Twelve years. It has been 12 years since my family moved back to the
Bulkley Valley in northern British Columbia. My wife and I were married here 21 years ago. Both of
our children (18 and 6) were born here. We love our community.
Now we are leaving.
This September, we will be moving to Winnipeg for the next two years. My
wife and I will be training to become Salvation Army officers. It
is a new adventure and we are excited to see what God has in store for
us next.
Over the next 2 months we will be planning, packing and then departing.
All this has gotten me to thinking about how I will finish here in the
Valley. It would be easy to “check out” and leave the work to the next
man/woman. However, I look at work as I do life. We should always strive
to do our best. It has been said that the Christian life is like a
marathon, not a 100-yard dash. I want to finish as well as I started.
In 2 Tim. 4:7, Paul says, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
I want to finish well in the Bulkley Valley just like I want to finish
well in life. I want to honor God with my life, my conduct, my work and
my relationships with others. Jesus told a story in Matthew about a
servant who pleased his master greatly.
"His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have
been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many
things. Come and share your master's happiness!' (Matthew 25:21)
When I leave this world for good and stand before our Heavenly Father, I
long to hear those words. It starts now. I need to choose each day to
walk with Him, to honor Him, and to strive to finish each day well.
I want to leave the Valley encouraging you to make that make that choice as well.
Finish Well!
Showing posts with label 2 Timothy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2 Timothy. Show all posts
6/17/16
2/10/16
What Can the Church Be?
A School – 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is
breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction,
and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete,
equipped for every good work.” At its best a church is a wonderful place to
learn about God and to have the Word of God explained. We grow in our knowledge
of the King of Kings and out of that teaching, training, discipleship, and
correction, we can move forward in sharing His love with others.
A Hospital – Mark 2:16-17 says, “And the scribes of the
Pharisees, when they saw that he was eating with sinners and tax collectors,
said to his disciples, “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” And when
Jesus heard it, he said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a
physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but
sinners.” At its best a church is a place of healing, physically, emotionally,
and spiritually. It is a place we can go for prayer when we are sick, for hope
when we are emotionally overwhelmed, and to find the salvation that can only be
found in Jesus Christ.
A Family – 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, “Therefore encourage
one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” At is best a
church is a perfect family. A family that loves one another, encourages,
supports and prays for one another.
I have experienced the school, the hospital and the family. This is the church at its best.
10/1/15
No Fear in Death
I was preaching on heaven and hell recently. As I spoke to the congregation, I said, "We are all going to die. In fact every breath we take is one step closer to the end."
I was taken aback when just then a man in the service began having a seizure. He was ok and later that week he joked about how he had that seizure at that point in the message. He was scared in the moment but later saw the humor in it.
Google the term "fear of death" and you will get 160,000,000 results.
160 Million!
Coping, ovecoming, medical labels...there is a ton of stuff on the topic. I get the sense that quite a few people out there must be afraid of dying. I know that over the years I've been one of them.
As a kid I was afraid of the dark, afraid of death and at times afraid of my own shadow! My fear of death was not so much the death itself but the possible pain involved in getting there. I was afraid of the suffering and misery, the long goodbye that is often associated with death. Even after I became a believer in Jesus Christ, I was worried about death. I have had panic attacks sitting in doctors offices, heart papatations while getting x-rays and near nervous breakdowns waiting for test results.
I admit it. I've been weak at times.
I know the Bible talks about fear. I quoted 2 Timothy 1:7 and Phillippians 4:6-7 until I was blue in the face. No matter what I did, fear would only be tamped down but for a moment.
I found Proverbs 12: 25 to be true. "Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad." I was being weighed down by my anxiety.
Yet today, I can testify that that fear is rapidly diminishing. I have grown more comfortable in my own mortality. Through prayer and God speaking through a friend and brother, I have been healed of that anxiety. I know I am going to die and I am ok with it. My eternal destination is one I long for more than dread.
My son CJ and I had a converations about heaven recently and listening to his child like faith, I found myself longing for the day I can spend eternity with no more pain, no more suffering, no more tears.
I get excited because I am literally dying to meet Jesus!
I came across this quote while reading a Civil War history book today:
"Captain, my religious belief teaches me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time for my death. I do not concern myself about that, but to always be ready, no matter when it may overtake me. That is the way all men should live, and then all would be equally brave." - General "Stonewall" Jackson.
"O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?" The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:55-57)
Victory in Jesus!
I was taken aback when just then a man in the service began having a seizure. He was ok and later that week he joked about how he had that seizure at that point in the message. He was scared in the moment but later saw the humor in it.
Google the term "fear of death" and you will get 160,000,000 results.
160 Million!
Coping, ovecoming, medical labels...there is a ton of stuff on the topic. I get the sense that quite a few people out there must be afraid of dying. I know that over the years I've been one of them.
As a kid I was afraid of the dark, afraid of death and at times afraid of my own shadow! My fear of death was not so much the death itself but the possible pain involved in getting there. I was afraid of the suffering and misery, the long goodbye that is often associated with death. Even after I became a believer in Jesus Christ, I was worried about death. I have had panic attacks sitting in doctors offices, heart papatations while getting x-rays and near nervous breakdowns waiting for test results.
I admit it. I've been weak at times.
I know the Bible talks about fear. I quoted 2 Timothy 1:7 and Phillippians 4:6-7 until I was blue in the face. No matter what I did, fear would only be tamped down but for a moment.
I found Proverbs 12: 25 to be true. "Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad." I was being weighed down by my anxiety.
Yet today, I can testify that that fear is rapidly diminishing. I have grown more comfortable in my own mortality. Through prayer and God speaking through a friend and brother, I have been healed of that anxiety. I know I am going to die and I am ok with it. My eternal destination is one I long for more than dread.
My son CJ and I had a converations about heaven recently and listening to his child like faith, I found myself longing for the day I can spend eternity with no more pain, no more suffering, no more tears.
I get excited because I am literally dying to meet Jesus!
I came across this quote while reading a Civil War history book today:
"Captain, my religious belief teaches me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time for my death. I do not concern myself about that, but to always be ready, no matter when it may overtake me. That is the way all men should live, and then all would be equally brave." - General "Stonewall" Jackson.
"O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?" The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:55-57)
Victory in Jesus!
11/18/14
A Good Question
“What does that teach you about God, Daddy?”
This is the question my son has been asking lately. He likes to sing praise and worship
songs. He also likes to make up new
songs about God. Invariably he will end the song and ask what that song has
taught me about God. It is a good question and will often cause me to think,
what IS the meaning of the song and what DOES it teach me about God? It is a great exercise.
I also realized, it is something I never used to ask. I love to sing and will belt out a song
anywhere and at any time. Yes, I am that
guy walking down the street singing to himself.
I will sing at work, in the car and yes, in the shower. Until my son started asking his question, I
never put much thought into what the song was teaching me about God. Now I can’t stop.
I have also begun applying the question to my reading as
well. When I dig into God’s Word, I have
asked myself, “What does this passage of Scripture teach me about God?” According to God’s Word, the Scriptures are
a light for my path (Psalm 119:105) and is useful for teaching, rebuking,
correcting and training. (2 Timothy 3:16)
It is all that and so much more. As I read the Old Testament, I see a God who
is long-suffering and filled with patience and loving kindness. Moving into the New Testament, we see a God
who loved us enough to send His Son to earth, to die on a cross for you and
me!
God’s love, mercy and grace are all things that I have been
taught through the reading of His Word.
My son has challenged me to go deeper in worship and in
reading the Bible. Hopefully you will be
asking yourself this same question he asked me.
“What does that teach you about God?”
9/12/13
Am I Ashamed of Jesus?
Apparently I am ashamed of Jesus.
I don't truly love Him.
I have worked in and out of ministry for 22 years and been a Christian for 29 years. I have been a pastor, missionary and counselor. Throughout the week I share Jesus with those I meet via my job in ministry. I spend time sharing with others and trying to point them to the Savior.
However, nearly every week I am told on Facebook that if I do not forward the latest "Christian" post spam, then I am ashamed of Him and that He would deny me before God because I had denied Him before men!
How did this happen? How did Scriptures like Mark 8:38, where Jesus had been talking about taking up our cross and following Him, get misappropriated to mean if we did not forward Facebook posts we were dishonoring God? Why is Matthew 10:33 flying around on my Facebook telling me to forward various of nonsensical stuff to everyone on my list? Why am I being browbeaten by Luke 9:26 and told that I don't love God enough if I don't forward these posts to all my friends?
Enough!
You can call this a rant. It's ok.
I find myself disturbed by this misuse of Scripture.
The Bible is God's Word. According to 2nd Timothy 3:16, "Every Scripture passage is inspired by God. All of them are useful for teaching, pointing out errors, correcting people, and training them for a life that has God's approval."
Now I believe the internet can be used as powerful tools in sharing God's Word. To teach, encourage, correct and train people in the the Word. However when we manipulate Scripture to encourage people to send cutesy (or spiritually manipulative) posts around the world we do a major disservice to the body of Christ!
It's sad really. The internet can be used to share your testimony, encourage the body of Christ and to be a true witness but when I read a misuse of Scripture I immediately delete the posts from my page. So before sending the next forward of the latest Christian Chain Image stop and look at the Scripture you are sending. Is it applicable, appropriate and used in a way that will glorify God? If it is then by all means send it. If it only furthers the "blessings and cursing" of a chain letter with a bit of Scripture added, do everyone a favor and hit delete.
(This post originally appeared back in 2009 and was geared more towards emails I was receiving at the time. I have now updated and adapted it for Facebook.)
I don't truly love Him.
I have worked in and out of ministry for 22 years and been a Christian for 29 years. I have been a pastor, missionary and counselor. Throughout the week I share Jesus with those I meet via my job in ministry. I spend time sharing with others and trying to point them to the Savior.
However, nearly every week I am told on Facebook that if I do not forward the latest "Christian" post spam, then I am ashamed of Him and that He would deny me before God because I had denied Him before men!
How did this happen? How did Scriptures like Mark 8:38, where Jesus had been talking about taking up our cross and following Him, get misappropriated to mean if we did not forward Facebook posts we were dishonoring God? Why is Matthew 10:33 flying around on my Facebook telling me to forward various of nonsensical stuff to everyone on my list? Why am I being browbeaten by Luke 9:26 and told that I don't love God enough if I don't forward these posts to all my friends?
Enough!
You can call this a rant. It's ok.
I find myself disturbed by this misuse of Scripture.
The Bible is God's Word. According to 2nd Timothy 3:16, "Every Scripture passage is inspired by God. All of them are useful for teaching, pointing out errors, correcting people, and training them for a life that has God's approval."
Now I believe the internet can be used as powerful tools in sharing God's Word. To teach, encourage, correct and train people in the the Word. However when we manipulate Scripture to encourage people to send cutesy (or spiritually manipulative) posts around the world we do a major disservice to the body of Christ!
It's sad really. The internet can be used to share your testimony, encourage the body of Christ and to be a true witness but when I read a misuse of Scripture I immediately delete the posts from my page. So before sending the next forward of the latest Christian Chain Image stop and look at the Scripture you are sending. Is it applicable, appropriate and used in a way that will glorify God? If it is then by all means send it. If it only furthers the "blessings and cursing" of a chain letter with a bit of Scripture added, do everyone a favor and hit delete.
(This post originally appeared back in 2009 and was geared more towards emails I was receiving at the time. I have now updated and adapted it for Facebook.)
10/8/11
Hitting the Wall
I have been talking about the Israelites journey from Egypt to the Promised Land the last couple of weeks at church.
Following the journey and drawing comparisons between their journey and our own walk with the Lord, I have tried to draw out elements that can be used as a parallel.
This week I was going to talk about Jericho. Then I hit a wall. I encountered my own Jericho in the midst of preparing this message. My Jericho is fear. A wall of fear has been built up in my life that seems to stand strong and impenetrable in the midst of the Promised Land.
While enjoying the blessings God has provided, I still have this thing...this fortress to the enemy. I know when the wall was built, I know the history of this enemy camp....yet long has been the siege against it.
So this week I have been doing battle.
I look at what the Israelites did when they crossed the Jordan. They built a memorial to the Lord. I have been looking back at my own memorials. Remembering and celebrating what the Lord has done in the past in my life, particularly in these areas.
I am also looking at how the walls of Jericho came down....the people worshiped and sought the Lord but he did the work. They had to operate out of faith. I've been trying to do that. Praying more, seeking the Lord, worshiping. I am recalling Scriptures like 2 Tim. 1:7 and trying to stand on faith.
I believe the walls are starting to crumble. However I want to stand on guard, to keep at it...I know that after Jericho falls, there was still Ai. The Israelites let sin in the camp and got their hat handed to them by the enemy. I need to stand on faith but also to walk in victory!
Following the journey and drawing comparisons between their journey and our own walk with the Lord, I have tried to draw out elements that can be used as a parallel.
This week I was going to talk about Jericho. Then I hit a wall. I encountered my own Jericho in the midst of preparing this message. My Jericho is fear. A wall of fear has been built up in my life that seems to stand strong and impenetrable in the midst of the Promised Land.
While enjoying the blessings God has provided, I still have this thing...this fortress to the enemy. I know when the wall was built, I know the history of this enemy camp....yet long has been the siege against it.
So this week I have been doing battle.
I look at what the Israelites did when they crossed the Jordan. They built a memorial to the Lord. I have been looking back at my own memorials. Remembering and celebrating what the Lord has done in the past in my life, particularly in these areas.
I am also looking at how the walls of Jericho came down....the people worshiped and sought the Lord but he did the work. They had to operate out of faith. I've been trying to do that. Praying more, seeking the Lord, worshiping. I am recalling Scriptures like 2 Tim. 1:7 and trying to stand on faith.
I believe the walls are starting to crumble. However I want to stand on guard, to keep at it...I know that after Jericho falls, there was still Ai. The Israelites let sin in the camp and got their hat handed to them by the enemy. I need to stand on faith but also to walk in victory!
1/3/11
Looking Death in the Eye - I Blinked
I felt the knife pressed up against my throat. M's last words ringing in my ears, "I don't like the way you look, I am going to slit your throat."How did I end up in this position? Surely it wasn't because of my perceived lack of fashion sense.
It was the 8th grade and M only showed up occasionally. He was one of those "rough" kids that came to school with dark clothes, a chain from his pants to his wallet, the beginning of a mustache and a bad attitude. I actually got along fairly well with M and never had a run-in with him.
I had just become a Christian a few months before and was at the awkward stage of being a new Christian in a new school in a new state. I was trying to figure out faith, hormones and public school!
So M comes in for the Christmas party, walks up behind me when the teacher leaves the room and now I am back where I started this post, with a knife to my throat.
Various kids tried to talk him into dropping the knife to no avail. I saw my short little life pass before my eyes. "M come on man, you don't want to do this." He assured me he did.
Being a new Christian I felt like I could not die this way. If I was going to die, God would surely think better of me if I died a martyr. So, saying a prayer and reaching tentatively into my desk...I pulled out a Bible tract! "M, I've been meaning to give this to you!"
"Now I really am going to kill you, " M said.
I was now prepared...I really thought God would look more favorably on me now that I had handed out that Bible tract.
Thankfully the teacher walked in, M ran out and never came back to school.
When I looked death in the eye, I blinked. I responded, not out of genuine faith, but out of fear. I was more afraid of dying an "unworthy" death than actually dying. For years I had a "martyr" complex.
I was living a life of fear.
2 Tim. 1:7 says, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."
Fear runs deep and it has been a life long battle for me. This verse in 2 Tim is a good reminder for me that you can "do good" out of fear and not faith. I want to make sure my actions are based on faith in the Son of God, not fear of displeasing Him.
10/16/09
A Bible Burns on Halloween
So this week I came across another sad testament to insanity:Bible Burning
Apparently a church in North Carolina has decided to celebrate Halloween by burning their Bibles. Now that alone is bad enough, but they also decided to burn Christian books which quote the Bible, followed up by a BBQ!
Confused? Apparently they are too. The only Bible safe from their insanity is the King James Version Bible and the books that quote this translation.
I am sure Satan and his demons will be squealing with delight as Christians light God's Word on fire.
I have never understood the KJV only movement. I love the beauty of the old English, but this goes too far. I have been in Christian bookstores where people said they wanted a 'real Bible', 'the only authorized version', etc... I guess the original scrolls, the Greek and Hebrew translations, etc... were 'un-authorized'. Apparently King James had more authority than God!
2 Tim. 3:16 says all Scripture is God-Breathed. It did not specify a translation. When Christians are burning God's Word they have clearly taken their eyes off of God!
Psalm 119:105 says, "Your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light for my path."
Embrace the Word of God. Choose a translation you can understand and keep your eyes on the King of Kings not King James!
Confused? Apparently they are too. The only Bible safe from their insanity is the King James Version Bible and the books that quote this translation.
I am sure Satan and his demons will be squealing with delight as Christians light God's Word on fire.
I have never understood the KJV only movement. I love the beauty of the old English, but this goes too far. I have been in Christian bookstores where people said they wanted a 'real Bible', 'the only authorized version', etc... I guess the original scrolls, the Greek and Hebrew translations, etc... were 'un-authorized'. Apparently King James had more authority than God!
2 Tim. 3:16 says all Scripture is God-Breathed. It did not specify a translation. When Christians are burning God's Word they have clearly taken their eyes off of God!
Psalm 119:105 says, "Your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light for my path."
Embrace the Word of God. Choose a translation you can understand and keep your eyes on the King of Kings not King James!
10/1/09
Comfortable? - Just A Thought #38
When I want to relax, I usually grab a good book, a cup of coffee and curl up on the couch. I like being comfortable.
I hate public speaking; ironic for a pastor, I know. I would rather take the easy way out than to make myself in any way uncomfortable. I would rather ease into a swimming pool than jump in with both feet.
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
(2 Timothy 1:7)
Fear holds most of us back from stepping out of our comfort zone. Fear keeps us entangled and tells us we are not capable, qualified or spiritual enough. Fear sucks...the life out of us.
The Bible is filled with stories of men and women whom God stretched way beyond their comfort zone. Moses is a great example of this. He had excuse after excuse for why he could not be the one God should use in His plan to rescue the Jewish people from Egypt. God had other plans.
What is God calling you to do? Is He nudging you to step out of your comfort zone and to do what you would consider impossible? Step out in faith and see where God leads. Enjoy the adventure.
I hate public speaking; ironic for a pastor, I know. I would rather take the easy way out than to make myself in any way uncomfortable. I would rather ease into a swimming pool than jump in with both feet.
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
(2 Timothy 1:7)
Fear holds most of us back from stepping out of our comfort zone. Fear keeps us entangled and tells us we are not capable, qualified or spiritual enough. Fear sucks...the life out of us.
The Bible is filled with stories of men and women whom God stretched way beyond their comfort zone. Moses is a great example of this. He had excuse after excuse for why he could not be the one God should use in His plan to rescue the Jewish people from Egypt. God had other plans.
What is God calling you to do? Is He nudging you to step out of your comfort zone and to do what you would consider impossible? Step out in faith and see where God leads. Enjoy the adventure.
9/29/09
Guns Again!
I came across an as this week for Henry Repeating Rifles. The full ad is here but the image is one I find quite disturbing.
I find it disturbing because I know too many believers (in the US) who get the Bible and the Bill of Rights jumbled together. I know Canadians and Americans who cling to their guns and religion to the point that being a Christian means you are for the right to bear arms. I wrote about this type of thing once before.
I am not saying it is wrong to own a gun. I even think the Henry Repeating Rifles are really nice looking. Let's just keep religion out of it.
Remember the Word of God is "inspired by God and useful for teaching, pointing out errors, correcting people, and training them for a life that has God's approval. It equips God's servants so that they are completely prepared to do good things." (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Let's keep politics out of the church and focus on the King of Kings.
I find it disturbing because I know too many believers (in the US) who get the Bible and the Bill of Rights jumbled together. I know Canadians and Americans who cling to their guns and religion to the point that being a Christian means you are for the right to bear arms. I wrote about this type of thing once before.I am not saying it is wrong to own a gun. I even think the Henry Repeating Rifles are really nice looking. Let's just keep religion out of it.
Remember the Word of God is "inspired by God and useful for teaching, pointing out errors, correcting people, and training them for a life that has God's approval. It equips God's servants so that they are completely prepared to do good things." (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Let's keep politics out of the church and focus on the King of Kings.
8/12/09
Jesus and Politics!
In the heat of the moment it is hard to think clearly. Therefore I am writing this post on politics and religion now. Some think politics and religion don't mix. I am not writing this to inflame but to encourage us all to put our focus first and foremost where it should be: On Jesus Christ.
First of all, I believe we should let our Christianity influence our voting. As believers we should pray about each election and cast our votes accordingly. We are also called to pray for our leaders and those in authority over us. 2 Tim. 2:1-2 says, "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." Verses 3 and 4 says why: "This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth."
Instead of constantly criticizing whatever party is in power we should first pray for them! Yes we can speak out against injustice and evil practices. We should stand up for those less fortunate. However, in that, we should model Christ. Would Jesus speak in anger or love? Would He send emails proclaiming certain leaders evil and stand with picket signs and protesters in front of buildings? Would He argue over birth certificates and which countries are being invaded and why?
I believe He would quietly and effectively get to the heart of the matter. Through direct questions Jesus always spoke directly to the heart. He spoke to the need, the thirst.
Jesus was not a politician. He had ample opportunity in Israel to speak against and for political systems when He was on the earth. Instead He went about His Father's business.
First of all, I believe we should let our Christianity influence our voting. As believers we should pray about each election and cast our votes accordingly. We are also called to pray for our leaders and those in authority over us. 2 Tim. 2:1-2 says, "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." Verses 3 and 4 says why: "This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth."
Instead of constantly criticizing whatever party is in power we should first pray for them! Yes we can speak out against injustice and evil practices. We should stand up for those less fortunate. However, in that, we should model Christ. Would Jesus speak in anger or love? Would He send emails proclaiming certain leaders evil and stand with picket signs and protesters in front of buildings? Would He argue over birth certificates and which countries are being invaded and why?
I believe He would quietly and effectively get to the heart of the matter. Through direct questions Jesus always spoke directly to the heart. He spoke to the need, the thirst.
Jesus was not a politician. He had ample opportunity in Israel to speak against and for political systems when He was on the earth. Instead He went about His Father's business.
I have no problem with Christians participating in the political forum or running for office. However there will be no perfect system on this earth. History is littered with "Christian" governments. It was these very governments which brought us the Crusades, the Inquisitions, etc.
You cannot legislate morality. If you could than the 10 commandments would have been enough! Instead the 10 commandments showed us our need for a Saviour. Everyone in government can become a Christian but unless the people seek God for themselves you will still have sin running rampant across the nation. As a matter of fact you may have it running rampant in the "Christian" government as well.
2 Chronicles 7:14 is often quoted in re. to Christians in politics. Reading this Scripture in context, though, I find that God spoke to Solomon and the people during the temple dedication and said if His people humbled themselves He would heal their land. This was a specific promise to Israel. It was not a promise that if we elect Christian politicians than all would be right in the world. You can say it typifies God's character and you would be right. To say anything else though is a gross misuse of Scriptures.
If we would put as much energy into cementing our own relationship with God and sharing His truth of salvation with others as we did in attacking and promoting political parties THEN we could truly make a difference.
Matthew 6:33 says to seek first God's Kingdom and His righteousness.
Run the race. Work out your salvation daily. Focus on Him and His truth!
7/20/09
Books or The Book!
Popular Christian books are ruining the Gospel.
Don't get me wrong, I love to read. I am an avid reader. Everything from history to fiction to teaching books line my shelf. However I see a trend that concerns me.
I do not want to be a doomsayer but I received an email today from a friend in Alabama who expressed concern that a local church was encouraging people to embrace the "Papa" from the Shack and to set aside their Bibles. In my shock I wanted to deny his claims but my mind went racing back to the recent past.
I went back to when the Prayer of Jabez was released. People grabbed a hold of this book and before you knew it churches were teaching the Prayer of Jabez, while people sipped from their Jabez coffee cups, sticking their Jabez bookmarks into their Bibles tucked inside their Jabez Bible covers.
The fad soon drifted away as the Left Behind Series came out. Before too long I would be in a Christian Bookstore and hear people say how their church was teaching Revelation as it was found in the Left Behind Series. As the Series grew so did the T-shirts, the comics, the kids books and the movies.
Then the Purpose Driven Life came out and every church suddenly seemed lost. They all had to find their purpose in life, their purpose as a church. Of course they used the Purpose Driven Life book, video series, etc...while sipping from their Purpose Driven Coffee Cups and you get the point.
Now the Shack is upon us. People are torn, some love it, some hate it. It's either Blasphemy or the "Gospel Truth" depending on who you talk too.
Each of these books are good if you take them in context. The Shack and the Left Behind Series both were well written fiction stories that spoke to a hunger people have. However, while they may include some Biblical truths in the end they are FICTION stories.
The Purpose Driven Life and Prayer of Jabez were great little teaching books that got twisted into something more.
Everyone seems to want to read about God everywhere but in His Word. What's up with that? When did Christian Fiction define who God is? When did fiction books become the end all on the end of the world?
Don't get me wrong, we can learn from many sources and God can use anything. I have seen people who have been blessed and touched by this material and God has used it to bring people deeper into a relationship with Him. However He gave us His Word for a purpose.
2 Tim. 3:16-17 says, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."
Note what it doesn't say...it doesn't say Christian fiction or Christian teaching books. It says Scripture.
So let's put God back on the throne and the books back on the shelf. Each in it's proper place.
Don't get me wrong, I love to read. I am an avid reader. Everything from history to fiction to teaching books line my shelf. However I see a trend that concerns me.
I do not want to be a doomsayer but I received an email today from a friend in Alabama who expressed concern that a local church was encouraging people to embrace the "Papa" from the Shack and to set aside their Bibles. In my shock I wanted to deny his claims but my mind went racing back to the recent past.
I went back to when the Prayer of Jabez was released. People grabbed a hold of this book and before you knew it churches were teaching the Prayer of Jabez, while people sipped from their Jabez coffee cups, sticking their Jabez bookmarks into their Bibles tucked inside their Jabez Bible covers.
The fad soon drifted away as the Left Behind Series came out. Before too long I would be in a Christian Bookstore and hear people say how their church was teaching Revelation as it was found in the Left Behind Series. As the Series grew so did the T-shirts, the comics, the kids books and the movies.
Then the Purpose Driven Life came out and every church suddenly seemed lost. They all had to find their purpose in life, their purpose as a church. Of course they used the Purpose Driven Life book, video series, etc...while sipping from their Purpose Driven Coffee Cups and you get the point.
Now the Shack is upon us. People are torn, some love it, some hate it. It's either Blasphemy or the "Gospel Truth" depending on who you talk too.
Each of these books are good if you take them in context. The Shack and the Left Behind Series both were well written fiction stories that spoke to a hunger people have. However, while they may include some Biblical truths in the end they are FICTION stories.
The Purpose Driven Life and Prayer of Jabez were great little teaching books that got twisted into something more.
Everyone seems to want to read about God everywhere but in His Word. What's up with that? When did Christian Fiction define who God is? When did fiction books become the end all on the end of the world?
Don't get me wrong, we can learn from many sources and God can use anything. I have seen people who have been blessed and touched by this material and God has used it to bring people deeper into a relationship with Him. However He gave us His Word for a purpose.
2 Tim. 3:16-17 says, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."
Note what it doesn't say...it doesn't say Christian fiction or Christian teaching books. It says Scripture.
So let's put God back on the throne and the books back on the shelf. Each in it's proper place.
7/18/09
The Bible....boring?
Is the Bible boring? I have heard people say that before. These same people have no problem going to the latest action movie, reading romance novels, war stories, adventure novels, etc. They'll scour the Internet looking up all kinds of stuff, read the news and try to fill their day with "excitement".So is the Bible boring?
I read the Bible and I find a book filled with romance, murder, the supernatural, intrigue and mystery. There are historical battles, deception, adultery and good people who make bad choices.
Boring?
Never.
"God's word is living and active. It is sharper than any two-edged sword and cuts as deep as the place where soul and spirit meet, the place where joints and marrow meet. God's word judges a person's thoughts and intentions." (Hebrews 4:12)
The Bible is filled with stories of life. The Life that can only be found in Jesus Christ. It contains the Words of God!
"Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light for my path." (Psalms 119:105)
"From infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures. They have the power to give you wisdom so that you can be saved through faith in Christ Jesus. Every Scripture passage is inspired by God. All of them are useful for teaching, pointing out errors, correcting people, and training them for a life that has God's approval. They equip God's servants so that they are completely prepared to do good things." (2 Timothy 3:15-17)
Sure, I'll be honest, there are times I don't feel like reading the Bible. However this is NOT because it is boring. It's because I choose to not give God and His word the priority I should. There are times it feels like everything in the world is more of a priority than His Words to me as found in the Scriptures.
When I am participating in sinful activity I find it difficult to seek Him! Especially when I might feel convicted.
I have a choice each day. I can choose to run away from Him or to draw closer to Him. I can feed on His Words or choose to eat from less nourishing sources. The choice is mine. So are the consequences!
Boring...hardly! Exciting...definitely!
Life changing......undoubtedly!
Read the Word of God with fresh eyes. Let God speak to you today.
6/28/09
Guns in Church? Really!!!!
Let me start off by saying I am blessed. I am blessed to have been born in the US and blessed to have been born in a country with more freedom than other places. Even though the Lord has called us to Canada now, I am and will always be proud to be an American.
However I am gravely concerned when pride in one's country takes center stage and God and His Kingdom are bumped down a notch. I am even more concerned when I see people mixing and equating God and American culture as synonymous.
I have heard from more believers around the world who feel their Christianity has been "stolen" by the Religious Right in America. I have met many non-Christians who now equate Christianity with American politics and cultural beliefs.
It doesn't help when we have the American Patriot's Bible which seeks to intersect the teachings of the Bible with the history of the Unites States while applying it to today's culture. With everything from Christianity and the equal rights movement to the faith of our early American founders this Bible intertwines the Word of God and American culture. One line from their website which I think sums up my concern is:
Then today I read in the USA Today that a KY church was promoting a "bring your gun to church day!" Seriously! This article states that "200 people answered gun-toting Pastor Ken Pagano's call to celebrate the Second Amendment at New Bethel Church in Louisville on Saturday." The only rule was they had to leave their bullets at home.....I guess that is a relief!
Preaching about the right to bear-arms, and that America would not be there without this right, the crowds offered hearty 'amen's as they celebrated their 2nd amendment rights! This right means among other things, you can carry a gun to church and worship the 2nd amendment!
Which begs the question: If everyone is focused on the 2nd amendment in church, who is focused on God?
Are we not told to seek God? Matthew 6:33
In the end where does your citizenship lie? Are you prouder of being a citizen of your country first? If so it's time to lay aside your priorities. I leave you with this sobering Scripture:
"In the end they will be destroyed. Their own emotions are their god, and they take pride in the shameful things they do. Their minds are set on worldly things. We, however, are citizens of heaven. We look forward to the Lord Jesus Christ coming from heaven as our Savior."
(Philippians 3:19-20)
However I am gravely concerned when pride in one's country takes center stage and God and His Kingdom are bumped down a notch. I am even more concerned when I see people mixing and equating God and American culture as synonymous.
I have heard from more believers around the world who feel their Christianity has been "stolen" by the Religious Right in America. I have met many non-Christians who now equate Christianity with American politics and cultural beliefs.
It doesn't help when we have the American Patriot's Bible which seeks to intersect the teachings of the Bible with the history of the Unites States while applying it to today's culture. With everything from Christianity and the equal rights movement to the faith of our early American founders this Bible intertwines the Word of God and American culture. One line from their website which I think sums up my concern is:
In the midst of these faith-related debates, the recession and other turbulent times, a new Bible project is offering hope to rekindle the American spirit, The American Patriot's Bible.See, I thought the Word of God was "inspired by God and useful for teaching, pointing out errors, correcting people, and training them for a life that has God's approval. It equips God's servants so that they are completely prepared to do good things." (2 Timothy 3:16-17) I did not realize it was to rekindle the American spirit! Which chapter and verse do we find the American spirit in anyway?
Then today I read in the USA Today that a KY church was promoting a "bring your gun to church day!" Seriously! This article states that "200 people answered gun-toting Pastor Ken Pagano's call to celebrate the Second Amendment at New Bethel Church in Louisville on Saturday." The only rule was they had to leave their bullets at home.....I guess that is a relief!
Preaching about the right to bear-arms, and that America would not be there without this right, the crowds offered hearty 'amen's as they celebrated their 2nd amendment rights! This right means among other things, you can carry a gun to church and worship the 2nd amendment!
Which begs the question: If everyone is focused on the 2nd amendment in church, who is focused on God?
Are we not told to seek God? Matthew 6:33
In the end where does your citizenship lie? Are you prouder of being a citizen of your country first? If so it's time to lay aside your priorities. I leave you with this sobering Scripture:
"In the end they will be destroyed. Their own emotions are their god, and they take pride in the shameful things they do. Their minds are set on worldly things. We, however, are citizens of heaven. We look forward to the Lord Jesus Christ coming from heaven as our Savior."
(Philippians 3:19-20)
6/12/09
The Red Streak of Death!
The line was crawling up my foot. The pain was a bit intense but seeing the streak, the read streak of death, caused my fear to increase.
It was not the first time I experienced the red streak of death.......
In 1994 I was bitten by a brown recluse and saw the streak go from my thumb to my armpit. You can read more about that story so I will not repeat it here. Needless to say, coming close to death once, it was not a scenario I wished to repeat.
Yet here I was 15 years later seeing the streak move slowly up my foot.
I won't bore you with medical drama, needless to say a hospital visit was in order.
I hate hospitals. I mean I REALLY hate hospitals. Just visiting there will cause my blood pressure to rise. I am not proud of the fact I deal with fear from time to time. I am really ashamed of the fact that the fear is multiplied 10x while in a hospital! Here I was in yet another visit to the hospital, with sweat pouring down my head, shaking nervously as the "what if" scenario worms it way through my mind.
2 Tim. 1:7 says, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."
I know this fear is not from God and it IS NOT healthy. I know it....yet I still struggle. Fear has been my thorn in the flesh. It is something I think I have conquered, prayed through and won the victory over and then comes roaring back when I least expect it.
I know 1 John 4:18 says that perfect love casts out fear. I know the Bible repeatedly says do not fear.
So what am I afraid of? Death, no not really. I am more afraid of the unknown quantity. It's the not knowing that seems to incite the fear in me. Once a Dr comes and tells me where I stand I seem to relax despite what he says. It is an irrational fear of the unknown.
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." (Matt. 6:34)
This is the verse I need to meditate on when fear strikes. I need flee from worry, to trust and to remember 2 Tim 1:7!
So what happens next? I would like to say I have won the victory! The reality is I struggle. I am continuing to pray through this. I want a complete victory. Fear has run deep in my family and I am praying this "curse" stops with me!
Will you stand with me? If you struggle with fear let me know and I will pray for you as well.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Phil. 4:13)
It was not the first time I experienced the red streak of death.......
In 1994 I was bitten by a brown recluse and saw the streak go from my thumb to my armpit. You can read more about that story so I will not repeat it here. Needless to say, coming close to death once, it was not a scenario I wished to repeat.
Yet here I was 15 years later seeing the streak move slowly up my foot.
I won't bore you with medical drama, needless to say a hospital visit was in order.
I hate hospitals. I mean I REALLY hate hospitals. Just visiting there will cause my blood pressure to rise. I am not proud of the fact I deal with fear from time to time. I am really ashamed of the fact that the fear is multiplied 10x while in a hospital! Here I was in yet another visit to the hospital, with sweat pouring down my head, shaking nervously as the "what if" scenario worms it way through my mind.
2 Tim. 1:7 says, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."
I know this fear is not from God and it IS NOT healthy. I know it....yet I still struggle. Fear has been my thorn in the flesh. It is something I think I have conquered, prayed through and won the victory over and then comes roaring back when I least expect it.
I know 1 John 4:18 says that perfect love casts out fear. I know the Bible repeatedly says do not fear.
So what am I afraid of? Death, no not really. I am more afraid of the unknown quantity. It's the not knowing that seems to incite the fear in me. Once a Dr comes and tells me where I stand I seem to relax despite what he says. It is an irrational fear of the unknown.
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." (Matt. 6:34)
This is the verse I need to meditate on when fear strikes. I need flee from worry, to trust and to remember 2 Tim 1:7!
So what happens next? I would like to say I have won the victory! The reality is I struggle. I am continuing to pray through this. I want a complete victory. Fear has run deep in my family and I am praying this "curse" stops with me!
Will you stand with me? If you struggle with fear let me know and I will pray for you as well.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Phil. 4:13)
3/27/09
Am I ashamed of Jesus?
Apparently I am ashamed of Jesus. I did not know this was true. I pastor a church and proclaim His Name every Sunday. Throughout the week I share Jesus with those I meet via my job at the Salvation Army. I spend time counseling others and trying to point them to the Savior. Yet every week I am told that if I did not FW the latest "Christian" email spam, then I was ashamed of Him and that He would deny me before God because I had denied Him before men!
How did this happen? How did Scriptures like Mark 8:38, where Jesus had been talking about taking up our cross and following Him, get misappropriated to mean if we did not FW emails we were dishonoring God? Why is Matthew 10:33 flying around in my inbox telling me to FW long emails of nonsensical stuff to everyone on my list? Why am I being browbeaten by Luke 9:26 and told that I don't love God enough if I don't FW these emails to all my friends and the person who sent it to me?
Enough!
You can call this a rant. It's ok.
I find myself disturbed by this misuse of Scripture.
The Bible is God's Word. According to 2nd Timothy 3:16, "Every Scripture passage is inspired by God. All of them are useful for teaching, pointing out errors, correcting people, and training them for a life that has God's approval."
Now I believe email and the internet can be used as powerful tools in sharing God's Word. To teach, encourage, correct and train people in the the Word. However when we manipulate Scripture to encourage people to send cutesy emails around the world we do a major disservice to the body of Christ!
The sad part is some of these emails are really interesting but when I read a misuse of Scripture I immediately delete them. So before sending the next FW of the latest Christian Chain Letter stop and look at the Scripture you are sending. Is it applicable, appropriate and used in a way that will glorify God? If it is then by all means send it. If it only furthers the "blessings and cursing" of a chain letter with a bit of Scripture added, do everyone a favor and hit delete.
How did this happen? How did Scriptures like Mark 8:38, where Jesus had been talking about taking up our cross and following Him, get misappropriated to mean if we did not FW emails we were dishonoring God? Why is Matthew 10:33 flying around in my inbox telling me to FW long emails of nonsensical stuff to everyone on my list? Why am I being browbeaten by Luke 9:26 and told that I don't love God enough if I don't FW these emails to all my friends and the person who sent it to me?
Enough!
You can call this a rant. It's ok.
I find myself disturbed by this misuse of Scripture.
The Bible is God's Word. According to 2nd Timothy 3:16, "Every Scripture passage is inspired by God. All of them are useful for teaching, pointing out errors, correcting people, and training them for a life that has God's approval."
Now I believe email and the internet can be used as powerful tools in sharing God's Word. To teach, encourage, correct and train people in the the Word. However when we manipulate Scripture to encourage people to send cutesy emails around the world we do a major disservice to the body of Christ!
The sad part is some of these emails are really interesting but when I read a misuse of Scripture I immediately delete them. So before sending the next FW of the latest Christian Chain Letter stop and look at the Scripture you are sending. Is it applicable, appropriate and used in a way that will glorify God? If it is then by all means send it. If it only furthers the "blessings and cursing" of a chain letter with a bit of Scripture added, do everyone a favor and hit delete.
2/23/08
Just A Thought #8
FEAR NOT!
I wish I would remember this Scripture more often. Fear is insidious, like a little worm that has burrowed its way deep down into an apple without our knowing it. Of course if we'd been looking we might have seen the hole the worm crawled into and would have cut the affected part out before taking a bite. I look at fear, insecurity and doubt as major weapons in the enemies attack on believers. I believe fear is a weapon that cripples the body of Christ.
We all know that fear, insecurity and doubt are sins. I have also come to see it, in my life at least, as calling God a liar! Now, none of us in our right mind would do that. Yet every time I doubt God or let fear run rampant I am saying that God's word is not true. In effect, calling Him a liar. If I doubt my finances will be provided for, that He cares for my needs, etc..., I am saying He does not tell the truth. Harsh? What is doubt then? If God says He will watch over us and meet our every need and we worry about our needs, then we are saying God cannot do what He says.
For me the fear has been health related. I have had some trouble breathing of late (indigestion) and am working on changing my diet. Yet, when this happened I let fear get in to the point I ended up in the hospital. I felt I couldn't breathe but the issue went deeper then that. I realized I have been letting every health or perceived health issue take my focus away from God. I then began to worry about each issue instead of keeping my focus on Him and His promises. Yes, we all go through health issues. It is a part of life. However, I have let fear of the "unknown" possibilities take my eyes off of God in this area. I have repented and am praying through these issues even now.
We all have things we struggle with. I believe we should be praying for and encouraging each other in our walk with God. That has been the purpose of these thoughts. To encourage us all to go deeper with the Lord. I could use your prayers. I would also like to pray for you. If you are struggling with fear, doubt or insecurity please let mew know so we can lift each other up before the throne. As I read in Mark 9 this week: "I do believe, help my unbelief" (V. 24)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)