When I made a decision to give my life to Jesus Christ, I did not pledge allegiance to any particular church building, pastor, or denomination. Fellowshiping with other Christians is necessary to stay encouraged, to be taught, to learn from each other's experiences, and just to enjoy the company of like-minded people. It isn't necessary, however, to be more faithful to church programs than to Jesus Christ. The call to discipleship is simple: deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Jesus Christ. Why are there now so many people standing in the way of true discipleship with rules, regulations, titles, positions, auxiliaries, committees, financial requirements, and programs? I want a relationship with Jesus Christ, not an obligation to a church building.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with belonging to any particular Bible-believing, Bible-teaching church, but that membership should never be more important than being a part of the body of Christ. When we hurt one another over things that Jesus Christ never even taught, we have lost sight of our true purpose, which is to love God and love each other. The church has damaged so many people and perpetuated so much foolishness that I can't even defend it in an argument. Let me be clear: there are loving people in every church, and there are outreach programs, food pantries, homeless shelters, after school services, and ministries galore in many churches. There are good things happening, but they are often overshadowed by the negative things. The positive things are happening in private with people who just want to help and don't want any praise or glory, while the negative things are right in front of your face with people intent on being important, having titles and positions, and being above others.
I make the declaration today that I will give up every title, position, and function in the church if my walk with Jesus Christ is hindered by them. I have decided to follow Jesus, not anyone else. No one is going to pick any shade trees for me to sit under, or make me feel obligated to do anything that Jesus Christ hasn't called me to do. I will live a life of worship, covered in prayer and scripture. I am encouraging myself this day to walk in my calling in Jesus Christ. Nothing else matters!
Friday, February 10, 2012
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Above All
“Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.” Colossians 3:14 (NLT)
Things happen, let’s face it. We don’t need to pretend that everything is running smoothly all the time, and that conflict doesn’t occur. We actually were never commanded by God to agree with one another, but we are instructed to live peacefully with each other in unity. Sometimes we just need to part ways, as did Barnabas and Paul. After all, how can two walk together unless they agree? (Amos 3:3)
Even as we walk different paths, there should still be unity among the body of Christ. Just because we separated along the journey doesn’t mean we don’t have a common objective. The Great Commission is the same for all believers. We are to GO and TEACH (Matthew 28:19-20). Although our methods differ, our message (the Gospel message) is the same.
Things happen, let’s face it. We don’t need to pretend that everything is running smoothly all the time, and that conflict doesn’t occur. We actually were never commanded by God to agree with one another, but we are instructed to live peacefully with each other in unity. Sometimes we just need to part ways, as did Barnabas and Paul. After all, how can two walk together unless they agree? (Amos 3:3)
Even as we walk different paths, there should still be unity among the body of Christ. Just because we separated along the journey doesn’t mean we don’t have a common objective. The Great Commission is the same for all believers. We are to GO and TEACH (Matthew 28:19-20). Although our methods differ, our message (the Gospel message) is the same.
Love binds us all together in unity. I don’t have to agree with you to love you. I also shouldn’t speak badly about you because you don’t agree with me. There is the old saying to “agree to disagree” and move forward. I may plant, you may water, but God gives the increase. It takes all of us operating in our particular spiritual gifts for the body of Christ to function properly. The body cannot work without love holding it all together. Let’s love each other ABOVE ALL!
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Getting My Priorities Straight in 2012
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Matthew 6:33 (KJV)
For 2012, I am challenging myself to put the kingdom of God in first place. Everything I do should have a kingdom motive if it's done from a kingdom perspective. From brushing my teeth, to working on my job, to smiling at strangers on the street, everything in which I participate should show forth the love of Jesus Christ. This does not mean that I will be busier in the church building, but it does mean that I will be busier being the church. It is time that we, as the body of Christ, did more to bridge gaps among us and work together to further the kingdom of God through Jesus Christ.
You have to pray and ask God how you can best serve the kingdom. We all have to do our own respective parts for the body to move as it should in the earth. We have to stop fighting each other over things that have no bearing on salvation. If we all will seek the kingdom and God's righteousness, I believe we will find ways to work together to spread the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I also believe that kingdom-seekers won't spend a lot of time spinning their wheels going nowhere. Sometimes we need to cut some unnecessary things off!
I am getting my priorities straight, and seeking the kingdom this year. Can I count on you to help me? If you notice me getting off course, will you nudge me back on track? Will you love me enough to encourage me to succeed? Let's get it!
For 2012, I am challenging myself to put the kingdom of God in first place. Everything I do should have a kingdom motive if it's done from a kingdom perspective. From brushing my teeth, to working on my job, to smiling at strangers on the street, everything in which I participate should show forth the love of Jesus Christ. This does not mean that I will be busier in the church building, but it does mean that I will be busier being the church. It is time that we, as the body of Christ, did more to bridge gaps among us and work together to further the kingdom of God through Jesus Christ.
You have to pray and ask God how you can best serve the kingdom. We all have to do our own respective parts for the body to move as it should in the earth. We have to stop fighting each other over things that have no bearing on salvation. If we all will seek the kingdom and God's righteousness, I believe we will find ways to work together to spread the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I also believe that kingdom-seekers won't spend a lot of time spinning their wheels going nowhere. Sometimes we need to cut some unnecessary things off!
I am getting my priorities straight, and seeking the kingdom this year. Can I count on you to help me? If you notice me getting off course, will you nudge me back on track? Will you love me enough to encourage me to succeed? Let's get it!
Friday, December 30, 2011
Renewed Purpose: God's Glory
John 9:3 (KJV) Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.
STOP THINKING IT'S ABOUT YOU! Everytime something goes wrong (or right) in our lives, we tend to try to figure out what we did or didn't do to bring about the results. Everything that happens to you isn't always about you! I encourage you in the new year to shift your focus from yourself to God's purpose for your life.
God has a special purpose for you in this earth, and the outcome is for His glory. If we believe that all things work together for our good (because we love the Lord and are called according to His purpose), then we must also believe that God should get the glory out of every situation. No matter what you are facing or will face in the coming year, give God glory in all of it. The transformation of our thinking is what will bring glory to God. No longer "Poor me!", but "God's gonna get the glory out of this!".
When we start looking for God's glory in the midst of our storms, trials, and circumstances, then we will find it. Our purpose is God's glory. There are tasks that God has for you to do while you're here, but don't ever forget that everything you do should be for His glory. Stop trying to be recognized, stop seeking fortune, and please stop thinking you will gain the approval of people. I expect to make some unpopular decisions in the new year because I have decided to follow only God's direction for my life. Do you know what else I expect? I expect God to get the glory! HAPPY NEW YEAR!
STOP THINKING IT'S ABOUT YOU! Everytime something goes wrong (or right) in our lives, we tend to try to figure out what we did or didn't do to bring about the results. Everything that happens to you isn't always about you! I encourage you in the new year to shift your focus from yourself to God's purpose for your life.
God has a special purpose for you in this earth, and the outcome is for His glory. If we believe that all things work together for our good (because we love the Lord and are called according to His purpose), then we must also believe that God should get the glory out of every situation. No matter what you are facing or will face in the coming year, give God glory in all of it. The transformation of our thinking is what will bring glory to God. No longer "Poor me!", but "God's gonna get the glory out of this!".
When we start looking for God's glory in the midst of our storms, trials, and circumstances, then we will find it. Our purpose is God's glory. There are tasks that God has for you to do while you're here, but don't ever forget that everything you do should be for His glory. Stop trying to be recognized, stop seeking fortune, and please stop thinking you will gain the approval of people. I expect to make some unpopular decisions in the new year because I have decided to follow only God's direction for my life. Do you know what else I expect? I expect God to get the glory! HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
It Could Have Been Me
I am taking this time to reflect on how blessed I really am. Sure, there are things I would like to be different. Of course, I could be in better financial position, have a better car, be a better homemaker, have a better job, live in a better house,... I could go on and on. Things could always be better, but I must remember they could also be so much worse.
I could have no money no car, no job, and no home. There are plenty of people who would love to be in my shoes today. I think about the people I met in the homeless shelter last week, and I weep for myself. Why? Because they had a better perspective on their situation than I have on mine. They knew that other people were outside in the cold trying to find a warm place to sleep. They were grateful for a roof over their heads and warm beds; they had hope for a better tomorrow. They, like Paul, learned to be content in whatever condition they find themselves. It could have been me in that shelter, and I thank God all the more for His provision. It's been nothing but God's grace and mercy that have gotten me this far.
Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:11-13 NASB)
I could have no money no car, no job, and no home. There are plenty of people who would love to be in my shoes today. I think about the people I met in the homeless shelter last week, and I weep for myself. Why? Because they had a better perspective on their situation than I have on mine. They knew that other people were outside in the cold trying to find a warm place to sleep. They were grateful for a roof over their heads and warm beds; they had hope for a better tomorrow. They, like Paul, learned to be content in whatever condition they find themselves. It could have been me in that shelter, and I thank God all the more for His provision. It's been nothing but God's grace and mercy that have gotten me this far.
Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:11-13 NASB)
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Blessed Hope
Titus 2:13 (KJV) "Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;"
Sometimes we just don't see our way out of a situation. We don't know how this or that is going to work out. Take heart because there is always still hope! As long as you have Jesus Christ, there is still hope. Your trials and tribulations are the sandpaper necessary to smooth and polish your faith. Please just hang in there and see the salvation of the Lord.
He cares for you, and He has the best intentions for you. Don't give up hope; don't give up on the Christ. He has already made a way out of your circumstance; it just hasn't manifested itself yet. Wait for your due season, and know that your hope is BLESSED!
Sometimes we just don't see our way out of a situation. We don't know how this or that is going to work out. Take heart because there is always still hope! As long as you have Jesus Christ, there is still hope. Your trials and tribulations are the sandpaper necessary to smooth and polish your faith. Please just hang in there and see the salvation of the Lord.
He cares for you, and He has the best intentions for you. Don't give up hope; don't give up on the Christ. He has already made a way out of your circumstance; it just hasn't manifested itself yet. Wait for your due season, and know that your hope is BLESSED!
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Revive Us Again
Sometimes in our spiritual journeys, we get worn down, discouraged, and frustrated. When our reality looks nothing like the promises of God, it's easy to lose heart. It would make sense to just cut our losses and choose another path. Have you ever felt this way? You are not alone.
If you decide to wait for someone else to encourage you or build you up, you could be waiting a while. People won't always catch on to your vision, and you have to find your own way through the rough patches. I encourage you to go to the Rock, Jesus Christ. He understands everything you feel because He once walked this earth just like you. He had moments when He didn't want to face His situation as well. Let Him guide you in His perfect way.
No one said following Christ was easy. No one would dare discount the pain and suffering that you endure. The mental anguish is oftentimes worse than any physical pain a person can inflict, but you have to hold on to the promises that God made to you. Go to Him and ask for some new wine, some fresh oil, a revival! Ask Him to create in you a clean heart and to renew a right spirit within you. He doesn't expect you to go through alone; He wants you to depend on Him. He loves you, so trust Him.
If you decide to wait for someone else to encourage you or build you up, you could be waiting a while. People won't always catch on to your vision, and you have to find your own way through the rough patches. I encourage you to go to the Rock, Jesus Christ. He understands everything you feel because He once walked this earth just like you. He had moments when He didn't want to face His situation as well. Let Him guide you in His perfect way.
No one said following Christ was easy. No one would dare discount the pain and suffering that you endure. The mental anguish is oftentimes worse than any physical pain a person can inflict, but you have to hold on to the promises that God made to you. Go to Him and ask for some new wine, some fresh oil, a revival! Ask Him to create in you a clean heart and to renew a right spirit within you. He doesn't expect you to go through alone; He wants you to depend on Him. He loves you, so trust Him.
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