While serving as a Youth Pastor in the 1990's I remember a fellow Youth Pastor used a drama during a weekend lock-in that got more attention than he first thought it would. During the evening Worship Service for this event he had armed people storm the worship service and take him out in handcuffs. Why? He was showing the teenagers and adults what could easily happen in America if we Christians did not wake up to the trends that were developing. This Youth Pastor was labeled a radical nut and public opinion from his own church and others followed those lines. In fact, I was instructed by our Pastor to NEVER try something like that with our people.
Today, such a skit is ill advised due to the shootings that have taken place in churches. But the message of this Youth Pastor was indeed spot on. Adults in the early 90's did not see coming what now has arrived. The following article describes the first in America shakedown and intimidation of preachers.
What should we do?
1. Every Pastor needs to stand with these men. We cannot coward from this moment. Nor should these men fight this fight alone.
2. Every Christian in America needs to join in this fight. Your spiritual lives are being threatened.
3. We need to fight and stand in a Christian manner. This is not a time to go off on tangents. Passion is needed. But controlled passion will show the real nature and character of Christ in this battle. We need people to see Christians stand in a Christian manner thus showing them the message of salvation found in Jesus.
4. We need not politicize this moment. Certainly the Mayor of Houston is doing just that. But should we join in his methods the real message of the issue at hand will be lost.
5. Pastors everywhere need to educate their people on what is taking place. This education must be delivered with a passion for heaven sent revival among ourselves. We have trusted in the "American" system and history for far too long. Apathy is present in American Christianity and we need to once again beg people to cry out to God for revival.
6. Pastors must continue to preach showing no fear. But our preaching must be Biblical, including love for all and desiring all to be saved. Hate speech and emotional rants are not found in the Bible nor should they come from us Pastors.
7. We must fervently pray! And then fervently pray more!
America has changed and is changing. We may lose more freedoms than we ever dreamed. We may be able to prevent the loss of many freedoms. But more important than that, are the lives entrusted to each of us Pastors to teach, preach, and disciple with the Truths of God's Word. And it is here that we are being called to faithfulness. Children and adults in other parts of the world are standing for Christ to the point of death!
What will we do?
Blogging for the purpose of Spiritual Growth and Edification
Showing posts with label Future of American Christianity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Future of American Christianity. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
Friday, October 25, 2013
Don't Get Picked Off!
In honor of the World Series I thought I would use the baseball analogy as a title to show the real crisis facing America in the coming months with Healthcare. Join me on a journey that highlights how many Americans are getting picked off by the politics with Healthcare and are actually going to be out as a result.
Delay it!
The law has already been incrementally implemented. Insurance companies have already trashed the old and created the new, with higher premiums. Delaying the penalty does not fix the problem!
Stop the Government from being in the Insurance Business!
Wait - they already do with medicare. Yet with the ACA they are not. Insurance companies are the ones that people are to buy insurance from. Problem, no one can afford it nor can they get access to it. So what happens when the Insurance companies are not getting their premiums from over 65% of the people come January 1? How long can they operate paying claims with such a great loss of premiums. My simple math says it will exceed a shortfall of over $350 Billion in the first quarter of 2014. Where will the money come from to pay claims?
We can just go back!
Go back to what? Politicians need to come clean and tell the truth that the old system is gone. They might also want to admit that they have NO idea what to do with the real problem come March 2014 - no money in the system to pay claims!
Throw them all out of office!
OK, but who has a solution? This is a total change of the America you and I have known and there is NO going back. Any solution will require Government intervention and controls for some time. It is remember, 1/3 of our total economy. It is not going to be a simple solution!
So what do we do?
That is a great question! I am afraid that no one knows! And that my friends is the real issue! Our politicians and leaders have let us down. They walked away from or pushed this mess on us. Both parties have sold us out. They push their spin and continue raising money knowing that NO solutions are on the horizon. They just want to get re-elected.
Do you trust them?
The polls say neither party is getting a pass. Just wait until the above scenarios happen, and they will. Who will you trust to fix the solution and what form of Government will it take to straighten out the mess?
One thing I do know. I am seeing more clearly how anti-Christ will rise to power and the messes that will pave the way for his rise. Desperation is growing daily. Problem is, few are looking to God. Funny how the one person who can help us is the one not being relied upon!
Remember, DON"T GET PICKED OFF! The pitcher in this ballgame is more sneaky than the Red Socks pitcher using a foreign substance the other night in the World Series!
Delay it!
The law has already been incrementally implemented. Insurance companies have already trashed the old and created the new, with higher premiums. Delaying the penalty does not fix the problem!
Stop the Government from being in the Insurance Business!
Wait - they already do with medicare. Yet with the ACA they are not. Insurance companies are the ones that people are to buy insurance from. Problem, no one can afford it nor can they get access to it. So what happens when the Insurance companies are not getting their premiums from over 65% of the people come January 1? How long can they operate paying claims with such a great loss of premiums. My simple math says it will exceed a shortfall of over $350 Billion in the first quarter of 2014. Where will the money come from to pay claims?
We can just go back!
Go back to what? Politicians need to come clean and tell the truth that the old system is gone. They might also want to admit that they have NO idea what to do with the real problem come March 2014 - no money in the system to pay claims!
Throw them all out of office!
OK, but who has a solution? This is a total change of the America you and I have known and there is NO going back. Any solution will require Government intervention and controls for some time. It is remember, 1/3 of our total economy. It is not going to be a simple solution!
So what do we do?
That is a great question! I am afraid that no one knows! And that my friends is the real issue! Our politicians and leaders have let us down. They walked away from or pushed this mess on us. Both parties have sold us out. They push their spin and continue raising money knowing that NO solutions are on the horizon. They just want to get re-elected.
Do you trust them?
The polls say neither party is getting a pass. Just wait until the above scenarios happen, and they will. Who will you trust to fix the solution and what form of Government will it take to straighten out the mess?
One thing I do know. I am seeing more clearly how anti-Christ will rise to power and the messes that will pave the way for his rise. Desperation is growing daily. Problem is, few are looking to God. Funny how the one person who can help us is the one not being relied upon!
Remember, DON"T GET PICKED OFF! The pitcher in this ballgame is more sneaky than the Red Socks pitcher using a foreign substance the other night in the World Series!
Monday, September 30, 2013
The Fear Factor!
When life changes at 2013 speed it is easy for fear to grip us in numerous ways. If you take a step back from your busy life and list the many things that are specific to your life, the things that are changing with which you have no control, it can be frightening to see the fear factor. Fear is found in every life. And of late, fear is the leading emotion used by many to base decisions and reactions.
How can we live a life without fear?
The month of September found us studying this subject with our children's ministry and their parents. Each week highlighted a moment in time from the Bible where God's people overcame the damaging emotion of fear and allowed God to bring about victory in their lives. Such moments were seen with events unfolding that NO human being could ever do. Things like the walls of Jericho falling flat. The bravery of Joseph. Moses being brave when the atmosphere was not conducive to such.
The situations may change but the same God who has worked for hundreds of years is the same God who works today!
Jehovah God is full of power and might. He is all knowing. He is caring, kind and loving. No matter our situations, He is God, and He will bring His children through whatever struggle is before them. God is God and will always be!
In a recent sermon I made the statement "stop worrying, I have read the end of the book and we WIN!" It is a statement that I have said hundreds of times in my ministry. But this time it seemed to hit home more. That got me to realizing something. I began to see the depth of fear in the lives of many. Is our constant siege producing such fear that we miss the foundational truth needed to press on in difficult times?
Living as a winner requires more than words. But in the words "...we WIN" are found a truth that sits as a foundation for our lives, if we allow it. The foundation is that God through Jesus paid for our victory. In Him, we can overcome the reach of fear. In Him we WIN!
Take some time to look at the following verses:
Isa 41:10; Isa 41: 13; Isa 43:1; John 12:15; II Tim 1:7
These are but a few of the many exhortations Biblically given to guide us through the fear factor in our lives.
Though often people prey on our fears to manipulate and control us, God says we are to fear Him alone, and thus allow Him to defeat all other areas of fear in our lives. Ironically, the one fear we are to have and do not, is the only weapon to defeat the grip of Satan and his use of fear in weighing us down.
Fear nothing but God Himself, and watch fear depart. Fear God alone, and watch Him bring your life the victory that He has paid for!
Thursday, August 22, 2013
"Turn to..." or "Search for..." The new Bible Problem!
Lately I have made a point to focus on what I say as I enter the preaching time on Sundays. It has been a self study of some sorts. The result of this study have proven that "most" of the time I begin my preaching time with the phrase "turn in your Bibles to...". Along with this study I have been reading on the many thoughts about Bibles (real book form) and all types of digital. It is fascinating!
Allow me to set the stage a little. First, I love simply reading the Bible in book form! Second, I love reading the Bible in digital form! Clear as mud right? Not so fast. I have noticed that I study with both forms and do this often. In preaching, I use a loose leaf bible with inserted texts. It also contains most of the New Testament and some of the Old. When teaching a class, I use a hardbound Bible. I am all over the map! I have even used my iPad on several occasions for notes. Again, I like all the above!
But what is best? What is better? What is needed?
Above all we need to be people who read the Bible in any form more! We have the ability today to saturate our lives with the Word of God. And saturate we should! But we are not! Just like with the many translations, some not even translations, we keep finding ways to make the reading of the Bible easier and yet - people still struggle with spending time in it! And because of our desire to make it more easier to read, many people are reading versions that are FAR from accurate!
We must remember that the Bible itself is alive! When this life is combined with the power of the Holy Spirit the Bible is easy to understand and apply. Our efforts have diminished this key fact! Many people struggle with understanding simply because their approach to the Bible is NOT spiritual. They are not reading in the power of the Holy Spirit. They are NOT determined to allow the Word of God to change to them. Basically, most people just want a quick answer or promise. And that approach will never produce passionate Bible reading or real life change.
We will not jump into the "which version" debate with this article except to say only a few things. First, we must remember that the word "Version" is involved. For those who desire to argue one over another or claim that one is only THE Word of God, one might pause and ask, what about the Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic? I try to not offend in this area for it only distracts from the real issue. Second, we do need to realize that some "Bibles" are paraphrases while others are translations. Be careful! Most of the recent stuff produced is NOT even close when one looks at the original languages. You may not be reading anything other than someones thoughts on the Bible. And that is dangerous to your spiritual growth!
But what about the FORM? Is there a need today to push the book bound or the digital? Is one better than the other? I am reminded of a similar debate when video projection was brought into the church. People argued that we needed to use only the Hymnals. Only the real deal would produce the right type of praise and adoration. Others embraced the video approach and felt a sense of freedom. Today, I am discovering that many in the older generation are now wanting the words on a screen for there, they are easier for them to read. I have found this true with the use of Bible texts during sermons. So I am placing more and more on the screen against the logic of the professionals.
Why?
I want people to see and read and follow along in the studying of Gods Word!
In fact, we have made our handouts available digitally and one can take notes with the outline on their device. I hesitated for months on this one. Now I see teenagers taking notes ( at least they look like they are!) with their iPads. I have actually had several bring their iPads to me and show me what they have done. This is exciting.
But there is more! Stay tuned! The subject is deep and wide! I might surprise you still!
Allow me to set the stage a little. First, I love simply reading the Bible in book form! Second, I love reading the Bible in digital form! Clear as mud right? Not so fast. I have noticed that I study with both forms and do this often. In preaching, I use a loose leaf bible with inserted texts. It also contains most of the New Testament and some of the Old. When teaching a class, I use a hardbound Bible. I am all over the map! I have even used my iPad on several occasions for notes. Again, I like all the above!
But what is best? What is better? What is needed?
Above all we need to be people who read the Bible in any form more! We have the ability today to saturate our lives with the Word of God. And saturate we should! But we are not! Just like with the many translations, some not even translations, we keep finding ways to make the reading of the Bible easier and yet - people still struggle with spending time in it! And because of our desire to make it more easier to read, many people are reading versions that are FAR from accurate!
We must remember that the Bible itself is alive! When this life is combined with the power of the Holy Spirit the Bible is easy to understand and apply. Our efforts have diminished this key fact! Many people struggle with understanding simply because their approach to the Bible is NOT spiritual. They are not reading in the power of the Holy Spirit. They are NOT determined to allow the Word of God to change to them. Basically, most people just want a quick answer or promise. And that approach will never produce passionate Bible reading or real life change.
We will not jump into the "which version" debate with this article except to say only a few things. First, we must remember that the word "Version" is involved. For those who desire to argue one over another or claim that one is only THE Word of God, one might pause and ask, what about the Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic? I try to not offend in this area for it only distracts from the real issue. Second, we do need to realize that some "Bibles" are paraphrases while others are translations. Be careful! Most of the recent stuff produced is NOT even close when one looks at the original languages. You may not be reading anything other than someones thoughts on the Bible. And that is dangerous to your spiritual growth!
But what about the FORM? Is there a need today to push the book bound or the digital? Is one better than the other? I am reminded of a similar debate when video projection was brought into the church. People argued that we needed to use only the Hymnals. Only the real deal would produce the right type of praise and adoration. Others embraced the video approach and felt a sense of freedom. Today, I am discovering that many in the older generation are now wanting the words on a screen for there, they are easier for them to read. I have found this true with the use of Bible texts during sermons. So I am placing more and more on the screen against the logic of the professionals.
Why?
I want people to see and read and follow along in the studying of Gods Word!
In fact, we have made our handouts available digitally and one can take notes with the outline on their device. I hesitated for months on this one. Now I see teenagers taking notes ( at least they look like they are!) with their iPads. I have actually had several bring their iPads to me and show me what they have done. This is exciting.
But there is more! Stay tuned! The subject is deep and wide! I might surprise you still!
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Christians and the Health Care Disaster!
There is no doubt that the American health care system has had problems - some severe - for some time. When Congress passed the affordable Care Act a consistent even split of the population saw the law as being good and also as being bad. These numbers have changed over the past few years as parts of the law, upheld and redefined, were implemented. The majority of the population now realize that a train wreck is happening even as I type this. Amid the political landscape are efforts to repeal or de-fund. Politicians and pundits have raised millions in there efforts to do all the above. On the other side is the marketing blitz that is firing up to convince young healthy Americans to purchase something they do not want. If this group does not buy the pitch, the money issues are compounded beyond already not making sense. The mess is clear. The disaster is already selling popcorn for those watching - it will be some kind of show!
The Republicans in the house and Senate have washed their hands of the whole deal. They continue to gain popularity among like minded individuals that simply want the whole thing to just go away. After passage, and during the actually writing of the law (think on that one!), Republicans stayed far away from the mess. The thought process seemed to be that it was time to allow the Democrats to own this thing. Thus, no input to improving nor taming was done on the Republican side.
Fast forward to just a few days ago. Sen Harry Reid is giving an interview with PBS and makes the following statement when asked if the Affordable Care Act is the first step towards a single payer system:"Yes, yes. Absolutely, yes.” Did you see that answer? You can read about it here! What does it mean? Are we learning something that obviously was missed my many? What is next?
Is it possible that the current law is designed to fail so that in default we are left with NO other option but a complete 1 payer system? This scenerio is beginning to rise to the forefront. Sen Reid surely voices that opinion. And with this answer is a major understanding that most Americans calling for ending the Affordable Care Act must quickly understand. You cannot unwind a law that has been partially implemented over a 3 year period in the tax code and in the Health Insurance industry. What would you have left? The old system has been dead for 3 years now. The new system is being delayed and still written. When the crash occurs, what is there?
Those men and women sent to Washington on our behalf who opposed it, stood by and failed to use their fiduciary responsibilities to make it as best a law as possible. Why? Follow the money! They are raising millions daily! And when it crashes, they can stand and say "we told you so!" But what about health care from that point on? Why no alternatives? How long will it take to fix the crash? What will the fix look like?
Has no one noticed that the Democrats have not been sweating the outcome? With delays and issues of implementing the law including the unions and within congress, present no sweat - no fear! They know the end game. They are fine if it crashes. The Government will be in a position (and has been from the moment it passed) to regulate, control, and eventually own, the healthcare system. Meanwhile, good meaning people think some miracle can occur with repeal etc.. If the law were repealed or ruled unconstitutional - what then? The old system is gone! The new system has been implemented with the Insurance companies and the tax code. Again, try to unwind that and see how it works!
Christians caught up in distraction issues such as recall and the like are being led down a path that drains resources and ignores the big picture of that which is to come in the near future.
The needs of millions of Americans will be at the forefront of this crash as all generations will be impacted and major changes to the American system as a whole will be required to clean up the mess. And remember, the clean up will be not a total one. Time required? Know one knows!
For churches, our ministry will be vital! Our leadership will be essential! We cannot afford to be distracted by the politics of today and miss the hour of need tomorrow. True Biblical Christian ministry will be needed like never before. People will be hurting and needs will increase.
Are you ready?
I hurt for those of us who will hurt down the road by the complete failure of elected officials on both sides. I hurt for those who had placed their hopes in something coming that would finally help them and their families. But I also know that God placed us as Christians here in America for this time! Our mission and focus are being defined.
I just pray we realize it and get busy doing that which we are called to do rather than being distracted by that which only produces false hope and no real answers!
The Republicans in the house and Senate have washed their hands of the whole deal. They continue to gain popularity among like minded individuals that simply want the whole thing to just go away. After passage, and during the actually writing of the law (think on that one!), Republicans stayed far away from the mess. The thought process seemed to be that it was time to allow the Democrats to own this thing. Thus, no input to improving nor taming was done on the Republican side.
Fast forward to just a few days ago. Sen Harry Reid is giving an interview with PBS and makes the following statement when asked if the Affordable Care Act is the first step towards a single payer system:"Yes, yes. Absolutely, yes.” Did you see that answer? You can read about it here! What does it mean? Are we learning something that obviously was missed my many? What is next?
Is it possible that the current law is designed to fail so that in default we are left with NO other option but a complete 1 payer system? This scenerio is beginning to rise to the forefront. Sen Reid surely voices that opinion. And with this answer is a major understanding that most Americans calling for ending the Affordable Care Act must quickly understand. You cannot unwind a law that has been partially implemented over a 3 year period in the tax code and in the Health Insurance industry. What would you have left? The old system has been dead for 3 years now. The new system is being delayed and still written. When the crash occurs, what is there?
Those men and women sent to Washington on our behalf who opposed it, stood by and failed to use their fiduciary responsibilities to make it as best a law as possible. Why? Follow the money! They are raising millions daily! And when it crashes, they can stand and say "we told you so!" But what about health care from that point on? Why no alternatives? How long will it take to fix the crash? What will the fix look like?
The American people have been sold out for political positioning by both sides. You and I will pay the price for this. We will be stuck with a mess and limited options out.
Has no one noticed that the Democrats have not been sweating the outcome? With delays and issues of implementing the law including the unions and within congress, present no sweat - no fear! They know the end game. They are fine if it crashes. The Government will be in a position (and has been from the moment it passed) to regulate, control, and eventually own, the healthcare system. Meanwhile, good meaning people think some miracle can occur with repeal etc.. If the law were repealed or ruled unconstitutional - what then? The old system is gone! The new system has been implemented with the Insurance companies and the tax code. Again, try to unwind that and see how it works!
The battle for who we are as a country and what we will be moving forward begins at the point of the crash!
Christians caught up in distraction issues such as recall and the like are being led down a path that drains resources and ignores the big picture of that which is to come in the near future.
The needs of millions of Americans will be at the forefront of this crash as all generations will be impacted and major changes to the American system as a whole will be required to clean up the mess. And remember, the clean up will be not a total one. Time required? Know one knows!
For churches, our ministry will be vital! Our leadership will be essential! We cannot afford to be distracted by the politics of today and miss the hour of need tomorrow. True Biblical Christian ministry will be needed like never before. People will be hurting and needs will increase.
Are you ready?
I hurt for those of us who will hurt down the road by the complete failure of elected officials on both sides. I hurt for those who had placed their hopes in something coming that would finally help them and their families. But I also know that God placed us as Christians here in America for this time! Our mission and focus are being defined.
I just pray we realize it and get busy doing that which we are called to do rather than being distracted by that which only produces false hope and no real answers!
Monday, July 1, 2013
Living In America - Today! Part 2
The spotlight was placed on Daniel many times in his life by those not of similar beliefs. Daniel was challenged with food in Chapter 1. In chapter 2 Daniel interprets the vision/dream of King Nebuchadnezzar when no one else could. Daniel is recognized as one with wisdom and insight not only in chapter 2 but also continually from chapter 2 on. How did Daniel rise in recognition. Di Daniel have a public relations strategy? Was there an agent promoting Daniel?
Today Christians live in and live out our narcissistic behavior. The promotion of self drives much of what we do. We have traded the protest lines and parades for our social media tools. Some are real good at self promotion. So good that in today's world a person with limited success or wisdom from experience can rise to a popular level quickly. Maybe personality plays into the factors involved. It is possible that we humans are simply gullible enough to pass over the scrutiny that was once found before our attention and affections were given. Make no doubt, we promote but we also see simultaneous loss of influence in our world. And this is an important connection to understand.
With the increase use of secular methods comes the increase message of secular thought. Daniel was known and respected for his beliefs. His being known was not due to his self promotion but simply the conduct of how his life was lived out in the real world - a world that did not worship the God of Daniel. Much like today, few in Daniels time listened to the things of God. Yet they sought Daniel to enlighten them. We should ask the question WHY?
A close look at Daniels life reveals a life of consistency to his determined purpose. He had purposed in his heart whom he would worship. He adjusted his life to live out that purpose. Daniel wanted all glory to go to God. He lived for nothing else. He respected those who disagreed with him. He sought to understand them while resisting the human tendency to take things personally. He was relational with his life. And Daniel avoided arrogance almost perfectly.
Daniel was a person who influenced while only promoting God. Daniel was anything but narcissistic. We should seek to understand the Daniel way of living in our American secular culture. We should pray that God would give us the opportunity to influence people in a manner similar to Daniel. To be sought out because of how we live bears greater fruit than our self promotion could ever produce.
The lesson from Daniels popularity is profound. When God blesses and grants his favor, the evil one's in this world will pay attention. promotion is cause for humility. Humility is the path to influence with people. Daniel loved people much like Nehemiah did. He cared about the pain and destruction that would occur in their lives without surrender to Jehovah God. He knew that only from building relationships with them could he ever hope to find them willing to listen to his thoughts. Daniel lived his life loving God, loving people, and dependent on God to promote and provide the opportunity for influence. And in Daniel we that God opened doors in God like fashion.
I guess we could say about Daniel that he did have a public relations agent after all. He had the one that you and I have today - he had God. The difference between us and Daniel is easy to see. We promote for our sakes. Daniel was promoted for his exaltation of and living for, God.
When our lives match our announced commitment, God will promote bigger than we dream!
Self promotion can never gain us the influence that God can. So why do we continue to live in a such selfish, narcissistic manner?
Part 3 will deal with our methods.
Today Christians live in and live out our narcissistic behavior. The promotion of self drives much of what we do. We have traded the protest lines and parades for our social media tools. Some are real good at self promotion. So good that in today's world a person with limited success or wisdom from experience can rise to a popular level quickly. Maybe personality plays into the factors involved. It is possible that we humans are simply gullible enough to pass over the scrutiny that was once found before our attention and affections were given. Make no doubt, we promote but we also see simultaneous loss of influence in our world. And this is an important connection to understand.
With the increase use of secular methods comes the increase message of secular thought. Daniel was known and respected for his beliefs. His being known was not due to his self promotion but simply the conduct of how his life was lived out in the real world - a world that did not worship the God of Daniel. Much like today, few in Daniels time listened to the things of God. Yet they sought Daniel to enlighten them. We should ask the question WHY?
A close look at Daniels life reveals a life of consistency to his determined purpose. He had purposed in his heart whom he would worship. He adjusted his life to live out that purpose. Daniel wanted all glory to go to God. He lived for nothing else. He respected those who disagreed with him. He sought to understand them while resisting the human tendency to take things personally. He was relational with his life. And Daniel avoided arrogance almost perfectly.
Daniel was a person who influenced while only promoting God. Daniel was anything but narcissistic. We should seek to understand the Daniel way of living in our American secular culture. We should pray that God would give us the opportunity to influence people in a manner similar to Daniel. To be sought out because of how we live bears greater fruit than our self promotion could ever produce.
The lesson from Daniels popularity is profound. When God blesses and grants his favor, the evil one's in this world will pay attention. promotion is cause for humility. Humility is the path to influence with people. Daniel loved people much like Nehemiah did. He cared about the pain and destruction that would occur in their lives without surrender to Jehovah God. He knew that only from building relationships with them could he ever hope to find them willing to listen to his thoughts. Daniel lived his life loving God, loving people, and dependent on God to promote and provide the opportunity for influence. And in Daniel we that God opened doors in God like fashion.
I guess we could say about Daniel that he did have a public relations agent after all. He had the one that you and I have today - he had God. The difference between us and Daniel is easy to see. We promote for our sakes. Daniel was promoted for his exaltation of and living for, God.
When our lives match our announced commitment, God will promote bigger than we dream!
Self promotion can never gain us the influence that God can. So why do we continue to live in a such selfish, narcissistic manner?
Part 3 will deal with our methods.
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Living in America - today! Part 1
There is a song from the old Rocky movies that I love. I do not agree with the singer famous for singing the song, but this song leads into this series extremely well. It is the James Brown song "Living In America". For many, just the title triggers the words and music rolling through our brain. At the end of the song, there is a dramatic closing that highlights the theme of the writers intent. Sing it with me - "living in America...I feel good!" I can just picture all you doing your best James Brown "I feel good!" Scary picture indeed!
Today it is next to impossible from a patriotic standpoint to say that we "feel good" about America. With multiple issues being magnified recently, no one can now doubt that America has changed greatly. Fear, sadness, and frustration are the most common emotions expressed once this new reality is grasped. And this new reality begs the question, "how are we Christians suppose to live in America today?"
I have more than hinted in this past on this blog that I think the best picture of how we Christians should live in the current American culture can be seen in the life of Daniel. The story of Daniel has been taught in many Bible Study classes and groups for years. The lions den and his unwillingness to bow to anyone but God are clearly etched in our minds. Daniels story is a great one. And yet there is more to the story than what we might think.
We begin by looking at:
His Commitment
Daniel was committed with all he had to God. His commitment was much different than what we may understand it to be today. When one reads of how God had brought him into favor with chief of the eunuchs in chapter 1, we see that Daniel was respectful and always seeking to help those around him learn. His commitment was not for dogma, but for the sharing of the awesomeness of God. Instead of demanding, Daniel was willing to be tested so that proof of God and His glory would be revealed. How was this possible? Chapter 1 reveals in verse 8 that he had PURPOSED in his HEART to NOT defile himself. The commitment of Daniel was more than a mental decision. The decision that Daniel had made was more than convenience and self rights. Daniel looked within his life and had made the decision that God was his God. He was determined to be used in whatever way God would choose. The commitment of Daniel began with his own surrendering of his life to God in his heart.
Applying Daniels Commitment
Many in our nation today have experienced commitment from the background of mere convenience. Just as America has slowly changed over the years, the idea of what a commitment looks like has also changed. It is extremely difficult for us to realize what it means to get to the core of our commitment. Priorities are numerous. But what priority is at the top of our list. This is where we must begin. For Daniel, it was God. For us, only each one can answer. Can we say that God is number 1 on our priority list? And if we say that, what does it look like? We like to add the word "but" when discussing our priorities. We will say something is number 1- BUT then will give importance to several other things at the same time.
Getting to the core of God being our priority in every aspect of life cannot be over stated. Understanding the depth of making that decision is vital. For once we determine as Daniel did, we will never have to make that decision again. It is a decision that helps in making other decisions down the road. As it was for Daniel, it will be settled once and for all in our lives. Only in making this decision is God then allowed to do His best work in our lives.
The results in Chapter 1 for Daniel spread beyond himself to those who were also willing to follow his lead. The first test of food resulted in Daniel and his men being found 10 times better than others who had eaten more completely. Daniel and his men sacrificed so that God and God alone could get all the glory in what would occur. Daniels commitment led him to put God to the test.
This is no small example of commitment. The life lesson from Daniel Chapter 1 reveals struggle and risk. Faithfulness and trust were immediately required. And do not overlook that Daniels commitment is highlighted by sacrifice. Commitment is not as easy as we Americans have been conditioned to think. Biblical commitment is tough!
Can we make Daniels type of commitment today? God says yes. The question for each one of us is will we?
Our commitment cannot be made to a way of life. Nothing Biblically nor nationally can guarantee a way of life. Our commitment can only have as the object the person of God! His glory and His glory alone must be the basis and focus of our commitment.
It was for Daniel, will it be for us?
Part 2 will deal with Daniels self marketing.
Today it is next to impossible from a patriotic standpoint to say that we "feel good" about America. With multiple issues being magnified recently, no one can now doubt that America has changed greatly. Fear, sadness, and frustration are the most common emotions expressed once this new reality is grasped. And this new reality begs the question, "how are we Christians suppose to live in America today?"
I have more than hinted in this past on this blog that I think the best picture of how we Christians should live in the current American culture can be seen in the life of Daniel. The story of Daniel has been taught in many Bible Study classes and groups for years. The lions den and his unwillingness to bow to anyone but God are clearly etched in our minds. Daniels story is a great one. And yet there is more to the story than what we might think.
We begin by looking at:
His Commitment
Daniel was committed with all he had to God. His commitment was much different than what we may understand it to be today. When one reads of how God had brought him into favor with chief of the eunuchs in chapter 1, we see that Daniel was respectful and always seeking to help those around him learn. His commitment was not for dogma, but for the sharing of the awesomeness of God. Instead of demanding, Daniel was willing to be tested so that proof of God and His glory would be revealed. How was this possible? Chapter 1 reveals in verse 8 that he had PURPOSED in his HEART to NOT defile himself. The commitment of Daniel was more than a mental decision. The decision that Daniel had made was more than convenience and self rights. Daniel looked within his life and had made the decision that God was his God. He was determined to be used in whatever way God would choose. The commitment of Daniel began with his own surrendering of his life to God in his heart.
Applying Daniels Commitment
Many in our nation today have experienced commitment from the background of mere convenience. Just as America has slowly changed over the years, the idea of what a commitment looks like has also changed. It is extremely difficult for us to realize what it means to get to the core of our commitment. Priorities are numerous. But what priority is at the top of our list. This is where we must begin. For Daniel, it was God. For us, only each one can answer. Can we say that God is number 1 on our priority list? And if we say that, what does it look like? We like to add the word "but" when discussing our priorities. We will say something is number 1- BUT then will give importance to several other things at the same time.
Getting to the core of God being our priority in every aspect of life cannot be over stated. Understanding the depth of making that decision is vital. For once we determine as Daniel did, we will never have to make that decision again. It is a decision that helps in making other decisions down the road. As it was for Daniel, it will be settled once and for all in our lives. Only in making this decision is God then allowed to do His best work in our lives.
The results in Chapter 1 for Daniel spread beyond himself to those who were also willing to follow his lead. The first test of food resulted in Daniel and his men being found 10 times better than others who had eaten more completely. Daniel and his men sacrificed so that God and God alone could get all the glory in what would occur. Daniels commitment led him to put God to the test.
This is no small example of commitment. The life lesson from Daniel Chapter 1 reveals struggle and risk. Faithfulness and trust were immediately required. And do not overlook that Daniels commitment is highlighted by sacrifice. Commitment is not as easy as we Americans have been conditioned to think. Biblical commitment is tough!
Can we make Daniels type of commitment today? God says yes. The question for each one of us is will we?
Our commitment cannot be made to a way of life. Nothing Biblically nor nationally can guarantee a way of life. Our commitment can only have as the object the person of God! His glory and His glory alone must be the basis and focus of our commitment.
It was for Daniel, will it be for us?
Part 2 will deal with Daniels self marketing.
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
DOMA Gone - What does it mean?
Today the Supreme Court of America in a 5-4 decision struck down the Defense of Marriage Act. And the Supreme Court decided the defense of Prop 8 had NO standing in California. As the homosexual community celebrates, Christians must wake up and realize that America has indeed changed.
Religious Liberty is officially under attack!
Here are some questions that highlight this new day and the dangers therein:
1. If churches deny marriage ceremonies to homosexual couples - what will the Government do?
2. If a Pastor refuses to marry a homosexual couple - what will the Government do?
3. If a church continues to preach and teach the Bible and what it says about homosexuality - what will the Government do?
And if that is not enough:
4. If the Government says churches cannot discriminate against homosexuality - what will the churches do?
5. If the Government says a Pastor must marry heterosexuals and homosexuals - will Pastors still participate in the marriage ceremonies?
6. If the Government says the Bible cannot be taught where it deals with homosexuality - what will churches, Pastors, and people of faith do?
These questions are no longer hypothetical. These questions today became real for Christians in America.
And by the way, it is not the fault of the Supreme Court of our President. It is we Christians who have sat idle in our clubs excusing ourselves from witnessing for way too many years! And when we did teach, we did so in such a weak manner that few learned much of anything!
We will now see what all of this means. When will we wake up?
It is time we realize that our only path now in America is the path that Daniel lived within 2 evil forms of Government. In both, he rose to power and even more importantly, he was respected. Our conduct, words, actions, and ministry will now be under a microscope.
All is not lost! God is still on the throne and we have NO excuses in realizing that Christianity must be busy about reaching people. We must leave our club mentality at the altar and get out in the communities serving and sharing. We must care and love!
We must be Christians!
Religious Liberty is officially under attack!
Here are some questions that highlight this new day and the dangers therein:
1. If churches deny marriage ceremonies to homosexual couples - what will the Government do?
2. If a Pastor refuses to marry a homosexual couple - what will the Government do?
3. If a church continues to preach and teach the Bible and what it says about homosexuality - what will the Government do?
And if that is not enough:
4. If the Government says churches cannot discriminate against homosexuality - what will the churches do?
5. If the Government says a Pastor must marry heterosexuals and homosexuals - will Pastors still participate in the marriage ceremonies?
6. If the Government says the Bible cannot be taught where it deals with homosexuality - what will churches, Pastors, and people of faith do?
These questions are no longer hypothetical. These questions today became real for Christians in America.
And by the way, it is not the fault of the Supreme Court of our President. It is we Christians who have sat idle in our clubs excusing ourselves from witnessing for way too many years! And when we did teach, we did so in such a weak manner that few learned much of anything!
We will now see what all of this means. When will we wake up?
It is time we realize that our only path now in America is the path that Daniel lived within 2 evil forms of Government. In both, he rose to power and even more importantly, he was respected. Our conduct, words, actions, and ministry will now be under a microscope.
All is not lost! God is still on the throne and we have NO excuses in realizing that Christianity must be busy about reaching people. We must leave our club mentality at the altar and get out in the communities serving and sharing. We must care and love!
We must be Christians!
Monday, May 20, 2013
Why the Trifecta of Scandals Should Matter to Christians
In a world of conflicting views about how faith and politics should interact we discover a defining moment in the current trifecta of scandals. Benghazi, AP News Subpoenas, and the IRS targeting of individuals should be a wake up call to Christians in America. For those who have had enough of the political involvement among evangelicals, you might want to revisit that thought.
First Benghanzi
How can any Christian condone the ease of which the Administration is brushing off the fact that 4 Americans died? Where is the outcry? Have we heard the reports of how these men were killed? It was horrible! When an Ambassador is murdered along with other Government officials and we do not feel or see the outrage, we are in worse shape than many think as a country. I find the Gosnell trial and little response on the horrendous acts of murder and the cover up of Benghanzi highlighting how pathetic our understanding is for the preciousness of life. The endit movement to put an end to child sex slavery is important. But we must remember it is equally important! We must not forget that all life is valued and precious. When the Government of our country so easily brushes the value of life away and when the President of the United States has the audacity to actually say to Planned Parenthood "God Bless You" - the evil we feared would come has actually already arrived!
Second AP/Fox News Scandel
A free press is vital to a free society. A country that threatens and intimidates the press is a country where freedom is fleeing. Christians should be the first to take note of such a dangerous course. Yes we have had freedom for years. Yes we have often abused such freedom. But we cannot afford to allow such freedom to come to an end! It is one thing to get beat - it is another to not put up a fight! A move to control information is a move that will find itself seeking to control what is preached in churches across America. Pastors are you ready for this climate? Will you stand strong and preach the Word of God even if it means audits, harassment, and even jail time?
IRS Target of Specific People and Groups
This one gets to the core of the threat to the American way of life. Did you read the title of this section carefully? It was not only the Tea Party that got targeted. Specific people were targeted. I am told that more evangelical pastors have been audited under this administration than ever before. When the IRS goes after specific people, America is no longer free! This scandal ties in with the AP/Fox News scandal. When the Government is allowed to target specific people due to their message and beliefs, while fast tracking and look away from others who are in agreement with the Governments position, you and I are seeing a day that has never ever been before in America.
And all is not over. The fourth scandal will hit in October when we all discover that the overhaul of the healthcare system is a disaster unlike any we have ever seen.
Do Christians care? When will we engage? These scandals matter! They matter more than you and I can even imagine!
First Benghanzi
How can any Christian condone the ease of which the Administration is brushing off the fact that 4 Americans died? Where is the outcry? Have we heard the reports of how these men were killed? It was horrible! When an Ambassador is murdered along with other Government officials and we do not feel or see the outrage, we are in worse shape than many think as a country. I find the Gosnell trial and little response on the horrendous acts of murder and the cover up of Benghanzi highlighting how pathetic our understanding is for the preciousness of life. The endit movement to put an end to child sex slavery is important. But we must remember it is equally important! We must not forget that all life is valued and precious. When the Government of our country so easily brushes the value of life away and when the President of the United States has the audacity to actually say to Planned Parenthood "God Bless You" - the evil we feared would come has actually already arrived!
Second AP/Fox News Scandel
A free press is vital to a free society. A country that threatens and intimidates the press is a country where freedom is fleeing. Christians should be the first to take note of such a dangerous course. Yes we have had freedom for years. Yes we have often abused such freedom. But we cannot afford to allow such freedom to come to an end! It is one thing to get beat - it is another to not put up a fight! A move to control information is a move that will find itself seeking to control what is preached in churches across America. Pastors are you ready for this climate? Will you stand strong and preach the Word of God even if it means audits, harassment, and even jail time?
IRS Target of Specific People and Groups
This one gets to the core of the threat to the American way of life. Did you read the title of this section carefully? It was not only the Tea Party that got targeted. Specific people were targeted. I am told that more evangelical pastors have been audited under this administration than ever before. When the IRS goes after specific people, America is no longer free! This scandal ties in with the AP/Fox News scandal. When the Government is allowed to target specific people due to their message and beliefs, while fast tracking and look away from others who are in agreement with the Governments position, you and I are seeing a day that has never ever been before in America.
And all is not over. The fourth scandal will hit in October when we all discover that the overhaul of the healthcare system is a disaster unlike any we have ever seen.
Do Christians care? When will we engage? These scandals matter! They matter more than you and I can even imagine!
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Salvation: Free Gift and Fear and Trembling
Eph 2:8-9
8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God,
9 not of works, lest anyone should boast.
(NKJ)
8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God,
9 not of works, lest anyone should boast.
(NKJ)
Salvation is a free gift from God to everyone who will believe. Yes, salvation is that simple. The faith required to receive Christ is small. We know this. We teach this. We also teach something else.
Phil 2:12
12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling;
(NKJ)
Salvation is not to be taken likely. It is simple. But it is not as simple as saying "I do not want to go to Hell!". Salvation is simple. But it is not as simple as saying "I want to go to heaven!".
How do we put these two passages together. No doubt there has been in our history those who would emphasis the easy without much attention to the work. No doubt there are many parents and grandparents who want their family to be in heaven. And many times, these desires allow our emotions to control our sharing and teaching more than the Word of God. This issue is not new. This issue is not going away anytime soon.
As a Youth Pastor I dealt with this on many occasions. I can remember back when we would Baptize 30 to 40 teenagers a year. I remember a large portion of those who had "made decisions" as children wanting to avoid Hell and now as teenagers discovering that just avoiding was not the real deal. I can still hear many parents saying "but they were Baptized...".
I know as a Pastor the struggle of young parents wanting to answer the questions the right way for their children. The time spent reviewing the answers before they meet with me or one of my staff. I hear the words "they are almost there, they are getting it" only to discover that often they may not be as close as we would like to think.
I want everyone to go to Heaven! I do not want anyone to go to Hell! And this demands that people get a Biblical salvation. It is simple - Jesus died to pay for our sins. It is easy - we must simply accept through the exercise of faith in Jesus. But it is tough - to work out the repentance aspect. And some will say "what?" Indeed this is what Jesus said.
Mark 1:14-15
14 Now after John was put in prison, Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,
15 and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel."
(NKJ)
Without the act of repenting, there is no salvation. This is the most difficult aspect of sharing about Salvation. To repent means more than "I am sorry". It is not a head knowledge of right and wrong. It is more than realizing that we have sinned. To repent is to see the sin in our lives as the very thing that put Jesus on the cross. It is to see sin as Jesus sees it. To repent is to respond to our sin with godly sorrow. A sorrow that is deeper than regret.
2 Cor 7:10
10 For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.
(NKJ)
Matt 7:21
21 "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.
(NKJ)
And now you see why though simple, salvation must be worked out within our lives. Do we repent? Do we have godly sorrow?
Salvation is a free gift that requires fear and trembling in getting it right. To miss it, is to spend an eternity in Hell with no hope forever! To say you believe in God and Jesus means nothing. To make a quick decision for Heaven to avoid Hell won't cut it. Being Baptized or sprinkled only gets you wet. To say love wins out and repentance is not too difficult is to fall for the trap of this world.
Where are you? Do you know with zero doubts? Are you sure? What is your connection with Jesus? Is it His connection or your religious way?
I Jn 5:13
13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.
(NKJ)
Why and how?
John 3:16
16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
(NKJ)
Rom 10:9-13
9 that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.
10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
11 For the Scripture says, "Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame."
12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him.
13 For "whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved."
(NKJ)
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Mass Publicity and the Truth - Big Difference
In 1980's being a rock Star meant you figuratively owned the world. Stars were idolized based on a bands popularity. Flowing from their singing or screaming was also a sense of fashion and appearance. Athletes picked up on the whole star thing and they had a guy named Micheal Jordan who led the charge in creating the star mentality for sports figures that surpassed anything up till then. We forget that all along there have been stars - real stars! Some reading this will remember Roger Staubach. Others will go way back to a few coaches like Tom Landry or Vince Lombardi. Stars have been around in all facets of life. We all admire somebody for some reason.
We are drawn to these figures today as we were once drawn to cartoons. Batman, Superman, Spider Man, and even the Hulk were characters that we would emulate as youngsters. My life was confined to basically three stars: Roger Staubach, Nolan Ryan and The FBI! Leading a comeback, striking out the side, and cuffing and stuffing. I picked those three for a reason. Each of them stood and still stand for something of value. Yes each were good at what they did. But there was a character quality about each that drove me to respect and admire them. So strong was this quality that I would pretend as I young boy that was in certain situations and my reactions to such were just like these three. Granted, these were the days when the only video game was a white ball going back and forth across the screen.
Fast forward to 2013 and something interesting is taking place. Mass publicity for years has highlighted the rock stars, the athletes, and the movie stars. Since the 90's these have been the "heroes" of many. Social media and reality TV have escalated their popularity. These figures developed a growing influence of our culture as they spoke out in favor or opposition of their desired interest. Much of the crazy ideas of today stem from a group that makes millions off of publicity. Truth be known, their talents and brain power are limited. But there is a change in the air. This change seems to be gaining steam as we see the truth that publicity often hid in the past, being exposed by mere over exposure. I actually love the irony.
I can sense as I scan Facebook and Twitter this new air blowing. First responders are growing in admiration and appreciation. Our men and women in uniform are admired and cheered for. Those who buckle it up and get it done day in and day out are miraculously becoming heroes. They should have been all along. People see the difference between those who promote and those who actually care and do. The millions made and flaunted by punk type people who would have a difficult time qualifying for any other type of work is about to reach a point of push back. The inside realities of these narcissist cannot compete with people who put their lives on the line daily because they value more than money and fame. Today's growing heroes are people who value life and freedom. They value it enough to do something about it. Politicians cannot escape this new air that is blowing. The truth is slowly but surely being seen. And the reality is gripping every age group. Blowhards will always be there sucking our money and ideas. But heroes are real people who do amazing real things.
The remaining ingredient for this new air to become mature is simple. When we all step back and realize that money and fame are nothing and that life and family are everything, we will rediscover one of the most precious missing values over the past 20 years. The ugly world we live in today, that will be even more ugly tomorrow, requires this simple value of life and reality. For when money and fame cannot be found, values show us what has been important all along. They remind us that we are here for a reason - to reach people with the gospel. They motivate us to action when lives are threatened. Values when present, drive us in positive directions that grow and build. Values give life and create freedom for life.
I read today an article about Tim Tebow. Much is being said in reference to his love for ministry and sharing Jesus. Often Christians have chided those who have ridiculed his treatment in the NFL. But this article highlighted the real issues that Tebow must deal with in regard to skill and knowledge. Now that he has been released, his promotion is limited. And it is now that we will see if Tebow can stand up and do what must be done to maintain his NFL career or not. The reality of all of this slams into our faces - though Tebow accomplished some great things in college and has been faithful in ministry, is he the person who can learn and grow to become a real NFL QB? Or is Tebow like the many before him who through publicity and promotion have hid the truth about his skills/weaknesses only to become a media frenzy with limited accomplishment. Only time will tell.
And guess what? Each of us are in the same spot today. Only time will tell what is the real truth about our values and character. Publicity fades. Promotion lacks real perspective. Self promotion is seldom accurate and often purposefully done to prevent the truth from being shown.
Time reveals the truth in each of us.
And that is a BIG DIFFERENCE!
We are drawn to these figures today as we were once drawn to cartoons. Batman, Superman, Spider Man, and even the Hulk were characters that we would emulate as youngsters. My life was confined to basically three stars: Roger Staubach, Nolan Ryan and The FBI! Leading a comeback, striking out the side, and cuffing and stuffing. I picked those three for a reason. Each of them stood and still stand for something of value. Yes each were good at what they did. But there was a character quality about each that drove me to respect and admire them. So strong was this quality that I would pretend as I young boy that was in certain situations and my reactions to such were just like these three. Granted, these were the days when the only video game was a white ball going back and forth across the screen.
Fast forward to 2013 and something interesting is taking place. Mass publicity for years has highlighted the rock stars, the athletes, and the movie stars. Since the 90's these have been the "heroes" of many. Social media and reality TV have escalated their popularity. These figures developed a growing influence of our culture as they spoke out in favor or opposition of their desired interest. Much of the crazy ideas of today stem from a group that makes millions off of publicity. Truth be known, their talents and brain power are limited. But there is a change in the air. This change seems to be gaining steam as we see the truth that publicity often hid in the past, being exposed by mere over exposure. I actually love the irony.
I can sense as I scan Facebook and Twitter this new air blowing. First responders are growing in admiration and appreciation. Our men and women in uniform are admired and cheered for. Those who buckle it up and get it done day in and day out are miraculously becoming heroes. They should have been all along. People see the difference between those who promote and those who actually care and do. The millions made and flaunted by punk type people who would have a difficult time qualifying for any other type of work is about to reach a point of push back. The inside realities of these narcissist cannot compete with people who put their lives on the line daily because they value more than money and fame. Today's growing heroes are people who value life and freedom. They value it enough to do something about it. Politicians cannot escape this new air that is blowing. The truth is slowly but surely being seen. And the reality is gripping every age group. Blowhards will always be there sucking our money and ideas. But heroes are real people who do amazing real things.
The remaining ingredient for this new air to become mature is simple. When we all step back and realize that money and fame are nothing and that life and family are everything, we will rediscover one of the most precious missing values over the past 20 years. The ugly world we live in today, that will be even more ugly tomorrow, requires this simple value of life and reality. For when money and fame cannot be found, values show us what has been important all along. They remind us that we are here for a reason - to reach people with the gospel. They motivate us to action when lives are threatened. Values when present, drive us in positive directions that grow and build. Values give life and create freedom for life.
I read today an article about Tim Tebow. Much is being said in reference to his love for ministry and sharing Jesus. Often Christians have chided those who have ridiculed his treatment in the NFL. But this article highlighted the real issues that Tebow must deal with in regard to skill and knowledge. Now that he has been released, his promotion is limited. And it is now that we will see if Tebow can stand up and do what must be done to maintain his NFL career or not. The reality of all of this slams into our faces - though Tebow accomplished some great things in college and has been faithful in ministry, is he the person who can learn and grow to become a real NFL QB? Or is Tebow like the many before him who through publicity and promotion have hid the truth about his skills/weaknesses only to become a media frenzy with limited accomplishment. Only time will tell.
And guess what? Each of us are in the same spot today. Only time will tell what is the real truth about our values and character. Publicity fades. Promotion lacks real perspective. Self promotion is seldom accurate and often purposefully done to prevent the truth from being shown.
Time reveals the truth in each of us.
And that is a BIG DIFFERENCE!
Friday, April 26, 2013
The disconnect of knowledge and change!
I read. I read a lot. I read everything from my Bible, to books, to articles, to sports stats, to cartoons. I read a lot! So I got to thinking last night. Does one need to be careful to not read too much? Are there dangers in reading too much? This I thought on all night and most of today. Indeed there may be something to this thought. Allow me to show you.
#1 Reading can never be underestimated. Reading sharpens our thinking and keeps our brain learning. Reading is healthy. But this only occurs based on the content of what one reads. If I dive into a Louis L'Amour classic western, I am reading for entertainment. I may be thinking, but the thoughts are not requiring much analysis and reason. There is little to apply with this type of reading. And yet, reading for entertainment is good and fun. But too much defeats the purpose.
#2. Reading for information sake is also fun. This is why I read 20 to 30 articles a day. I try to stay informed and learn. But here is a trap. If I only use one type of source for this reading, my learning is not complete. One type of source never ever gets the whole picture. So for a guy as conservative as I am, I read even liberal stuff. Why? I want to see the big picture. I want to learn how and why people think the way they do. What makes a person tick. There is value in learning this. But caution must be used in applying this new found information. Just because I know something doesn't mean anything about me or my abilities. I just know. Big deal. Arrogance of knowledge is a dangerous trap! Knowledge without the understanding to apply is real dangerous. And don't forget, knowing what is good, right, bad, and evil, can be even more difficult.
#3 Reading to change. Now this hurts. When one reads to change, one reads with the idea of instant interaction. This is how we should approach our Bible reading. If, when reading the Bible, all we get is information, no change will occur for the good. But when we read and apply, asking God to change us through His Word, life change occurs in us. And this type of change is so needed.
Of the above three, #3 is the one most needed today. With all the resources available and the push for people to read more, we Pastors really need to highlight #3 in our promotion and encouragement. If we take the first 2 and miss #3 we miss God. If we use the approaches of the first 2 with the Bible and do not apply #3, we are missing God changing us. God is not impressed with how much we know about Him. God desires our transformation - change - in Him!
Technology has allowed me to read more books than I would have ever dreamed. I can read thoughts of people from all over the world instantaneously, but none of that will change me like God can through His Word. Nothing is life giving as the Word of God. And this is what we all need most.
So here is a simple challenge from me to you - take out your Bible. Put away all the other stuff. Ask God to change you via what you are about to read. And dive into the greatest book in all of history, past present and future! The Bible will reconnect knowledge and change in your life. And this connection will be worth more than you will ever dream!
#1 Reading can never be underestimated. Reading sharpens our thinking and keeps our brain learning. Reading is healthy. But this only occurs based on the content of what one reads. If I dive into a Louis L'Amour classic western, I am reading for entertainment. I may be thinking, but the thoughts are not requiring much analysis and reason. There is little to apply with this type of reading. And yet, reading for entertainment is good and fun. But too much defeats the purpose.
#2. Reading for information sake is also fun. This is why I read 20 to 30 articles a day. I try to stay informed and learn. But here is a trap. If I only use one type of source for this reading, my learning is not complete. One type of source never ever gets the whole picture. So for a guy as conservative as I am, I read even liberal stuff. Why? I want to see the big picture. I want to learn how and why people think the way they do. What makes a person tick. There is value in learning this. But caution must be used in applying this new found information. Just because I know something doesn't mean anything about me or my abilities. I just know. Big deal. Arrogance of knowledge is a dangerous trap! Knowledge without the understanding to apply is real dangerous. And don't forget, knowing what is good, right, bad, and evil, can be even more difficult.
#3 Reading to change. Now this hurts. When one reads to change, one reads with the idea of instant interaction. This is how we should approach our Bible reading. If, when reading the Bible, all we get is information, no change will occur for the good. But when we read and apply, asking God to change us through His Word, life change occurs in us. And this type of change is so needed.
Of the above three, #3 is the one most needed today. With all the resources available and the push for people to read more, we Pastors really need to highlight #3 in our promotion and encouragement. If we take the first 2 and miss #3 we miss God. If we use the approaches of the first 2 with the Bible and do not apply #3, we are missing God changing us. God is not impressed with how much we know about Him. God desires our transformation - change - in Him!
Technology has allowed me to read more books than I would have ever dreamed. I can read thoughts of people from all over the world instantaneously, but none of that will change me like God can through His Word. Nothing is life giving as the Word of God. And this is what we all need most.
So here is a simple challenge from me to you - take out your Bible. Put away all the other stuff. Ask God to change you via what you are about to read. And dive into the greatest book in all of history, past present and future! The Bible will reconnect knowledge and change in your life. And this connection will be worth more than you will ever dream!
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Are we awake?
Strange question to ask someone reading a post on a blog. Obviously if one is reading one is awake. The question actually applies to our awareness of just how quickly times are a changing. For those of us who have accepted Christ, this change should have us wide awake. Every aspect of our culture is experiencing radical redefining. Christians and churches are not exempt.
When I look at my two sons, I wonder what in the world will they have to deal with in the days ahead if Christs return is delayed? When I think of future grandchildren - wow the world will be different. I am not as much scared as I am concerned. I wonder if we realize the tools and grounding that will be needed to survive the coming turmoil. We know that in Christ we are over comers and more than victors. Yet our tool belts will need to be properly filled and we will need to be properly equipped to obtain the victory. What is your like?
As we approach a new day of worship and spiritual growth, ask yourself some tough questions: Are you prepared and are you equipping? This is were we need to wake up. The time is now. Time to apply and reach as many as possible. Time to prepare our children for their own children. Time to make huge strides in adjusting our ministries to meet the above needs. it is NOT time to live in fear and panic. It is time to make the most of what God has given us and rise to the occassion.
As we approach church tomorrow, or tonight, go awake! Go ready to celebrate. Go ready to grow! If you serve in a ministry role - give it your all! You are making a impact period! Make sure it is a good one!
Yours and my future grandchildren indeed are the one's who's futures we are impacting today!
Let's wake up! See you in church!
When I look at my two sons, I wonder what in the world will they have to deal with in the days ahead if Christs return is delayed? When I think of future grandchildren - wow the world will be different. I am not as much scared as I am concerned. I wonder if we realize the tools and grounding that will be needed to survive the coming turmoil. We know that in Christ we are over comers and more than victors. Yet our tool belts will need to be properly filled and we will need to be properly equipped to obtain the victory. What is your like?
As we approach a new day of worship and spiritual growth, ask yourself some tough questions: Are you prepared and are you equipping? This is were we need to wake up. The time is now. Time to apply and reach as many as possible. Time to prepare our children for their own children. Time to make huge strides in adjusting our ministries to meet the above needs. it is NOT time to live in fear and panic. It is time to make the most of what God has given us and rise to the occassion.
As we approach church tomorrow, or tonight, go awake! Go ready to celebrate. Go ready to grow! If you serve in a ministry role - give it your all! You are making a impact period! Make sure it is a good one!
Yours and my future grandchildren indeed are the one's who's futures we are impacting today!
Let's wake up! See you in church!
Monday, April 1, 2013
Does Jesus Want ME to be HAPPY?
I like HAPPY! In fact I like being HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY! Who wouldn't? So does Jesus want me to be happy? Does Jesus care about my happiness so much that His ultimate desire for me is tied to my happiness?
Trends come and go. But one trend that I have noticed over the past few years does not seem to be fading. I cannot keep track of how many times I have heard and read that Jesus wants me to be happy! An example of this is a post on Facebook that I recently saw showing a picture of a Bible open to the passage about being a new creature in II Cor 5:17 - this part was highlighted, and then it showed a note that read as follows:
The note sounds great! But is it Biblically accurate? It sure fits with the trending ideas of many people today. Here is the thought process that leads to this concept. Since Jesus so loves me and knows me, His desire more than anything is for my happiness. This concept is seen in how many people view their relationships with parents, grand parents, spouses, and children. God wants me to be happy. So all things must work towards this goal being achieved. Right? If my marriage does not make me happy, end it. If my children are constantly complaining, give in to their wants. If my church convicts, change it or leave. The Bible is simply a guide with my happiness being the motive for how I interpret it. Right?
Not so fast. God has a key ingredient that He desires in us far more than happiness. This ingredient in fact will often produce things that initially do NOT make us happy. What is it?
Obedience
God desires our obedience above all. Dieing to self and living surrendered to His will is far more important than our happiness. Why? As individuals our happiness is never satisfied and is constantly in a state of change. The flesh - the old man - does not know what it truly wants. We see this lived out in the life of children today.
As a parent, it is always a struggle to resist making my children happy. The more you try, the more you fail. We learned quickly that playing the Happy Game would lead to spoiled out of control children. We also realized that those out of control children would end up spoiled undisciplined adults. This we did not desire. Obedience and self control are difficult to teach but they are a must. It has not alwaysbeen easy but it is more than worth the struggle!
When we apply obedience to God and controlling our perceived wants by deferring to His will, the working within us is PEACE. This peace produces joy. Happiness may come, but it is not immediate if at all. Why? Because the old flesh will continue to wrestle against the new creation. Even the Apostle fought this fight daily.
We must not forget that the Will of God will never contradict the Word of God. Thus happiness is always sacrificed for the Will of God.
That is why Paul shared the following with the Phillippians:
Phil 4:11-13
11 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content:
12 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
(NKJ)
Trends come and go. But one trend that I have noticed over the past few years does not seem to be fading. I cannot keep track of how many times I have heard and read that Jesus wants me to be happy! An example of this is a post on Facebook that I recently saw showing a picture of a Bible open to the passage about being a new creature in II Cor 5:17 - this part was highlighted, and then it showed a note that read as follows:
"God loves us too much to allow us to stay tied to anyone or anything that does not bring out the best in us!"
The note sounds great! But is it Biblically accurate? It sure fits with the trending ideas of many people today. Here is the thought process that leads to this concept. Since Jesus so loves me and knows me, His desire more than anything is for my happiness. This concept is seen in how many people view their relationships with parents, grand parents, spouses, and children. God wants me to be happy. So all things must work towards this goal being achieved. Right? If my marriage does not make me happy, end it. If my children are constantly complaining, give in to their wants. If my church convicts, change it or leave. The Bible is simply a guide with my happiness being the motive for how I interpret it. Right?
Not so fast. God has a key ingredient that He desires in us far more than happiness. This ingredient in fact will often produce things that initially do NOT make us happy. What is it?
Obedience
God desires our obedience above all. Dieing to self and living surrendered to His will is far more important than our happiness. Why? As individuals our happiness is never satisfied and is constantly in a state of change. The flesh - the old man - does not know what it truly wants. We see this lived out in the life of children today.
As a parent, it is always a struggle to resist making my children happy. The more you try, the more you fail. We learned quickly that playing the Happy Game would lead to spoiled out of control children. We also realized that those out of control children would end up spoiled undisciplined adults. This we did not desire. Obedience and self control are difficult to teach but they are a must. It has not alwaysbeen easy but it is more than worth the struggle!
When we apply obedience to God and controlling our perceived wants by deferring to His will, the working within us is PEACE. This peace produces joy. Happiness may come, but it is not immediate if at all. Why? Because the old flesh will continue to wrestle against the new creation. Even the Apostle fought this fight daily.
We must not forget that the Will of God will never contradict the Word of God. Thus happiness is always sacrificed for the Will of God.
That is why Paul shared the following with the Phillippians:
Phil 4:11-13
11 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content:
12 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
(NKJ)
And so is the irony. While everyone from Duck Dynasty to Dolly Wood emphasis being happy, God is on a different page working for our eternal good. He knows our happiness is more often than not working against His best for us. He is working His Will in which can be found PEACE! Peace with God, and peace with people around us!
Now the question, does this make you HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY?
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Christians in America and Baseball
"The church is full of hypocrites!" OK - tell me something new! The media in America love to pick up on responses such as the opening line to attack American Christianity. And even the following statement is used by many today: "Christians get on my nerves." Lifeway Research has conducted several studies in regards to the issue of church relevance and perception among the people of America. The numbers are not good regardless of your perspective.
Ideas as to what Christians should be doing now are everywhere. An honest look at American Christianity finds little passion and motive. It is as if we are coasting unaware of how we are to finish the game of life. Do we know the rules? Are we done? Is it over for us on earth? So what do we do?
I think the game of baseball has a few answers for us as Christians living in this time.
Get Back to 1ST Base
Beyond anything else we are to bring glory to God! Yet few churches focus on this. The seeker movement of the 90's turned our attention to many other issues. We saw our outreach struggling. People were not coming to Christ! We knew we needed a fix. The fix we applied has not worked as a whole. No church can accomplish pleasing people. It is more than difficult for someone to surrender to Jesus while the attention is on their own "wants" being met. That is why we are to bring glory to God and seek to please Him alone! Evangelism flows from glorifying God. We see first hand His provision in sending Jesus to mankind. We begin to grasp the heartbeat of God in drawing people to Himself. We realize our role in sharing the Gospel. We see the fruit of lives changed once they surrender to Jesus as Lord and Savior.
Don't Get Picked off 1ST
Moving from 1ST base to 2ND is a must. But before we get to 2ND we must avoid getting picked off at 1ST. Distractions are everywhere. People, good and bad, bring multiple distractions into our lives. A simple thought expressed of something negative can start the ball rolling. A thought unchecked can do it as well. As eager as we are to move on, distractions will try to force our eyes off the goal. And don't think that this doesn't happen daily. And please understand, distractions come from those we would not think would want to distract us.
Touch the Bases as we Move Forward
Once we have the green light to move from 1ST Base we must not forget a simple rule - be sure to touch all the bases as you progress. What does this mean. In baseball, a base runner must actually touch each base or they are called out. As Christians, we love the idea of making it home and scoring runs. But we must touch each base. We must realize the importance found at each base. Getting ahead in our thoughts can cause us to miss important things. The distractions that come into our lives are actually designed to get us off track - miss each base. It is important to know our goal. It is important to reach our goal. But the rules say there is a specific way to do this. Be sure to touch each base. Stay with the progression instead of trying to take short cuts. Stay with with the Word of God, our rule book, and know that straying will bring consequences. As we bring Glory to God, lives will be added to the Kingdom at each base.
Tune Out the Fans
Everybody has an opinion. Opinions are dangerous. Lives are so influenced by those who are cheering for us and yet their advice is often misleading. Once you know your goals and the rules, block out the many opinions that are thrown your way from fans. They can create havoc in your life. They want you to score. They want you to win. But they may not understand completely what that means. Seek advice from grounded people - coaches. But know that too many coaches never works. Not many of our fans are really invested in us as individuals. They want a win more than anything. But they are in the stands and NOT on the field. Stick with the coaches on the field. And don't forget there are fans who do not want you to win! Ignore them! They are not cheering for your victory! Can you tell the difference?
Leave it All on the Field
In my office is a framed rendition of Vince Lombardi's "What it Takes to be #1". I also have a copy of a plaque that President Ronald Reagan kept on his desk that says "It Can Be Done". These two things remind me daily of the above. They remind me that I must commit to finishing strong. Only commitment will keep you focused. They also remind me that giving my all is required to actually score and reach home plate. Christians cannot hold back in this life on earth. We are to give our all to the One who paid for us and gives us life. We are to finish our course wiped out ready for our reward. Too many of us our coasting. We trot around the base path as if we are good to go. Jesus ran to the finish line for us with all He had. Will we run the bases of life to reach home with every ounce of strength we have? Will Jesus say of us "well done, good and faithful servant!"?
The true test for American Christianity is now upon us. Our days of easy believe-ism are long gone. The game of life on earth has reached the bottom of the ninth. We are up to bat. What will we do? It is now our time to bring this game to a successful victory. A victory that is assured. Only problem though is that there are lives in the balance as we complete the game. Our victory is other peoples salvation. We are to reach home with others with us.
And this we cannot afford to lose!
Play ball!
It's rally time!
Ideas as to what Christians should be doing now are everywhere. An honest look at American Christianity finds little passion and motive. It is as if we are coasting unaware of how we are to finish the game of life. Do we know the rules? Are we done? Is it over for us on earth? So what do we do?
I think the game of baseball has a few answers for us as Christians living in this time.
Get Back to 1ST Base
Beyond anything else we are to bring glory to God! Yet few churches focus on this. The seeker movement of the 90's turned our attention to many other issues. We saw our outreach struggling. People were not coming to Christ! We knew we needed a fix. The fix we applied has not worked as a whole. No church can accomplish pleasing people. It is more than difficult for someone to surrender to Jesus while the attention is on their own "wants" being met. That is why we are to bring glory to God and seek to please Him alone! Evangelism flows from glorifying God. We see first hand His provision in sending Jesus to mankind. We begin to grasp the heartbeat of God in drawing people to Himself. We realize our role in sharing the Gospel. We see the fruit of lives changed once they surrender to Jesus as Lord and Savior.
Don't Get Picked off 1ST
Moving from 1ST base to 2ND is a must. But before we get to 2ND we must avoid getting picked off at 1ST. Distractions are everywhere. People, good and bad, bring multiple distractions into our lives. A simple thought expressed of something negative can start the ball rolling. A thought unchecked can do it as well. As eager as we are to move on, distractions will try to force our eyes off the goal. And don't think that this doesn't happen daily. And please understand, distractions come from those we would not think would want to distract us.
Touch the Bases as we Move Forward
Once we have the green light to move from 1ST Base we must not forget a simple rule - be sure to touch all the bases as you progress. What does this mean. In baseball, a base runner must actually touch each base or they are called out. As Christians, we love the idea of making it home and scoring runs. But we must touch each base. We must realize the importance found at each base. Getting ahead in our thoughts can cause us to miss important things. The distractions that come into our lives are actually designed to get us off track - miss each base. It is important to know our goal. It is important to reach our goal. But the rules say there is a specific way to do this. Be sure to touch each base. Stay with the progression instead of trying to take short cuts. Stay with with the Word of God, our rule book, and know that straying will bring consequences. As we bring Glory to God, lives will be added to the Kingdom at each base.
Tune Out the Fans
Everybody has an opinion. Opinions are dangerous. Lives are so influenced by those who are cheering for us and yet their advice is often misleading. Once you know your goals and the rules, block out the many opinions that are thrown your way from fans. They can create havoc in your life. They want you to score. They want you to win. But they may not understand completely what that means. Seek advice from grounded people - coaches. But know that too many coaches never works. Not many of our fans are really invested in us as individuals. They want a win more than anything. But they are in the stands and NOT on the field. Stick with the coaches on the field. And don't forget there are fans who do not want you to win! Ignore them! They are not cheering for your victory! Can you tell the difference?
Leave it All on the Field
In my office is a framed rendition of Vince Lombardi's "What it Takes to be #1". I also have a copy of a plaque that President Ronald Reagan kept on his desk that says "It Can Be Done". These two things remind me daily of the above. They remind me that I must commit to finishing strong. Only commitment will keep you focused. They also remind me that giving my all is required to actually score and reach home plate. Christians cannot hold back in this life on earth. We are to give our all to the One who paid for us and gives us life. We are to finish our course wiped out ready for our reward. Too many of us our coasting. We trot around the base path as if we are good to go. Jesus ran to the finish line for us with all He had. Will we run the bases of life to reach home with every ounce of strength we have? Will Jesus say of us "well done, good and faithful servant!"?
The true test for American Christianity is now upon us. Our days of easy believe-ism are long gone. The game of life on earth has reached the bottom of the ninth. We are up to bat. What will we do? It is now our time to bring this game to a successful victory. A victory that is assured. Only problem though is that there are lives in the balance as we complete the game. Our victory is other peoples salvation. We are to reach home with others with us.
And this we cannot afford to lose!
Play ball!
It's rally time!
Thursday, February 21, 2013
But I want more...!
Growing up I shared a room with my two brothers. In our closet was a built in box that stored our toys. It was always full. In fact, it was so full that I cannot remember one toy from that box that I played with. I do remember the toys that I played with daily (tonka trucks, fire engines, baseball glove, balls, and bats) for they were kept in close proximity under my bed. I needed them handy and thus avoided them ever getting into THE BOX! So what was in the box?
Toys!
But why were they kept in the box? They were played with a few times upon receiving them but that was about it. Most of you can recall similar items from your childhood and maybe even items today. We want and want some more. We seldom ever interact with the wants that we get. But the wants continue. At some point, the madness has to end. Common sense has to enter the scene and discipline must be exercised. Without such, our wants stack up and eventually cover us up.
The America of today is in this "want" approach to life. Not only do we see this in our Federal Government but we also see it in just about every aspect of society - church included. Some call it the Nanny State. Others think it is only a Government problem. I see it as more!
It is hard pressed to find anyone these days who understands that "wanting" and "getting" can be dangerous. Go beyond this to the understanding that nothing is free! What? Nothing is free? True indeed. Somebody somewhere has to pay for our wants and what we get. But we do not like this at all. We would rather take an approach that just thinks its free or that those with money are obligated to give some of that money to us. It's not fair that they have money and we don't. It's not fair that I cannot get what I want and others can. Surely we all agree that if everyone pitched in, all will get their wants? Right?
Wrong!
History cannot reveal a single society, church, or social setting where this mentality actually works. Not even in the Bible do you find this type of teaching. It does not exist. So we are left wondering where did this thought originate? Are we really so ignorant of basic economics that we think we can change what history and common sense clearly teach?
Ask anyone in ministry today and they will tell you that even Christians "want" while wanting NOT to "give". It is becoming more difficult to find people willing to serve. Yet their wants are expected to be met. No accountability rules the day in many churches. A simple "don't ask me to do" and "I am not going to give" are producing the same climate in churches that exists in most of society.
What will it take to reverse the course?
Some think that tragedy or hardship will awaken Americans and American Christians. I have my doubts. This one thing I do know - with everyone taking and few giving and willing to work, the current national scenario will implode quickly. We cannot sustain an economy, life, or culture built on everyone getting what they want and no one working. We can take all we want from those who have worked hard for their money, but it will not meet 1% of the wants that we demand.
My oldest son posted a picture to his Facebook page today that said the following:
"You will always only be a spectator until you are willing to risk blood, sweat, and dirt!"
Maybe I will re-write it this way: "If everyone only wants and takes, where will we take it from?"
The Bible says it this way: II Th 3:10 "...If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. (NKJ)
What is sad to me is that we Christians should be leading the way in living out the example and yet, as I mentioned above, we are living the problem instead. Churches that are to be setting the standard are actually magnifying the problem. How? We are raising a new generation of children who approach church with the "nanny state" mentality.
But I want more... :)
Toys!
But why were they kept in the box? They were played with a few times upon receiving them but that was about it. Most of you can recall similar items from your childhood and maybe even items today. We want and want some more. We seldom ever interact with the wants that we get. But the wants continue. At some point, the madness has to end. Common sense has to enter the scene and discipline must be exercised. Without such, our wants stack up and eventually cover us up.
The America of today is in this "want" approach to life. Not only do we see this in our Federal Government but we also see it in just about every aspect of society - church included. Some call it the Nanny State. Others think it is only a Government problem. I see it as more!
It is hard pressed to find anyone these days who understands that "wanting" and "getting" can be dangerous. Go beyond this to the understanding that nothing is free! What? Nothing is free? True indeed. Somebody somewhere has to pay for our wants and what we get. But we do not like this at all. We would rather take an approach that just thinks its free or that those with money are obligated to give some of that money to us. It's not fair that they have money and we don't. It's not fair that I cannot get what I want and others can. Surely we all agree that if everyone pitched in, all will get their wants? Right?
Wrong!
History cannot reveal a single society, church, or social setting where this mentality actually works. Not even in the Bible do you find this type of teaching. It does not exist. So we are left wondering where did this thought originate? Are we really so ignorant of basic economics that we think we can change what history and common sense clearly teach?
Ask anyone in ministry today and they will tell you that even Christians "want" while wanting NOT to "give". It is becoming more difficult to find people willing to serve. Yet their wants are expected to be met. No accountability rules the day in many churches. A simple "don't ask me to do" and "I am not going to give" are producing the same climate in churches that exists in most of society.
What will it take to reverse the course?
Some think that tragedy or hardship will awaken Americans and American Christians. I have my doubts. This one thing I do know - with everyone taking and few giving and willing to work, the current national scenario will implode quickly. We cannot sustain an economy, life, or culture built on everyone getting what they want and no one working. We can take all we want from those who have worked hard for their money, but it will not meet 1% of the wants that we demand.
My oldest son posted a picture to his Facebook page today that said the following:
"You will always only be a spectator until you are willing to risk blood, sweat, and dirt!"
Maybe I will re-write it this way: "If everyone only wants and takes, where will we take it from?"
The Bible says it this way: II Th 3:10 "...If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. (NKJ)
What is sad to me is that we Christians should be leading the way in living out the example and yet, as I mentioned above, we are living the problem instead. Churches that are to be setting the standard are actually magnifying the problem. How? We are raising a new generation of children who approach church with the "nanny state" mentality.
But I want more... :)
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
When you are demonized....
Perception is everything these days. Facts seem to be meaningless. Perception has become the new fact. How do you handle a situation when someone controls the perception of your ideas and beliefs? How can you live in a manner that will overcome the specific action by others to demonize you because of your beliefs?
One of the best places to find such an example for us is in the Biblical book of Daniel. We all know about Daniel and the lions den. We know about the fiery furnace. But what in Daniel have we missed? He is a guy who lived as a difference maker in ungodly Governments. He lived and he rose to high levels of influence in these Government systems without compromising his faith in God and the practice thereof. Daniel had rulers call upon him to solve major issues. And this was done knowing who Daniel was and where Daniel stood. There are some timely lessons for us from the life of this man.
Purpose to be a Difference Maker
Daniel was not out to make points and show his righteousness off for all to see. He determined at a young age to impact people regardless. We love scoring points. We love to put something out to the masses that "hits the mark"! But do we realize that our points make little impact? And if no impact is made - why are we making the point. Andy Stanley in an interview recently about his invite to preach the pre inaugural message in DC, made the following statement:
Col 4:6
6 Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.
(NKJ)
One of the best places to find such an example for us is in the Biblical book of Daniel. We all know about Daniel and the lions den. We know about the fiery furnace. But what in Daniel have we missed? He is a guy who lived as a difference maker in ungodly Governments. He lived and he rose to high levels of influence in these Government systems without compromising his faith in God and the practice thereof. Daniel had rulers call upon him to solve major issues. And this was done knowing who Daniel was and where Daniel stood. There are some timely lessons for us from the life of this man.
Purpose to be a Difference Maker
Daniel was not out to make points and show his righteousness off for all to see. He determined at a young age to impact people regardless. We love scoring points. We love to put something out to the masses that "hits the mark"! But do we realize that our points make little impact? And if no impact is made - why are we making the point. Andy Stanley in an interview recently about his invite to preach the pre inaugural message in DC, made the following statement:
"Make a difference. Don't be satisfied with
making a point." It's easy to make a point. If you have a computer, a
blog, a Twitter account, you can make a point. But you're not going to
make a difference with your points. We have been called to be difference makers."
This statement highlights exactly what I am speaking about in Daniels life. It would have been easy for Daniel to make points about all of the evil doings in the ungodly Governments he lived under. Equally, Daniel could have decided that he would go public and bash all leaders who did not agree with him and his beliefs. Daniel had truth on his side. But Daniel took a different path. He determined to be a difference maker.
Purpose to Edify even in Confrontation
To easy for many of us is the trap to forget that our words matter. The Bible says that we are to be slow to wrath and always edifying. We know this is not an easy thing to do. Yet when we edify and speak with with words of respect and value, we gain favor. We tear down walls and open doors for greater influence. All because of how we speak. To encourage is to to earn the opportunity to develop a deeper relationship with those we may disagree with. A harsh point made loses the opportunity for further discussion and speaks to a desire for no influence at all. The apostle Paul said:
Col 4:6
6 Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.
(NKJ)
This type of speech is not easy when we are under attack. Our emotions rise quickly. Our warrior instinct swells to a point of battle readiness. And yet it is at this moment, we risk the most. When we are demonized we stand at a major crossroads. We must remember this:
It means nothing for me to win a debate. It means everything to earn the right to develop a relationship and become a difference maker in someones life.
For we are called to be Difference Makers!
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
The tough road of a conservative is...
If you are a person who believes in conservative values; financial, moral, Biblical, etc., then you probably know how difficult it is to voice the beliefs you cherish without a push back these days. The road for a conservative today is looked upon like a dirt road surrounded by interstates - out of date and only used by those out of date themselves. This road is tough and it is not going to get smooth quickly.
The liberal bias in all branches of the media around the globe aid in the conservative struggle. Love, compassion, intellect, and practicality seem to be captured only by liberals in our daily lives. A simple mention of cutting spending, lowering taxes, abortion being murder, marriage between a man and women, no living together etc., will probably result in strange stares from people you work and attend school with. The conservative values are easy to live out in this environment but are becoming increasingly difficult to share. And we have only just begun!
How do you share the values you hold dear? How do you promote these values to people who's lives are wreaking the consequences of their absence? How do you share the values of your life with people intolerant of those very values?
It is no secret that our national media has long supported values and principles that are defined as liberal. Yet today, our media is now joined by a growing young adult population, rapidly growing ethnic population, and locked in under 60 age population that share in their disdain for conservative values. America has changed much! We conservatives know we have poorly reached out to these other groups. And when a reach did occur, we simply told history and our views. We missed the opportunity to tell the conservative narrative with ties into peoples lives. A truth and consequence if you will without the judgement present. And this is the trap!
For conservative values to spread our approach of sharing must change. Our current population is obtaining information quickly these days and from sources not norm to many aging conservatives. When we jump into conversations with our values we must be sure of the illustrations being used and the statistics being quoted. We must also understand the limits of usefulness to our stories and statistics. People are not impressed. There is a need for connection. People long for a connection to be made before they will embrace or give thought to anything we share. And connecting we have not done. Conservative values are polar opposite what the vast number of people today have grown up with. And as is so often the case, our methods of sharing are outdated and filled with little to draw people to contemplate and study.
Here are some simple things that will assist in sharing these values:
1. Do not judge or be judgmental.
2. Listen much before speaking - you may learn more than you thought possible.
3. Don't tell your story, connect with other peoples stories.
4. Live what you share - people will see the difference and want to know more.
5. Admit failures in the conservative journey. Not all has worked perfectly.
6. Know that many view you and your beliefs as hostile to their freedom of beliefs.
7. Kindness will get you further than preaching and arguing any day of the week.
These are just a few things that will help as you seek to share your values with others.
In our next post we will discuss how to overcome being demonized.
The liberal bias in all branches of the media around the globe aid in the conservative struggle. Love, compassion, intellect, and practicality seem to be captured only by liberals in our daily lives. A simple mention of cutting spending, lowering taxes, abortion being murder, marriage between a man and women, no living together etc., will probably result in strange stares from people you work and attend school with. The conservative values are easy to live out in this environment but are becoming increasingly difficult to share. And we have only just begun!
How do you share the values you hold dear? How do you promote these values to people who's lives are wreaking the consequences of their absence? How do you share the values of your life with people intolerant of those very values?
It is no secret that our national media has long supported values and principles that are defined as liberal. Yet today, our media is now joined by a growing young adult population, rapidly growing ethnic population, and locked in under 60 age population that share in their disdain for conservative values. America has changed much! We conservatives know we have poorly reached out to these other groups. And when a reach did occur, we simply told history and our views. We missed the opportunity to tell the conservative narrative with ties into peoples lives. A truth and consequence if you will without the judgement present. And this is the trap!
For conservative values to spread our approach of sharing must change. Our current population is obtaining information quickly these days and from sources not norm to many aging conservatives. When we jump into conversations with our values we must be sure of the illustrations being used and the statistics being quoted. We must also understand the limits of usefulness to our stories and statistics. People are not impressed. There is a need for connection. People long for a connection to be made before they will embrace or give thought to anything we share. And connecting we have not done. Conservative values are polar opposite what the vast number of people today have grown up with. And as is so often the case, our methods of sharing are outdated and filled with little to draw people to contemplate and study.
Here are some simple things that will assist in sharing these values:
1. Do not judge or be judgmental.
2. Listen much before speaking - you may learn more than you thought possible.
3. Don't tell your story, connect with other peoples stories.
4. Live what you share - people will see the difference and want to know more.
5. Admit failures in the conservative journey. Not all has worked perfectly.
6. Know that many view you and your beliefs as hostile to their freedom of beliefs.
7. Kindness will get you further than preaching and arguing any day of the week.
These are just a few things that will help as you seek to share your values with others.
In our next post we will discuss how to overcome being demonized.
Saturday, January 12, 2013
The Root of the Obvious American Problem
It is not wise for one to offer something as a sure fire answer to everything. A know it all type person has little influence in the lives of others. Much of the discussion these days relating to the vast changes occurring before our eyes in America fits this know it all baseline. If not that, it most assuredly comes across as holier than thou to those listening and reading. Yet ignored due to the preceding is the answer to the problem that we see and know is growing. What is at the root of it?
I will offer two areas that I think will assist us in seeing the roots that are allowing all of this change to occur.
First, we lost the battle on the homosexual issues by not understanding the homosexual agenda. The agenda put forth was one of being recognized as a minority. Since the late 1970's this idea has been allowed to fully develop without any challenge from those who differ. More so, the silence from true minorities has been a booster shot to the homosexual movement. By embracing the minorities, and the minorities embracing the homosexual agenda, the agenda has actually captured an apparent victory.
To qualify as a minority, one must reproduce the same. Homosexuals do not reproduce. Homosexuals are NOT a minority. They never have been and never will be, unless we change the definition of "minority"! Had we simply begun the discussion, and continued it with this principle of fact, the influence of the agenda would have been severely held back. We chose to argue and condemn and were thus easy targets to be labeled as hateful. The influence of a behavior group would have been easily slowed had we kept the discussion here. We should have been assisting the minority groups in their struggle while protecting them from this usurping. We failed.
And yes, minority groups allowed this behavior agenda to steal the day and they have lost much as a result.
But something occurred inside many churches that equally allowed for the changing thoughts on sin and other things in America. American churches became soapbox churches. We have those who rally around the Bible and shout about people NOT living moral lives while we ignore the sin within. We loved the shouting and failed to reach people with Jesus Christ. We also have those that were/are determined to reach people and began to offer a more pragmatic form of teaching that led to little discipleship and an embracing of little moral truth. These soapbox type churches are now a majority in America. One may find it difficult to hear any clear teaching on the simple things of life, including human life, for fear of offending. And when one finds truth, often it is wrapped in self righteous indignation and not in the power and love of the Holy Spirit.
The soapbox approach has developed due to one simple practice among us preachers.
Most American Pastors have abandoned Expository Preaching and most Bible Study groups are more focused on felt needs! We we fail to teach the Bible from cover to cover, verse by verse, and so we produce little in discipleship. And what little is done, is extremely weak. I have found it amazing to teach through Genesis and discover the depth of truth about understanding creation and life that is so easy to see and equally applicable today. I don't have to go off on a soapbox. The Bible speaks for itself with grace and in love to all who will receive. And Genesis actually covers homosexuality!
And don't forget, the Bible even tells us the itching ears and the leaving behind of sound doctrine will occur as we approach the return of Jesus Christ. We should not be so surprised that we are seeing it.
We should also be quick to repent of the fact that we actually aided in the progression of such.
I will offer two areas that I think will assist us in seeing the roots that are allowing all of this change to occur.
First, we lost the battle on the homosexual issues by not understanding the homosexual agenda. The agenda put forth was one of being recognized as a minority. Since the late 1970's this idea has been allowed to fully develop without any challenge from those who differ. More so, the silence from true minorities has been a booster shot to the homosexual movement. By embracing the minorities, and the minorities embracing the homosexual agenda, the agenda has actually captured an apparent victory.
To qualify as a minority, one must reproduce the same. Homosexuals do not reproduce. Homosexuals are NOT a minority. They never have been and never will be, unless we change the definition of "minority"! Had we simply begun the discussion, and continued it with this principle of fact, the influence of the agenda would have been severely held back. We chose to argue and condemn and were thus easy targets to be labeled as hateful. The influence of a behavior group would have been easily slowed had we kept the discussion here. We should have been assisting the minority groups in their struggle while protecting them from this usurping. We failed.
And yes, minority groups allowed this behavior agenda to steal the day and they have lost much as a result.
But something occurred inside many churches that equally allowed for the changing thoughts on sin and other things in America. American churches became soapbox churches. We have those who rally around the Bible and shout about people NOT living moral lives while we ignore the sin within. We loved the shouting and failed to reach people with Jesus Christ. We also have those that were/are determined to reach people and began to offer a more pragmatic form of teaching that led to little discipleship and an embracing of little moral truth. These soapbox type churches are now a majority in America. One may find it difficult to hear any clear teaching on the simple things of life, including human life, for fear of offending. And when one finds truth, often it is wrapped in self righteous indignation and not in the power and love of the Holy Spirit.
The soapbox approach has developed due to one simple practice among us preachers.
Most American Pastors have abandoned Expository Preaching and most Bible Study groups are more focused on felt needs! We we fail to teach the Bible from cover to cover, verse by verse, and so we produce little in discipleship. And what little is done, is extremely weak. I have found it amazing to teach through Genesis and discover the depth of truth about understanding creation and life that is so easy to see and equally applicable today. I don't have to go off on a soapbox. The Bible speaks for itself with grace and in love to all who will receive. And Genesis actually covers homosexuality!
And don't forget, the Bible even tells us the itching ears and the leaving behind of sound doctrine will occur as we approach the return of Jesus Christ. We should not be so surprised that we are seeing it.
We should also be quick to repent of the fact that we actually aided in the progression of such.
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
The Great American Christian Question
The history of America is without honest question. This nation was founded on Biblical principles. From those principles God blessed and America grew beyond anyone's dreams. The power of such growth resulted in an incredible world protector for liberty and religious freedom. That was then!
What about now!
Christians in America need to answer this question quickly. We must also pray and be determined to get the right answer. For the right answer is our path from now forward. We will find the right answer by looking at our past failures. Yes, our past failures highlight the answer needed today.
We begin by admitting that we as American Christians have failed to understand that our primary purpose was and is to lead people to Jesus Christ. Without Jesus, people are simply sinful people with NO hope for changing. We have fought hard the culture war. We have lost. We lost because we were not focused on leading people to the one true God who could and will save them through Jesus Christ. Our biggest failure as American Christians is found in that we did not reach the multitudes of people that God allowed to come to America. We had it all set up to reach world! We failed. Without a changed heart, people will not adopt an ideology that is Christian based. Our worldview will not make sense to them at all! We tried via many methods while avoiding the one and only method that works - leading people to Jesus! We begin to find our answer when we admit to this failure!
The absence of the power of the Holy Spirit evidenced in our lives is also a big failure! American Christians learned to play at church. We learned that real well. We developed many of our systems and programs in our churches by copying the world. The greatest one being Sunday School. We copied the American education system. We set up directors, had roll books, and some churches even use to ring the bell! We established programs, and I do mean many programs. We built our church schedules around the work culture of the 50's and 60's and we grew children's ministries/missions ministries for children right out of boy/girl scouts. The club mentality anchored our approach. For adults the same was true. In all of this, the programs became the focus in place of the power of the Holy Spirit living in and working through our lives. We taught for education sake. We learned many facts but we failed to experience the power God via the Holy Spirit in our lives. We were so focused on knowing about that we never realized we were not living in. Again, we failed.
This led to neglect of some key Biblical disciplines. In particular, fasting! There are those few types of churches that practice this and have for years. But many American Christians in our older age groups never were taught or led to develop fasting in their lives. Without fasting there can be no power of the Holy Spirit. Our lives were simply being lived through a mental ideology. An ideology that requires the power of the Holy Spirit.
So caught up in our programs and structure we embraced a salesman approach to sharing the gospel. We tweaked our services in some cases and in others demanded that we NOT change a thing. Time was always our focus and comfort and familiarity followed in our priorities. We began trying to attract people instead of sharing Jesus by living in Him. It worked for a while - maybe, maybe not. But soon we could not do enough to up what had already been done. People caught on to our sales pitch and began tuning us out. Again we failed.
People without Jesus began to see that those who professed to have him were not that much different. In fact, often times Christians were worse. We were mean, lacked compassion, ugly, holier than thou, and were more focused on we wanted and bragging about what we claimed to have, that people failed to see in us a compassion for them. We were anything but passionate for people. Love was not found for anyone, just for those we liked. And the slide continued. Only now, other religions and ideologies were being embraced. And we could go on and on...!
So what is the answer?
1. Know our purpose is to live obedient to the command of our Lord to lead people to Jesus!
2. Know that we must fucus on living in the power of the Holy Spirit daily! Without this power lives will not be changed.
3. Know that following Biblical disciplines must become a priority. Seek to learn these and apply them daily. The power of the Holy Spirit depends upon it.
4. Know that we love and thus show this love of people daily! People come in all shapes and backgrounds. We are to love them! Period!
We begin with these four! Until these four are evident, nothing else will matter! It is only through these four that Revival will come! And our greatest need right now is not political nor ideological.
What about now!
Christians in America need to answer this question quickly. We must also pray and be determined to get the right answer. For the right answer is our path from now forward. We will find the right answer by looking at our past failures. Yes, our past failures highlight the answer needed today.
We begin by admitting that we as American Christians have failed to understand that our primary purpose was and is to lead people to Jesus Christ. Without Jesus, people are simply sinful people with NO hope for changing. We have fought hard the culture war. We have lost. We lost because we were not focused on leading people to the one true God who could and will save them through Jesus Christ. Our biggest failure as American Christians is found in that we did not reach the multitudes of people that God allowed to come to America. We had it all set up to reach world! We failed. Without a changed heart, people will not adopt an ideology that is Christian based. Our worldview will not make sense to them at all! We tried via many methods while avoiding the one and only method that works - leading people to Jesus! We begin to find our answer when we admit to this failure!
The absence of the power of the Holy Spirit evidenced in our lives is also a big failure! American Christians learned to play at church. We learned that real well. We developed many of our systems and programs in our churches by copying the world. The greatest one being Sunday School. We copied the American education system. We set up directors, had roll books, and some churches even use to ring the bell! We established programs, and I do mean many programs. We built our church schedules around the work culture of the 50's and 60's and we grew children's ministries/missions ministries for children right out of boy/girl scouts. The club mentality anchored our approach. For adults the same was true. In all of this, the programs became the focus in place of the power of the Holy Spirit living in and working through our lives. We taught for education sake. We learned many facts but we failed to experience the power God via the Holy Spirit in our lives. We were so focused on knowing about that we never realized we were not living in. Again, we failed.
This led to neglect of some key Biblical disciplines. In particular, fasting! There are those few types of churches that practice this and have for years. But many American Christians in our older age groups never were taught or led to develop fasting in their lives. Without fasting there can be no power of the Holy Spirit. Our lives were simply being lived through a mental ideology. An ideology that requires the power of the Holy Spirit.
So caught up in our programs and structure we embraced a salesman approach to sharing the gospel. We tweaked our services in some cases and in others demanded that we NOT change a thing. Time was always our focus and comfort and familiarity followed in our priorities. We began trying to attract people instead of sharing Jesus by living in Him. It worked for a while - maybe, maybe not. But soon we could not do enough to up what had already been done. People caught on to our sales pitch and began tuning us out. Again we failed.
People without Jesus began to see that those who professed to have him were not that much different. In fact, often times Christians were worse. We were mean, lacked compassion, ugly, holier than thou, and were more focused on we wanted and bragging about what we claimed to have, that people failed to see in us a compassion for them. We were anything but passionate for people. Love was not found for anyone, just for those we liked. And the slide continued. Only now, other religions and ideologies were being embraced. And we could go on and on...!
So what is the answer?
1. Know our purpose is to live obedient to the command of our Lord to lead people to Jesus!
2. Know that we must fucus on living in the power of the Holy Spirit daily! Without this power lives will not be changed.
3. Know that following Biblical disciplines must become a priority. Seek to learn these and apply them daily. The power of the Holy Spirit depends upon it.
4. Know that we love and thus show this love of people daily! People come in all shapes and backgrounds. We are to love them! Period!
We begin with these four! Until these four are evident, nothing else will matter! It is only through these four that Revival will come! And our greatest need right now is not political nor ideological.
Our greatest need is REVIVAL!
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