It's Tuesday morning and I have already been out trying to go to work, but, due to the weather conditions I had to turn around and come back home. I hate to miss a day at work, I feel like a fish out of water. This day will be a day of study and of course prayer. Who ever sees this blog, if you are in the same situation then you know what I am talking about.
Over the past few Sundays the adult class has been seeing what the church is about. What the church is made up of and what our mission and responsibilities are as a new testament church. The studies have been really good and we are looking forward to seeing more of what God expects out of his church. There are several adults in the class that have been saved for years and I believe that some of the things that we have covered so far has been somewhat of new information to them. One older gentleman told me that what was being talked about in class has never been explained to him like it is being explained now. That it is being broken down to where he can really understand the mission of the church and the responsibilities better than he ever has before. Now let me insert this, it is in no way that I am trying to lift myself or anyone else up. I want to let everyone know that it is the Lord and no one else that can open the heart and mind of an individual, so please do not think that I am taking any of the glory. I only mention this to say this. It is a shame and I believe a disappointment to the Lord that those to whom God has placed the call to preach and to teach his word do not see the importance of sharing things of this nature with the people that God has placed them over. I could mention other things as well but will not go into anything other than this area right now.
When I first took the church there was a great need for education along with the preaching of the word. Therefore the term pastoring is applied. Men of God who have the call of a pastor have more of a responsibility to their congregation and to God than to just preach the word. I feel that there is a majority of pastors who have lost this vision and are doing there people a disservice by not implementing education into their ministry. Pastors need to understand that knowledge and the wisdom of how to use this knowledge is power. Not of self, but power of God to know how to rightfully share the Gospel message and to know how to resist the devil. Of how to win battles in their lives and to know how to serve God in a better way. We as pastors do have a heavy responsibility placed on us, but I look at this as a blessing. We need to have a burden for not only lost souls, but for the people that have already been saved, serving the Lord as well. I think at times they get lost in the mix somewhat. I shared on this past Sunday morning the burdens that God had laid on my heart for them as a people and for the church. They are as follows; 1. The burden of seeing lost souls come to know the Lord through this ministry. 2. The burden that new converts as well as the older converts grow in knowledge and mature in the word. 3. The burden that the church is a beacon in our community and that others see a church that is still on fire for God and still preaching and teaching the true bible,KJB. 4. That through our efforts we remain a solid reflection of Christ and a solid reflection of our church. I thank God that some have come to know the Lord as Saviour, as well as being baptised. I always let the people know that it is not me, but the Spirit of Christ that draws them to repentance, and that by their efforts one was able to hear the Gospel message and be saved.
I want God to continually use me in his service, not for any glory of my own, but that I may in some way be a light and a good example to others. Bro. Dave Noffsinger shared this with me a while back, "inspiration without education leads to frustration", how true that really is.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Monday, January 26, 2009
Another One Saved
Yesterday was a great day at the house of God! We had a man who came for the second time and the Spirit of the Lord dealt with is heart and he came to know the Lord as his Saviour. He also followed the Lord in believers baptism. What A GREAT day!!!
It is still amazing to me how the Lord continues to move and work. Really it shouldn't"t be because after all he is the King of Kings and the Lord Of Lords. I am also amazed how the Almighty God could use a worthless vessel like me to preach the greatest message ever to be told. I am truly humbled at the thought that he would place a great responsibility on me and that a person would even listen to what I have to say. I feel sometimes like Moses, why would they listen to me?, but then I have to remember that it is not me but it is he who lives in me. The Spirit is much greater than I am, no doubt! I truly love him and I know that he loves me. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" (John 15:13). I am so glad that he considers me his friend.
It is still amazing to me how the Lord continues to move and work. Really it shouldn't"t be because after all he is the King of Kings and the Lord Of Lords. I am also amazed how the Almighty God could use a worthless vessel like me to preach the greatest message ever to be told. I am truly humbled at the thought that he would place a great responsibility on me and that a person would even listen to what I have to say. I feel sometimes like Moses, why would they listen to me?, but then I have to remember that it is not me but it is he who lives in me. The Spirit is much greater than I am, no doubt! I truly love him and I know that he loves me. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" (John 15:13). I am so glad that he considers me his friend.
Friday, January 23, 2009
New Mexico Issue
Today I learned of a new attack by the homosexual crowd of renewed efforts in pushing their agenda of "same sex marriages", this time the target is in the state of New Mexico.
How could anyone with a right mind really believe that this lifestyle, or should I say correctly, SIN, is a right way of living? What is more disturbing is there was discussion from those that claim to be Christians that we, (Christians), need to dialog with these people and see what the real root of the person is that would make them want to live this way. My opinion is, HOGWASH!! We as Christians need to continue to love the person but we need to see it for what it really is and that of course is sin. Why do some so called Christians have a problem with calling it what it is? Why do they think that a person that has chosen to live this way can change over some type of stimulating conversation. The answer is my friend is that they can't and won't without the Spirit of the Lord dealing with their heart first. Yes, we need to pray for these people and yes, we need to love these people with a Godly, Christ centered love just as he did and still does today, but to think that our talk or conversation will change what these have chosen to be will not accomplish a thing without the Spirit moving and working in the lives of the homosexual person. The bible clearly states that this lifestyle is an "abomination unto God", and so it should be with us as well.
We are really living in a wicked world, and I am afraid that it is only going to get worse. We have a President that pushes this agenda, and a congress that will back him up, both democrat and republican. What are we to do? Simply put, Pray! The bible tells us to pray for those who are in authority over us. It may be difficult to do at times, but needed none the less. Will you pray with me for our leaders? I hope that you will. Christ return is soon coming and we need to be found faithful in all things.
How could anyone with a right mind really believe that this lifestyle, or should I say correctly, SIN, is a right way of living? What is more disturbing is there was discussion from those that claim to be Christians that we, (Christians), need to dialog with these people and see what the real root of the person is that would make them want to live this way. My opinion is, HOGWASH!! We as Christians need to continue to love the person but we need to see it for what it really is and that of course is sin. Why do some so called Christians have a problem with calling it what it is? Why do they think that a person that has chosen to live this way can change over some type of stimulating conversation. The answer is my friend is that they can't and won't without the Spirit of the Lord dealing with their heart first. Yes, we need to pray for these people and yes, we need to love these people with a Godly, Christ centered love just as he did and still does today, but to think that our talk or conversation will change what these have chosen to be will not accomplish a thing without the Spirit moving and working in the lives of the homosexual person. The bible clearly states that this lifestyle is an "abomination unto God", and so it should be with us as well.
We are really living in a wicked world, and I am afraid that it is only going to get worse. We have a President that pushes this agenda, and a congress that will back him up, both democrat and republican. What are we to do? Simply put, Pray! The bible tells us to pray for those who are in authority over us. It may be difficult to do at times, but needed none the less. Will you pray with me for our leaders? I hope that you will. Christ return is soon coming and we need to be found faithful in all things.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Wednesday Service
We had a good time in the Lord last evening. We had another visitor, and I thank the Lord for the ones that he has blessed us with over the past few months.
I do ask for your prayers for two ladies that have been coming. One of the ladies has not been in a while. We have went to see her and she says she is coming but we haven't seen her in a few Sundays. Her name is Sonya. I give her name because I feel that we should pray specifically for the person and the need that they have.
The second lady has been told by her husband, which at this time is in prison, that he wants her to go to another church that he was attending before he went to prison. This church is a new age church and really outside of the biblical teachings and standards of the bible. Please pray for her that God would deal with her concerning this decision. Her name is Samantha.
As I see people and the way some are going and the way the devil is working it truly lets me know that the Lords return is at hand. As we are yet still here, it is more imperative that we reach the lost with the gospel and try to win as many souls as we can before his return. Please pray with me concerning our efforts and I will certainly pray with you in your efforts.
John 14:3 "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
I do ask for your prayers for two ladies that have been coming. One of the ladies has not been in a while. We have went to see her and she says she is coming but we haven't seen her in a few Sundays. Her name is Sonya. I give her name because I feel that we should pray specifically for the person and the need that they have.
The second lady has been told by her husband, which at this time is in prison, that he wants her to go to another church that he was attending before he went to prison. This church is a new age church and really outside of the biblical teachings and standards of the bible. Please pray for her that God would deal with her concerning this decision. Her name is Samantha.
As I see people and the way some are going and the way the devil is working it truly lets me know that the Lords return is at hand. As we are yet still here, it is more imperative that we reach the lost with the gospel and try to win as many souls as we can before his return. Please pray with me concerning our efforts and I will certainly pray with you in your efforts.
John 14:3 "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Elijah
What a great man of God Elijah was, and what wonderful examples that we can glean from his life. The Lord was gracious enough to allow me to bring a message from The book of I Kings 17:1-7 concerning the first encounter of this mighty man of God.
I. The Person of Elijah:
a. In the Hebrew, his name meant "Yah is El", or, "Jehovah is God".
b. He never gave himself over to the worship of Baal or to any other false idol of that day.
c. He was devoted to the denouncement of idol worship through out his ministry.
d. Within his ministry there are several notable miracles that God performed using this man Elijah;
1d. The unending supply of meal and oil for the widow women and her son.
2d. The raising of her son from the dead.
3d. The eventual return of rain.
4d. The fire that consumed the burnt sacrifice and water around the altar.
II. The Pronouncement of Elijah:
a. vs. 1 - "Before whom I stand"; here Elijah is undoubtedly identifying himself with God.
b. Elijah is also saying that he is not for sale. That is, he is not one that can be bought off to make go away.
c. He is also saying that he is not part of the crowd. Jezebel nor Ahab could not persuade him to become one of them.
III. The Prediction of Elijah:
a. No dew or rain. This would mean complete and utter famine and drought upon the people of Israel because of the decisions that Ahab had made. We do affect others.
b. God was challenging the false god, Baal-Melkarth, the god of storms and of crops.
IV. The Place of Provision:
a. The Brook Cherith. It was a tributary for the river Jordan, and it lay on the eastern side of the Jordan. There God would water his servant. God will never let his faithful ones to go without the necessities of life.
b. He was fed by Ravens. An unclean bird, a bird that ate insects and carrion alike. In Lev. 11:15, they were forbidden for food because of their unclean nature. Isn't it wonderful that God sent his son to clean up our unclean nature? Though we still have a sin nature, we are not held captive to it any longer if we are a child of God.
What great man was Elijah. Respected even through the new testament church as a man that walked close to God. He even appeared at the Mount of Transfiguration with Moses. Some even called Christ a rebirth of Elijah. He was but one of two men that did not see a physical death, the other being Enoch. Pretty good company I would say. Like Elisha we to could desire a double portion of the spirit of Elijah.
I. The Person of Elijah:
a. In the Hebrew, his name meant "Yah is El", or, "Jehovah is God".
b. He never gave himself over to the worship of Baal or to any other false idol of that day.
c. He was devoted to the denouncement of idol worship through out his ministry.
d. Within his ministry there are several notable miracles that God performed using this man Elijah;
1d. The unending supply of meal and oil for the widow women and her son.
2d. The raising of her son from the dead.
3d. The eventual return of rain.
4d. The fire that consumed the burnt sacrifice and water around the altar.
II. The Pronouncement of Elijah:
a. vs. 1 - "Before whom I stand"; here Elijah is undoubtedly identifying himself with God.
b. Elijah is also saying that he is not for sale. That is, he is not one that can be bought off to make go away.
c. He is also saying that he is not part of the crowd. Jezebel nor Ahab could not persuade him to become one of them.
III. The Prediction of Elijah:
a. No dew or rain. This would mean complete and utter famine and drought upon the people of Israel because of the decisions that Ahab had made. We do affect others.
b. God was challenging the false god, Baal-Melkarth, the god of storms and of crops.
IV. The Place of Provision:
a. The Brook Cherith. It was a tributary for the river Jordan, and it lay on the eastern side of the Jordan. There God would water his servant. God will never let his faithful ones to go without the necessities of life.
b. He was fed by Ravens. An unclean bird, a bird that ate insects and carrion alike. In Lev. 11:15, they were forbidden for food because of their unclean nature. Isn't it wonderful that God sent his son to clean up our unclean nature? Though we still have a sin nature, we are not held captive to it any longer if we are a child of God.
What great man was Elijah. Respected even through the new testament church as a man that walked close to God. He even appeared at the Mount of Transfiguration with Moses. Some even called Christ a rebirth of Elijah. He was but one of two men that did not see a physical death, the other being Enoch. Pretty good company I would say. Like Elisha we to could desire a double portion of the spirit of Elijah.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Ambassadors For Christ
II Cor. 5:20 - Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christs stead, be ye reconciled in God.
In the context of this scripture, we notice that Paul is discussing the matter of reconciliation. And truly we must be reconciled to God and must be reconciled one with another in order to carry out the complete plan of God in our lives. Reconciliation is the act of God, on the basis of Christ death, eliminating the enmity or separation of our fellowship together and bringing us to a complete and maturing fellowship with Him. The cause of this separation was sin and the answer was the cross.
I want to look at this word ambassador. In the political world, an ambassador is the highest diplomatic position to a foreign country. Along with this position comes great responsibility. They are in essence the eyes and ears of the nation in which they represent. The ambassador will receive messages and deliver messages, they will relay policy issues with the host government to assure that all things are in control politically, and we could go on and on. Now, I want us to look at how we as Christians are really ambassadors for Christ.
What messages do we bring from the kingdom in which we represent? What is it that we are trying to relay to people who do not know our King? Not only do we bring a message to the lost, but to the saved as well. What are we giving to the saved, what type of message are we bringing to them?
First of all, I believe that the message of salvation is a message that should be relayed to both the lost and the saved alike. To the lost it's a hope that Christ is still willing to forgive them. John 3:16 shows just how much he loves us and the reward for accepting his gift. To the saved it's a continual message in that we remember what Christ has done for us and through are accepting of his gift we have eternal life. Sometimes I think we forget what he's done for us.
Secondly, the message of encouragement must be delivered. What a great fellowship encouragement brings. When your down just the words of another sister or brother in Christ can make all the difference in how your day is going. It's amazing to me how the Spirit will put someone on your mind and just that phone call or visit can truly be a blessing. In Deut. 3:28, Moses was instructed by God to encourage Joshua for the upcoming responsibility he was about to embark on. What encouragement we can get from the man of God.
Thirdly, the message of hope. What is hope? Hope is confidence, confidence in knowing what God said he will do, he will do. Confidence in knowing that no matter what this world may do Christ will still one day redeem his church. It's a confidence in knowing that one day I'll see those that have already gone to be with him. Confidence in knowing that that he will deliver me from all my enemies. What a hope we have in Christ! Without this hope I would surely be lost, in this present world and to the world to come.
So, as ambassadors we have a message to bring. How are we delivering the message? Do people see Christ in us? What responsibility we have as his children. God help me to be the ambassador you want me to be.
In the context of this scripture, we notice that Paul is discussing the matter of reconciliation. And truly we must be reconciled to God and must be reconciled one with another in order to carry out the complete plan of God in our lives. Reconciliation is the act of God, on the basis of Christ death, eliminating the enmity or separation of our fellowship together and bringing us to a complete and maturing fellowship with Him. The cause of this separation was sin and the answer was the cross.
I want to look at this word ambassador. In the political world, an ambassador is the highest diplomatic position to a foreign country. Along with this position comes great responsibility. They are in essence the eyes and ears of the nation in which they represent. The ambassador will receive messages and deliver messages, they will relay policy issues with the host government to assure that all things are in control politically, and we could go on and on. Now, I want us to look at how we as Christians are really ambassadors for Christ.
What messages do we bring from the kingdom in which we represent? What is it that we are trying to relay to people who do not know our King? Not only do we bring a message to the lost, but to the saved as well. What are we giving to the saved, what type of message are we bringing to them?
First of all, I believe that the message of salvation is a message that should be relayed to both the lost and the saved alike. To the lost it's a hope that Christ is still willing to forgive them. John 3:16 shows just how much he loves us and the reward for accepting his gift. To the saved it's a continual message in that we remember what Christ has done for us and through are accepting of his gift we have eternal life. Sometimes I think we forget what he's done for us.
Secondly, the message of encouragement must be delivered. What a great fellowship encouragement brings. When your down just the words of another sister or brother in Christ can make all the difference in how your day is going. It's amazing to me how the Spirit will put someone on your mind and just that phone call or visit can truly be a blessing. In Deut. 3:28, Moses was instructed by God to encourage Joshua for the upcoming responsibility he was about to embark on. What encouragement we can get from the man of God.
Thirdly, the message of hope. What is hope? Hope is confidence, confidence in knowing what God said he will do, he will do. Confidence in knowing that no matter what this world may do Christ will still one day redeem his church. It's a confidence in knowing that one day I'll see those that have already gone to be with him. Confidence in knowing that that he will deliver me from all my enemies. What a hope we have in Christ! Without this hope I would surely be lost, in this present world and to the world to come.
So, as ambassadors we have a message to bring. How are we delivering the message? Do people see Christ in us? What responsibility we have as his children. God help me to be the ambassador you want me to be.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Soul Winning
Our desire as Christians should be to win the lost for Christ. No one is going to win them for us. I have to say that the Lord has really blessed the efforts at the church in which I am honored to be pastor.
Over the past few months we have seen five come to know the Lord as Saviour and five baptized. Now I am not bragging on anyone or myself as pastor, but I am bragging on the Lord. We are not a big congregation, only around thirty to thirty five on Sunday morning, but what the Lord has done has truly been amazing. The Spirit of the Lord is so real and evident in our people that it warms my heart to see how the Lord can take a small group of people and do his will. I mus say this, no matter what the size of the people, if God is in it, there is nothing impossible with him! There are times that we can grow tired and grow weary, but in those times just wait and hang on, God is getting ready to move. If I can be an encouragement to someone who maybe facing this trial of not knowing when or if God will, believe me that he will, and when he does get ready to be amazed! My favorite verse is Isaiah 40:31, " But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. "
Over the past few months we have seen five come to know the Lord as Saviour and five baptized. Now I am not bragging on anyone or myself as pastor, but I am bragging on the Lord. We are not a big congregation, only around thirty to thirty five on Sunday morning, but what the Lord has done has truly been amazing. The Spirit of the Lord is so real and evident in our people that it warms my heart to see how the Lord can take a small group of people and do his will. I mus say this, no matter what the size of the people, if God is in it, there is nothing impossible with him! There are times that we can grow tired and grow weary, but in those times just wait and hang on, God is getting ready to move. If I can be an encouragement to someone who maybe facing this trial of not knowing when or if God will, believe me that he will, and when he does get ready to be amazed! My favorite verse is Isaiah 40:31, " But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. "
Friday, January 9, 2009
Correct, Not Political
I was thinking while on the job today, of the messed up shape that our country is in. Not so much on the economy, but of how there is a host of people trying to be politically correct. I was also thinking of how most people really have no idea of why they are trying to be this way. I believe that most are simply doing this because someone has made it fashionable, or even more possible, because that they were told to do so and like drones they are simply following suit. I am not just speaking of those outside of the church either, I am talking about the ones that are in church every Sunday, and say that they are indeed saved.
We are a people that get caught up in the "catch phrase" society. If it sounds reasonably right then most of us jump on the band wagon, never realizing just what for. Our God expects more out of his children then what at times we are giving him. I can't tell you how many, "Christians", do not want to call sin by it's rightful name, SIN! Those that are in this attitude are tolerant of sin rather than telling people the penalty of sin. They are willing to look the other way and use the term, "we'll be praying for you", and rightfully so, but just simply praying does not cut the mustard. We know what "thus saith the Lord" on this matter of sin.
In the days of Sodom and Gomorrah it was" grievous" unto the LORD. As so should the sin of today be grievous to us as well. Gods opinion of sin has not changed. It still separates us from God. Not our salvation, but of our fellowship with him. How painful and loathsome to the Lord this attitude that some, so called Christians, have today about the very thing that the bible clearly explains will send people to hell. Have people become so immune to the fact that there is still a literal burning hell? Have they become so cold that there is no longer a burden for lost souls? God in Heaven help us if we to become so immune with such a blindness to realize that people are still dieing and going to that awful place! Matthew 9:37, "Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few". We need to take a stand today and be correct, not political.
We are a people that get caught up in the "catch phrase" society. If it sounds reasonably right then most of us jump on the band wagon, never realizing just what for. Our God expects more out of his children then what at times we are giving him. I can't tell you how many, "Christians", do not want to call sin by it's rightful name, SIN! Those that are in this attitude are tolerant of sin rather than telling people the penalty of sin. They are willing to look the other way and use the term, "we'll be praying for you", and rightfully so, but just simply praying does not cut the mustard. We know what "thus saith the Lord" on this matter of sin.
In the days of Sodom and Gomorrah it was" grievous" unto the LORD. As so should the sin of today be grievous to us as well. Gods opinion of sin has not changed. It still separates us from God. Not our salvation, but of our fellowship with him. How painful and loathsome to the Lord this attitude that some, so called Christians, have today about the very thing that the bible clearly explains will send people to hell. Have people become so immune to the fact that there is still a literal burning hell? Have they become so cold that there is no longer a burden for lost souls? God in Heaven help us if we to become so immune with such a blindness to realize that people are still dieing and going to that awful place! Matthew 9:37, "Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few". We need to take a stand today and be correct, not political.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
The Good Steward
When we think of the good steward we naturally think of the servant to whom was given little increased what he had and gained more, Matt25:15. As much as this is the truth of the word of God, God does expect us to be good stewards as well. Now, we may also be thinking along the lines of the monetary blessings that God provides, and as well we should, ICor. 16:2, and IICor.8:3. However, God does desire us to be good stewards in more areas of life that that of money.
I. In the time he gives us.
Hosea 10:12: "Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the LORD, till he come and rain righteousness upon you." In this particular text, Hosea is talking of the coming punishment of the people of Israel due to going away from God. We do see what he says in two areas that we take note from.
a. "break up your fallow ground" meaning untilled or unbroken ground. How often we could go beyond our comfort zones so to speak and do just that. How much more spiritual ground we could till for the honor and the glory of God. Broken ground is meant for planting and then the harvest, but it starts with breaking the ground in order to prepare it for the planting.
b. "for it is time to seek the LORD". Notice how the name LORD is kept in all upper case letters. This is to mean that the writer is referring to God, Jehovah, the only true and real God. How imperative it is certainly today that we seek God;
1b- For his direction.
2b- For his help.
3b- For his forgiveness.
II. In our abilities.
We'll not speak to long on this subject, my other blog took care of most of this. However, Ezra 2:69 speaks of the ability of giving. I Peter 4:11 speaks of using our abilities to honor and glorify God which is why we are created for. Though some may not have what one would say is a talent to sing, preach etc., we all have the ability to do something for God that truly would honor and glorify him.
III. In our influence.
Influence: The power to affect others; the power to produce the desired effect.
We influence people on a daily basis whether knowingly, or unknowingly. We show others who and what we truly are in ways that we do not even realize. We influence others in;
a. Our conversation.
b. Our actions.
c. Our dress.
Romans 12:1- "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."
One word is mentioned in both verse one and in verse two, acceptable. Each one of us must present ourselves acceptable and by our transforming, after our salvation, prove what is the acceptable will of God for our lives. How acceptable are we to God right now? How acceptable were we a few hours ago? We have to realize that even though we are as Christians accepted by him, we are not always acceptable to him. How much the more should we strive to be acceptable to him.
I. In the time he gives us.
Hosea 10:12: "Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the LORD, till he come and rain righteousness upon you." In this particular text, Hosea is talking of the coming punishment of the people of Israel due to going away from God. We do see what he says in two areas that we take note from.
a. "break up your fallow ground" meaning untilled or unbroken ground. How often we could go beyond our comfort zones so to speak and do just that. How much more spiritual ground we could till for the honor and the glory of God. Broken ground is meant for planting and then the harvest, but it starts with breaking the ground in order to prepare it for the planting.
b. "for it is time to seek the LORD". Notice how the name LORD is kept in all upper case letters. This is to mean that the writer is referring to God, Jehovah, the only true and real God. How imperative it is certainly today that we seek God;
1b- For his direction.
2b- For his help.
3b- For his forgiveness.
II. In our abilities.
We'll not speak to long on this subject, my other blog took care of most of this. However, Ezra 2:69 speaks of the ability of giving. I Peter 4:11 speaks of using our abilities to honor and glorify God which is why we are created for. Though some may not have what one would say is a talent to sing, preach etc., we all have the ability to do something for God that truly would honor and glorify him.
III. In our influence.
Influence: The power to affect others; the power to produce the desired effect.
We influence people on a daily basis whether knowingly, or unknowingly. We show others who and what we truly are in ways that we do not even realize. We influence others in;
a. Our conversation.
b. Our actions.
c. Our dress.
Romans 12:1- "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."
One word is mentioned in both verse one and in verse two, acceptable. Each one of us must present ourselves acceptable and by our transforming, after our salvation, prove what is the acceptable will of God for our lives. How acceptable are we to God right now? How acceptable were we a few hours ago? We have to realize that even though we are as Christians accepted by him, we are not always acceptable to him. How much the more should we strive to be acceptable to him.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Abilities
Abilities, what does the bible say about abilities?
I was studying for my continuing message series on stewardship, when I came to Matt. 25:15. Now I have read and re-read this portion of scripture many times, and one thing just really jumped out at me this time that I read this verse again.
When the man that is mentioned gives to his servants the talents, (to one he gave five, to another he gave two, and to another he gave one), I noticed that the bible says that he gave them according to their "several ability". Now, I wondered just what the Lord was saying here. This is what the Lord gave me as I studied.
As to the one with five talents, according to his ability he must have been able to accomplish more with the ability that he had. The scripture says that he "went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents". The second servant did likewise, and of course we know that the other servant went and buried his because he was afraid of what might happen should he lose it or would not to be able to gain more for his lord. What stuck out to me was not the fact that the servant did nothing with his talent, but that each one had ability to do better only if they would apply it.
How often do we use the ability the Lord has given each of us? Not everyone, (man), is called to preach, not everyone, (man), is called to be an evangelist, and not everyone has the ability to carry a tune. What is amazing though is everyone does have the ability to do something to glorify God. It could be as simple as mowing the grass, or as simple as vacuuming the carpet at the church. It could be as simple as shaking a visitors hand and welcoming them to the service, or how about this, as simple as praying that God would bless the pastor and the members of his or her church.
It's amazing what abilities we really have if we would just stop and think for a moment, that we do not all have to be able to sing, or be able to teach a class to have an ability that God wants to use. He will use what ever we have if we give it to him freely and willfully. He took five loaves and two fish and fed over five thousand with plenty left over. WHAT COULD HE DO WITH US?
I was studying for my continuing message series on stewardship, when I came to Matt. 25:15. Now I have read and re-read this portion of scripture many times, and one thing just really jumped out at me this time that I read this verse again.
When the man that is mentioned gives to his servants the talents, (to one he gave five, to another he gave two, and to another he gave one), I noticed that the bible says that he gave them according to their "several ability". Now, I wondered just what the Lord was saying here. This is what the Lord gave me as I studied.
As to the one with five talents, according to his ability he must have been able to accomplish more with the ability that he had. The scripture says that he "went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents". The second servant did likewise, and of course we know that the other servant went and buried his because he was afraid of what might happen should he lose it or would not to be able to gain more for his lord. What stuck out to me was not the fact that the servant did nothing with his talent, but that each one had ability to do better only if they would apply it.
How often do we use the ability the Lord has given each of us? Not everyone, (man), is called to preach, not everyone, (man), is called to be an evangelist, and not everyone has the ability to carry a tune. What is amazing though is everyone does have the ability to do something to glorify God. It could be as simple as mowing the grass, or as simple as vacuuming the carpet at the church. It could be as simple as shaking a visitors hand and welcoming them to the service, or how about this, as simple as praying that God would bless the pastor and the members of his or her church.
It's amazing what abilities we really have if we would just stop and think for a moment, that we do not all have to be able to sing, or be able to teach a class to have an ability that God wants to use. He will use what ever we have if we give it to him freely and willfully. He took five loaves and two fish and fed over five thousand with plenty left over. WHAT COULD HE DO WITH US?
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Fishers of Men
Today we at the church are beginning our soul winning courses and have named these courses the "Fishers of Men" from Mark 1:17. I do ask for your prayers as we begin these courses.
I firmly believe that what is missing in a lot of good independent, fundamental baptist churches is the educational training that is so greatly needed today. We see through out the New Testament that Christ went about teaching and of course preaching not only to his disciples but to the multitudes that followed. We as Christians are to emulate Christ in every aspect of our lives and this is one area that we can do that. The preaching is no doubt the most important avenue of the church, however, those that are new Christians as well as those of us who have been saved for a while can and need to have the presence of teaching as well.
We just recently had a pastor from Tennessee that spoke to us, really taught, on the Muslim religion and what they believe from their Koran. He had an English version and read some of their beliefs. What an eye opener! We really do not know unless someone is willing to share what God has revealed unto them. Paul speaks of a mystery in 1 Cor. 15:51.
I firmly believe that what is missing in a lot of good independent, fundamental baptist churches is the educational training that is so greatly needed today. We see through out the New Testament that Christ went about teaching and of course preaching not only to his disciples but to the multitudes that followed. We as Christians are to emulate Christ in every aspect of our lives and this is one area that we can do that. The preaching is no doubt the most important avenue of the church, however, those that are new Christians as well as those of us who have been saved for a while can and need to have the presence of teaching as well.
We just recently had a pastor from Tennessee that spoke to us, really taught, on the Muslim religion and what they believe from their Koran. He had an English version and read some of their beliefs. What an eye opener! We really do not know unless someone is willing to share what God has revealed unto them. Paul speaks of a mystery in 1 Cor. 15:51.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Another Soul Saved
My youngest son was playing a game on the web last night, and its a game that allows you to interact with the other players in the game via messaging. He has been playing this same game for a while now, but has just recently started witnessing to the other players. With any type of stand, he has been met with some criticism but that is to be expected. Last night was different. He was talking to another player and began to witness to him, explaining the need to be saved and the way to be saved, and the young man accepted the Lord as his Saviour. Now I know that there will be some that will say that no one could be saved or even be led to the Lord in such a manner, but I say to them, be careful not to throw stones. Many people have been saved in such a manner. Was it not Paul who was called by God himself and to my recollection the only ones that was there with him were the other men who were on there way to persecute the church. I believe that there have been many saved or led to the Lord in such a manner.
We need to use the means possible to reach out to others with the gospel message. It is our duty unto God to spread the message.
We need to use the means possible to reach out to others with the gospel message. It is our duty unto God to spread the message.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Wednesday night message
What a great evening at the House of God. My message was about how Christ wants us to be good stewerds of fruit. I used the parable in Luke 13: 6-9 where Jesus spoke of the barren fig tree. As the owner of the tree continued to check the tree, for three years, he grew weary of the unfruitful condition of the tree and told the keeper to "cut it down". Not only was it unfruitful, but, it was also causing a problem with the ground, and affecting the vines in the vineyard. You see that when he uses the word "cumbered". However the condition, the keeper wanted to give the tree yet another chance and dig around it and "dung it", and how after this new nutrient was put to the root, to wait another year and see if would finally bear fruit.
How amazing the comparison that Jesus gave in relation to the fig tree of our own lives as well. How he gives chance after chance to bear fruit and how disappointed he is when he checks the tree and finds no fruit. We know that the Lord is forbearing and how he continually gives us the tools to bring forth friut, but we do not use the very tools that he gives. As the keeper, Christ will eventually begin to dig around the roots and condition the root. This may be in the form of a trial, or could be in the form of an illness, whatever he has to do to condition our root, he will do. He loves us enough to give us the opportunity to correct the situation before he has to intercede, but, I find that he loves us even more when he takes the time to condition the root. How amazing Christ really is to his childeren!!!
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How amazing the comparison that Jesus gave in relation to the fig tree of our own lives as well. How he gives chance after chance to bear fruit and how disappointed he is when he checks the tree and finds no fruit. We know that the Lord is forbearing and how he continually gives us the tools to bring forth friut, but we do not use the very tools that he gives. As the keeper, Christ will eventually begin to dig around the roots and condition the root. This may be in the form of a trial, or could be in the form of an illness, whatever he has to do to condition our root, he will do. He loves us enough to give us the opportunity to correct the situation before he has to intercede, but, I find that he loves us even more when he takes the time to condition the root. How amazing Christ really is to his childeren!!!
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