The formula is a lie.

You;therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? (Romans 2:21)

The natural tendency in judging ourselves is to raise up some rag of a “good work” and excuse ourselves from the rest based on our good intentions. Any of these formulas might be familiar. “Maybe I'm not as close and transparent with my wife as I should be but, at least I occasionally wash the dishes.” “Maybe I didn't really seek for God's Word and power before teaching the Bible lesson but at least I do it when others won't. “ “Maybe I'm not as orderly as I should be, but at least my floor is visible.”

Our external failures may reveal a flaw of character, a wrong desire or weak faith. But, an external success does not necessarily reveal strength or goodness. We tend to make little, personal formulas in our thinking that define success in our life or relationships. But, often these formulas don't add up to truth. As we read God's Word and meditate on it, these formulas are revealed to be false. Then we choose whether we will throw out the formula or God's Word. God's Word is not presenting another set of rules and formulas for life. It is challenging us to realize that we can never live up to a true standard. God is calling us to change our way of thinking, to accept Jesus' as our redeemer from dead formulas and efforts, and to be transformed by His Spirit. Yet, we are tempted to keep living and teaching the same old formulas for self-improvement and for salvation.

Only new life from the indwelling of the Holy Spirit means anything. Once we repent of excusing our self, living by formula and doing our own thing then Jesus can truly begin to fill our being, transform our thinking, and make something of our lives. The formula is a lie.

May God give us grace to hear Him when we teach (or judge) others, realize where we need Him, repent of our self-sufficiency, and be transformed by His Spirit.

"It is better to be an honest man who tells a lie, than a liar who tells the truth." -- Bonhoffer

I Start Disappearing

Nevertheless let each one among you also love his own wife even as himself; and let the wife see to it that she respect her husband. (Ephesians 5)

We have a daughter who is a late communicator. Many people, whether because of Down Syndrome, autism, disease or injury, face challenges in learning to communicate in healthy ways. We're currently learning how to be more balanced, matched, playful and responding in our interactions with our daughter. A late communicator can often feel alone and misunderstood. A late communicator may actually be able to talk quite well but may not know how to interact socially. A book we are reading to help us with this interaction is, "Play to Talk" by James McDonald. It has a poem "Respond and I will Exist". It has the following line in it.

"When you do not respond to what I do with you,
I start disappearing"

This is a reality in all our relationships and especially in our marriage relationship and in our relationship with God. When we notice, talk with, play with and try to understand our spouse, they not only feel more loved but also more substantial and real. When we stop interacting, listening and playing then our wife begins to feel like she is disappearing from our world.

Our interactions and responses to God also reveal how much He is a reality in each of our lives. If I don't try to listen to Him and don't respond to Him in my daily life, how real is He to me?

May God help us to see how we can "communicate" better, how we can interact better with those who are at the center of our life. May He give us grace to give up unhealthy habits of interaction and learn to love.

Respond and I Will Exist

When you respond to the little things I do,
My little sounds or the way I play,
I feel alive. I feel I'm real.

When you do not respond to what I do with you,
I start disappearing,
And feel I should not do what I'm doing.

When you respond to me,
I feel okay, I feel I belong to you.
I feel we are real partners.

When you do not respond to me,
I feel alone
I feel you are gone.

I am going to learn more
When you respond to whatever I do,
And then show me what to do next.

I have to feel alive to learn,
I feel alive when you respond to me.
I bet you didn't know you were that important! -- James MacDonald

Having Fun Learning to Play

I have a confession to make. I'm NOT a musician. But, I would like to make music. How many of you wish that you could sit down at a piano or keyboard and pound out your favorite hymn or tune? I'm one of those who didn't learn a musical instrument growing up. I've enjoyed watching my wife and children play the piano and violin. Their skill looks magical – and fun.

What if it's not too late?!

A few decades ago, just after we got married, my bride and I thought we would help each other learn something new. I was going to help her learn calculus and she was going to help me learn to play the piano. The result: I forgot my calculus and I didn't learn to play the piano. I was discouraged from piano by a couple of things. One was the mountain of learning I faced before I could really make music, another was the discipline of practice and the "last straw" was the next-door neighbor banging on the wall and telling to me to stop making so much noise.

As I said, that was decades ago. Recently, we were able to get a new piano for the family. It's entry into the home stirred a new interest on my part in learning to play. One day, I happened to come across a book that gave me new hope of learning to play the piano. That book is this one, "Play Piano in a Flash!" by Scott "The Piano Guy" Houston. The basic premise of the book is that the piano can be played in a least two very different styles. For example, I'm sure all of you have noticed the major difference between classical guitar and pop guitar styles. In a similar way, the piano can be played in classical piano or popular music styles. Learning to play classical piano is a long and arduous road. In contrast, this book puts forth the idea of learning the non-classical, popular style piano.

I've been learning about this approach for only a few weeks. Only basic knowledge of music notation is needed. This was good news to me since, at that time, I could not read music and about the only thing I knew about the piano keyboard was where to find middle-C.

The first step is to choose something to learn. This should be a tune or song that you would just love to learn to play. The chosen piece of music becomes part of the motivation because of the deep desire to learn it. In my case, I chose one of my favorite hymns, "Heavenly Sunlight". This music is where I started. Having the mysterious music notation before me I set out to decode it. Now, for this style of playing, the bass clef is ignored (the bottom line of notes in a hymnal) and the focus is on the notes that form the melody. As some of you probably know there are whole books of sheet music that show just the melody along with some chord notation. Those are called Fake Books. Here is an example of one. I'm also passing around the page that has "Heavenly Sunlight" on it.

So, using this music and the simple description of how to decode it shown on these two pages, I set out to translate the note on the page to pressing a key on the piano. Since I already knew the tune, I didn't have to worry too much about the details of the rhythm described by the different notes. This is all done one note at a time with the right hand. For example, here is the first line of the hymn...

Once I began to get a feel for where to find the notes with the my right hand, I went to the next step for me. In this case, the next step is the done with the other hand. This is the step of adding chords using the left hand. If you play a guitar, you know where to find the information about what chord to play. It is marked above the melody line on the sheet music. So, you might see "D" or "G" or "A7". Scott's book describes how to go from the root key of the chord to the other keys in the chord. It also provides diagrams of many common chords.

To start with, the chord is played at the beginning of the measure and is held until the next chord or is repeated at the beginning of the next measure. As one gets more proficient with the piano, there are many variations that can be learned. I'm not there yet. There are many, many possible chords. But, for this project, it is only necessary to learn the hand-full of chords noted on the music. Here are some of those chords...

So, it is very focused situation. Learning the melody with the right hand – playing one note at a time. Second, learning the chords to accompany the melody with the left hand – one chord at a time. And, learning to combine the two hands. The idea is to make the music sound the way you want it to sound. The music notation is a guide rather than a rule. You get to have fun learning the tune because it is one of your favorites and you are seeing constant progress in learning it.

I'm still getting off the ground in learning to play popular style piano or keyboard. But, my experience so far, has convinced me that it's not only possible but fun. So, if you would like to have fun playing some of your favorite tunes, it's not too late! Get some of Scott's materials, choose your favorite tune and start playing!

Play Piano in a Flash!" by Scott "The Piano Guy" Houston

Mercy's Birthday

We had a great time celebrating Mercy's 13th birthday. She not only enjoyed Suzanne's fire engine cake, new clothes, and exciting toys but also a ride with Solomon on the Texas Star ferris wheel at the State fair of Texas. Is it the biggest ferris wheel or is it the biggest in Texas? She thought the pig races were funny, the prize bull was huge and the baby goats were not only cute -- they were friendly. There is something special about seeing Mercy's joy and gratitude. We praise God for the gift of Mercy Carol.

For more pictures see Heather's Blog.

A Debt

I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish. (Romans 1:14)

Recently, I was at the Texas State Fair. I had taken along some of my favorite "ice-breakers" to share there. But, I only gave out a few of the million dollar bills. Thousands of people but no relationship, no toehold to conversation or to hand over a piece of paper. There were a few where I developed fleeting relationships and, looking back, I can now see how I could have responded better. But, why bother? Why worry about how to get the Good News into the lives of others?

What is this "obligation" that Paul speaks of in Romans? Another translation calls it a debt. If I were to experience being cured from some dread disease such as cancer, and if I knew how to help others be cured of this disease, then I would have a moral obligation to help those in need of that help. My heart would condemn me if I stood in silence while a friend or child was slowly consumed by that terrible disease. Yet, if I speak up, I may be rejected and chased away by the victim, his family or by the disease experts.

Lord, give me boldness, give us boldness to speak up about the hope we have in Jesus Christ. In Him, we have real life, eternal life and hopeful life. Without Him, there awaits only a meaningless pseudo-life, with despair at its core. This empty shell of a life will end in disaster. We may be excited about our new life or we may have gotten distracted from the central purpose of life. The first priority is to spread the good news and to build God's Kingdom wherever we can. If we have come to new life in Jesus, then we also owe a debt to those who continue to stumble along in spiritual darkness.

Whatever?

Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord you shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for you serve the Lord Christ.
(Col 3:23)

As I look around my office, I see that I have not applied this word of God to how it is kept. I make notes and get journals that I hope to review soon and so I let them occupy a space on my desk. Gradually, that note or journal becomes two or three or ten. In addition, I have books on my shelves that I have not looked at in ten years and that contain obsolete information.

Outside, my tool shed had become very disorderly partly because it was being used by multiple people in our family and I had not established a method or a priority to keep it organized. The result was that it caused me to lose valuable time looking for things, spend more money to replace tools I couldn’t find, and damage things that needed more care. Recently, one of my sons came out and helped me organize it. Since then, I have already noticed several situations where that orderliness saved me much time. I have probably already made up for the time spent in organizing by being more efficient.

By nature, orderliness seems to very important to some people and of minor importance to others. Also by nature, even if we are good at orderliness, we all tend toward taking the easy way out in some areas of our life. But, this verse challenges us to cry out for God’s help to make our lives a genuine reflection of our relationship with Jesus Christ, “our Lord”. How much He is our Lord in everything we do is revealed in how heartily we serve Him in the “little” things. The little things are the areas where we personally but a low value or priority. That little thing may not be so little in God’s eyes. It is easy to blame others. “My tool is lost because my children didn’t take care of it.” But, any parent can see the problem with that blame, since we know who is responsible for training the children. And, much of that training comes through example.

So, let’s take personal responsibility for the “messy” parts of our lives whether it is in the office organization, in our personal relationships or in a part of our daily duties that we don’t like. May we heartily serve the Lord Jesus Christ in these “little” areas just as much as in those where we like to work. Lord, guide me and empower me as I tackle organizing this office and may He empower you for that whatever project that is popping into your thoughts.

Magical Ability

First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all,
because your faith is being proclaimed throughout the whole world. (Romans 1:8)

In a recent football game, a player was praised for his desire to make powerful contact and drive through the defenders. Another player was praised for his "magical" ability. There are many things that seem praiseworthy to the "man on the street". It's not uncommon to hear praise for a man's strength, toughness, speed or ability to throw a ball. We sometimes hear praise for a person's kindness, generosity, wealth or influence. This verse in Romans 1 reveals what God sees as praiseworthy. Faith in God through Jesus Christ is, according to God's perspective, the primary attribute deserving of praise. God wants to praise your faith and my faith. Let's pray for and seek ways to grow in faith.

However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?" - Jesus (Luke 18)

Some ideas:
- Scripture reading
- Spiritual retreats
- seeking God's glory at every opportunity
- meditating on God's Word
- sharing struggles with others
- your ideas??

Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. (Romans 10)

No Walk -- No Wonder

The meek will he teach his way. - God

I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill.--A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps. - God

A man in a genuine, living relationship with Jesus where there is daily communion over God's Word will live an extraordinary life. But, the first temptation to live a zero life is to think that only natural gifts of strength, thought and wisdom are needed for today. Pride will drain the blood from life and leave an empty shell. With Jesus Words, Spirit and blessing, life not only is given meaning but life will take us unexpected and wonderful places. Enoch walked with God and, one day, walked straight into heaven. A daily walk with God will lead to an incredible life. No walk -- No wonder.

"Without me, you can do nothing." - Jesus

"Seek first the Kingdom of God and His rightousness and all these things will be added to you." - Jesus

Ps 25
Eccl 9
Prov 16
John 15
Matt 6

Until the Cart Flips Over

If you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; then shall you… (Proverbs 2:4)

The popular culture has become the wisdom of the masses. No more digging for diamonds or rubies is required because fountains of wisdom bubble forth in high definition, sit in control of our schools, dispense our health, and steer the government. Thinking, questioning and searching is now the domain of eccentrics, non-conformists and conspiracy believers. Faith, independent thinking and personal responsibility are no longer required or expected. Relax in the back seat and let the experts drive. Rest in peace. If there is damage to health, finances, family or faith; it will be the driver’s fault.

Yet, wisdom still cries out, saying, “How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity? And the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?” Jesus promised a solid foundation and strong house to those who DO what He commanded. Watch out! Personal responsibility is rearing its head. Sadly, there are few who know what Jesus commanded and even fewer who take action to apply that truth to modern life. The road of life has many forks that lead to disaster but He who is the Way, the Truth and the Life shows the way to the place He has prepared. The fountains of worldly wisdom encourage ignorance, entertainment and conformity as the way to peace, joy and acceptance. Ignorance is truly bliss – until the cart flips over in the ditch.

"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7)

Happy is the man that finds wisdom, and the man that gets understanding. She is more precious than rubies: and all the things you can desire are not to be compared unto her. (Proverbs 3:13,15)

--

Wimpy Sloth or Courageous Warrior

How long will you lie there, O sluggard?
When will you arise from your sleep?
A little sleep, a little slumber,
a little folding of the hands to rest,
and poverty will come upon you like a robber,
and want like an armed man. Proverbs (6:9-11)

This verse came to mind this morning as I tried to wake up and get out of bed early enough to have time for Bible reading and prayer. It is often a struggle for me to break free from the sheets. Sadly, there are many who lose their spiritual vision, strength and fruit before they ever get out of bed. Spiritual poverty comes like a robber and steals the potential fruit of individuals, families and congregations. Jesus taught that we should pray for daily bread and He also said that we do not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from God's mouth. How many of us are sleeping through the meal that God has for us? I know I've missed too many of His meals.

Spiritual growth and health does not just happen. It requires growing in our relationship to Jesus. We must take time out of our daily concerns to sit at His feet and listen. It is difficult to get below the surface to truly hear and understand our friend, child or spouse. It is even more difficult if our attention is simultaneously drawn to a TV or if our ears are being bombarded by loud music. Also, if we are too busy to stop and listen to our child, we will not be able to understand his real message. In the same way, to hear Jesus, we must get away from busy-ness, noise and distractions for a little while and focus on His Word, His character and His call.

The slothful man says, "There is a lion outside, I shall be slain in the streets." (Proverbs 22)

He is calling us to more than earning a living, maintaining our yard, going to parties and sinking into sleep. But, I and many others are held back by fear. The verse above warns us that it may be laziness more than fear. Our supposed fears may be the excuses of our weak flesh wanting to take it easy. I personally know that it is easier to sink back and watch a football game than to go out and serve where God seems to be leading; especially when God's calling seems a little bit scary or challenging.

Our spiritual battle starts the moment we wake up. Let's seek God's grace to be courageous warriors rather than wimpy sloths.

A Tremendous Opportunity

House Churches and Richardson East

Since our goal is to build God’s Kingdom as effectively as possible then we must not overlook the dynamic power of house churches. Look at two growth curves. One curve is the “normal” growth of conventional churches. This curve shows growth that quickly reaches a plateau where it may remain for decades. The other curve shows the exponential growth of the early Church which, during its first three centuries, was forced by persecution to meet in house churches. And, it also shows the exponential growth of the church in China in the last 60 years. If we look around the world today, we see the fastest growth occurring where the Church is meeting in networks of house churches. China, India, Indonesia and many parts of Africa are experiencing a dramatic increase in the number churches and a large percentage are essentially house churches.

When we speak of growth, how do we define success? A house church does not see the growth of their group as success. Rather, success is defined not in terms of a single group or congregation but in the growth of the movement within the community, state or nation. A house church grows until it reaches a certain critical mass. This may the size at which it can not maintain secrecy, or when it outgrows the house or it may be when it can no longer have quality relationships within the group. When that size is reached, the group simply divides into two groups and each group continues to grow and divide. The groups are dividing but the movement is multiplying.

As an example, assume a house church that divides when it reaches a size of 12 people. Let’s further assume that each house church either reaches the size of 12 each year or dies out after five years. For our example, assume that 25% of the house churches disappear after five years. Based on this, the movement will have 144 people involved after five years. But, after ten years, the number of people involved will be almost 3500. And, incredibly, after twenty years almost 2 million people will be actively involved. The rate of growth is exponential and a community, an entire nation or even the whole world can be dramatically changed in 30 years or in a single generation. These numbers may seem unrealistic. But, they have been exceeded in some parts of today’s world. For instance, Mozambique has grown from almost no Christians to over 5000 house churches in about 10 years.

Based on this, why don’t we see house churches in almost every neighborhood? One reason is that we have a natural tendency to want to have big groups with their associated pocketbooks and political influence. The Christian Church was forced underground and into house churches for the first 300 years of its existence. During that time it spread over the entire known world and became a major political influence. As it emerged into the public eye, it began to build large buildings, gather in large groups and tended to lose the vitality of Christian community that existed in small, home and family based groups.

Ironically, attempts to wipe out or suppress the Christian Church actually seem to help it grow. On one hand, lukewarm Christians will be driven away by the persecution. But, on the other hand, the remaining Christians will be more zealous and genuine. At the same time, the persecuted Church will tend toward house church dynamics which will cause it to spread more effectively.

Recent surveys reveal that house churches are beginning to spread rapidly in the United States. A survey done by Barna showed that 9% of the adults in the U.S. attend a house church meeting during any single week. We personally know several families involved in house churches. Since our government is not persecuting the Church, why is there an interest in them?

One factor may be a continuing splintering of the denominations. But, a more significant factor seems to be a genuine desire to have a sincere and meaningful expression of faith. Many people seem to be frustrated with conventional churches. The leadership of these churches has sometimes caused division by adopting heretical ideas, becoming politically correct or by denying basic Christian beliefs. In addition, there are some people who are not satisfied with an environment where they often feel more like spectators than participants. Unfortunately, many people find church involvement to be basically irrelevant to their lives.

Many conventional churches are either losing members or are attracting them from other congregations. George Barna in his book, "Revolution", has stated that trends show, in general, that conventional churches will lose a large percentage (50%) of their audience in the next 15-20 years. One reason for this is that it much easier for a person to walk away from the conventional church than to enter into that church’s culture. It is difficult for an un-churched person to walk through the doors of a conventional church and feel comfortable with the culture of the congregation. Even people who attend church all the time can have a problem moving into the culture of a different congregation. For example, Ouida and I accepted a neighbor’s invitation to attend a revival meeting at a small church near where we live. We were greeted at the door by an official greeter but then, even though we were several minutes early, no one spoke to us again until the end of the service. Many of the people knew each other and exchanged jibes and inside jokes. Activities occurred that looked familiar but we weren’t totally sure what people were doing. For instance, many people responded to the invitation to come forward for prayer and they knelt at the front and others joined them. But, there was no comment, explanation or testimony about what people were thinking, feeling, or doing. Naturally, the environment left us feeling a little like isolated aliens.

To better understand the house church movement, Ouida and I attended a Texas House Church conference. This conference functioned similar to a large house church. In fact, it met in a private home. There were 40-50 people at the conference. What we found was enthusiasm for serving Christ, desire for personal involvement in worship, lots of opinion, and vision for growth of networks of house churches. There also seemed to be some who felt antagonism toward conventional churches. The worship times were primitive but rich. The talks were very interactive. Interestingly, we quickly felt much more “at home” at this conference than we ever felt at the revival meeting.

House churches can appeal to the un-churched because they are more like “just getting together” with some neighbors. Many house churches share a meal together which gives an increased sense of hospitality. These churches allow and even expect everyone to participate. The Scripture verses that anticipate everyone coming with a psalm, doctrine, or revelation take on more meaning in a house church where everyone can share what God is doing in their life. Members quickly develop close relationships and use their funds to help one another and to help their neighbors. There is often more of a sense of the dynamic of Christian community than can be easily found in a conventional church. These house churches grow by converting unbelievers or by gaining members who are looking for something more than they find in conventional churches. One example is one of our neighbors. They were heavily involved in a small local church but, for various reasons, have now withdrawn from that church. They are very interested in the idea of a house church because they want closer relationships with more daily interaction. You probably have some neighbors who feel the same way.

What holds back the growth of house churches? One serious constraint can be lack of effective leadership. Leadership in conventional churches comes from formal training facilities such as Christian universities, seminaries and Bible schools. Leadership in house churches can come from seminaries. But, frequently, it develops by “osmosis”. That is, by participation, mentoring and by occasional formal training experiences. Leadership growth in conventional churches is limited by the capacity of the formal training facilities. But, leadership growth in house churches can potentially be exponential if it is given sufficient attention. Another constraint can be the misguided effort to make a house church into a miniature conventional church with a preacher, song leader and church officers. Vital, growing house churches are based on the guidance and power of the God's Spirit acting and speaking through the transformed lives of the participants.

Many churches have small groups or cell churches. But, often, these groups do not multiply like house churches. One reason can be that they are not fully functional as a church and have perception that “real” church is in the auditorium of the big building. Another reason can be because they must maintain a relationship and identify with a central church body. This may mean that the groups can not totally function as an independent church in that some elements of interaction are “off limits”. Communion, for example, might be reserved for the “official” gathering of the church. The group may have to have leadership appointed or approved by the central organization. This limit on leadership may result in the groups being starved for leadership and thus limiting their division into new groups. Group members may also be expected to contribute to the central organization. Potential members may not have a loyalty to the central church body and may not want to identify with or donate to the programs of that body.

An opportunity lies before us, a rich harvest. But, experience shows and trends indicate that the harvest is not going to happen at the conventional church building. If we want to effectively build God’s Kingdom, we will need to invite our neighbors into our homes for “church”. The church at Richardson East could and should be the seedbed or catalyst for the formation of house church networks that would eventually include hundreds and thousands of house churches. If we focus on how to nurture and grow neighborhood house churches of Jesus’ disciples, in 10-20 years we can see impact to our community and neighborhoods in ways that are unimaginable now.

Rather than dissolving the congregation into house churches, we should encourage the salt to get out of the salt shaker and into their neighborhoods and start a neighborhood church. The goal should be a small but dynamic church that would be worshiping together, daily interacting and serving the hurting and needy in their own neighborhood. We should encourage each member to be a missionary building God’s Kingdom in their own village, block or apartment complex.

We are trying to build God’s Kingdom in Africa by encouraging the planting of churches. In the same way, we can plant and grow churches in the harvest of our own neighborhoods. Our community could be dramatically changed in 20-30 years if house churches are encouraged and can get traction in each of our neighborhoods. In fact, through the power of God’s Spirit, millions of people could be brought into God’s Kingdom. The Church of Christ in Richardson East would no longer be a building or a loosely associated group of hundreds of members. It would be the Church of Christ manifest in thousands of churches working together, each in their own neighborhood, to reveal the love of Christ in the DFW area.

Summary

• What is our vision for growth? How many will we be impacting in ten years? Twenty years?

• How do we define growth and success? Is it growth of a particular group, a congregation, or is it the growth of a movement?

• Barna (“Revolution”) sees a significant trend toward alternative forms of church, especially house churches. He predicts an almost 50% decline in the “market share” of conventional churches over the next 15-20 years.
• How do we anticipate, prepare for, and respond to this?

• What factors are contributing to this shift?

1. Splintering of denominations
2. Rejection of the irrelevant
3. Seeking more participation
4. Desire for more meaningful relationships
5. Cultural barriers
6. Search for authentic spiritual experiences
7. ??

• What factors hinder house church growth?

1. Lack of genuine disciples of Christ with transformed lives
2. Leadership
3. Lack of experience
4. Understanding the hazards

• How are house churches different than small groups?

o Spiritual zeal, energy – enthusiasm

o Spiritual power touching neighbors

o Frequency of interaction

o Growth – evangelism

o Outward focus versus inward focus

o Fully functioning church versus special interest group

o Leadership not defined or controlled by a central church body

o Funds are collected and controlled by the house church

• What can WE do (by God’s grace)?

o More than we can imagine

o See some ideas below

o .

o .

Ideas?

• Develop a vision for spreading God’s Kingdom in our neighborhoods.
• Develop a vision for neighborhood churches.
• Contact our neighbors.
• Start some house churches, grow, divide, multiply.
• Learn what works and what doesn’t -- get experience.
• Seek out and send out neighborhood church leaders.
• Implement classes and provide resources to develop, mature and support neighborhood church leaders.
• Provide gathering place for house church networks
• Your ideas?
• 
  

References:

• Revolution – George Barna
• Houses That Change The World – Wolfgang Simson
• Edmonton House Churches – Website -- http://www.edmontonhousechurches.com/
• Iris Ministries - Roland and Heidi Baker - Missionaries in Mozambique.
• Gospel for Asia - Training and sending native missionaries in Asia.
• MegaShift – James Rutz
• House2House - Tony and Felicity Dale – USA

Pain Redeeming Power

Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; that he no longer should live the rest of [his] time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.

We naturally want to avoid pain and suffering. Yet Jesus warned us that in this world we would have trouble. Pain, suffering and sorrow are sometimes going to be a natural part of our lives. The temptation is to go extremes to escape the pain. So, we may draw back from a relationship because we fear or can not endure the emotional pain that our spouse or potential spouse can cause. I know a man who told me that he and his wife decided to not have children because he thought that he would be a bad parent and, as a result, would have problem children. When I love someone then I put myself in their power and they can hurt me. That pain can come from their words, actions or attitudes. But, it can also come from losing them or from sharing in their pain.

When pain comes or when suffering is seen in the distance, we have a choice. Often, the first thought is to reject it and try to escape it. Alternatively, we can confront the situation and keep bringing the hurt to Jesus in faith that He is redeeming it. Emotional wounds can be the most difficult to heal. One reason is that we often keep it hidden and hardly admit it to ourselves. Some of us never get out into the opportunities, adventures and thrills of life because we're afraid of the pain of failure. Many of us are afraid of rejection and draw back from telling the Good News of Jesus to those who are wandering through life, sliding toward a dark abyss.

God is in the business of redeeming pain. Let's stop running away from pain, complaining about how we've been hurt, or looking for the magic potion from our doctor. Instead, let's genuinely come into Jesus' presence with our suffering, tell Him how we feel, ask Him to redeem it and then determine, through Jesus, to do whatever we should be doing in His eyes. This may mean being cheerful when we hurt, patient while we wait, attempting reconciliation, or risking falling in love. It may mean allowing someone to crucify us. Only by His strength can we suffer with the same attitude (or mind) as Christ. But, His power really is there for us. Jesus said we would inevitably have tribulation and trouble in this world but He also said to be of good cheer because His pain redeeming power is available to us.

In the world you shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. (Jn 16:33)

Tested by Praise

For the Mighty One has done great things for me -- holy is his name.

Recently, I attended a short team meeting at my office. When I walked into the conference room, I saw that we were going to have cake and a celebration of some kind. Then I saw that the cake was decorated with my name on it. Since I was about to have a birthday, I thought maybe someone at work at gotten wind of it. But, it turned out to be recognition for some work related awards. In many ways, I felt like I was just doing my job where many times I find myself asking God for guidance, right attitudes, and inspiration.

Many of us have experienced promotions, awards or recognition. There is a proverb that says "As gold is tested in the crucible, so are the hearts of men tested by praise." These can be occasions that become temptations to believe that we actually are wonderful, wise or strong. Yet, we get health, talents, and inspiration from our Maker and from the Holy Spirit. We also get the benefits of support and training from our family. And, we can accomplish very little without the team work of many others.

Our primary focus must be to find ways to build God's Kingdom and to spread the influence of His Spirit wherever we can. This means being good workers, inspiring leaders and examples of His presence everywhere. It means praying for Him to enter into all aspects of our lives including our family relationships, work activities and the time we spent chit-chatting with friends, co-workers and neighbors.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory. (Eph 3:20)

Dig out the flashlight

Your word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Ps 119:105)

We were wanting to dig some luggage out of the attic last night. But, we couldn't see it in the darkness. Instead of fumbling around and trying to feel our way, we turned on a flashlight. What a difference it made!

I'm frequently tempted to think I don't have time for reading, meditating and prayer. But, in reality, I will waste a huge amount of life if I am wondering in darkness.

If the above verse is true, how much light is in your life today? Let's dig out the flashlight.

It Colors Every Choice

"but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15

God gives each of us gifts, talents, time and choices. Our choices determine what happens to the gifts, talents, and time. There is one fundamental choice that will drive and color all the others. Will I serve myself, do what I feel like, and seek to expand my self image or will I serve the Lord, doing what I may not always feel like and expanding His image? Let us forget our past poor choices and reach for the high calling of living in and for Christ. Life in Christ is only possible if Christ is living in us. He will live in us if we genuinely repent of serving self and trust Jesus for direction, purpose and fulfillment.

This book may be of interest to you. If you've already read it let me know what you think of it.

=== from Paul Byerly ====
One of you sent me a link to a story about John Gottman, author of The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: A Practical Guide from the Country's Foremost Relationship Expert . Dr. Gottman is a mathematician who has found ways to apply math to couples and very accurately predict who will stay married and who will not, or more specifically to tell with better than 90% accuracy what is going to happen to a relationship over the next three years. By looking at what is done by couples cope well versus those who do not, Gottman has found ways of significantly helping 75% of couples in very short periods of time.


A few interesting tid-bits from the article:

• 67% of couples have a significant decrease in relationship happiness in the first 3 years following the birth of their first child.
• 96% of the time the way a conflict goes for the first 3 minutes determines how it goes for the rest of the discussion.
• 69% of the time couples are talking about the same issues year after year - and these are usually based on basic things like personality differences.
• Sharing dreams had a huge positive impact on couples.
• Couples who have no connection, but put on a good marriage show, tend to divorce 16-22 years after they wed.
• Similar situations tend to cause women fear and men anger.

I've not read Gottman's book, but it's on it's way from Amazon!
==============

Only On Father's Day

Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God has given you. (Exodus 20)

I recently spoke to a man who had a portrait of his grandfather in his office. When I asked about it, he said that his grandfather was the greatest man that ever lived. Then he paused and said, "except for One." This man honored his grandfather in his heart and in his words. His honor was obviously sincere.

This commandment to honor is repeated many times in the Bible. And, this is the season that we are encouraged by business to show honor by finding things to buy for our parents. Yet, like the rest of the Ten Commandments, this commandment can be genuinely obeyed only when our actions and words are a sincere manifestation of our internal thoughts and attitudes. A person who speaks to his mother only at Christmas and Mother's day obviously has a relationship problem and does not genuinely love and honor her.

The quality of our honor and respect for our parents is not manifest in occasional gifts but in the positive energy of our relationship. If we find their presence tiresome, their ideas boring and generally have more important things to do than to talk to them, then our relationship will manifest our attitudes with infrequent visits and conversation. Also, if we speak of them to others with respect and honor, when they are not around, it demonstrates that our words come from our heart rather than just our lips.

" A son honors his father, and a servant his master Then if I am a father, where is My honor? And if I am a master, where is My respect?' says the LORD of hosts to you, .. Malachi 1

In the same way, the quality of our honor and love for God is shown in the energy of our relationship with Him. Do we actually desire to hear His words and understand His ideas? Or, do we find time listening and talking to Him to be boring, tiresome and less important than reading the news or watching our favorite sports entertainment? Do we honor Him with purified hearts or do we enter into "worship" or "communion" with hidden sins. Do we bring hatred and resentment to the table? Maybe we bring hatred toward a relative, spouse, ex-spouse, or neighbor? If we bring resentment and hatred to worship, then we clearly haven't honored God's desire and command to do all we can to be reconciled.

In some of the other commandments, God makes it clear that He desires us to honor and respect Him. In Jesus, God has made it very clear the extremes that He will go to in order to be reconciled with us. Yet, the choice of entering into a genuine relationship with Him depends on us changing our minds about sin and about our priorities. It has been estimated that, in the United States, at least 80% of those who call themselves Christian are actually false converts. They believe in Jesus but they have not truly repented of their wrong desires, their favorites sins and especially of being boss of their own lives. Let's test ourselves. Do I really want God's will and direction in my life? If so, when was the last time I read the Bible to see how it applied to my life? Was it today or only on Sunday, Christmas, Easter, or Father's Day?

Loving Solutions

This book sounds like one that could be very helpful and is one that I will be reading soon. I suspect each of us sometimes falls into the category of being a difficult spouse (I know I am sometimes a challenge to live with) or having a difficult spouse. Even if we have a wonderful marriage and there are no problems between us and our spouse, there will be friends and relatives that we could possibly help with this information. Have any of you read it? If so, please comment on the book here.

A book recommendation: Loving Solutions - by Gary Chapman (author of The Five Love Languages )

The book for those married to difficult or unresponsive spouses, Loving Solutions shares practical insight into dealing with the irresponsible, workaholic, controlling, uncommunicative, verbally abusive, physically abusive, sexually abused, unfaithful, alcoholic, drug abusing, or depressed spouse. At best it will help you do things that will lead to a positive change, at worst it will help you deal with the situation in a way that reduces your frustration.

There Appears To Be Only Death

"So they are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let no man put asunder." --Jesus (Matthew 19:6)

Dear X,

While I can not fully appreciate your suffering because I have not been through the total breakdown of a marriage relationship, every man or woman who has been married for several years, has probably seen at least glimpses of that pain in their marriages. Even though Jesus indicated divorce could happen, He made it clear that it would be like being physically torn apart. So, tremendous pain and suffering is and will be the result. Studies show that children are better off in a family with estranged parents living in the same house than when they separate or get divorced. Separation and divorce seem like a way to rest from the pain of the relationship. But, the suffering goes on through the children. And, it can be terrible to see their suffering.

So, while you have resentment toward your wife and no longer know the inner person, she is the mother of your children and the person that you vowed before God and man to love whether well or sick (and she is spiritually sick), rich or poor and through thick and thin. It's hard to say and harder to do, but if you don't fight this divorce tooth and toenail, you will join in the responsibility for whatever crop it produces in your children. Whether you end up divorced or not, you are called to continue to do all you can to be reconciled.

Consider how we rejected God. We turned against God. We joined up with Satan and gave him our loyalty. I did not desire a relationship with the Lover of my soul. But, God did not just turn his back on us and say, "Go to hell." He struggled for us through our rejection, ridicule, flogging and crucifixion. Jesus' life and death says, "I will love you even though I don't know the person you have become. I will love you even though you hate me. I will love you no matter what you do to me."

Even though you admit you are partly at fault in the relationship breakdown, you do not have to be a party to the decision to blow it up. You are the father of your children and, for their sake, you are called to lay down your desires for another love relationship and to continue to struggle in this relationship to give them a better future. I'm sure you realize that you do not have the strength for this approach. But, God will give you grace for it if you will determine to stand by your word and fight for your children and your wife. If you win, the bride you married that seems to have died will reappear someday and will thank you. Your children will thank you for fighting to keep your vow. But now, she will hate you for taking this position. You have been terribly wounded. Are you a man of your word? Will you keep your vow that you made to God? God wants to give you grace. I know you do not want to fight on and do not want to hear this. You can do it. Do it for your children, do it for the bride that you married that seems to have died, and do it for God who died for you to see you become his son. Pray for grace to be Jesus to your family. He will give you grace to carry this cross and even to be crucified. God can bring new life where there appears to be only death.

God's desire for each of us:
It will no longer be said to you, "Forsaken,"
Nor to your land will it any longer be said, "Desolate";
But you will be called, "My delight is in her,"
And your land, "Married";
For the LORD delights in you,
And to Him your land will be married. (Isaiah 62:4)

Tips for Men Wanting To Be Successful

The president of a very successful company would follow a curious procedure when he was considering hiring a new executive. First, he would take the prospective executive out to eat at a restaurant. When they received the menu, the president would carefully watch to see if the man looked at the food first or the price first. If he focused on the food before checking the price, he failed the test.

During the meal, the president would ask his guest to pour half a glass of water for him. If the water went well beyond the halfway mark, this test was failed for not following instructions. These tests might seem insignificant to us, but not for this CEO. He has learned through much experience the wisdom of God’s three tests of a faithful man.

-- The character of a servant is revealed in little decisions. --

The three tests of a faithful servant are given to us in Luke 16:10–13. They are:

1. Being faithful in little things.
2. Being faithful with money.
3. Being faithful in carrying out another man’s work.

Those who pass these three tests are likely to have the following qualities, which are essential qualities of a faithful servant:

* Availability: Adjusting my schedule in order to accomplish the tasks that are assigned to me. This quality is the result of choosing to serve another rather than ourselves.

* Initiative: Seeing what needs to be done and doing it. All achievement begins with initiative. God demonstrated initiative when He created the world and when He provided redemption for us through Christ.

* Diligence: Accepting each task as a special assignment from the Lord and using all my resources to accomplish it. A diligent man will never lack for a job, because his boss cannot afford to lose him.

* Creativity: Finding a new and more efficient approach to accomplish a project. Every task will encounter obstacles that stop the average worker but become exciting challenges to the creative servant.

* Wisdom: Choosing the right course by listening to the counsel of God and others. A creative idea may be a foolish solution. A wise and creative person will act in harmony with the laws of nature and of God.

“Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean [obscure] men” (Proverbs 22:29).

I have known many men who are in constant jeopardy of losing their jobs because they do not excel in these five essential qualities. It would be wise to go to a trusted friend and ask him to rate your demonstration of each quality on a scale of 1–10. Remember that the wounds of a true friend are faithful (see Proverbs 27:6), and thank him for his honesty. Then, let’s do all we can to develop these vital qualities so that we can be honorable examples of a servant of Christ. (from Daily Success)

Our attitude in "little" things like seemingly unimportant leisure minutes, our boss's preferences or even care of tools or possessions will carry over to things that are of definite importance to us. We will try hard to be successful in the big things but the automatic responses of our attitudes will, in many cases, determine whether we actually achieve all our goals. May God help us to see where our attitudes need adjustment and give us grace to change.

… Whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; and whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant” (Matthew 20:26–27).
--
Subscribe to "Daily Success" (through learning to think like Jesus).

A Bag of Stones

A man was walking late one night to a distant town when he stumbled upon something in the road. Reaching down, he picked up a small bag full of stones. He looked around and stared through the darkness, attempting to see if anyone had dropped them. Seeing no one, he decided to take the bag along with him on his long journey on a moonless night.

To pass the time, he started dropping the small stones in the river bordering the road. Plop . . . plop . . . the sound was harmless amusement for the bored traveler. When he reached his destination, he had only two stones left in the bag. Entering the town, he drew closer to a street lamp off the square. Cupping the two remaining stones in his palm, he looked at them under the yellow lamplight and saw an odd twinkle and luster to the stones. He peered closer. To his shock and dismay, the small, stones were actually diamonds!
A wise prison pastor who was able to lead many of his fellow prisoners to Christ related this small story on numerous occasions. He learned through suffering that every minute could be used to further God’s kingdom, no matter what the circumstance. He often admonished others, “You can regain lost money, but not lost time. Use your time wisely in God’s service.”

Thirty-two million seconds in every year, and each second we live is a precious gift from God to use for his purposes. If we waste them, the seconds return to God, but they will not return to us. They are gone forever, like the diamonds in the silt of the river bottom. Jesus, even while being crucified, spent his final breaths offering salvation to the robber and speaking words of comfort to his mother. He even ministered to his murderers by offering them forgiveness. Imagine how precious that time was to the thief who joined Jesus in heaven that day. Are you filling your precious moments with purpose? Ask God to show you how to redeem your time, not waste it.
(from Extreme Devotion)

Our culture, and the world in general, puts priority on things that are temporary and makes the eternal things of little value. An example of this is ignoring important relationships to work on favorite projects, watch TV, or even overdoing church activity. "The Mother's War" and "Fully Known by Our Lover", are articles that bring out how we can miss the truly important things in life in pursuit of goals that we've absorbed from the surrounding culture. The only way to get correct priorities is to be guided by God's Spirit, soak up God's Word and put His Kingship as first priority. Otherwise, we are ignorantly and carelessly tossing diamonds into the river.
--

toddlers 'become aggressive'

Another warning from Pediatricians about the danger of TV for young children. But, what about the rest of us? How many of us can look back and honestly say that we wished we had watched more TV? Watching TV basically produces nothing and accomplishes very little. Let's move in the direction of less TV and more productivity in our lives. By productivity, I mean improved relationships, personal growth and just getting things done. Tonight, try turning off the tube (or computer) and try talking to your neighbor, child or spouse (if he's not watching TV).

TV toddlers 'become aggressive'

Toddlers who watch too much television can become aggressive and suffer from poor attention span, a survey claims.

The report discovered that an increasing number of children are watching television at a younger age and that nearly half of children in the study were regular viewers of television, video or DVDs by the age of three months.

The figure jumps to 90 per cent of two year olds, according to researchers who say parents are ignoring the health warnings.

Even though the study was carried out in the US, psychologists warned that it had implications for Britain.

The findings, among 1,000 children and published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine journal, come after a psychologist in the UK claimed British children were also spending hours slumped in front of the small screen and it was "the greatest unacknowledged health threat of our time". [read more..]

By Sarah Womack, Social Affairs Correspondent

Last Updated: 2:33am BST 08/05/2007

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2007/05/08/ntvkids08.xml

Word Fire!

“… If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone … ” (Matthew 18:15).

There is significant danger when sharing with others how we have been or are being hurt by another individual. This sharing can lead to situations, "verbal fires", where it becomes more and more difficult to be reconciled. In addition, we should especially hesitate to say anything negative about anyone in print even if it is a message to that person. We don't want to fuel a fire with our words and especially with our printed words. In general, it seems much better to speak in person about negative things and only put positive things in print or e-mails. I haven't always succeeded in this resolve but it is my aim. Praise and criticism are magnified by how many get to hear it. Let's make it our goal to minimize the criticism and to expand the praise. A word fire is harder to put out and is more destructive than any other kind of fire.

Fully Known by Our Lover

We have eaten and drunk in your presence, and you have taught in our streets. But, he shall say, I tell you, I know you not.. -- Jesus (Luke 13:26)

In my marriage, I'm not primarily looking for my bride to be a good cook, a diligent mother, or to offer herself as a sex object. What I desire is to be intimately known, to be loved and to be respected. From her perspective, my bride wants me to communicate that I genuinely love her and understand her. If I diligently give her 30 minutes of "couch time" each day but do it out of duty, grudgingly or by constraint instead of love, then it does not really accomplish what it should.

In the same way, God is not primarily interested in how we work for Him, what we give to Him or what doctrine we believe about Him. Rather, He wants us to love and seek Him with all our hearts. Going to church, teaching a class or memorizing scripture does nothing in this direction unless it flows out of our love for God and our relationship with Him. I can say, "I love you", a hundred times a day to my wife but it means absolutely nothing if I don't desire to be with her, hear her voice and get to know her better. A husband might make a great effort to complete the "honey-do" list, but is it because he doesn't want to be nagged or because he wants to please his bride and bring her joy?

Our love for our spouse can become lip service. Our love for God can also become just an appearance. Let's check our love for God. Do we actually "want" to spend time with Him everyday? Do we find time for Him everyday? Do we hunger and thirst to hear His words? Do we treasure His words? Do we genuinely want to please Him?

It is easy to become distracted. And it's easy to acquire wrong desires and priorities. When we are threatened with the loss of a spouse, friend or child, then we see how upside-down our priorities have become. Let's stop and think. Am I really in love with Christ? How can I fall more fully in love with Him? God offers us the Holy Spirit so that we can truly love Him. Let's entreat God for more of His Spirit of love and for more grace to love Him and our neighbor. Let's know our Lover and be fully known by the Lover of our soul.

Strive to enter in at the strait gate.. -- Jesus (Luke 13:24)

Under Attack

Take heed that you do not despise any of these little ones, for I tell you, that in heaven their angels always behold the face of my Father in heaven. (Matt 18:10)

As a parent, I've sometimes (too often) let anger and irritation drive away the spirit of love and peace. I've sometimes put my desires, comfort and convenience ahead of providing a healthy emotional environment for our little ones.

In an analogous way, this world and culture makes noises about loving children while constantly waging war on children. From the time of conception until death, children are vulnerable and under attack. While the Church and government are supposed to be helping parents fulfill their responsibility, parents still have the primary responsibility. When a church or government is failing to help or even working against children, it is the parents who must recognize the danger and take to appropriate steps.

Consider how many children are being:

• killed before birth
• neglected (e.g. latch key kids)
• damaged by broken families
• orphaned and killed by war, immorality and disease
• sexually abused
• medically abused by drugging for school
• given an education based on godlessness
• fed lies instead of truth by the constant flow of electronic communication media
• indoctrinated and raised to be terrorists
• taught to worship false gods
• drawn into drugs and immorality
• unprepared for real life

The protection of children requires vigilance, activity and prayer. Choosing convenience, comfort or the path of least resistance (going with the flow) is essentially despising them to the extent that we won't suffer for them. Going with the flow will be like floating peacefully along until the current is so strong that we can not escape the destruction at the waterfall. If you are a parent, consider what influences are affecting your children. What can you do provide more truth, protection and growth in faith and love? Take action today.

First Hug Blessing

Granddad's First Hug blessing for Jonathan Douglas Boyd

May the Lord anoint you,
Jonathan Douglas,
to be His prophet
to go before His face.

May you be filled with the Holy Spirit
as John the Baptist was.

May God protect you from evil
and the evil influences of this culture.

May you, Jonathan Douglas,
be surrounded with Truth
and with examples of Christ-filled lives.

May the Lord train and equip you
to be a mighty spiritual warrior,
dangerous to the enemy.

May the Lord bless you and keep you.
- Granddad

A Huge Loss

For God commanded, "Honor your father and mother: and, he that curses father or mother; let him die the death" - Jesus (Matt 15:4)

I received a couple of questions about a recent article. about the above verse.

Question:

Not 100% sure your point... Based on the verses you noted, I get the impression that you are saying we should do what our parents say "period", even if we don't agree with them, otherwise we will not be blessed by God and miss his "perfect" plan. When parents are not looking out for their kids best interest are their children still supposed to do what they say?

On the car subject. We can try to get a "easy pass" by listening to others and our parents that have good advice, but at some point we have to become mature not leaning on the knowledge of others. The times that I have learned the most are when I have made mistakes and gained experience and maturity from them.

Answer:
We honor our parents by demonstrating how we value their love, experience, opinions and counsel. Children, who are adults, still have personal responsibility for their decisions and must still determine the best choice for their particular situation. Too often, children dishonor their parents by attacking their foundational values, minimizing their life experience, rejecting their love, and failing to seek their counsel.

Scripture encourages us to seek the advice of many counselors before going to war. Proverbs encourages each of us and especially young people (my definition of young keeps getting older) to seek wisdom by listening to God and to others with more experience. A person who makes decisions without getting counsel from those with more experience, demonstrate that they believe themselves to be wise. Scripture warns that those who believe themselves to be wise are actually fools. I've personally made too many decisions without seeking sufficient counsel and paid the price. As a result, I learned at a much greater expense than I wanted to pay. We can save a great deal of money, time and pain by learning from the experiences of others. Our parents usually have investment, objective interest, and love for us that other counselors lack. Our failure to recognize the value of their counsel will be a huge loss for us.

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

The way of a fool is right in his own eyes,
But a wise man is he who listens to counsel. (Proverbs 12:15)

A Happy Landing

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.. – Jesus (Matthew 6)

A few years ago (or maybe it has been decades), when I was in college, I suddenly got the bug to get a sports car. Up to that time, I had survived without a car and had remained debt free through almost two years of college. In spite of that, all of the sudden, I couldn’t wait any longer for a sports car. My parents didn’t think it was a good idea, but I bypassed them and got my grandfather to loan me the money for a good used car. He, however, did not like the idea of a foreign car and pressured me into buying a nice, reliable car. So, I got a nice, reliable car. But, it was not a sports car and didn’t satisfy all of my desire.

A couple of years later, I was able to sell that nice, reliable car and get a loan from a car dealer to fulfill my desire for a sports car. About a year later, I had graduated from college and gotten married. Soon there was a baby on the way and my bride wanted to quit work. Something had to give financially and the only thing that looked optional was my SPORTS CAR. If I had kept the nice, reliable car, we could have enjoyed the conveniences of two cars. If I had listened to my parents, I could have finished college almost debt free. But, I had my desires and I found a way to satisfy them. Besides, it only took four or five years to completely pay off my college debts.

Another man had a great desire to minister full time to men. But, his father wanted him to first work for a few years in his business. This man reluctantly agreed to work with his father, but eventually committed to working in his father’s business for ten years. During those ten years, this man met his wife, got married, had children and began to develop a ministry to men. Now after 13 years, this man has an international ministry to men and to business.

Most of us can probably look back and see messes that we’ve gotten into because of not listening to our parent’s advice or not even seeking it. Some of us may still be suffering with the results of poor decisions. On the other hand, we may also have missed out on blessings because of our stubborn attitude. Today is a good day to re-examine our attitudes and to look at the results of our decisions. Many times we blame God for our problems when we sowed the seeds that are producing the harvest. It might also be a good day to bless or honor our parents for their attempts to help us even when we didn’t appreciate their efforts. But, whether we do that or not, we should be honest with God, our heavenly Father, about our past mistakes in ignoring His guidance and seeking our own desires. Today is a good day to change our mind and our approach to decisions. Just as in flying an airplane, the guidance we have on our approach to the runway is critical to a successful and happy landing.

“Listen to your father that begot you and despise not your mother when she is old.” (Prov 23:22)

“For God commanded, saying, Honor your father and mother: and, He that curses father or mother, let him die the death” – Jesus (Matthew 15:4)

Judge orders 'gay' agenda taught to Christian children

The courts continue to push the 'gay' agenda in public (government) schools. See the article here.

In the Instruction of the Lord

I have spoken to a few of you recently who were concerned about your children's public school and your child's attitude toward education. You felt trapped in a school environment and wished you could afford a private school. Ouida and I believe that home education is a great approach. But, not everyone feels they can do it. Here is another alternative that you may not have seen: http://www.mykidsdeservebetter.com/

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:4)

A child's training is primarily his parent's responsibility. May God give us wisdom how to fulfill it.

The Eager Bridegroom

But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first.

Frequently, we hear of struggling marriages. News reports bring stories of marriages collapsing and other relationships being formed. Ex-spouses say that their love is gone. How does love fade away? Relationships consist of conversations. As we stop conversing in one relationship, it will fade and disappear. New relationships start with casual conversations that gradually become more personal. Relationships are defined one conversation at a time.

If we say that we have a relationship with a person but never listen to or converse with him then it is an almost non-existent relationship. In exactly the same way, the strength of one’s relationship to God grows and shrinks as we each converse and commune with Him. God will speak to us as we read and meditate on His Word and we tell Him our fears, needs and joys. We can and should have frequent conversations with the Lover of our soul.

We hear the voice of the World all around us and our natural impulse is to embrace the World’s message, goals and values. But, if we will daily give our life to God through Jesus and converse with God often then our mind and desires will begin to change. Who we listen to and talk to defines our true relationships and direction.

Would you or your wife like a relationship where you get together for sex once or twice a week and never speak to each other otherwise? Do we think that going to church once or twice a week makes a good relationship with God? Let’s don’t fool ourselves. Jesus called us to a radical and intimate relationship. The Church is His bride. Join me in repenting of a too shallow relationship with God and too much time in wrong relationships. Let’s expand our conversation with our First Love, and deepen our relationship with our Bridegroom. He is eager for us to commune with Him.

Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.

I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

(Matthew 4:4)
(John 15:5)
(Revelation 2:4)

Kevin and the Rock

Recently, on an airline flight, I met Kevin. He is in his middle thirties. As we talked, he spoke of his wife, one small son and another child on the way. Our conversation turned to heaven. He felt that it existed and was a gift to children but that adults got there by being “responsible”. Church was an experience that he had a few times as a child. Kevin admitted that he had a need in himself and his family. By the time we landed, he had promised to get a Bible and begin reading the New Testament with the goal of doing what it said. I'm praying that he keeps his promise because, if he does, there will be a new warrior and his family in God's Kingdom.

And why call me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?

Am I only hearing Jesus teachings or am I actually doing them?

Whoever comes to me and hears my sayings, and does them, I will show you to whom his is like: He is like a man which built his house,

My family is my house.

And dug deep,

Do I genuinely dig deep into God’s Word? Do I actually read Scripture daily and beg God to reveal how it applies to my own life?

And laid the foundation on the rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house,

One or more tragedies and crisis’s will come into the life of every family. Mine is no exception. The flood will come.

And could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. (Luke 6:46+)

Let's build on the rock of hearing Jesus and doing what He said.

May God give us hunger for every Word that proceeds from His mouth and grace to put it into practice. (See Matthew 4:4 and Luke 4:4)

Eyes -- but Blind, Ears -- but Deaf

"Continue in prayer."-Colossians 4:2

It is interesting how large a portion of Scripture is occupied with the subject of prayer, either in furnishing examples, enforcing precepts, or pronouncing promises. We scarcely open the Bible before we read, "Then began men to call upon the name of the Lord;" and just as we are about to close the volume, the "Amen" of an earnest supplication meets our ear. Instances are plentiful. Here we find a wrestling Jacob-there a Daniel who prayed three times a day-and a David who with all his heart called upon his God. On the mountain we see Elias; in the dungeon Paul and Silas.

We have multitudes of commands, and myriads of promises. What does this teach us, but the sacred importance and necessity of prayer? We may be certain that whatever God has made prominent in His Word, He intended to be conspicuous in our lives. If He has said much about prayer, it is because He knows we have much need of it. So deep are our needs, that until we are in heaven we must not cease to pray. Do you want nothing? Then, I fear you do not know your poverty. Have you no mercy to ask of God? Then, may the Lord's mercy show you your misery! A prayerless soul is a Christless soul. Prayer is the lisping of the believing infant, the shout of the fighting believer, the requiem of the dying saint falling asleep in Jesus. It is the breath, the watchword, the comfort, the strength, the honor of a Christian. If you are a child of God, you will seek your Father's face, and live in your Father's love.

Pray that this year you may be holy, humble, zealous, and patient; have closer communion with Christ, and enter more often into the banqueting-house of His love. Pray that you may be an example and a blessing to others, and that you may live more to the glory of your Master. The motto for this year must be, "Continue in prayer."

The above paragraphs from C.H. Spurgeon reminded me of the focus on prayer that occurs throughout Scripture. And, it encouraged me to personally refocus on prayer. A prayerless or prayer starved life is also powerless, sightless, deaf and dull. The more I pray and seek God, the more I find myself outside my comfort zones discovering unanticipated opportunities, adventures and blessings. Prayer enables me to see beyond myself and to begin to see and hear others. Without a heart for prayer and seeking God, we have eyes but are blind and ears but are deaf. Lord, give me sight!

Project:

• read Revelation 3:14-22
• Let’s ask to God expand our desire and focus on prayer.
• Let’s change our personal schedule to have more times of prayer and explicitly seeking God in His Word and in meditating on His Word.

Lord, give me more desire to know You and to hear Your voice whispering in my heart.


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