“So I tell you, every sin and blasphemy can be forgiven—except blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, which will never be forgiven. Anyone who speaks against the Son of Man can be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven, either in this world or in the world to come.” Matthew 12:31-32 NLT
These are two of the most disturbing and misunderstood verses in the Bible.
Charles Stanley puts it this way: “Jesus was saying, “You can say what you want about me, but don’t speak such [lies] about the Spirit of God. When you blaspheme against God in that way, you are saying that God has no desire to forgive and deliver people. As long as you believe that and teach it to others you won’t be able to experience His forgiveness and deliverance. If you don’t want to believe that God wants to forgive people and restore wholeness you will never open to the sacrifice that I will make on the Cross of Calvary.” (Relying on the Holy Spirit p.71)
The context here is the spiritual conviction of the Pharisees who have the Savior standing in front of them offering them eternal life. They cannot see far enough beyond their arrogance and pride to accept the truth that they already know. Jesus Christ is Lord!
The blasphemy Jesus is talking about here is destructive action and language against God’s Holy Spirit, against God’s Holy Spirit’s ability to convict and bring one to salvation, and against the Holy Spirit’s authority to show everyone God’s ability to love. It is slander. It is insulting, smearing, and destroying God’s name. It is using God’s name in vain to curse someone or something. It is dragging God’s name through the dirt.
Jesus basically said, you can destroy me, destroy my body, and reject me. God will forgive you for that. But to take God’s holy, righteous, perfect name and decide that God cannot save you will not be forgiven. We can be forgiven and gain eternal life by the decision we make while we are still breathing to repent an accept Jesus as Savior. Once we stop breathing, God cannot save us.
Blaspheming the Holy Spirit is failure. It is failure to put aside pride and let God work through the Holy Spirit. It is failure to yield to the finished work of the Cross. There is an important teaching in the New Testament that is sometimes forgotten which we need to remember: Not all who claim to be Christians, really are. But God knows.
Those who turn away from Christ and never return will experience God's wrath, but there is no reason to believe that these people were ever really Christians. A person can grasp a lot of Christian truth, can taste a lot of the Christian life, can talk and act like a Christian for awhile and still not be a genuine believer in Jesus. Someone can even make a public profession of faith in Christ and still not be a Christian. Only God knows for sure.
The Billy Graham Association estimates that 10% of the people who respond to the invitation Dr. Graham gives at each meeting really become a Christian at that time. There is no way of knowing for sure. It is an estimate. Many are already believers who go forward because they desire some spiritual encouragement. Some go forward for a variety of different reasons, but really don't put their faith in Jesus Christ. It is only an estimate. Only God knows for sure.
The only thing to know for sure is that when one repents and accepts Jesus Christ as Savior, they have the promise of eternal life. We do not need to focus on whether or not we have sinned against the Holy Spirit. Focus on the free grace and mercy of God as shown in the sacrifice of His Son Jesus. Then go and make sure others know the same. Do not focus on whether or not we have sinned. If we accept Jesus as Savior, the victory was already won once and for all at the cross. Tell somebody.
This brings us to an obvious conclusion. If we know someone who is not certain that their sins have been forgiven, they need to turn to Jesus Christ today. As He enables us, we need to stop depending on ourselves, stop thinking we are good enough the way we are, and put our trust in Jesus Christ. I can assure you based on God’s Word that every sin, past, present, and future will be forgiven because of Jesus Christ's death on the cross in our place and because of God's amazing grace. All who turn to Jesus Christ will find free and full forgiveness for all their sins.
That is opening the door for the Holy Spirit to move in and work and breathe and act.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Friday, November 6, 2009
Deaf Devotion 11/6/2009
“Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord. Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly.” (Psalm 5:3 NLT)
We live in a time when or attitudes and how we feel are reduced to letters of the alphabet.
A.S.A.P. – “As Soon As Possible”
F.R.O.G. – “Fully Rely On God”
W.W.J.D. – “What Would Jesus Do?”
All of that fits into this little package: “WWJD? FROG! ASAP!”
What happens at the beginning of our day? Do we have a “to do” list of things we must get done before we go to bed that night? Where is God on our “to do” list? Why is God even on our “to do” list? God should be first, last, and everything in between.
I came across this today from “Marketplace Meditations” It makes a lot of sense. “T.G.I.F.”
Okay – Today is Friday and I thought immediately, “Thank Goodness Its Friday!” But again, it makes Friday look as though it is the goal of our life. Um…..no.
Nope.
T.G.I.F. – “TODAY GOD IS FIRST”
How do we start our mornings? Do we jump start our day with a cup of coffee and the paper? Or do we bless the day ahead with the Word of God and the light of His presence?
Our Christian life is a love relationship.
We cannot love someone that we do not know.
We cannot know someone if we do not have time with them.
To know Jesus is to love Him.
To love Him is to trust Him.
To trust Him is to obey Him.
To obey Him is to be blessed.
It begins with a daily, quality communication with God.
Why is it best to spend time with God in the morning? It is because we are getting ready to go on a road trip through the day.
Think about it. We don’t take the trip and then read the map, do we?
Then we bring Jesus with us on the trip. Why? It is because He promised never to leave us alone.
We need to let the One who knows the way, lead the way.
When we claim every day for Jesus we say “Good morning Lord.” We do not need to say, “Good Lord, its morning.”
When we claim every day for Jesus our words no longer fall on deaf ears. They rise on eagles wings.
When we claim every day for Jesus we no longer wander aimlessly. We follow faithfully.
When we claim every day for Jesus we no longer look for more time to do all the things we need to do. Now we redeem the time for eternity.
When we claim every day for Jesus we are no longer rejected like orphans. We are accepted as children.
When we claim every day for Jesus we no longer live in fear. We are able to stare fear down by the power of the cross.
When we claim every day for Jesus we are no longer filled with doubt. We are called and then commissioned.
When we claim every day for Jesus we are no longer satisfied with survival. We hunger for revival.
When we claim every day for Jesus it’s no longer us and them, but it is Jesus coming again.
It’s no longer who I am, but HIS I am.
It’s no longer where we’ve been, but where we are going.
It’s not about who we know, but Who we follow.
It’s not about “Out of my way”, but it’s about, “Can I help you find THE WAY?”
“This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24 NLT)
T.G.I.F. – TODAY GOD IS FIRST
Say it. Live it. Love Him. Serve Him.
We live in a time when or attitudes and how we feel are reduced to letters of the alphabet.
A.S.A.P. – “As Soon As Possible”
F.R.O.G. – “Fully Rely On God”
W.W.J.D. – “What Would Jesus Do?”
All of that fits into this little package: “WWJD? FROG! ASAP!”
What happens at the beginning of our day? Do we have a “to do” list of things we must get done before we go to bed that night? Where is God on our “to do” list? Why is God even on our “to do” list? God should be first, last, and everything in between.
I came across this today from “Marketplace Meditations” It makes a lot of sense. “T.G.I.F.”
Okay – Today is Friday and I thought immediately, “Thank Goodness Its Friday!” But again, it makes Friday look as though it is the goal of our life. Um…..no.
Nope.
T.G.I.F. – “TODAY GOD IS FIRST”
How do we start our mornings? Do we jump start our day with a cup of coffee and the paper? Or do we bless the day ahead with the Word of God and the light of His presence?
Our Christian life is a love relationship.
We cannot love someone that we do not know.
We cannot know someone if we do not have time with them.
To know Jesus is to love Him.
To love Him is to trust Him.
To trust Him is to obey Him.
To obey Him is to be blessed.
It begins with a daily, quality communication with God.
Why is it best to spend time with God in the morning? It is because we are getting ready to go on a road trip through the day.
Think about it. We don’t take the trip and then read the map, do we?
Then we bring Jesus with us on the trip. Why? It is because He promised never to leave us alone.
We need to let the One who knows the way, lead the way.
When we claim every day for Jesus we say “Good morning Lord.” We do not need to say, “Good Lord, its morning.”
When we claim every day for Jesus our words no longer fall on deaf ears. They rise on eagles wings.
When we claim every day for Jesus we no longer wander aimlessly. We follow faithfully.
When we claim every day for Jesus we no longer look for more time to do all the things we need to do. Now we redeem the time for eternity.
When we claim every day for Jesus we are no longer rejected like orphans. We are accepted as children.
When we claim every day for Jesus we no longer live in fear. We are able to stare fear down by the power of the cross.
When we claim every day for Jesus we are no longer filled with doubt. We are called and then commissioned.
When we claim every day for Jesus we are no longer satisfied with survival. We hunger for revival.
When we claim every day for Jesus it’s no longer us and them, but it is Jesus coming again.
It’s no longer who I am, but HIS I am.
It’s no longer where we’ve been, but where we are going.
It’s not about who we know, but Who we follow.
It’s not about “Out of my way”, but it’s about, “Can I help you find THE WAY?”
“This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24 NLT)
T.G.I.F. – TODAY GOD IS FIRST
Say it. Live it. Love Him. Serve Him.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
A Christmas Wish
This is passing around work today.
I was told it is on facebook, you tube or something. Some people have read about this. Someone heard it on Christian Radio
I cannot say I have seen it first hand, but it will not hurt if we choose to participate.
There is a 5 year old by named Noah Biorkman. He is in the end stages of neuroblastoma cancerand is expected to live 1 - 2 weeks. He is only 5 years old.
Noah loves Christmas cards. His family is planning to celebrate Christmas this weekend and is asking as many people as possible to send as many Christmas cards as possible to Noah.
His Address is:
Noah Biorkman
1141 Fountain View Circle
South Lyon MI 48178
I was told it is on facebook, you tube or something. Some people have read about this. Someone heard it on Christian Radio
I cannot say I have seen it first hand, but it will not hurt if we choose to participate.
There is a 5 year old by named Noah Biorkman. He is in the end stages of neuroblastoma cancerand is expected to live 1 - 2 weeks. He is only 5 years old.
Noah loves Christmas cards. His family is planning to celebrate Christmas this weekend and is asking as many people as possible to send as many Christmas cards as possible to Noah.
His Address is:
Noah Biorkman
1141 Fountain View Circle
South Lyon MI 48178
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Mid Week Deaf Devotion 11/3/2009
Note from John B: These mid week devotions I think I am going to call our “mid-week-pick-me-ups.” These are things God puts on my heart through the Holy Spirit. In the past, these are things that I have held until the regular weekly devotion. But now I am going to follow the Holy Spirit and share these little nuggets of wisdom, not from me, but from God’s heart to ours.
“And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”
Ephesians 4:30-32 NLT
On the surface this is a solid promise as well as a plan of action.
Thank God He has identified us as HIS children. Thank God He promises we will be saved on the day of redemption. Thank God we have eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.
But God wants us to get rid of the garbage in our life.
Think about it. We collect potato peelings, old newspapers, dirty rags, dust, dirt, hairballs and lots of other icky stuff. We put it in bags and put the bags in a trash can or dumpster. We take the garbage out of our house or apartment. Then mysteriously (and sometimes loudly) someone comes in the middle of the night and takes away what we do not want.
I do not know about you, but when my garbage is gone, it stays gone. I do not plan on it coming back. It does not mysteriously show up again. Although, there are some skunks in the neighborhood that think it is funny to decorate MY lawn with MY garbage.
This is what Paul is sharing with the church at Ephesus here. Get rid of the garbage. Instead, when your house is free of garbage, life becomes better, more positive, and more God-focused.
Let’s look at what Paul warns us that we are supposed to get rid of:
“Bitterness” – The Greek word here is “πικρία.” (pikria) It means sour fruit from a sour tree. It is where we get our word “pickle.” If one’s heart is sour, then one will show bitter fruit. Working for God will be a chore instead of service. Worshipping God will be an interruption instead of an honor. If the root is sour, the fruit will be sour. Get rid of it! Garbage!
“Rage” – This is also known as wrath – The Greek word here is “θυμός”. (thymos) This is an anger which builds up and calms down. It builds up again and calms down again. It builds and builds until it explodes. How often do we hear the words “road rage” used in society? Rage can be explosive. Once something explodes can you put it back together? Not always. Get rid of rage! Garbage!
“Anger” – “ὀργή” (orgē) – Have you heard of the movie “Shrek?” See how close this is to the word “ogre?” Shrek was grumpy, set in his ways, crabby, controlling, and sometimes downright nasty. Some people do not want to be around us either because we are in a bad mood. We are grumpy, and sometimes downright nasty to be around. What is the example we follow? Shrek? I hope not. Get rid of the spirit of anger! Garbage!
“Harsh words and slander” – This is also known as “clamor.” – “κραυγή” (kraugē) It is the spirit the majority of us posses that when things do not go our way, we complain. We “murmur.” The Israelites were clamoring in the desert when things were not going exactly as they planned. Some thought it better to take their chances back in slavery in Egypt than to stay focused on what God had planned for them. They looked for someone to blame. They found Moses. When we do not get what we want we become spoiled children who did not get what they want. We become complainers. When we become complainers, we become blamers. “Well if I cannot have this, then nobody else will. I will destroy the name of the other person to get what I want. The Israelites wanted to destroy the name of Moses. Moses was God’s chosen prophet to lead them to the Promised Land. The people “clamored” that everything was ALL Moses’ fault. But no, it was their fault for not having faith God would keep His promise. How much does the world want to destroy God’s name today? How must does what we do NOT bring glory to God? Think about it. Get rid of slander and harsh words! Garbage!
When we get rid of the garbage, remodel with new stuff. Better, improved, updated, more polished, and shiny stuff.
“Be kind to each other” – “χρηστός” (chrēstos) – This is a word that means useful. Help each other out. When someone sins, come along side and bring them back to the fellowship. When someone is tempted, let God use you to be a place for escape from the temptation. It is to become Christ-likein all we say, do, think, act and feel. The Holy Spirit is also known as the “advocate.” This means to come along side another for the purpose of helping them carry the load. Share the burden.
“Tenderhearted” – “εὔσπλαγχνος” (eusplagchnos) This means to act with compassion. Have a heart for the lost. Have a heart for those who are hurting and struggling. Jesus was tenderhearted toward the people of Jerusalem because they were rejecting Him as Savior. So much so He wept for Jerusalem. But did Jesus have a pity party for Himself? NO! He died on the cross so you can I can have eternal life. Being tenderhearted is to get up and do something. Have compassion, yes, but do as God leads you do take care of someone else’s pain. Share the burden.
“Forgiving” – “χαρίζομαι” (charizomai). To Forgive. Wow. Favor someone with a clean slate. This is a biggie. Is it easy? Nobody said it is easy. Freely give grace, favor, and be generous with all people around us. Not those who we like, but also those who we dislike. (See reference to Shrek above) Share the burden.
But, Pastor John, Why should we do this. Paul sums is all up in a nice little package. I can picture the people of Ephesus saying, “Why should I if so-and-so will not?” You know what? I can picture any one of us in any of our churches any place on the planet saying the exact same thing today.
Paul concludes this with “…, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” God loved us first. God gave His best – He gave His Son, Jesus. Because of this we should “go and do likewise.” We are children of God. He knows what He is doing. Let’s clean our house and get rid of the garbage so we can invite the King of Kings and Lord of Lords into our life. God cannot and will not live in a dirty house.
Garbage! Get rid of it!
“And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”
Ephesians 4:30-32 NLT
On the surface this is a solid promise as well as a plan of action.
Thank God He has identified us as HIS children. Thank God He promises we will be saved on the day of redemption. Thank God we have eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.
But God wants us to get rid of the garbage in our life.
Think about it. We collect potato peelings, old newspapers, dirty rags, dust, dirt, hairballs and lots of other icky stuff. We put it in bags and put the bags in a trash can or dumpster. We take the garbage out of our house or apartment. Then mysteriously (and sometimes loudly) someone comes in the middle of the night and takes away what we do not want.
I do not know about you, but when my garbage is gone, it stays gone. I do not plan on it coming back. It does not mysteriously show up again. Although, there are some skunks in the neighborhood that think it is funny to decorate MY lawn with MY garbage.
This is what Paul is sharing with the church at Ephesus here. Get rid of the garbage. Instead, when your house is free of garbage, life becomes better, more positive, and more God-focused.
Let’s look at what Paul warns us that we are supposed to get rid of:
“Bitterness” – The Greek word here is “πικρία.” (pikria) It means sour fruit from a sour tree. It is where we get our word “pickle.” If one’s heart is sour, then one will show bitter fruit. Working for God will be a chore instead of service. Worshipping God will be an interruption instead of an honor. If the root is sour, the fruit will be sour. Get rid of it! Garbage!
“Rage” – This is also known as wrath – The Greek word here is “θυμός”. (thymos) This is an anger which builds up and calms down. It builds up again and calms down again. It builds and builds until it explodes. How often do we hear the words “road rage” used in society? Rage can be explosive. Once something explodes can you put it back together? Not always. Get rid of rage! Garbage!
“Anger” – “ὀργή” (orgē) – Have you heard of the movie “Shrek?” See how close this is to the word “ogre?” Shrek was grumpy, set in his ways, crabby, controlling, and sometimes downright nasty. Some people do not want to be around us either because we are in a bad mood. We are grumpy, and sometimes downright nasty to be around. What is the example we follow? Shrek? I hope not. Get rid of the spirit of anger! Garbage!
“Harsh words and slander” – This is also known as “clamor.” – “κραυγή” (kraugē) It is the spirit the majority of us posses that when things do not go our way, we complain. We “murmur.” The Israelites were clamoring in the desert when things were not going exactly as they planned. Some thought it better to take their chances back in slavery in Egypt than to stay focused on what God had planned for them. They looked for someone to blame. They found Moses. When we do not get what we want we become spoiled children who did not get what they want. We become complainers. When we become complainers, we become blamers. “Well if I cannot have this, then nobody else will. I will destroy the name of the other person to get what I want. The Israelites wanted to destroy the name of Moses. Moses was God’s chosen prophet to lead them to the Promised Land. The people “clamored” that everything was ALL Moses’ fault. But no, it was their fault for not having faith God would keep His promise. How much does the world want to destroy God’s name today? How must does what we do NOT bring glory to God? Think about it. Get rid of slander and harsh words! Garbage!
When we get rid of the garbage, remodel with new stuff. Better, improved, updated, more polished, and shiny stuff.
“Be kind to each other” – “χρηστός” (chrēstos) – This is a word that means useful. Help each other out. When someone sins, come along side and bring them back to the fellowship. When someone is tempted, let God use you to be a place for escape from the temptation. It is to become Christ-likein all we say, do, think, act and feel. The Holy Spirit is also known as the “advocate.” This means to come along side another for the purpose of helping them carry the load. Share the burden.
“Tenderhearted” – “εὔσπλαγχνος” (eusplagchnos) This means to act with compassion. Have a heart for the lost. Have a heart for those who are hurting and struggling. Jesus was tenderhearted toward the people of Jerusalem because they were rejecting Him as Savior. So much so He wept for Jerusalem. But did Jesus have a pity party for Himself? NO! He died on the cross so you can I can have eternal life. Being tenderhearted is to get up and do something. Have compassion, yes, but do as God leads you do take care of someone else’s pain. Share the burden.
“Forgiving” – “χαρίζομαι” (charizomai). To Forgive. Wow. Favor someone with a clean slate. This is a biggie. Is it easy? Nobody said it is easy. Freely give grace, favor, and be generous with all people around us. Not those who we like, but also those who we dislike. (See reference to Shrek above) Share the burden.
But, Pastor John, Why should we do this. Paul sums is all up in a nice little package. I can picture the people of Ephesus saying, “Why should I if so-and-so will not?” You know what? I can picture any one of us in any of our churches any place on the planet saying the exact same thing today.
Paul concludes this with “…, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” God loved us first. God gave His best – He gave His Son, Jesus. Because of this we should “go and do likewise.” We are children of God. He knows what He is doing. Let’s clean our house and get rid of the garbage so we can invite the King of Kings and Lord of Lords into our life. God cannot and will not live in a dirty house.
Garbage! Get rid of it!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Deaf Devotion 10/31/2009
“If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.”
(Psalm 66:18 NLT)
What is quiet time? It is fellowship with a holy God.
The reason that some people do not have a quiet time is they feel uncomfortable.
The reason that some people do not feel comfortable is that they don’t want to look God in the face.
The reason that some people don’t want to look God in the face is because they have sin in their lives.
What did Adam do after he had sinned and God came walking in the Garden? Adam tried to hide and God had to come looking for him. Of course Adam could not hide from God and of course God already knew what had happened and God Knew exactly where Adam was trying to hide. But Adam still thought if God could not see him, then God could also not see the sin.
Before that, Adam had quiet time with God, didn’t he? They had boundless, unending fellowship. God and Adam walked together in the cool of the evening. Isn’t that a great thought? Imagine taking a walk with God just for Him to ask us, “What’s up? How you doing? Anything I can help with?”
But when there was sin in Adam’s life, he did not want to look God in the face. When there is sin in our life, we cannot look God in the face. It is not about being right or wrong. If we have sinned, we have offended God. Period.
God does not stop loving us, nor does Jesus stop being the Savior. We still have eternal life, but it is difficult to approach God because the relationship is strained.
Do we decide to not have a quiet time with God because we cannot face Him? Maybe it’s because there is sin in our life. Ask God to shine His light into our lives. Then wait for God’s answer so we can repent and have that close walk again with Him.
James 5:16 says that the fervent prayer of a righteous person has power and will see results. That is a true statement, but our prayers are empty if what we say and do are not the same.
With our lips we give praise – with our lives we are wicked.
With our lips we give testimony about God’s greatness – with our lives we lie.
With our lips we hail others – with our lives we hurt and destroy.
Many prayer lives are paralyzed, polluted, poisoned, and powerless because the character does not match up with what one does.
Pastor Gary Baugh says that if given the chance:
Sin will replace love with lust
Sin will replay joy with sorrow
Sin will replace comfort with chaos
Sin will replace gladness with grief
Sin will replace generosity with greed
Sin will replace blessing with burden
Sin will replace hope with hope with despair
But there is hope. Matthew 6:33 calls us to seek FIRST God’s Kingdom. Yes that includes HIS will, HIS plan, and HIS righteousness. And then, and only then, will God add the blessings, the close walk with Him, and the answer. Do not get upset if God does not answer the way WE want Him to answer. The answer belongs to Him and He knows what is best for us.
Submit to God’s leading and forgiveness. “Look full in His wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of HIS glory and grace.” Find time to be quiet and walk with God. Let Him show you where and how to improve. He alone is righteous. He alone is GOD.
(Psalm 66:18 NLT)
What is quiet time? It is fellowship with a holy God.
The reason that some people do not have a quiet time is they feel uncomfortable.
The reason that some people do not feel comfortable is that they don’t want to look God in the face.
The reason that some people don’t want to look God in the face is because they have sin in their lives.
What did Adam do after he had sinned and God came walking in the Garden? Adam tried to hide and God had to come looking for him. Of course Adam could not hide from God and of course God already knew what had happened and God Knew exactly where Adam was trying to hide. But Adam still thought if God could not see him, then God could also not see the sin.
Before that, Adam had quiet time with God, didn’t he? They had boundless, unending fellowship. God and Adam walked together in the cool of the evening. Isn’t that a great thought? Imagine taking a walk with God just for Him to ask us, “What’s up? How you doing? Anything I can help with?”
But when there was sin in Adam’s life, he did not want to look God in the face. When there is sin in our life, we cannot look God in the face. It is not about being right or wrong. If we have sinned, we have offended God. Period.
God does not stop loving us, nor does Jesus stop being the Savior. We still have eternal life, but it is difficult to approach God because the relationship is strained.
Do we decide to not have a quiet time with God because we cannot face Him? Maybe it’s because there is sin in our life. Ask God to shine His light into our lives. Then wait for God’s answer so we can repent and have that close walk again with Him.
James 5:16 says that the fervent prayer of a righteous person has power and will see results. That is a true statement, but our prayers are empty if what we say and do are not the same.
With our lips we give praise – with our lives we are wicked.
With our lips we give testimony about God’s greatness – with our lives we lie.
With our lips we hail others – with our lives we hurt and destroy.
Many prayer lives are paralyzed, polluted, poisoned, and powerless because the character does not match up with what one does.
Pastor Gary Baugh says that if given the chance:
Sin will replace love with lust
Sin will replay joy with sorrow
Sin will replace comfort with chaos
Sin will replace gladness with grief
Sin will replace generosity with greed
Sin will replace blessing with burden
Sin will replace hope with hope with despair
But there is hope. Matthew 6:33 calls us to seek FIRST God’s Kingdom. Yes that includes HIS will, HIS plan, and HIS righteousness. And then, and only then, will God add the blessings, the close walk with Him, and the answer. Do not get upset if God does not answer the way WE want Him to answer. The answer belongs to Him and He knows what is best for us.
Submit to God’s leading and forgiveness. “Look full in His wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of HIS glory and grace.” Find time to be quiet and walk with God. Let Him show you where and how to improve. He alone is righteous. He alone is GOD.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Mid Week Deaf Devotion 10/27/2009
I would like to share something from my heart. It has been on my heart and mind for several days.
I briefly shared on Sunday evening that I had learned that one of the largest if not THE largest group that is unreached with the Gospel is the Deaf. Why is that? It is a burden I have to answer that question. It is also a burden I have to reach as many Deaf and Hearing as possible with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The numbers do not matter. The relationship matters. Your relationship with Jesus Christ is what matters.
I am reading a book called, “The Spiritual Leader” by Paul W. Chappell
He talks about leading through a crisis. My friends, the times in which we live are a crisis. We need to come together as the Body of Christ for the sole purpose of telling everyone we know about Jesus Christ and about the eternal life that God promises by faith in Jesus.
“Trials are times when God rewrites your agenda. What was important must now take a back seat to the immediate need." (Chappell p.273) We are called to go to the need. It is no longer important for us to take the Gospel the Deaf, it is an immediate NEED. Jesus commanded us to go to the ends of the earth to bring the Gospel and make disciples. That includes EVERYONE. We NEED to go not because it is important, but because Jesus said “GO!”
Going to the need is not always easy or comfortable. But God promises strength. “He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:29-31 NLT)
“God uses suffering to prepare us for greater ministry.” (Chappell p.277) People around us are suffering. Uncertainty, trouble, chaos, war, lies, false teachers and prophets, a great falling away from God’s plan; PEOPLE ARE SUFFERING. The ministry is ours. The harvest is ripe. The suffering we see around us is more than sometimes we see in our own lives. Sometimes it is not. How do we relieve suffering in others? How do we relieve our own suffering? We minister to ourselves by ministering to others. We share God’s Word, We share the Gospel. We share what Jesus has done for us, the miracles, the redemption, the sacrifice for the single purpose of bringing grace and peace. “So encourage each other with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4:18 NLT)
Pastor Chappell concludes, “If God leads you into a season of trials, you can expect that it is preceding a season of victories. Don’t quit. Don’t get discouraged. Keep your eyes on the Lord and keep leading forward. Soon enough the clouds will part and you will see God’s purpose in all of the trials. The reward will be worth the enduring.” (Chappell p.277) Victory is right around the corner. Our salvation was won at the cross once and for all.
Friends, we are in a season of trials. My burden is to make sure all Deaf know God loves them. My burden is to make sure all Deaf with who I have contact know Jesus Christ gives eternal life. My greatest dream is to meet my Deaf brothers and sisters in heaven where the first voice they hear will be the voice of Jesus saying, “Welcome Home.”
To my friends and family I say the burden is huge. The harvest is ready. And the time for action is NOW. If you yourself do not know Jesus as Savior, accept Him as Savior RIGHT NOW. If you do not know how, ask me. Ask a friend. Ask God to lead you to a person who can share the Gospel. If you already know Jesus as Savior, GO NOW and become a soul winner. Lead others to Jesus Christ. Pray for strength. Pray for Opportunity.
God is glorified. Jesus is exalted.
Now GO!
I briefly shared on Sunday evening that I had learned that one of the largest if not THE largest group that is unreached with the Gospel is the Deaf. Why is that? It is a burden I have to answer that question. It is also a burden I have to reach as many Deaf and Hearing as possible with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The numbers do not matter. The relationship matters. Your relationship with Jesus Christ is what matters.
I am reading a book called, “The Spiritual Leader” by Paul W. Chappell
He talks about leading through a crisis. My friends, the times in which we live are a crisis. We need to come together as the Body of Christ for the sole purpose of telling everyone we know about Jesus Christ and about the eternal life that God promises by faith in Jesus.
“Trials are times when God rewrites your agenda. What was important must now take a back seat to the immediate need." (Chappell p.273) We are called to go to the need. It is no longer important for us to take the Gospel the Deaf, it is an immediate NEED. Jesus commanded us to go to the ends of the earth to bring the Gospel and make disciples. That includes EVERYONE. We NEED to go not because it is important, but because Jesus said “GO!”
Going to the need is not always easy or comfortable. But God promises strength. “He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:29-31 NLT)
“God uses suffering to prepare us for greater ministry.” (Chappell p.277) People around us are suffering. Uncertainty, trouble, chaos, war, lies, false teachers and prophets, a great falling away from God’s plan; PEOPLE ARE SUFFERING. The ministry is ours. The harvest is ripe. The suffering we see around us is more than sometimes we see in our own lives. Sometimes it is not. How do we relieve suffering in others? How do we relieve our own suffering? We minister to ourselves by ministering to others. We share God’s Word, We share the Gospel. We share what Jesus has done for us, the miracles, the redemption, the sacrifice for the single purpose of bringing grace and peace. “So encourage each other with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4:18 NLT)
Pastor Chappell concludes, “If God leads you into a season of trials, you can expect that it is preceding a season of victories. Don’t quit. Don’t get discouraged. Keep your eyes on the Lord and keep leading forward. Soon enough the clouds will part and you will see God’s purpose in all of the trials. The reward will be worth the enduring.” (Chappell p.277) Victory is right around the corner. Our salvation was won at the cross once and for all.
Friends, we are in a season of trials. My burden is to make sure all Deaf know God loves them. My burden is to make sure all Deaf with who I have contact know Jesus Christ gives eternal life. My greatest dream is to meet my Deaf brothers and sisters in heaven where the first voice they hear will be the voice of Jesus saying, “Welcome Home.”
To my friends and family I say the burden is huge. The harvest is ready. And the time for action is NOW. If you yourself do not know Jesus as Savior, accept Him as Savior RIGHT NOW. If you do not know how, ask me. Ask a friend. Ask God to lead you to a person who can share the Gospel. If you already know Jesus as Savior, GO NOW and become a soul winner. Lead others to Jesus Christ. Pray for strength. Pray for Opportunity.
God is glorified. Jesus is exalted.
Now GO!
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Deaf Devotion 10/24/2009
“And so, dear brothers and sisters who belong to God and are partners with those called to heaven, think carefully about this Jesus whom we declare to be God’s messenger and High Priest.” (Hebrews 3:1 NLT)
Paul tells believers to “think carefully” in the NLT; to “consider” in the KJV and to "Take a good hard look” in other translations. The Greek word used here is “κατανοέω” (katanoeō) which means to fix one’s eyes on something. In other words, believers are called to focus.
In science, focus is the point toward which light rays come together.
When we collect our thoughts and pay attention, we are focusing.
When we do it with other people in an organized way, we're in a focus group.
The Navy has a missile named Focus, and Ford has a car by the same name.
In sports, lack of focus is often the reason given for defeat; and players in a slump try to regain their focus.
When we take a blurred picture, it's because we didn't focus the camera on the right object.
In life, we find that Christ becomes blurred in our vision when we focus on our problems.
Do you know what’s wrong with many of us?
Many of us try to find ways to stay out of trouble rather than get into seeking what is righteous. We are so focused on our guilt which we all have that we forget that Jesus died for everyone’s sin, past, present, and future.
We often easily forget our sin debt is paid in full once at the cross and for all.
The Apostle Paul said that we have all received God’s grace and salvation, so should we continue to sin? NO! Our goal is to seek a life of righteousness and obedience to a gracious and merciful God. Our life needs to show our salvation and our life should be one that seeks to honor and glorify God.
Wouldn’t it great to grab hold of that thought and let that thought direct our life? Wouldn’t it be great to experience the abundant life that Jesus talks about? We can!
Jesus came to give us the eternal life. He came to give us the abundant life. We need to do like the old song says, “Accentuate the positive. Eliminate the negative.”
Therefore, my friends, when the writer of Hebrews calls us to “think carefully,” “consider,” or to “take a good hard look,” it is clear that our focus is Jesus Christ. Let’s keep our focus on Jesus Christ.
Don’t try to tell the world what is wrong with the world. Go and tell the world that Jesus Christ is the ONLY right answer for the world.
Warren Wiersbe said, “Focus on His perfections, not your own imperfections.”
Praise God for His never-ending grace and mercy
Praise God for His love for us that we cannot understand
Praise God for His peace and comfort which we cannot understand
Praise God for His Holy Spirit with us always
Praise God for His Son Jesus who sin and death to give us victory
Praise God that Jesus left sin and death in the grave where it belongs
Paul tells believers to “think carefully” in the NLT; to “consider” in the KJV and to "Take a good hard look” in other translations. The Greek word used here is “κατανοέω” (katanoeō) which means to fix one’s eyes on something. In other words, believers are called to focus.
In science, focus is the point toward which light rays come together.
When we collect our thoughts and pay attention, we are focusing.
When we do it with other people in an organized way, we're in a focus group.
The Navy has a missile named Focus, and Ford has a car by the same name.
In sports, lack of focus is often the reason given for defeat; and players in a slump try to regain their focus.
When we take a blurred picture, it's because we didn't focus the camera on the right object.
In life, we find that Christ becomes blurred in our vision when we focus on our problems.
Do you know what’s wrong with many of us?
Many of us try to find ways to stay out of trouble rather than get into seeking what is righteous. We are so focused on our guilt which we all have that we forget that Jesus died for everyone’s sin, past, present, and future.
We often easily forget our sin debt is paid in full once at the cross and for all.
The Apostle Paul said that we have all received God’s grace and salvation, so should we continue to sin? NO! Our goal is to seek a life of righteousness and obedience to a gracious and merciful God. Our life needs to show our salvation and our life should be one that seeks to honor and glorify God.
Wouldn’t it great to grab hold of that thought and let that thought direct our life? Wouldn’t it be great to experience the abundant life that Jesus talks about? We can!
Jesus came to give us the eternal life. He came to give us the abundant life. We need to do like the old song says, “Accentuate the positive. Eliminate the negative.”
Therefore, my friends, when the writer of Hebrews calls us to “think carefully,” “consider,” or to “take a good hard look,” it is clear that our focus is Jesus Christ. Let’s keep our focus on Jesus Christ.
Don’t try to tell the world what is wrong with the world. Go and tell the world that Jesus Christ is the ONLY right answer for the world.
Warren Wiersbe said, “Focus on His perfections, not your own imperfections.”
Praise God for His never-ending grace and mercy
Praise God for His love for us that we cannot understand
Praise God for His peace and comfort which we cannot understand
Praise God for His Holy Spirit with us always
Praise God for His Son Jesus who sin and death to give us victory
Praise God that Jesus left sin and death in the grave where it belongs
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