing my stuff can drive fear in my life.
• Bullies can drive fear in my life.
• Wanting to be liked by everyone can drive fear in my life.

I’m not going to be able to please or reach everyone. GOD has specific people who HE wants me to be an example for.  HE wants me to be ready to have words of love, grace and mercy to those who can accept it coming from me. I should not fear this purpose.

• GOD wants me to fear not following HIS ways instead of fearing humans who are in power.
• GOD wants me to fear others facing the consequences of their sins rather than getting my way.
• GOD wants me to fear missing an opportunity to be HIS example because of the sin I just committed.

One problem that I face is GOD is too familiar to me at times. Oh I believe HE should be my friend, but not my pal. What I mean is HE deserves reverence, awe and healthy fear of HIS power. HE is pure love, yet HIS consequences are eternal.

HE despises sin and anything that turns my head away from HIM. HE made me for HIS purposes and that should be the only thing that matters in my life.

• Do you have a healthy fear of GOD?
• Are you more concerned with how you look in front of humans than being worried about how you look to GOD?
• Do you care if people know about your love for JESUS or are you busy lusting?

I want money, power and fame!

Luke 4: ⁵ The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. ⁶ And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. ⁷ If you worship me, it will all be yours.”

 ⁸ Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’”

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Money, power and fame were powerful drivers in my life. One time I imagined myself reading some popular magazine that I was on the cover as I flew off into the sunset on my private jet. But as I started my “climb” to success I began my “descent” into darkness.

• To gain money I would work so hard I would not take time for my family.
• To gain power I would ban together with the unscrupulous until I no longer needed their cunning backbiting behavior.
• To gain fame I would talk about “my” accomplishments no matter what the conversation.

It seemed like I was becoming more and more fearless in the business world and less and less fearful of following GOD’s ways. In fact I was embarrassed to mention one simple name in business, namely “JESUS” who should be the main reason for all of my words.

• GOD wants me to have lots of money as long as I have the sincere heart of giving it away.
• GOD wants me to have extreme power so HE leaves me weak and dependent on HIM.
• GOD wants me to have fame for the more people who know me the more they can hear about JESUS. (Yeah I said HIS name!)

Worldly possessions are nothing if they are not coupled with GOD.  HE doesn’t mind if I have a big house or drive a nice car as long as I open my house to teaching and pick up the meek giving them a ride while treating them with respect.

My purpose has to be to “Serve GOD” with all my mind, body, soul, desires and possessions, then the devil cannot claim he gave me anything.

• What will you do for attention?
• Are you trying to get “noticed” but not in a GODLY way?
• Are you seeking power without GOD’s permission?
• Will you serve at least one person today for GOD?

Choices

Mark 14: ³⁸ Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

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Many times I have had the opportunity to really do some great things for GOD and chose not to. I mean I really wanted to serve GOD when I woke up that morning but by the time I went to bed it seems I had ruined another day.

• When I say I want to be more graceful, “that” person got on my nerves and my flesh kicked in to argue, fuss and fight.
• When I say I want to be less lustful, greed, power and sex seem to pop up everywhere I look and I fall into their trap.
• When I say I want to be more loving, “that” person downplays my efforts and sometimes ridicules it rather than accepting my gift of love so I withdraw my efforts and blame them.

My flesh is weak! When I think I am strong, I seem to fall into a hole quicker than when I feel weak and helpless. In fact I believe I am blind when I think I am strong so GOD wants me to be on the lookout for temptation.

• GOD wants me to see my temptation coming at a distance and pray to HIM for help.
• HE wants me to understand my weaknesses and give them to HIM daily.
• GOD wants me to make small adjustments in my life so that I can have success.

GOD knows I am weak yet HE uses me and loves me anyway. HE knows my heart is filled with the wrong stuff yet rejoices when I make the tiniest effort to truly serve HIM.  Each time I ask GOD for help way before the temptation begins, HE gives me the strength to get through it.  HE does this a little at a time so each time I am successful I can praise HIM.

• Are you falling into temptation?
• Can you choose to not flirt with that coworker today?
• Will you choose to show grace and mercy to that person who wants to pick a fight?
• Will you choose to listen to the HOLY SPIRIT today and do what HE says?

GOD revealed exactly what I needed!

Revelation 10: ³ and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion. When he shouted, the voices of the seven thunders spoke. ⁴ And when the seven thunders spoke, I was about to write; but I heard a voice from heaven say, “Seal up what the seven thunders have said and do not write it down.”

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Physics was one of my favorite subjects. I know what you are thinking…“Nerd!” Yes you are right. This is the study of physical science, in other words “what I can see.” This science answers “what,” sometimes answers “when” and maybe answers “how” but it never answers “why.”

Oh yes, famous theories have developed trying to answer “why” but they could never be proven. This confused me so I began to ask “where does GOD live,” “why do I have to experience pain,” “If HE is GOD then why doesn’t HE just zap me into heaven and get rid of sin and evil?” My scientific minded questions were bathed in unbelief.

• GOD created everything for HIMSELF.
• There are many things GOD created that humans may never see.
• GOD revealed just enough for me to survive on this temporary planet because HE doesn’t want me to set up permanent residence.
• There are words and plans GOD has for the future that HE has not revealed to me.

I am made for GOD not the other way around. HE is the one who has all the plans and I am the one who needs to yield my will and follow them. HIS limitless power and authority are unmatched, yet HE reduced himself to my level to save me.

When I get frustrated and ask “why”, the only place I can get answers is from GOD and now I understand that HE has the authority to say “because I want ‘it’ that way.” Yielding my will takes faith. The more I do it the more I’m blessed. GOD has revealed HIS love for me and that’s all I need.

• Are you asking GOD “why” right now?
• Has HE answered you?
• Have you asked “why” do YOU love me so much?
• Will you study to see what you are being “saved” from?

The "SON" is shining!

Hebrews 1: ³ The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. ⁴ So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs.

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HE saw that I would sin yet HE made me anyway.

HE knew what HE wanted to make and spoke it into existence.

HE is GOD yet HE volunteered to become a human.

HE took the full wrath of the FATHER and was murdered for any and every sin I ever committed.

HE now sits in the highest position where HE came from.

HE has a name and title that no human can understand.

HE is so powerful that no force can oppose HIM.

HE is so loving that no evil can harm HIM.

HE is the one who I put my faith in.

HE is GOD the glorious SON!

My prayer for you!

Ephesians 3: ¹⁶I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, ¹⁷so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, ¹⁸may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, ¹⁹and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

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Dear LORD,

YOU are the only one who is truly rich. YOUR power is what I need to focus on, not my circumstance. Please strengthen my weaknesses and dwell in my heart. Become the root of my love and remove the things I put in place as a substitute.

Give me the strength and YOUR power to spread YOUR kingdom the way YOU want me to.

• Help me teach people how WIDE YOUR LOVE is.
• Help me teach people how LONG YOUR LOVE is.
• Help me teach people how HIGH YOUR LOVE is.
• Help me teach people how DEEP YOUR LOVE is.
• Help me teach people that YOUR LOVE is beyond human knowledge and surpasses understanding.

I don’t know how to get out of the messes I get myself into, but I rely on YOU for salvation on earth and in heaven. I know YOU love me, but help me “know” YOU love me.

Bless all those who read and repeat these words to YOU.