An Effective Church

Proverbs 31 praises the virtuous woman. It seems like it can also be applied to the Bride of Christ – the Church.

Strength and dignity are her clothing,
And she smiles at the future.

A wise and effective church does not presume on the future. The church is to be a source of strength to its members and community. An effective church is not forced to beg for what it needs.

She opens her mouth in wisdom,
And the law of kindness is on her tongue.

The teachings of a virtuous church will be filled with God’s wisdom and will promote kindness and giving. She will be known for her hospitality. The effective church will be a living example of the value of following God's ways.

She looks well to the ways of her household,
And does not eat the bread of idleness.

An effective church will be well organized. The leaders are actively aware of and involved in the needs, challenges and opportunities of its members. But, not just the leaders are working and praying. In an effective church, most of the members are not idle consumers but active givers.

Her children rise up and bless her;
Her husband also, and he praises her, saying:
“Many daughters have done nobly,
But you excel them all.”

Individuals, families and marriages will find new birth, wisdom, support and healing. The spiritual children of an effective church will praise her and give her unasked for blessings. There is no fear that certain important members will be offended, because the praise an effective church especially desires is the praise of the Lord Jesus.

Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain,
But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.

A “successful” church may have the earthly beauty of beautiful buildings, large crowds or artistic sermons. But, these things are totally vain unless the church genuinely reveres its Head, fears the Lord and seeks the goals of the Lord Jesus.

Give her the product of her hands,
And let her works praise her in the gates.

A successful church is concerned with appearances, income and drawing bigger crowds. But, an effective church does not need to advertise. The news of a truly effective church's genuine love, sacrificial giving, and Godly wisdom will surprise the world and will even be spread by nonbelievers.

Project:
Pray for an effective church.
Let's pray about how to be personally effective.
Let's commit to making our part of our church truly effective.

Starvation Diet

And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6)

So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (Romans 10:17)

All the gifts, fruits, and power of the spiritual life flow out of our faith which is our belief, trust and confidence in God. This faith is based on what Jesus has done, is doing and will do. But, we can actually do things that grow or shrink our faith. There are many people who are thirsting to hear God’s Word and are willing to take huge risks and make great sacrifices to have their own Bible. Yet, how many of us read God’s Word with even as much relish and regularity as we eat our bread and meat? Three times each day, Daniel made it a regular habit to enter his chamber, face Jerusalem, pray and thank God. Daniel’s commitment to God brought such blessing that even his enemies could not find a fault that they could pin on him. “But they could find no occasion nor fault; … neither was there any error or fault found in him.” In contrast, how many of us are walking skeletons of faith that are ready to collapse at the first bit of stress or temptation? I and many like me spend time growing and building our bodies. But, we should be spending more time growing and building our faith. In reality, we ought to bring God’s Word into ourselves and into our families as much or more than food.

By dying for our sins, Jesus has made it possible for us to be and to believe that we can be Sons of the Almighty. The more we have trust and confidence in Our Father, the more he is pleased. The greater our faith, the more we can sense and follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit. And, who knows what adventures that might lead to? But, our lack of faith means that instead of actually building God’s Kingdom, we just talk about it. Instead of getting into the action, we sit on the sidelines as armchair quarterbacks. Even if we participate in some ministry, what spiritual value do we actually bring to those in need? Are we only contributing worldly wisdom and resources? How sad it is to think of the many days and years so many of us have wobbled through life on a starvation diet for our spirit. Let’s do better with the remaining days or minutes of our earthly existence. Let’s give up the starvation diet and feed our faith with God’s Word several times each day.

Project:
Join me in committing to bringing a healthy portion of God’s Word to every meal
--

Harvest of Joy

He that sows to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that sows to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all [men], especially unto them who are of the household of faith. (Galatians 6:8+)

It is interesting that one way we can sow to the Spirit is by being generous and doing good to others. What restricts our harvest “in due season”? Is it lack of opportunity? Or, is it our limited vision which keeps us from seeing and accepting the opportunities? “As we have therefore opportunity” gives amazing scope. But, if I am not prepared for the opportunity then it is not a real opportunity for me. I may be lacking in time, training, money or facilities. Genuine opportunity will involve love and obedience more than sacrifice. God desires a willing, loving, faith-filled heart more than a sacrifice from a grudging, misery, faithless heart. Amazingly, each opportunity met with a little love and faith will grow a harvest of greatly increased joy, love and faith.

Texas Trench Rescue Teams Work To Save Trapped Worker - (Firehouse.com Photo Stories)

Our firefighter son, Jonathan, worked with this Trench rescue team.

Texas Trench Rescue Teams Work To Save Trapped Worker - (Firehouse.com Photo Stories)

Your Gift

they presented unto him gifts (Matthew 2:11)

Mankind was busy with business, marriages, taxes and death but a few wise men took time to seek Jesus and offered Him valuable gifts. In our celebration of Jesus' birth into the world and into our hearts, let's consider what we can give as a gift to Jesus this year. Here are a few ideas:

• Committing more time daily to seeking and knowing Him
• Giving a special chunk of time (a day, week or weekend) during the year to seeking Him
• A new project to serve Him and be blessing to someone
• An increased amount of regular giving of money
• A special gift to a ministry or a needy person or family
• Defining a new time of prayer together as a couple or a family
• Specifically allocating more time to give personal attention to our spouse or family
• Your idea (may the Holy Spirit inspire us)

To solidify the giving of your gift to Jesus, tell someone what you are doing.

Share your ideas for gifts to give to Jesus by commenting on this article.

--

A Bird in the Hand

Whatever a man sows, this he will also reap…The one who sows to the Spirit shall from the Spirit reap eternal life. (Galatians 6:7-10)

There is a wonderful promise in “Whatever a man sows, this he will also reap.” The certainty of this promise is constantly illustrated in nature. We have total confidence that apple seeds will produce apple trees. Sometimes I get discouraged as I try various projects to encourage spiritual growth in myself or others. We read books, attend seminars, host retreats and daily seek God. There is often struggle, resistance, rejection and apparent failure. Where is the fruit? God tells us and nature illustrates that it is coming as certainly as the bean stalk springs from a bean.

Our challenge and privilege is to seek and implement ways to plant seed to the Spirit. This often involves the investment of something we “possess”. It can be our time, money, home or even a loved one. I’m thinking of our daughter who is teaching English in another country. She has found explaining Christmas and some Christmas carols to students of a different culture to be a great way to tell the Good News of our Father’s love. For her parents, it has been a sacrifice and an investment of a loved one in the planting of spiritual seed. The eventual fruit will be known only to God. We have spent thousands on her education. Are we getting our money’s worth?

“A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” is a worldly philosophy because it is a statement of lack of faith. We are called to risk what we can see, hold and count for something unseen, hard to put our arms around and impossible to count. The things of this world can be exchanged for spiritual seed which will inevitably produce a harvest of eternal life for many. But, do I have enough faith in God and His promise to risk the bird in my hand?

“And let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we shall reap if we do not grow weary.”

Project:

• Commit to daily ask God how to plant good seed that day.

• Ask God to reveal something He wants you to exchange for spiritual seed.

--

Risking Everything

And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. (Revelation 12:11)

Here is an incredible statement of the power of the message of our lives and mouths. Our society has slid into its current mess largely because we have either kept our testimony covered or have remained silent in the face of evil. God’s power is still available. The blood of the Lamb can still conquer and cleanse sin. But, when the message of God’s love is not proclaimed, then people do not hear and faith does not come. How many of us live lives that are different from the masses around us who are pursuing the goals of Self? What is the testimony of our life to our neighbor, co-worker or relative?

If we are genuinely plugged into Christ through the Holy Spirit then our lives will definitely be “different”. Our focus will not be on material success but on eternal value. Instead of being worried about getting taken, we will be trying to give. Rather than being guided by the almighty dollar, we will be guided by trying to do all we can to build God’s Kingdom. We like to think we are ready to suffer for Christ. But, how many of us are willing to suffer the lose of an hour, thirty minutes or even fifteen minutes of sleep to daily rise early and seek God? Some days, I’m not willing to suffer that much. How many of us actually pray about decisions and seek God’s guidance compared to how many just talk about praying and do whatever we feel like or what seems wise by worldly standards?

Faith comes by hearing. But, the message of Christians in this country is warped. We need a clearer message about the Truth. What do we need to change if our life is to be more focused on seeking Eternal value? Maybe we need to give up a little more sleep, accept more risk, change jobs, confront evil, pray in public, take our children out of the schools of atheism, help a widow, ask forgiveness or love an enemy (an ex-spouse?). What message is our life broadcasting? Is it that this world is all that’s really important or that we are looking to eternity and are willing to risk everything to build the Kingdom of the Lamb?

Project:

Let us:

• Ask whether we are willing to actually suffer for Christ (even giving up sleep),
• Ask God whether we love this life too much to proclaim the Truth.
  
• Ask God for His cleansing and His power to change.

WorldNetDaily: Pencils and other lethal weapons

WorldNetDaily: Pencils and other lethal weapons

WorldNetDaily: The children's crusade

WorldNetDaily: The children's crusade

Thirst for the Wonderful

Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it. (Psalm 139:6)

Psalm 139 tells us some wonderful things about God. Read it and see whether you agree that God's Word says the following:

• God is working behind us and before us and actually affects our circumstances.
• He knows our most trivial physical movements.
• Every word we speak or even think about speaking is known to Him.
• He knows our priorities, our goals, our habits and our daily activities.
• God discerns our thoughts even if we are far from Him.

• He is always present and available no matter whether we are in some lonely place physically, emotionally or spiritually.
• If only we will reach out to His hand, God’s guidance is always available no matter where we are.
• Our hidden sin is plain as day to Him.
• He knows each of our histories and has made definite, detailed plans for each one of us.
• He plans each person even before they are conceived and He forms each one in the womb according to His own design and purpose.
  
• God thinks about me more and knows more about me than I ever will.

• We should be friends with anyone who is a friend of God’s and an enemy to anyone who hates God. (Who are our friends? Including our computer, TV and books, who do we spend our time with? Who are our examples, mentors and heroes?)
• We should thirst for God to try us, purify us and lead us into the ways of eternal life. This is thirst for the Wonderful.

--

God's Kitchen

I will punish the men who are complacent, those who say in their hearts, “The Lord will not do good, nor will he do ill.” (Zephaniah 1:12)

Here is another definition of Mr. Lukewarm. He is complacent in his faith. For such a man, meaning in life is found in distracting stimulations, toys and entertainments. In contrast to these attractions, God’s Word is to be endured rather than being eagerly consumed and diligently searched. The complacent man makes worship into a ritual with little or no genuine focus on our Creator and Lover. Such a man needs to be shaken up so that he will wake up before it is too late. I've been shaken up a number of times. May God send earthquakes when they're needed.

The natural pressure of life tends to push us toward this state of complacency. A law of physics says that a system tends toward confusion (disorder) unless it is infused with information (ordered energy). As Christians, we tend to move toward lower levels of faith, enthusiasm and love unless we are daily taking in the truth of God’s Word. Jesus said that man can not live on bread alone but by every word of God. But, many of us daily demonstrate that we do not believe even this word of Jesus because we daily eat bread and meat but frequently ignore God’s Word.

We are dying, our families are dying and our churches are dying from starvation. Many in our churches no longer expect the Lord to act for good or ill. As we approach another new year, let’s end this one with a change of diet and a move toward a transformed heart. Let’s eat less candy composed of worldly entertainments and let’s increase our consumption of milk, bread and meat from God’s kitchen.

Project:

• Let’s pray for an appetite for God’s food, “Give us this day our daily bread”

Help the Thief

The partner of a thief hates his own life; he hears the curse, but discloses nothing. The Fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe. (Proverbs 29:24-25)

An employee of an air conditioning business fed me a lie about our A/C unit. I believed him and we almost got taken. By the grace of God, we were preserved. I contacted the owner of the business and he sounded legitimately concerned. But, as I followed up, he began to defend the lies of his employee who had worked for him for twenty years. I wonder how many customers have bought equipment they did not need. I originally went to the company because, years before, I had had good experience with a company that had the same name. But, it turns out that my previous experience was with a brother. Sadly, this owner has darkened the name of his family and is spoiling a good reputation.

It is easier to become a thief or a partner to a thief than we realize. Little compromises are all it takes. Doing nothing or maintaining silence can make us a partner in wrong doing. Cutting too many corners with a trusting customer, being too extravagant with our employer’s resources, or being silent about someone who does these things can lead to the loss of one our most valuable possessions – our good name.

When we find that we are roommates, brothers, or employees of a thief, we have a responsibility to go to him and encourage him to change his mind and his ways. But, we may eventually face the decision to either cover up sin or expose it. If we cover it up or justify it, we become partner to a thief. Fear that we will lose friendship or job may tempt us to keep silent. But, when the truth eventually comes out, those who remained silent will be treated as partners in the crime. God may have revealed the problem to us so that we can help the thief to find the paths of repentance, love and righteousness.

Project:

• Ask God to reveal how we may be partnering with a thief.
• Ask God or a wise counselor for help how to respond and do it.

Wild and Wonderful Fanatic

The prophet is a fool; the man of the spirit is mad,
because of your great iniquity (Hosea 9:7)

I’ve heard sermons and teaching which I rejected as too extreme. But, later – maybe years later, I sometimes find that I’ve changed my mind. What held me back from accepting the teaching in the first place? At first, I may have even labeled the ideas as fanatical. What held me back? Was it misunderstanding? “Except you eat my flesh and drink my blood, there is no life in you.” Or, was it wrong priorities? “I will follow you. But, first let me…”

The same thing which causes us to have wrong priorities can deafen us to the words of truth and blind us to the guiding light. What is it that disrupts our relationship with God and others but our important, whispering, dissatisfied, and whining Self? This is the part of me which listens to the voice of the Tempter, believes the lies of the Liar, wants to sell my soul to the Devil for a pot of pleasure, and says, “I’m too tired to seek God this early.”

When we don’t “get anything” out of reading the Bible, or think that someone is too fanatical in his teaching or beliefs, it is important to consider whether we are actually open to hearing Jesus. Is He too fanatical for me to follow? Maybe we just want to be “ordinary”. It is possible for someone to be too impractical or fanatical. But, when we find ourselves applying such a label, it should be an alarm that warns us to examine ourselves. Isn’t it possible that our “wisdom” may actually be worldly wisdom? Who is the fool but the one who rejects God’s Word? At such times, let’s ask, “Who is actually sitting behind the steering wheel in this area of my life?” Many times our daily schedule shows our priorities and who we're letting drive. When Self drives, we live "sensible" lives like most of the world, and waste our life. But when God drives, wild and wonderful things will begin to happen and life will no longer be ordinary, normal or "sensible".

Project: (This is a tough one -- change your daily schedule)
Get fanatical: commit to a daily time alone with God and His Word.
Get foolish: wake up earlier than you “feel” like to seek God.
Get a little crazy: let God sit in the driver’s seat. Actually apply a little of His Word.

--

We Just Didn't Know What To Do

Many families are hurting because they are pressured into aborting their handicapped babies. We need to pray for grace to help give support and encouragement to mothers and fathers in these difficult situations.

Why the pressure? My thought is they do that to get you to make the decision they want you to make. I'm sure the insurance companies want you to abort, knowing if there are any complications with a full-term delivery, the costs will rack up. I call it, "Search and destroy."

Now I feel so stupid. I didn't get on the computer and research. I'm not a sheep; I'm a well-educated person. But I was immobilized. My brain just shut down when we got that diagnosis. We just didn't know what to do.

If you want to understand more, read the rest of the article at: http://www.wnd.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=41631

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (Galatians 6:9)

Thanksgiving

As a family, we especially thank God for sparing our firefighter son, Daniel, from injury or death. At 3 AM on Saturday morning, Daniel was driving the station’s reserve fire engine to a car accident when the unexpected happened. As he drove over a hill and began to brake for the turn at the bottom, the brakes failed. All was dark ahead. But, for some unknown reason, Daniel decided to steer toward the left. While still moving at 30 mph into the dark, the fire truck hit the end of the road, jumped a culvert, shot between two trees and slammed into an embankment. Flames shot up in front of the truck. The fire crew leaped from the engine and suffered their only injuries as they jumped into underbrush composed of mainly briars and thorns. A Sheriff’s Deputy who was already at the first accident scene and standing at the bottom of the hill was also grateful for his life. If Daniel had not steered to the left then the fire engine would have run over the Deputy. So, even though Daniel could not see the trees or the Deputy at the bottom of the hill, they were all avoided. Let’s thank God for this preservation of life, limb and love. We know that God has special plans for each of us and for Daniel. Let’s mix our gratitude with commitment to seek God’s best plans in each of our lives.

Daily Light from that same Saturday morning:

==================================================================
Daily Light on the Daily Path Devotional
Saturday November 20, 2004
http://bible.christiansunite.com/devotionals.shtml
==================================================================

Morning

When I sit in darkness, the LORD [shall be] a light unto me.

When thou passest through the waters, I [will be] with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. For I [am] the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour.--I will bring the blind by a way [that] they knew not; I will lead them in paths [that] they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou [art] with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.--What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.--The LORD [is] my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD [is] the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Mic 7:8 Isa 43:2,3 42:16 Ps 23:4 56:3,4 27:1

My Stomach Is Calling

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom. ( Col 3:16)

When our first child was born and I began to realize the incredible responsibility that God had given me, my priorities began a rapid shift. Suddenly, my spiritual life and the future spiritual life of my child became extremely important. As parents, we began to have goals for our children that went beyond mere success and happiness in this world. But, the goals of Christian parents are opposed by the voice of the world system. In reality, most of us have influence on someone and we should have similar desires for them as they also face the opposing voice of the world. The sad thing is that we can each become the voice of the world. When, even as Christians, we fail to be saturated in God’s Word, His love and His perspective; our mind and mouth will tend to produce worldly thoughts and messages. Whether we realize our leadership or not, our influence could be misleading someone who sees us as a leader. It is vital for each of us to consider which of the following messages our life is transmitting in words or example.

Be lively Christians.

Wear the label of Christian but don’t be weird.

Be filled with and guided by the Holy Spirit.

Don’t be a fanatic. Be sensible.

Be godly, wise and discerning.

Be wise in the ways of the world.

Put building God’s Kingdom as first priority.

Watch out for your self first.

Be men and women of prayer.

Prayer doesn’t do anything (except it might help you feel better in a crisis). The TV or Internet gives more return on investment.

Have your mind saturated with God’s Word.

Today’s news, football game or gossip is more interesting.

Daily seek God’s direction.

God doesn’t give direction. I or “fate” will be my guide. Go with the flow.

Have a godly heritage

Who cares about future generations? It's all about me and the here and now.

Build your life on the foundation of Christ and His Word.

Important decisions are primarily based on money.

Be leaders in the Church.

It’s too much trouble (unless you can be someone important).

Be soul winners.

Don’t interfere in other people’s lives (besides they might reject you).

Be taught of the Lord.

It's better to get a good education from a reputable school.

Be light and salt in the world.

As long as I’m comfortable, the world is no concern of mine.

Trust in God

Trust in bank accounts, investments or a good job.

Manifest honesty, courage and integrity

My self-image and my stuff is more important than strict honesty.

Delight in the Lord.

Delight in entertainment, sports or romance

Fulfill the deepest desires of your heart.

Forget the deep desires, my stomach is calling!


--

A Dream Come True

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is. (Rom 12)

Day after day, Ordinary showed up at his Usual Job. But while he worked, he thought about his Dream. He thought about how wonderful it would be to do what he loved to do instead of just dreaming about it.

Ordinary’s longing for his Big Dream grew and grew, until finally he realized that he’d never be happy unless he could pursue it. Why didn’t the Dream Giver make it possible?

If the Dream Giver didn’t, how could Ordinary ever leave Familiar? He had payments and expenses. He had regular duties. A lot of Nobodies counted on him for lot of things.

Ordinary felt completely stuck. Time passed, but nothing changed.
(from “The Dream Giver” by Bruce Wilkinson)

If, like me, you’ve had a Dream turn to dust; there is still hope for the future. God has a Big Dream for each of us that we can accomplish with what’s left of our life. But, time will turn all our dreams to dust if we don’t begin to do something. If we seek God and trust Him as we take chances, push through the fear of stepping out of our comfort zone, and don't turn back to the Familiar we will begin to see our Dream come true.

Project:

• Let’s commit that Today and daily we will each take some step in the direction of our Big Dream.

• Let's DO SOMETHING.

I chose you to go and bear fruit – fruit that will last. (John 15)

Being Sensible

Some wandered in desert wastes, finding no way to a city to dwell in; hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted within them. (Psalms 107:4)

Shortly after I was married, I read a book that stimulated my thirst. I became thirsty; thirsty for a genuine relationship with God. That thirst pushed me to do “something”. I didn’t know what to do but it seemed like I needed to find help for my thirst and I needed it that day and not some tomorrow. So, that very night, we packed up and traveled a couple of hundred miles arriving at dawn to visit some people who I thought might have some answers. They didn’t have all the answers but that journey and the prayer which was that journey became the beginning of a journey that has led to genuine food and drink for my soul. That sudden trip was as much a cry to the Lord as the prayers that were vocalized while we traveled.

Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. He led them by a straight way till they reached a city to dwell in. (Ps 107)

When we are in distress, God will hear the cry of our hearts if it is not quenched by our pride. But, what hunger and thirst is causing distress? Perhaps, like Eve, we hunger for some forbidden fruit or thirst for some deluding drink. Or, it may be that, like Adam, we thirst for companionship or human love. These desires can disguise and get in the way of deeper and more significant needs. I found that even when my natural desires were satisfied, there was a deeper hunger which continued to cast a shadow over my life.

For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things. (Ps 107)

When we made that trip with our little baby, one result was a new determination and commitment to sincerely seek God and His ways. The life of that child was suddenly set on a new track because of what had happened to his dad. God gave a desire to know what His Word meant and grace to daily seek Him. The direction of career, home location, financial priorities and family goals were all fundamentally and wonderfully affected. Yet, these changes sprang from a single trip which was actually a cry to God for real water and food. It would have been so easy to quench the spirit. My bride could have resisted this sudden, crazy trip. I could have stopped and said, “Let’s be sensible. It’s late. We’ll sleep on it and tomorrow maybe I will do something.” I believe we would have missed a vital opportunity and stifled a cry to God if we had been “sensible”.

Project:

• Look beyond the surface desires. What do you actually want?
  
• Go on a fast. Ask God to give the gift of thirst and hunger of Spirit.
• Not only speak a cry to the Lord but act out the cry by taking actual steps to seek God in new ways.
• Don’t quench the cry; don’t put off action.

--

Stream of Tears

He opened the rock, and water gushed out; it flowed through the desert like a river. (Psalm 105:41)

I remember a huge boulder on top a mountain where I grew up. It was at least fifty feet high. In each of our souls, we have places that have been hardened and are like giant boulders. These rocks seem like the least likely place to find water for our thirsty souls because it is there that we feel the least life and strength. These rocks may bear the shape of an enemy, an ex-spouse, a tragic accident, a hidden sin, an overwhelming fear or our own prideful self-image. These can be terrible boulders that we normally avoid even thinking about. Yet, it is to these huge, terrible, flint-like stones that Jesus desires to come and speak a healing word.

We tend to think that the desert of our soul, relationships and life is normal. In reality, God wants us to have a constantly increasing stream of Life flowing into all those areas. The streams of Love, Joy and Peace are pent up and could flow into every corner of our life. God is well aware of our inner landscape and is eager to lead us to a giant boulder that we perceive as an obstacle to our life but from which He wants to bring a river of blessing, healing and life.

As my bride and I have learned to communicate, God has led us to be more and more open with each other about fears, shame, wounds and frustrated dreams. These are the kind of things that I don’t naturally want to face because they can make me cry. Many of us are hiding from our feelings. Sometimes, something that I had not thought about for years God seems to bring it to mind at a time and place that demands an explicit decision. I can choose to either bring it into the light for God to touch; or hide from it and miss an incredible blessing. The fastest growth in my relationship with my bride and with God has come when I let Him open the rock. A stream of tears can be indicative of a new river of life.


Project:

• Find a place to be alone.
• Ask God to reveal a boulder in your life.
• When something comes to mind, ask for Jesus to heal your heart.
• Share your “rock” with your spouse, friend or minister.

Thorny Paths and Bitter Fruit

Behold, I am againt you, O proud one, declares the Lord god of hosts,
for your day has come, the time when I will punish you.
The proud one shall stumble and fall,... (Jeremiah 50:31)

God eventually and inevitably works against those who are proud. Our pride does not always bring immediate consequences. But, the day will come when we discover the fruit of our pride. How terrible it is when we find ourselves struggling against God. It is much better to have our prideful attitudes revealed as early as possible and to repent of them as soon as they are brought to light. Sadly, the proud man is tempted to exalt himself above God and to refuse to repent.

Some external symptoms of pride can be rolling eyeballs, hateful looks, bitter words, gossip, complaining, deception and laziness. The sluggard is filled with pride because he is wiser in his own eyes than seven who can answer sensibly. When we find that we have not done what we should have, the temptation is to make excuses instead of humbling ourselves.

It is extremely painful for any of us to have our nose thrust into our pride and to see it in all its reality. But, if I don't recognize my pride then I may be the only one who doesn't. My wife and children have helped me to perceive some of my pride. When this happens the temptation is to deny reality, to make excuses and to build the walls of pride yet higher. And yet, the fruit of pride is dreadful. May God preserve each of us from the thorny paths, self deceptions and bitter fruit of pride.

Project:
Let's fully trust God and pray that He will do whatever is necessary to move us from pride to humility.

Remember:
The Lord is just in all His ways and kind in all His doings. (Ps 145:17)

Test Your Own Level of Wisdom

Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes?
There is more hope for a fool than for him. (Proverbs 26:12)

As mentioned in John Siburt’s sermon yesterday, the “Pharisee” in each of us tends to make checklist like the one that follows into a black and white test. Am I wise in my own eyes? Is so-and-so wise in his own eyes? But, in reality, we trust our personal wisdom differently as we face decisions in varying areas. For some decisions, we are open to the counsel of others; but for other decisions we have made up our mind and neither heaven nor hell will change it. As you read through these questions, ask God to reveal areas where He wants you to have less wisdom in your own eyes. Ask God to give you His evaluation of you on each question.

Do I actually admit to myself a need to change in some area?

Do these questions make me feel defensive?

Would others say that I am willing to admit a mistake or failure?

Do I usually have an excuse for why I don’t make changes?

Do I sincerely consider the opinions of those who disagree with me?

Do I genuinely listen to, understand or get advice from my wife (or husband)?

Do I tend to immediately defend myself whenever I feel criticized (especially by those who know me the most)?

Do I understand my children’s perspective?

Do I seek the counsel of my adult children?

Do I give my opinion more weight than other’s experience?

Do I seek the counsel of my parents (in spite of how messed up their own lives may be)?

Do I personally seek guidance in God’s Word?

Do I avoid or seek sermons, Bible classes, seminars and retreats?

Do I usually listen to a lesson or sermon with an attitude of asking how I personally should change?

Do I normally listen to a sermon looking for ways to criticize it?

Do others (especially those closest to me) say that I am quick to ask forgiveness?

Do I praise myself?

Am I basically wise?

Project: Let's beg for God’s grace to sincerely desire and diligently seek His wisdom.

--
To add your own questions to the Wise in Your Eyes Self Test by pressing the button to add a comment.
--

Blindingly Rich

But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction…. But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. (1 Timothy 6:9,11)

We are surrounded with advertisements for ways to get rich. But, how often do we see an advertisement for a way to grow in godliness or steadfastness. What God says to flee most of the world is pursuing and what He says to pursue most of the world ignores. I’ve sometimes been guilty of the wrong goals and priorities and the older I get the more value I see in the things that last forever. Interestingly, Jesus said that if we would make building God’s Kingdom our top priority then all our needs would be provided. One of the places to build His Kingdom is in our own soul. We hear of “spiritual disciplines” and they don’t sound very exciting. But, they are ways to pursue faith, love and godliness. Perhaps they don’t excite us like they should because we don’t see the genuine value in righteousness, steadfastness and faith. Our eyes have been blinded and our desires dulled by the glitter of worldly riches which are ultimately worthless.

Project: (Join me in this prayer today)

• Let’s beg God to heal our eyes and awaken desires for genuine, everlasting riches.

Promotion

Luke 3:22 -- "Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased."

Dear Son,

You are frequently in our prayers. Even your younger brothers often pray for you. Last week, I was feeling burdened by a challenge I was facing at work. I had two weeks to finish a project and was having difficulty making any progress. So, I sat in a chair in the middle and every one gathered around and prayed for me. Somehow, God got me past those obstacles. But, now I am facing another hurtle with less time. I'm praying for God's guidance and inspiration and, later this morning, I will again ask for everyone here to pray for me. Prayer has been key for your Mom and I over the past 35 years. And, it is the basis of any truly successful life. So, sincerely seek God's strength in prayer to get over the obstacles in your way. Pray for your teammates and ask for their prayers. This is a great time to learn to seek Christ's strength for life.

Even as you begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel, the effort required may seem daunting. But, just like climbing a mountain, the final few hundred feet can be both the most challenging and the the most exhilarating. As you reach the top of this mountain, we will be there to cheer. It looks like much of your family is aiming to come to your promotion ceremony. So, be a leader in seeking God's strength (He's got plenty for you), in manifesting Christ's attitude (loving, cheering and serving) and in overcoming the lies of the enemy (darkness, defeat and death). We're looking forward to seeing you soon.

I love you,
-- Dad

Heavenly Promotion:
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eys; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. .... He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. (Rev 21:4,7)

--

Un-Commonsense

Jesus said to them, “Is this not the reason you are mistaken, that you do not understand the Scriptures or the power of God? (Mark 12:24)

One of the greatest temptations we each face is to live a sensible life. The problem with a life based on commonsense is that it is based on common wisdom and will give the common results. The broad road is populated by masses of people living according to common sense. In contrast, the ways of God are uncommon, unpopular and upside down from the ways of the world. My natural desire is to live a life based on what I can see and count; a life dependent as little as possible on God’s power, provision and protection. Yet, God has said that, “without faith, it is impossible to please God.”

Our temptation is to depend on our bank account or our credit line more than we trust in God. One of the founders of a large multi-national corporation said that his goal was to die broke. To move in that direction, he gave away large sums of money. But, this attitude is unusual because most men work hard so that, no matter how long they live, they can be sure of a comfortable lifestyle. A rich man naturally sees his wealth as a high wall. In contrast, a poor man will often be rich in faith.

A successful missionary once said, “Attempt great things for God and expect great things of God.” But, the inner whisper we hear says, “Watch out! You’ll be embarrassed if you depend on God to provide.” Instead of risking that God will fail us, we end up being embarrassed by trusting what we can see and failing to truly step out in faith. Too often, my faith has only extended as far as the bank because of either debt and its demands or because of trust in some tiny amount of worldly riches. Christians are called to an exciting life of pilgrimage, ministry and radical dependence on God. But, because of our all too common ignorance of God, His Ways and His Word, we lack faith and make the mistake of rejecting uncommon sense and thus fail to experience an uncommon life personally and in the life of our churches.

Project:

• Commit to daily getting to know God better.
• Ask for His grace to attempt great things for Him.
  
• Do you feel God possibly calling you in some challenging direction?
• Evaluate where you are putting your faith.
• How can you take some small step in the direction of a more radical response to God's call?
• Take that step.

Recently Adopted Son

Stand and speak...all that I command you to speak. It may be they will listen, and every one turn from his evil way, that I may relent of the disaster that I intend to do to them because of their evil deeds. (Jeremiah 26:2,3)

Do you feel like giving up? Jeremiah was ready to give up. But, God is eager to bless if only His people will listen and turn toward Him. God allows His servants to suffer in the hope that others will listen and turn from seeking "their own way". Even Jesus, His own Son was sent and allowed to suffer torture and death. Yet, it is hard for any one of us to genuinely hear and actually change our mind. When I look back and see where I had times of change of mind, they often involved years of closed ears before a point of effective action was reached. I appreciate those (especially my bride) who did not and do not give up on me.

It is not often that we associate ourselves with those who do “evil deeds”. Yet, Jesus warned that even those who preach or heal the sick in His name may be rejected because He does not know them. Proverbs warns that even compassion is cruel if a man’s heart is wrong (Proverbs 12:10). In the book of John, Jesus warned that all our deeds are futile unless we are connected to the True Vine. The temptation is to think, “My life is not bad. I do good things.” But, unless we are tuned into the Lover of our Soul, it is all waste and ultimately accomplishes evil.

The foundation of salvation is relationship. We are called to a relationship with God which is closer than the best marriage relationship and He constantly calls us closer to Him. This world is so noisy that His voice is often drowned out. But, if we have His Spirit in us, we will eventually hear the Father calling to each of us, his adopted son. An active, living relationship with Jesus will be reflected in our actions but our actions do not make up for a missing relationship. One reason the good deeds of the wicked are hated by God is that they are the self deceptions of a man that God wants as a son. Those “good deeds” keep the wandering man from hearing the truth and sincerely admitting his need to himself and to God. We can not please God without faith in Him, and faith is impossible without His Spirit in us to help us to know Him. The seal of our salvation is the Spirit of Christ living in us making us a true son or daughter of the Creator. Acting as a recently adopted son, let's each seek to actually hear, deeply know and fully obey our new Father.

Project:

• Ask God how to draw closer to Him.
• Add to your life scheduled times and planned ways of seeking a deeper relationship with God.

--

Incredible Heights

Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. (Colossians 3:19)

God has convicted me that I am being harsh when I get irritated, impatient and uncommunicative. This happens any time I communicate an attitude of “Hurry up and say what you have to say because I don’t feel like talking!” This verse reveals that harshness is one of the primary ways that husbands communicate a lack of love.

For me, and for many husbands, to love should mean to sincerely, patiently listen and to speak openly of inner struggles. But, our natural tendency is to gradually gravitate toward a relationship of roommates sleeping together. In contrast, marriage is designed to be intimate spiritual, emotional and physical communion. Marriage should be an illustration of the most intimate, romantic and complete communion. But, the reality is: I don’t enjoy revealing my weaknesses, struggles or even my dreams. I’ve often been a slow to learn about genuine communion.

>From my perspective, our marriage has always been a good marriage. But, somehow, it keeps getting better. One of God’s graces in our marriage has been the ways in which He has led us to learn about communication. I’m not sure even our parents have understood why we have taken advantage of so many opportunities to go to marriage seminars. They didn’t need even one. They may have wondered if we were having marriage problems. I have yet to attend a marriage seminar where we didn’t end up with better communication and a better marriage.

At the beginning of our marriage, I was very weak in the communication department. But, God has worked to gradually educate me in how to actually love my bride. I’ve needed books, videos, seminars and practice to reach the point where I can at least stumble along. I don’t recall going to a seminar that, ahead of time, I thought I needed. Yet, by the end of each seminar, I was thankful for God leading us to the experience.

The danger comes when we accept where we are and fail to keep growing. We know that exercise is important to maintaining our physical strength, flexibility and health. When we stop challenging our muscles, they begin to shrink. In addition, it takes extra work to push past plateaus. Let’s find or make an opportunity to challenge ourselves on communion in our marriage. Most of us are at a plateau. Let’s push on because incredible heights of love lie ahead.

Project: (You mean -- Actually do something?)
· Search for a Christ-centered marriage seminar and take time off with your bride.
· Begin a new communication project to daily listen and speak love.
· Commit to an annual time to grow in love through genuine communication.
· Here are a couple of seminars to consider:
The DNA of Relationships (http://www.dnaofrelationships.com/conferences/ )
Marriage Enrichment Conference (http://dallas.iblp.org/couples.htm )
· We also have a couple of video seminars available. Contact us if you’re interested in details.
-------------
* (If you're single, find a seminar to help you grow closer to the Lover of your soul.)

A Giant Flashing Arrow

A Giant Flashing Arrow

For the shepherds are stupid and do not inquire of the Lord; therefore they have not prospered, and all their flock is scattered. (Jeremiah 10:21)

Looking back as a father, I can see many times when I did not inquire of the Lord as I should have. Too many times, I allowed myself to be pushed along by circumstances, fear or anger. A father, husband, wife or mother could compare to others and say, “I’ve sought the Lord more than some.” Yet, it does no actual good to compare to others. The reality is that many of us have not reached or even begun to see God’s vision for our individual life, our family or congregation.

When we’re young or inexperienced, the natural tendency is to think we have all the wisdom we need. It is easy to judge our elders, parents or grandparents and to think we could have done better. This attitude leads God to let each of us to be measured by our own standard and also keeps us depending on self instead of inquiring of the Lord. Each of us knows whether the Lord’s will is our real goal, desire or thirst. Our genuine thirst is revealed by where we search for answers. One’s personal prayer life is an indication of whether he is inquiring of the Lord. As I’ve grown older, been through more experiences and seen possibilities evaporate, I begin to realize my lack of wisdom in, too often, not taking time to inquire of the Lord before acting.

The flock was not only the shepherd’s responsibility but also his source of blessing. The effect we have on others such as our friends, neighbors, children or congregation results in a scattering, gathering or leading of the flock. When we are pushed along by fearful, angry or bitter feelings, the result will be to scatter and separate rather than to gather and protect. In contrast, our passionate feelings can become a signal for us to inquire of the Lord so we can be effective shepherds who manifest Christ’s response, character, and wisdom. If we raise up Christ, He will draw all men to Himself.

What was your response the last time you remember becoming angry or fearful? Did you immediately seek and inquire of the Lord what to do or say? Or, did you immediately take some action that you now regret? If any of us responded wrong, all is not lost. Even now, if we turn and inquire of the Lord, He will lead us into paths of healing, reconciliation and hope. Today is the first day of the rest of each of our lives. Let’s make it a day of change. Sincerely plead with God for grace to use passion as a giant flashing arrow to direct in a new way where we each inquire of the Lord before acting or speaking.
--

Pigs or Warriors

Pigs or Warriors

My son, eat honey, for it is good, and the drippings of the honeycomb are sweet to your taste. Know that wisdom is such to your soul; if you find it, there will be a future, and your hope will not be cut off. (Proverbs 24:13-14)

Over twenty years ago, we felt led to make a scary decision. It was scary because we knew that our resources were inadequate. At that time, there were very few who would agree with us in this decision. Yet, it seemed like God was leading us to educate our children at home. Now, over twenty years later, the resources are almost overwhelming. But, when we started this project, there were less than a handful of companies producing books and curriculum suitable for use at home. My bride always wants to do her best so it was especially scary for her since much of the day to day responsibility fell on her. Instead of letting fear control or paralyze her, she sought strength, guidance and courage from the Rock of Ages.

This decision to teach our children at home did not occur over a few days, weeks or even months. We had an interest in Christian education which had led us to be involved in helping start a Christian Montessori preschool in Dallas. Later, after we moved out to the country, Ouida operated a preschool in our home involving our neighbors. There were four or five mothers teaching various subjects and learning to use Montessori resources with their children. Finally, we decided to try to start a Christian school. We advertised in many of the local papers but we were contacted by only one other family. Finally, we came to believe that God was leading us to start a Christian school just involving our own children.

With just a few months left in the school year, I took our oldest son out of fifth grade. The next year, our second son started fourth grade at home and, since then, the rest of our children have been educated at home. Our goal was not primarily to teach knowledge but to give our children honey for their souls – wisdom. Knowledge is important. But, if wisdom is lacking, it is like a gold ring in the snout of a pig. Contrast this pig with a man who has not only knowledge but also wisdom. He is like a strong warrior who knows how to use his weapons. Higher education can be helpful but what has a man gained if he gets knowledge in exchange for his soul. It is surprising to some people that, even in knowledge, home is sometimes better. One child was struggling with reading and math in public school and was close to failing. But with daily focused attention at home, we found the specific gaps in his knowledge and he began to blossom.

In the book, “Curdie and the Princess”, George McDonald wrote of Curdie, a young man who had the gift to discern a man’s character when he felt the man’s hand. Curdie could feel the paw, hand or hoof of the animal that the man’s soul was becoming. One man’s hand felt like a snake, another like a pig’s hoof and one like the paw of a wolf. Whether we use home education, private tutors, Christian schools or public schools, we want to recognize that, as parents, we have primary responsibility for our child's education. Even if we set the goal of producing a warrior, a pig may result. But, what if we don’t even have the right goal? What are we personally becoming? And, what are we helping our children and grandchildren to become – pigs or warriors?

Project:

• Ask God to give you, your children and your grandchildren a hunger for honey of the soul.
• Sincerely seek God's direction and He will give guidance (don't set up any "Off Limits" signs for God).
• Daily take time to personally find honey for your soul.
  --