Hebrews 12:1
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.” NLT
This weekend I was afforded the awesome opportunity to minster alongside over 100 volunteers from my home church of West Angeles Church of God in Christ and several other Los Angeles church congregants at the Eastlake Juvenile Detention Center. We gathered to serve hot plates of Thanksgiving turkey, dressing, green beans, and sweet pumpkin pie; a welcome alternative to the usual cold or lukewarm Los Angeles County fare. We young adults also provided prayer, song, scripture reading (thankfully there were several mini New Testaments inside the units) and much needed positive reinforcement for education, goal setting, resolving family issues and development of a personal relationship to God. It was truly a blessing to see and feel the tattered and ice cold hearts of young people slowly warm beneath our widely spread blanket of brotherly and sisterly love. Heaven rejoiced as many confessed the Lord Jesus as Savior. We remain in prayer for these children even now, and it is our hope that those who did not accept Christ immediately will look back on those few precious hours, recall God’s love shown and experience a life transforming longing for the heart and purpose of God in their own lives.
There are messages from God all around us; divine lessons to be learned from the simplest existing organisms to the most complex integration systems in cyberspace. I am of the opinion that if the man who thinks himself nothing at all will dare to take a moment and quiet his thoughts of self-deprecation, he will gain audience with the Creator of the universe. John 10:27 reassures us of access to Heaven’s voice: “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” As we learned last week in our study of contemplative prayer, we recognize that we must pause to listen, all while watching God’s handiwork in our lives. With this said, I am developing a habit of prayerfully watching God in my everyday experiences. The visit to Eastlake was a life changing experience for the reasons that I have already expressed, but there proved more that God wanted to share still.
Take it Back
Gaining entrance to Eastlake Juvenile Detention Center is a bit of a process. Armed guards and chaplains at the facility entrance welcomed us with smiles and nods of appreciation as well as stern glances toward our innocent hoarding of prohibited items. Common items taken to community outreach events such as bags, purses, multiple keys, sunglasses, cell phones, cameras, scarves and even books were deemed objectionable belongings that had to be placed back into parked vehicles outside. I love to take photos and had to take my camera back to my car along with the cell phones of several other volunteers. I had wanted to take candid shots of the activities, but I certainly understood the inherent privacy issues as they were explained to me. After returning from my car, I regained a place at the end of the long line and giggled to myself as a young lady indignantly tried to bargain with the guard to keep her scarf. She relayed that it was a simple item used to keep her warm. He replied that this “simple” item could in fact be used against her as a weapon. The scarf was taken back outside the gate. I knew how she felt, but I smiled as I found myself closer to the front of the line. Almost inside! My grin melted away when I was told that I was to return my shiny pink and green AKA key-chain with the CZ studded high heeled shoe as well as my pocket sized Bible to the car. What!?! Don’t tell me I have to go back to the car again! Could these objects be potential weapons as well! Certainly, no one could use a miniature shoe and a downsized version of the Good Book to physically slay anyone. I had already taken my camera back to the car earlier and now this! I wasn’t happy about the situation, but what I did know was that I was not going to let something as minor as a favorite sorority key-chain deter me from my goal. With a huff, I sauntered back to my car and hastily dropped off the items. As I was walking back, the Chaplain was coming toward me on his way to another location. We had met before and I shot out, “I had to go all the way back to my car again to drop off my Bible and key chain!” Never changing his pace, he calmly called back in a slow, Southern drawl “Yea, that’s why I sent ya’ll the rules before you got here. It’s all on the list.” He smiled, joked about me giving him all the money in my wallet, and faded around the corner. I exhaled. He was right. There had been an informational email that was sent out. I had even glanced at it, but I hadn’t paid much attention to the plainly written details. Because of this oversight and associated disobedience, I was weighted down with seemingly harmless items that delayed my entry to minister, created frustration and anxiety and ultimately exposed me to scenarios that could have brought me or others harm. When God calls you into sacred spaces, you will have to leave certain items, practices, thoughts and sometimes, even people behind you. Hebrews 12:1 is a verse that we have already visited, but is fitting to this discussion. It reminds us that we are to”…strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up…” Don’t allow seemingly harmless things to disallow you from fully experiencing the power of God in your life.
Critical Connections
As we have discussed before, the most critical thing as believers is to maintain a proper relationship and connection to God. Second to this are our relationships with others. We can never let even “little” things get in the way of our God-connection! Romans 8:38 “And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow–not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.” Maintain the God-connection at all costs! Playing online can be innocent enough, but if surfing the web trips you up and you find yourself on inappropriate sites; take the load off! Set boundaries for yourself by placing blocks on your surfing that will disallow unlimited access. Maybe your “harmless” weight is telephone time that often escalates to gossip and backbiting. Take the load off! Be proactive and refuse to have lengthy conversations with the work or church gossip queens and kings. You already know where the conversations will go, so when the numbers pop up, either don’t answer or when you do, keep it short. Colossians 4:6 states that we should “Let [our ] conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.” For some of us partying and alcohol is still an issue. Clearly John 10:34 relays to us just a few of the problems associated with alcohol: “Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by the worries of this life.” Many people feel that “social” drinking is not problematic, but are simply partying to cover up deep-seated emotional pain, feelings of inadequacies and often times loneliness. Be honest with yourself, for many young singles imbibing is about more that just a good time. You are seeking fulfillment and a sense of solidarity that this type of activity falsely affords. Many of us already know that even a drink or two lowers our inhibitions to the point that we regretfully find ourselves near or even totally in compromising and sinful situations. A “harmful” mixed drink or two can result in a world of unnecessary hurt for us. Lay aside the weight! Decide that you can have a great time at Christian activities absent of alcohol, and often the accompanying marijuana and sexual innuendo. You never have to wake up with a dry mouth, hurting head, empty heart and the question “how did I get here again?”. Live your life in Godly purpose; absent of regrets, even little ones! Know that you are on your way to a Kingdom destination and that everything you bring to the gate of your destiny simply cannot gain entry!
Easy Now!
The trip up of sin is so easy. The enemy cleverly masks himself as a gentleman. He gently offers us a little of this and a little of that. We step right into a grey zone on critical issues, strategically straddling a spiritual fence that is sure to crumble beneath the weight of little sins. Even if we initially are bounding along in spiritual mediocrity, a time will come when we will find ourselves weighted down with unrighteousness and guilt. We may never even realize our true plight until we are seeking entrance into places of blessing in God. We stand in wonder as to why our prayers go unanswered, our ministries flounder and our relationships fail to progress. Perhaps the reason we can’t gain access to the power of God in these areas is because we are simply carrying too many little weights to enter in. Just as we who served at the detention center last week had to leave some physical things behind, we must do the same in the things of God. Jesus promises us that for all we leave behind, what He gives us to carry will prove a true reward: Matthew 11:29 “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30) For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Yes, falling into sin can be easier, but taking on the mind of Christ and will of God for our lives is even easier! I encourage you to use the truth of God’s Word and the conviction of the Holy Spirit to take off even the those little things that will take you off course, separate you from the presence of God and deter you from your final destination. Take time to listen to the Lord’s leading. He will show you where there is unacceptable compromise in your life. You’re going somewhere my friends: higher and higher in God! Don’t allow the little things to delay your journey toward Kingdom greatness and real rest for your souls!
Dr.’s Orders
Little sins can be hard to identify, but God makes overcoming spiritual mediocrity easy for us. During your time with God, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you those gray areas in your life. Once identified, write these down and direct time in prayer for personal strength to truly let go!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Faith that Finishes
Wednesday, November 18, 2009 is the 322nd day of the year and for many of us it falls within a period of reflection and contemplation over what we have or have not accomplished in the past precious months. Think back to January, February or even March of this year. How fresh, bright and full of potential our goals, aspirations and projects appeared to be! Work directed to these tasks felt almost effortless as we face challenge after challenge with renewed enthusiasm for an expected and glorious end. For some of us it was the long, hot days of summer labour, while for others it proved the incessant reminders of investments and earnings lost, that somehow turned our eyes from our ultimate goals to our disconcerting present circumstance. If we are honest, some of us are dangerously close to losing sight of a God inspired vision and the person will to finish. I wasn’t so sure if I should share this, but my mother tells me to always speak to people from the heart and that people will in turn receive with their hearts. For most of my adult life I have suffered from bouts of mild to serious depression. As a Christian, I have been on the receiving end of much well intentioned admonishment that depression was a sign that I was a selfish and individualistic person only concerned with matters of self. After such “encouragement” I was often left more broken and down-trodden than before I shared my feelings. I am thankful for the many individuals, both professional and personal, who talked and prayed me out some very dark hours. While some episodes of depression are unpredictable with no clear etiology, other periods of sadness are situational. Most recently, the situation involved several key projects in my research laboratory that I had hoped would be finished by this point in the year. I began to look back at my previously penned plan of attack and immediately was reminded of how I had come miserably short. I had been so sure that all would be done by early December that I even planned an early vacation home to Arkansas. Last week was a dismal wake up call for me that nothing short of a miracle will enable me to complete all necessary experiments in order to publish a good manuscript by the spring. I was heartbroken. I felt inadequate. I began to question if I was even in God’s will for my life. While I prayed to God, I did so with feeble faith and certainty of my own personal failure. Though, I had warned others so passionately to be wary of the enemy who feeds us thoughts of hopeless despair, I began to feel myself sink into a deep, dark sadness. Not only was no work being applied to my projects, nothing else was being done effectively either. I even began to feel weak in my physical body with cold symptoms and exacerbation of preexisting back pain. But God! I am so grateful to God for His Word and His promises. I reached out to several strong believers to pray with me for strength. My mother reminded me of the God’s awesome promise as found in Phillipians 1:6 “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” I was so encouraged to hear this from an old soldier of the Faith who has seen so many challenges in life. There remain many dreams and promises of God that she holds fast to in spite of harsh so-called realities. We hold fast to the true reality that faith truly is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen! Just because the lights are off in the room, it doesn’t mean that all the furniture disappears. As the furniture remains in a dark room, the perfect Will of God remains all the more. Proverbs 13:12 declares that “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life. “ We must hold on to dreams inspired by God and rooted in faith. Today I encourage you to maintain a “Finishing Faith” that rests on the fact that it has been faith in God that has brought us this far and this same faith will lead us on!
The A-Team Finish!
In Exodus 36 we see the story of Moses and the people of Israel as they set about building sacred places to God. “1 ) So Bezalel, Oholiab and every skilled person to whom the LORD has given skill and ability to know how to carry out all the work of constructing the sanctuary are to do the work just as the LORD has commanded." 2 ) Then Moses summoned Bezalel and Oholiab and every skilled person to whom the LORD had given ability and who was willing to come and do the work. 3) They received from Moses all the offerings the Israelites had brought to carry out the work of constructing the sanctuary. And the people continued to bring freewill offerings morning after morning. 4) So all the skilled craftsmen who were doing all the work on the sanctuary left their work 5 and said to Moses, "The people are bringing more than enough for doing the work the LORD commanded to be done." 6 )Then Moses gave an order and they sent this word throughout the camp: "No man or woman is to make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary." And so the people were restrained from bringing more, 7) because what they already had was more than enough to do all the work.”
In verses 1 and 2 we see that the Lord Himself had “given skill and ability to know how to carry out all the work of constructing the sanctuary” to those that He feels are most capable to carry out the work. Look at yourself in the proverbial mirror today. Know that God has called you out for certain tasks according to the gifts and talents placed inside you from the start. You have the ability to do the work and as a possessor of finishing faith you also recognize your response-ability or responsibility to see your assignment through to the end. The part I like most about this passage is seen in verses 4-7 as we see that the people began to rally behind those who God had placed in leadership over the building of the Tabernacle and that they donated so much that Moses had to tell them to bring no more! When God places a job in front of you, He often positions people around to provide physical, emotional and spiritual support. The broader worldview is such that we begin to believe that we have to do things on our own in order to be respected and celebrated. How many believers take on a martyr’s mentality that compels them to carry entire loads alone when God ordained them to distribute the work evenly and march forward to lead the pack. Just as we see in verse 7, assess your project(s) fully to see if perhaps you already have “more than enough to do all the work.” Not only is the Source of your personal spiritual strength found in God, it is equally true that He uses earthen vessels; even mortal men to help you finish your Kingdom work. We are a part of a vast Family of God, each with unique gifts and talents that should be celebrated and maximized for the Kingdom. I am personally challenged to find ways in the coming week to utilize the people that God has placed around me to help me finish seemingly unconquerable tasks both at work and in ministry. Cliché or not, no man is an island. There really is no “I” in “team”. Finishing in faith often entails trusting the Godly purpose in someone other than yourself in order to finish; and finish well!
Been there! Done that!
My mother has an amazing memory. I have often heard from my married male friends that this is a gift claimed by most women. Somehow I think I missed the memory gene and am only now seeking to reclaim it. When pushing to finish, the believer must recall the past hurdles that have already been overcome and proclaim the power of God in days past. Psalm 46 summons us to stand firm in our faith in an all powerful and ever present God: 10 "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, will be exalted in the earth." 11 The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah.” That’s right think about it. Had it not been for the Lord who was on your side, where would you be? “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrew 13:8. As followers of Christ we take His awesome of example of submitting to the Will of the Father as a perfect example of how to finish. We look to Him when our memory of grace gone before fades against the backdrop or weary and worn faith. Be strengthened by the Word even now! When memory of past triumphs grow dim recall Hebrews 12: 2) "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3) Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” When we are faced with feelings of defeat and taunts from the enemy that we will die leaving our work undone, we must rebuke such thoughts fully aware of the knowledge of a Mighty God and His Son who have authored and will also bring to completion our faith centered dreams! Keep your eyes on Jesus. Recall miracle after miracle that He has performed in times past and rest on all that He is doing even now. He is Alpha and Omega. God goes ahead of you as you approach difficult tasks and He goes behind you to cover you and to help you wrap up otherwise unnoticed loose ends. It’s already done!
Stiff competition.
1 Corinthians 9: 24- 26 reads “Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! 25 All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. 26 So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing.” This passage is quite interesting to me in that upon superficial perusal it suggests that we are contending with one another. Paul clarifies in verse 25 that unlike competing athletes, we Christians run for eternal glory in the Kingdom of God. We are not running against each other, but decidedly in the direction of God and His purpose for our lives. While everyone will have a different race to run and finish, we all have the same destination. While Paul reminded us in Hebrew 11 of the many “faith runners” gone before, he continues on in Hebrews 12: 1) “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Know that a faith finisher refuses to carry around anything that will slow him or her in pursuit of the finish line. If you are being hindered from finishing your race secondary to greed, ingratitude, inappropriate relationships, selfishness, laziness, pride or any matter of sin, you must be willing to let it go immediately. The faith finisher recognizes the brevity of this race and desires to reach the finish line before life’s end or to at the very least to die trying. The stiffest competition lies within the recesses of our minds. In a world that suggest to us that we have to keep up with the Jones’ and the Kardashians, we know full well that we live our lives and run our race within the context of Romans 12: 2 “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Transform your thinking to that of Christ in order to understand that you aren’t racing against people. You run to reach your God ordained destiny according to His will!
Dr.’s Orders
1)Identify at least one natural and spiritual task that remains undone in your life. Even if you presently feel inept to finish it, pray that the Holy Spirit will assist you in finishing the work that He has begun. Pray Philippians 1:6 over the situation. Know that if God brought you to a situation He is more than able to bring you through it!
2)Find trustworthy and prayerful cheerleaders to support your project. Let them know how you need help, either tangible or spiritual. Don’t be afraid to ask for God’s help through other people.
3)Dare to praise God for the victory of finishing! Speak in confidence and faith that the projects/tasks are moving forward to completion.
The A-Team Finish!
In Exodus 36 we see the story of Moses and the people of Israel as they set about building sacred places to God. “1 ) So Bezalel, Oholiab and every skilled person to whom the LORD has given skill and ability to know how to carry out all the work of constructing the sanctuary are to do the work just as the LORD has commanded." 2 ) Then Moses summoned Bezalel and Oholiab and every skilled person to whom the LORD had given ability and who was willing to come and do the work. 3) They received from Moses all the offerings the Israelites had brought to carry out the work of constructing the sanctuary. And the people continued to bring freewill offerings morning after morning. 4) So all the skilled craftsmen who were doing all the work on the sanctuary left their work 5 and said to Moses, "The people are bringing more than enough for doing the work the LORD commanded to be done." 6 )Then Moses gave an order and they sent this word throughout the camp: "No man or woman is to make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary." And so the people were restrained from bringing more, 7) because what they already had was more than enough to do all the work.”
In verses 1 and 2 we see that the Lord Himself had “given skill and ability to know how to carry out all the work of constructing the sanctuary” to those that He feels are most capable to carry out the work. Look at yourself in the proverbial mirror today. Know that God has called you out for certain tasks according to the gifts and talents placed inside you from the start. You have the ability to do the work and as a possessor of finishing faith you also recognize your response-ability or responsibility to see your assignment through to the end. The part I like most about this passage is seen in verses 4-7 as we see that the people began to rally behind those who God had placed in leadership over the building of the Tabernacle and that they donated so much that Moses had to tell them to bring no more! When God places a job in front of you, He often positions people around to provide physical, emotional and spiritual support. The broader worldview is such that we begin to believe that we have to do things on our own in order to be respected and celebrated. How many believers take on a martyr’s mentality that compels them to carry entire loads alone when God ordained them to distribute the work evenly and march forward to lead the pack. Just as we see in verse 7, assess your project(s) fully to see if perhaps you already have “more than enough to do all the work.” Not only is the Source of your personal spiritual strength found in God, it is equally true that He uses earthen vessels; even mortal men to help you finish your Kingdom work. We are a part of a vast Family of God, each with unique gifts and talents that should be celebrated and maximized for the Kingdom. I am personally challenged to find ways in the coming week to utilize the people that God has placed around me to help me finish seemingly unconquerable tasks both at work and in ministry. Cliché or not, no man is an island. There really is no “I” in “team”. Finishing in faith often entails trusting the Godly purpose in someone other than yourself in order to finish; and finish well!
Been there! Done that!
My mother has an amazing memory. I have often heard from my married male friends that this is a gift claimed by most women. Somehow I think I missed the memory gene and am only now seeking to reclaim it. When pushing to finish, the believer must recall the past hurdles that have already been overcome and proclaim the power of God in days past. Psalm 46 summons us to stand firm in our faith in an all powerful and ever present God: 10 "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, will be exalted in the earth." 11 The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah.” That’s right think about it. Had it not been for the Lord who was on your side, where would you be? “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrew 13:8. As followers of Christ we take His awesome of example of submitting to the Will of the Father as a perfect example of how to finish. We look to Him when our memory of grace gone before fades against the backdrop or weary and worn faith. Be strengthened by the Word even now! When memory of past triumphs grow dim recall Hebrews 12: 2) "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3) Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” When we are faced with feelings of defeat and taunts from the enemy that we will die leaving our work undone, we must rebuke such thoughts fully aware of the knowledge of a Mighty God and His Son who have authored and will also bring to completion our faith centered dreams! Keep your eyes on Jesus. Recall miracle after miracle that He has performed in times past and rest on all that He is doing even now. He is Alpha and Omega. God goes ahead of you as you approach difficult tasks and He goes behind you to cover you and to help you wrap up otherwise unnoticed loose ends. It’s already done!
Stiff competition.
1 Corinthians 9: 24- 26 reads “Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! 25 All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. 26 So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing.” This passage is quite interesting to me in that upon superficial perusal it suggests that we are contending with one another. Paul clarifies in verse 25 that unlike competing athletes, we Christians run for eternal glory in the Kingdom of God. We are not running against each other, but decidedly in the direction of God and His purpose for our lives. While everyone will have a different race to run and finish, we all have the same destination. While Paul reminded us in Hebrew 11 of the many “faith runners” gone before, he continues on in Hebrews 12: 1) “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Know that a faith finisher refuses to carry around anything that will slow him or her in pursuit of the finish line. If you are being hindered from finishing your race secondary to greed, ingratitude, inappropriate relationships, selfishness, laziness, pride or any matter of sin, you must be willing to let it go immediately. The faith finisher recognizes the brevity of this race and desires to reach the finish line before life’s end or to at the very least to die trying. The stiffest competition lies within the recesses of our minds. In a world that suggest to us that we have to keep up with the Jones’ and the Kardashians, we know full well that we live our lives and run our race within the context of Romans 12: 2 “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Transform your thinking to that of Christ in order to understand that you aren’t racing against people. You run to reach your God ordained destiny according to His will!
Dr.’s Orders
1)Identify at least one natural and spiritual task that remains undone in your life. Even if you presently feel inept to finish it, pray that the Holy Spirit will assist you in finishing the work that He has begun. Pray Philippians 1:6 over the situation. Know that if God brought you to a situation He is more than able to bring you through it!
2)Find trustworthy and prayerful cheerleaders to support your project. Let them know how you need help, either tangible or spiritual. Don’t be afraid to ask for God’s help through other people.
3)Dare to praise God for the victory of finishing! Speak in confidence and faith that the projects/tasks are moving forward to completion.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Answered Prayer
Romans 8: 24-27
24) For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? 25) But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.26) In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. 27) And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.
"The safest place in the whole wide world is in the will of God,
though trials be great and the way seems hard,
it's in the will of God.
It may be on a mountain peak or in the valley low,
but wherever it may be,
if God says go, go, go!"
(Classic rendition sung by Karen Clark-Sheard & Kierra Sheard. Visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YjqfN3DUYM to listen!)
For those of us who are Clark Sisters fans, we know and love the interplay of these lyrics as sung by the incomparable Karen Clark-Sheard and her daughter Kierra. These two women sing with such passion, conviction and natural vocal virtuosity that you it is quite easy to become enraptured by the sound alone. Karen’s late mother, Dr. Mattie Moss Clark was appointed by the late Bishop J.O. Patterson as the Church of God in Christ International President of the Music Department in 1968. She worked to instill within her talented children, musicians and choirs a responsibility to Christ as well as capability for Christ. Throughout her efforts, young people especially received her and many were saved, and uplifted by her music and message. (Source:http://en.wikipedia.org) This powerful song (which I encourage you to watch on the above YouTube link), reminds us of the importance of finding and accepting God’s perfect will for our lives. Such clear understanding of divine purpose is found in daily prayer and devotion. Through prayer we learn to accept that in this life there will certainly be dizzying trials and mind bending, back breaking hard places to traverse. We come to know the security afforded by seeking God for guidance through the Holy Spirit. Whether God’s answer to our prayers is “no”, “slow”, or “grow” a consistent prayer life enables us to be sure that He is answering in a way that we can understand and that will ultimately lead us to our Kingdom Purpose. It is only then that we are enabled to safely go, go, go for the Lord! Today we will share in some of God’s possible answers to prayer including: “No”, “Slow”, “Grow”, and “Go”.
God’s “No” = Your “Yes ”
There are times in this life that God’s answer to our prayers is simply, “no”. No, it is not time to buy that new car. No, you cannot enter into a new mortgage. No, it is not time for you to enter into a new area or ministry. No, you cannot travel abroad right now. No is it not time for you to get married. No. No. No! The no answer can be the most difficult to accept for the modern believer. We have been conditioned to believe that since we are children of God we will ALWAYS and INSTANTLY get what we are seeking God for. God is not an like and ATM machine. We can’t simply put in our prayer cards and expect big returns all the time. It just doesn’t work that way. Being from a large Southern family there is heavy emphasis on marriage and family. In fact my older sister and two younger brothers have all been married for years at this point. Obviously I didn’t want to be a weirdo, and went to desperate measures sometimes to push myself into a position that would lead me down the aisle. Having heard so many people tell me to “name it and claim it” regarding my very premature requests I lost focus of the grace and the favor that God had placed upon my life. I would pray, long pitiful prayers to God, begging Him to bring me a mate, and when I tired of begging, to my detriment, I would go about “fixing” the situation on my own. There were individuals that I dated in my early twenties that I knew even then were no where in my destiny. I would date thugs with aims of helping them convert their “creative” employment into legitimate enterprise. I would ask God to bless these relationships and He simply answered, no. There were other times when I decided that as long as a man believed in God things could work out. It didn’t matter to me whether he had a tangible relationship with the Savior or not. God again shielded me from certain danger with another emphatic no! I was so determined to get a yes from God in this area, but in order for His perfect will to be made manifest in my life God had to tell me over and over again, no! It was not until I accepted that His choices for me were the best choices did I come to enjoy a deep and personal assurance that my prayers for a husband and family would be answered according to God’s will for me. Sure, I had to enter into a period of reflective singleness that would leave me lonely at times, but never ever was I alone, for the Lord was with me. When I accepted that the God was protecting me from distraction and strategically leading me toward purpose, I stopped resenting my singleness and began to tell god “yes” to His will. I grew busier and busier in the things of God and made greater effort to improve my love relationship with the Father. I developed an intense desire to be used by God that continues to mature even today. Our Elder Brother, the Lord Jesus knew all too well the suffering of a “no” from God. Matthew 26: 39 describes how Jesus experienced a painfully silent and final “no” from God” “He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.”” You may be asking, where was the “no” from God in this passage? The “no” lies in the deep, silent space between “let this cup pass from me” and “Not my will, but thine be done.” When facing a “no” from God in your own life, resolve to submit your will to the Father. Know that He is leading you and guiding you in this process. Pray in the Holy Spirit that God will eventually reveal to you the necessity for the “no” and until you reach that point of clarity, he will provide you with the faith to trust His leading. Romans 8: 27 reads: “And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.” When God says “no”, be thankful for the fulfillment of the Father’s Divine Will in your life! When the enemy tries to make you think that “no” from God is some sort of spiritual let down on the part of God, dare to triumphantly lift your head toward Heaven and tell the Lord “YES”! God’s “no” is truly for our good!
Hold On, Wait a Minute!
One of my favorite passages of scripture is Ecclesiastes 3:11: “Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.” Sometimes the answer from God is “wait, move slow”. It has been said that “timing is everything.” There is always a reason that God has not allowed certain things to come to pass in your life. My young adult pastor often asks us, “can you stand to be blessed?” indicating that certain blessings require particular levels of maturity in God. For most of us, God desires to increase our faith, and this increase will invariably require a wait. Romans 8:25 reads: “But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” We must understand that a “wait or slow” from God is not a denial. If you know that God has made certain promises to you, hold fast and never give up. Wait patiently! Luke 21:19 reminds us that “in your patience possess ye your souls.” The soul is the seat of our thoughts, intellect, and emotions. This means that when we are patient before God’s desire for us to wait, we practice control over negative thoughts, poor rationalizations and misdirected emotions. Waiting on God mandates a spiritual and emotional posture of trust that God is truly working in your behalf. Remember, God’s message to proceed with caution is not a denial. Remind yourself often of your God inspired dreams and speak in faith that they will come to pass. Allow Him to fully prepare you for the joy and concomitant responsibility of your blessing. Get ready my friends. The wait is almost over!
Grow to Victory!
I once read the story of a man who saw a moth struggling to get free from it's cocoon. The man had pity on the moth and it's terrible struggle, so he carefully cut the cocoon to allow the moth to come out more easily. The moth was free, but could not fly. He learned, too late, that in order to develop the ability to fly, the moth had to struggle with it's wings to overcome the constraints of the cocoon. The pressure and pull of the wings against the cocoon are what would have afforded the wings to grow strong enough to fly. Opposition truly is the path to greatness. Where there is no struggle, there is no growth and certainly no flight! Understand that what appear to be “no” or maybe even “”slow” answers from God are actually “grow” answers. God will allow us to struggle a bit in certain areas so that we gain the strength and courage needed to overcome and emerge victorious. We shouldn’t ask God to cut away our cocoon. When the proverbial walls press in tightly on your spiritual and emotional wings, press back even harder! Endure hardness as a good soldier. Dedicate more time to prayer and study of the Word. Understand that God is readying you for Kingdom business, and that you will become stronger in the Lord and the power of His might! By allowing God to grow and mature you, nothing can stand between you and true victory in Jesus. Refuse to take easy routes out. Be courageous in God! James 1:12 “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” Grow to victory!
When I move you move!
God’s answer to our prayers may require us to take action. It is at these times that God wants us to move forward in bringing his plan to fruition in our lives. Many of you may recall the story of Moses being called to go to Egypt in Exodus. God had ordained that Moses would go before a hostile Egyptian king and distrusting Israelite people to proclaim that the entire country of Jewish slaves were to be freed. Moses aptly recognized his incapacity to go on this mission of his own authority and asked the Lord, “Who shall I say sent me?” God responds in Exodus 3:14 "I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.' Moses went on to facilitate a massive liberation of God’s people solely based on the power of God’s message to “go”. As a believer, God is calling all of us to “go” in some area. When we go to God and receive an answer to “go” we must not be afraid, for we go under the authority of Almighty God! It is wrong to remain stagnant and stationary when God is compelling you to move. When He moves on your heart to take a new path, go with the flow. He will be all that you need Him to be in new and intimidating assignments. Confidently move forward according to the perfect Will of God. He is still the Great I AM!
Dr.’s Orders:
Are there areas of your prayer life that you hear God saying “no”, “take it slow” or “allow growth”? Are you being obedient to his leading and truly seeking his will for your life? If not, talk to God about your feelings of frustration, anxiety or even resentment with regard to these answers. Pray for the patience to allow God to make all things beautiful in His time. (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
Do you have a friend that is depressed, frustrated and angry with God for not answering a particular prayer. Ask God for the right words to encourage this person in the Lord. Dare to share your story of waiting on God and how it has strengthened your faith in God.
24) For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? 25) But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.26) In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. 27) And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.
"The safest place in the whole wide world is in the will of God,
though trials be great and the way seems hard,
it's in the will of God.
It may be on a mountain peak or in the valley low,
but wherever it may be,
if God says go, go, go!"
(Classic rendition sung by Karen Clark-Sheard & Kierra Sheard. Visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YjqfN3DUYM to listen!)
For those of us who are Clark Sisters fans, we know and love the interplay of these lyrics as sung by the incomparable Karen Clark-Sheard and her daughter Kierra. These two women sing with such passion, conviction and natural vocal virtuosity that you it is quite easy to become enraptured by the sound alone. Karen’s late mother, Dr. Mattie Moss Clark was appointed by the late Bishop J.O. Patterson as the Church of God in Christ International President of the Music Department in 1968. She worked to instill within her talented children, musicians and choirs a responsibility to Christ as well as capability for Christ. Throughout her efforts, young people especially received her and many were saved, and uplifted by her music and message. (Source:http://en.wikipedia.org) This powerful song (which I encourage you to watch on the above YouTube link), reminds us of the importance of finding and accepting God’s perfect will for our lives. Such clear understanding of divine purpose is found in daily prayer and devotion. Through prayer we learn to accept that in this life there will certainly be dizzying trials and mind bending, back breaking hard places to traverse. We come to know the security afforded by seeking God for guidance through the Holy Spirit. Whether God’s answer to our prayers is “no”, “slow”, or “grow” a consistent prayer life enables us to be sure that He is answering in a way that we can understand and that will ultimately lead us to our Kingdom Purpose. It is only then that we are enabled to safely go, go, go for the Lord! Today we will share in some of God’s possible answers to prayer including: “No”, “Slow”, “Grow”, and “Go”.
God’s “No” = Your “Yes ”
There are times in this life that God’s answer to our prayers is simply, “no”. No, it is not time to buy that new car. No, you cannot enter into a new mortgage. No, it is not time for you to enter into a new area or ministry. No, you cannot travel abroad right now. No is it not time for you to get married. No. No. No! The no answer can be the most difficult to accept for the modern believer. We have been conditioned to believe that since we are children of God we will ALWAYS and INSTANTLY get what we are seeking God for. God is not an like and ATM machine. We can’t simply put in our prayer cards and expect big returns all the time. It just doesn’t work that way. Being from a large Southern family there is heavy emphasis on marriage and family. In fact my older sister and two younger brothers have all been married for years at this point. Obviously I didn’t want to be a weirdo, and went to desperate measures sometimes to push myself into a position that would lead me down the aisle. Having heard so many people tell me to “name it and claim it” regarding my very premature requests I lost focus of the grace and the favor that God had placed upon my life. I would pray, long pitiful prayers to God, begging Him to bring me a mate, and when I tired of begging, to my detriment, I would go about “fixing” the situation on my own. There were individuals that I dated in my early twenties that I knew even then were no where in my destiny. I would date thugs with aims of helping them convert their “creative” employment into legitimate enterprise. I would ask God to bless these relationships and He simply answered, no. There were other times when I decided that as long as a man believed in God things could work out. It didn’t matter to me whether he had a tangible relationship with the Savior or not. God again shielded me from certain danger with another emphatic no! I was so determined to get a yes from God in this area, but in order for His perfect will to be made manifest in my life God had to tell me over and over again, no! It was not until I accepted that His choices for me were the best choices did I come to enjoy a deep and personal assurance that my prayers for a husband and family would be answered according to God’s will for me. Sure, I had to enter into a period of reflective singleness that would leave me lonely at times, but never ever was I alone, for the Lord was with me. When I accepted that the God was protecting me from distraction and strategically leading me toward purpose, I stopped resenting my singleness and began to tell god “yes” to His will. I grew busier and busier in the things of God and made greater effort to improve my love relationship with the Father. I developed an intense desire to be used by God that continues to mature even today. Our Elder Brother, the Lord Jesus knew all too well the suffering of a “no” from God. Matthew 26: 39 describes how Jesus experienced a painfully silent and final “no” from God” “He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.”” You may be asking, where was the “no” from God in this passage? The “no” lies in the deep, silent space between “let this cup pass from me” and “Not my will, but thine be done.” When facing a “no” from God in your own life, resolve to submit your will to the Father. Know that He is leading you and guiding you in this process. Pray in the Holy Spirit that God will eventually reveal to you the necessity for the “no” and until you reach that point of clarity, he will provide you with the faith to trust His leading. Romans 8: 27 reads: “And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.” When God says “no”, be thankful for the fulfillment of the Father’s Divine Will in your life! When the enemy tries to make you think that “no” from God is some sort of spiritual let down on the part of God, dare to triumphantly lift your head toward Heaven and tell the Lord “YES”! God’s “no” is truly for our good!
Hold On, Wait a Minute!
One of my favorite passages of scripture is Ecclesiastes 3:11: “Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.” Sometimes the answer from God is “wait, move slow”. It has been said that “timing is everything.” There is always a reason that God has not allowed certain things to come to pass in your life. My young adult pastor often asks us, “can you stand to be blessed?” indicating that certain blessings require particular levels of maturity in God. For most of us, God desires to increase our faith, and this increase will invariably require a wait. Romans 8:25 reads: “But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” We must understand that a “wait or slow” from God is not a denial. If you know that God has made certain promises to you, hold fast and never give up. Wait patiently! Luke 21:19 reminds us that “in your patience possess ye your souls.” The soul is the seat of our thoughts, intellect, and emotions. This means that when we are patient before God’s desire for us to wait, we practice control over negative thoughts, poor rationalizations and misdirected emotions. Waiting on God mandates a spiritual and emotional posture of trust that God is truly working in your behalf. Remember, God’s message to proceed with caution is not a denial. Remind yourself often of your God inspired dreams and speak in faith that they will come to pass. Allow Him to fully prepare you for the joy and concomitant responsibility of your blessing. Get ready my friends. The wait is almost over!
Grow to Victory!
I once read the story of a man who saw a moth struggling to get free from it's cocoon. The man had pity on the moth and it's terrible struggle, so he carefully cut the cocoon to allow the moth to come out more easily. The moth was free, but could not fly. He learned, too late, that in order to develop the ability to fly, the moth had to struggle with it's wings to overcome the constraints of the cocoon. The pressure and pull of the wings against the cocoon are what would have afforded the wings to grow strong enough to fly. Opposition truly is the path to greatness. Where there is no struggle, there is no growth and certainly no flight! Understand that what appear to be “no” or maybe even “”slow” answers from God are actually “grow” answers. God will allow us to struggle a bit in certain areas so that we gain the strength and courage needed to overcome and emerge victorious. We shouldn’t ask God to cut away our cocoon. When the proverbial walls press in tightly on your spiritual and emotional wings, press back even harder! Endure hardness as a good soldier. Dedicate more time to prayer and study of the Word. Understand that God is readying you for Kingdom business, and that you will become stronger in the Lord and the power of His might! By allowing God to grow and mature you, nothing can stand between you and true victory in Jesus. Refuse to take easy routes out. Be courageous in God! James 1:12 “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” Grow to victory!
When I move you move!
God’s answer to our prayers may require us to take action. It is at these times that God wants us to move forward in bringing his plan to fruition in our lives. Many of you may recall the story of Moses being called to go to Egypt in Exodus. God had ordained that Moses would go before a hostile Egyptian king and distrusting Israelite people to proclaim that the entire country of Jewish slaves were to be freed. Moses aptly recognized his incapacity to go on this mission of his own authority and asked the Lord, “Who shall I say sent me?” God responds in Exodus 3:14 "I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.' Moses went on to facilitate a massive liberation of God’s people solely based on the power of God’s message to “go”. As a believer, God is calling all of us to “go” in some area. When we go to God and receive an answer to “go” we must not be afraid, for we go under the authority of Almighty God! It is wrong to remain stagnant and stationary when God is compelling you to move. When He moves on your heart to take a new path, go with the flow. He will be all that you need Him to be in new and intimidating assignments. Confidently move forward according to the perfect Will of God. He is still the Great I AM!
Dr.’s Orders:
Are there areas of your prayer life that you hear God saying “no”, “take it slow” or “allow growth”? Are you being obedient to his leading and truly seeking his will for your life? If not, talk to God about your feelings of frustration, anxiety or even resentment with regard to these answers. Pray for the patience to allow God to make all things beautiful in His time. (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
Do you have a friend that is depressed, frustrated and angry with God for not answering a particular prayer. Ask God for the right words to encourage this person in the Lord. Dare to share your story of waiting on God and how it has strengthened your faith in God.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Prayerful A.C.T.S.
Matthew 6:9-15
9"This, then, is how you should pray: " 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11Give us today our daily bread. 12Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.14For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
It has been said that adequate kneeling will keep you in good standing with God. Great men and women of the Bible consistently provide support of the fact that prayer is a vital component of a victorious walk with God. Jesus Himself entered into periods of prayer and as we will see in our scripture passage, felt it important to methodically teach Christians to pray. Inarguably, this life is fraught with temptation, disappointment, and a myriad of difficulties. Sometimes a singular celebrated step forward gives way to two dismal steps back. What a sinking feeling we have all experienced when realizing a lack of progress and growth in a given area of life. There are precious few days that pass when we are not confronted with some sort of real life situation that can not be resolved using our intellect, financial resources, or physical strength. After we have done all that we can do, we finally realize that we must simply trust God. While this fundamental trust, or faith, is the key to the door blocking us from the blessings of God, prayer remains the most valuable instrument that unlocks the door. It is critical that we have a clear understanding of how to pray as well as possess a simple approach to prayer that we can share with the new and developing believer. A.C.T.S. is a mnemonic for four phases of prayer: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication. I also like to consider Intercession as an additional phase of prayer, but we will discuss this later.
Adoration: “God, You’re Everything to Me!”
When we come before the living God in prayer, we should do so with a humble heart and a spirit of adoration. In the film inspired by Alice Walker’s book of the same name, The Color Purple, there is a line spoken by Shug Avery that resonates with me each time I hear it: “God wants admiration and wants us to enjoy the things it has created. "I think it [angers] God if you walk by the color purple in a field somewhere and don't notice it." For anyone who has seen the film, Shug is certainly no saint, but the scene in which this quote is couched reveals a heart that honors God as Creator and Sustainer of all. Psalm 100:3 reminds us “3… that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture." Adoration is to tell God of His inherent greatness as well as His powerful acts in your present and past life. Jesus, in teachingus to pray in verse 10, proclaims the Holiness of God: 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven." The Book of Psalms provides many useful examples of how to go before God in Adoration. Pray back a Psalm to the Lord and in doing so you remind yourself of how wonderful our God truly is!
Confession: “God I’m sorry.”
Even on our best days, we will do something that does not reflect the glory and holiness of God. Even Paul, my Biblical super-hero, shares in Romans 7:15 (NLT) “I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate.” As believers, the Holy Spirit will convict us and this conviction should then propel us to repentance, or confession. Refuse to carry guilt and shame around with you. Don’t let yesterday’s sins contaminate today’s prayer time. Go back to the basics of salvation: 1John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Jesus tells us how to ask God to forgive sin in our lives: “12Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” Tell Daddy-God you’re sorry and through the grace of His Son Jesus, accept His forgiveness for your life. Recall that “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” (Romans 8:1) Confession of sin positions you securely at the throne of God and prepares you to move into thanksgiving for what He has done in your life.
Thanksgiving: “Lord I thank You!"
In 1897 Johnson Ottman, Jr penned the now traditional hymn, “Count Your Blessings”. The familiar words, now widely adapted, simply state: Count your blessings, name them one by one, Count your blessings, see what God hath done! Count your blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.” In this phase of prayer simply begin to praise and thank God for all that He has done in your life. Even thank Him for what He is doing behind the scenes. Romans 12:12 proclaims that we are to “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Thank God for spiritual, relational, physical and material blessings. “Thank you God for saving me and my family! Thank you that my needs are met. Thank you for taking me to higher spiritual levels in Your Kingdom!” Even when you are burdened with life’s sorrows and the worries of everyday life, press your way into thanksgiving. Develop an attitude of gratitude and carry that forward into prayer!
Supplication: “God I need Your Help!”
Jesus, our Elder Brother lets us know that we can pray to God for our fundamental needs: “11Give us today our daily bread.” God desires above all a relationship with man, but He also desires to meet our needs according to His riches in Glory! Many people, who have superficial relationships with God, overlook Adoration, Confession and Thanksgiving, while moving right into Supplication. “God give me this and God grant me that.” Often such prayers are not God-centered and hence go unanswered. When we know that we are living worshipful lives of adoration to God, accompanied by consistent confession of sin and thanksgiving, we can go boldly to the throne of grace! Our hearts and deeds are right with God. When I was a college student living many hours from home, I had a very difficult time asking my mother for money if I knew I had frivolously squandered her funds. I had such guilt, as I knew that she was working very hard to keep me comfortably enrolled, housed and fed. Alternately, when I had been frugal and had gone to the limit of my resources, I did not hesitate to go to her with expectant palms outstretched. Of course, she met me at the point of my need. God is just like that. He is so faithful that He not only meets our obvious needs, His Holy Spirit makes intercession on our behalf. Romans 8:26-27 reminds us of this marvelous truth: “26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. 27And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.”
Dr.’s Orders: Be a blessing: Share the A.C.T.S. prayer phases with a young person or new Christian you know. Recall that many people simply don’t pray because they feel intimidated by the many eloquent prayers they have heard in the past. Use A.C.T.S. to simplify this critical exercise for them. The enemy desires to deceive us into believing that an active prayer life is unattainable, only for special people, or even unnecessary. Encourage young brothers and sisters in Christ that sincere prayer is essential to maintaining a right relationship with God.
9"This, then, is how you should pray: " 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11Give us today our daily bread. 12Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.14For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
It has been said that adequate kneeling will keep you in good standing with God. Great men and women of the Bible consistently provide support of the fact that prayer is a vital component of a victorious walk with God. Jesus Himself entered into periods of prayer and as we will see in our scripture passage, felt it important to methodically teach Christians to pray. Inarguably, this life is fraught with temptation, disappointment, and a myriad of difficulties. Sometimes a singular celebrated step forward gives way to two dismal steps back. What a sinking feeling we have all experienced when realizing a lack of progress and growth in a given area of life. There are precious few days that pass when we are not confronted with some sort of real life situation that can not be resolved using our intellect, financial resources, or physical strength. After we have done all that we can do, we finally realize that we must simply trust God. While this fundamental trust, or faith, is the key to the door blocking us from the blessings of God, prayer remains the most valuable instrument that unlocks the door. It is critical that we have a clear understanding of how to pray as well as possess a simple approach to prayer that we can share with the new and developing believer. A.C.T.S. is a mnemonic for four phases of prayer: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication. I also like to consider Intercession as an additional phase of prayer, but we will discuss this later.
Adoration: “God, You’re Everything to Me!”
When we come before the living God in prayer, we should do so with a humble heart and a spirit of adoration. In the film inspired by Alice Walker’s book of the same name, The Color Purple, there is a line spoken by Shug Avery that resonates with me each time I hear it: “God wants admiration and wants us to enjoy the things it has created. "I think it [angers] God if you walk by the color purple in a field somewhere and don't notice it." For anyone who has seen the film, Shug is certainly no saint, but the scene in which this quote is couched reveals a heart that honors God as Creator and Sustainer of all. Psalm 100:3 reminds us “3… that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture." Adoration is to tell God of His inherent greatness as well as His powerful acts in your present and past life. Jesus, in teachingus to pray in verse 10, proclaims the Holiness of God: 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven." The Book of Psalms provides many useful examples of how to go before God in Adoration. Pray back a Psalm to the Lord and in doing so you remind yourself of how wonderful our God truly is!
Confession: “God I’m sorry.”
Even on our best days, we will do something that does not reflect the glory and holiness of God. Even Paul, my Biblical super-hero, shares in Romans 7:15 (NLT) “I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate.” As believers, the Holy Spirit will convict us and this conviction should then propel us to repentance, or confession. Refuse to carry guilt and shame around with you. Don’t let yesterday’s sins contaminate today’s prayer time. Go back to the basics of salvation: 1John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Jesus tells us how to ask God to forgive sin in our lives: “12Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” Tell Daddy-God you’re sorry and through the grace of His Son Jesus, accept His forgiveness for your life. Recall that “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” (Romans 8:1) Confession of sin positions you securely at the throne of God and prepares you to move into thanksgiving for what He has done in your life.
Thanksgiving: “Lord I thank You!"
In 1897 Johnson Ottman, Jr penned the now traditional hymn, “Count Your Blessings”. The familiar words, now widely adapted, simply state: Count your blessings, name them one by one, Count your blessings, see what God hath done! Count your blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.” In this phase of prayer simply begin to praise and thank God for all that He has done in your life. Even thank Him for what He is doing behind the scenes. Romans 12:12 proclaims that we are to “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Thank God for spiritual, relational, physical and material blessings. “Thank you God for saving me and my family! Thank you that my needs are met. Thank you for taking me to higher spiritual levels in Your Kingdom!” Even when you are burdened with life’s sorrows and the worries of everyday life, press your way into thanksgiving. Develop an attitude of gratitude and carry that forward into prayer!
Supplication: “God I need Your Help!”
Jesus, our Elder Brother lets us know that we can pray to God for our fundamental needs: “11Give us today our daily bread.” God desires above all a relationship with man, but He also desires to meet our needs according to His riches in Glory! Many people, who have superficial relationships with God, overlook Adoration, Confession and Thanksgiving, while moving right into Supplication. “God give me this and God grant me that.” Often such prayers are not God-centered and hence go unanswered. When we know that we are living worshipful lives of adoration to God, accompanied by consistent confession of sin and thanksgiving, we can go boldly to the throne of grace! Our hearts and deeds are right with God. When I was a college student living many hours from home, I had a very difficult time asking my mother for money if I knew I had frivolously squandered her funds. I had such guilt, as I knew that she was working very hard to keep me comfortably enrolled, housed and fed. Alternately, when I had been frugal and had gone to the limit of my resources, I did not hesitate to go to her with expectant palms outstretched. Of course, she met me at the point of my need. God is just like that. He is so faithful that He not only meets our obvious needs, His Holy Spirit makes intercession on our behalf. Romans 8:26-27 reminds us of this marvelous truth: “26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. 27And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.”
Dr.’s Orders: Be a blessing: Share the A.C.T.S. prayer phases with a young person or new Christian you know. Recall that many people simply don’t pray because they feel intimidated by the many eloquent prayers they have heard in the past. Use A.C.T.S. to simplify this critical exercise for them. The enemy desires to deceive us into believing that an active prayer life is unattainable, only for special people, or even unnecessary. Encourage young brothers and sisters in Christ that sincere prayer is essential to maintaining a right relationship with God.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Oh Lord, My Everything!
This week we are dedicating time to prayer. I have found that my prayers are stronger and more focused when linked to the Word of God. I simply want to share one of my favorite passages of scripture with you. The 27th Psalm is one of David’s many passages of praise to God. Herein, we see God as a Light in an ever darkening world, Salvation from pitiful existences riddled with sin, a Teacher with infinite patience, a Mighty Protector, and ultimately the Provider and Giver of all life. During this week of prayer, meditate on Psalm 27 and recall that ALL that you need resides in the Lord our God! The Lord has an answer to your every need! EVERYTHING you need is in Him. Tomorrow we will discuss a basic approach to daily prayer, including “thanksgiving”, “repentance”, “supplication” and “intercession.”
Psalm 27
1The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
2When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.
3Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.
4One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.
5For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.
6And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.
7Hear, O LORD, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me.
8When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek.
9Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.
10When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up.
11Teach me thy way, O LORD, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.
12Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.
13I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.
14Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
Dr.’s Orders: During this week, continue to write down the time you spend in Biblical study, prayer and personal devotion. Again, do not include church meetings or functions. Make a true assessment of your time spent with the Lord. In the coming days we will continue to focus on prayer and learn ways to optimize our prayer time.
Know that you may post prayer requests on the Wall of Dr. Sha’s Daily Dose. We,your brothers and sisters will be happy to join in prayer for your needs.There is power in prayer!
Psalm 27
1The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
2When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.
3Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.
4One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.
5For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.
6And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.
7Hear, O LORD, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me.
8When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek.
9Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.
10When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up.
11Teach me thy way, O LORD, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.
12Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.
13I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.
14Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
Dr.’s Orders: During this week, continue to write down the time you spend in Biblical study, prayer and personal devotion. Again, do not include church meetings or functions. Make a true assessment of your time spent with the Lord. In the coming days we will continue to focus on prayer and learn ways to optimize our prayer time.
Know that you may post prayer requests on the Wall of Dr. Sha’s Daily Dose. We,your brothers and sisters will be happy to join in prayer for your needs.There is power in prayer!
Monday, November 9, 2009
You Busy?
Luke 10:38-41
38) As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39) She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. 40) But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!" 41) "Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, 42) but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."
For most of us, one of our most prized commodities is time. As children we learn to value time at crowed supper tables, noisy classrooms, and dizzying playgrounds. Bath time, dinner time and bed time became so well known to us that we figured out creative ways to either avoid or be first in line for these special times depending on the level actual or perceived fun to be had. Having grown up in the wide-open spaces of the South, I remember outdoor games fondly. Even today, boys and girls today innocent enough to still play “Hide and Seek frantically search for friend-proof hiding places until the clarion call of “TIIIIIIIIME!” is heard. Oh how I loved the dashing about against both the clock and my three brothers’ swift feet. As adults we turn away from innocent games and move on to package our time into tight hours, precious minutes, and ticking seconds- all dedicated to countless tasks during a day. We cringe at the very thought of anyone wasting a moment of our all too little time. Upon awakening to a painfully annoying alarm, we hop into quick showers, after which we gulp down the processed breakfast item of choice along with an instant coffee. We dash in and out of traffic with horns blaring and glances glaring to drop off kids, swing by grocers and pick up laundry. Miraculously we arrive at work with coiffed hair, a polished smile and frazzled nerves still intact. I don’t know about you, but there are days when I arrive at work dog tired, weary, worn and looking at the clock!
Occasionally,we followers of Christ rush past chaotic days so quickly in the name of work, school, play and all tasks in between, that we enter and exit each hourly gift without any true communication with the Lord. No wonder that many well meaning Christians suffer stress, depression, anxiety and an overall sense of disconnection from the Lord when we finally do go to God in prayer. There are valuable lessons to be learned from the two sisters in our text. We must learn to transcend beyond simply being busy preparing for the presence of God and press on toward a deeper relationship with the Captain of our souls.
Open the door…and then what?
In our study passage, we see Jesus traveling about the countryside and a woman named Martha who “opened her home to him” and later busied herself with “preparations” for Him. The messages and fame of our Lord were spreading far and wide at this point in His ministry and no doubt these friends of Jesus felt honored to welcome Him in to rest from travel. Martha, like many today, are happy to hear of the coming of Jesus and will even allow Him to enter beyond the door of our hearts, but we grow so busy with doing good works that we fail to allow the Lord full access to all that we are. We get dressed up, and pumped up and fluffed up in preparation for a “mighty move of God” but never enter into His presence in such a way that our lives are transformed and our hearts lightened as we move forward working for the Kingdom. Martha’s sister Mary on the other hand, not only greeted Jesus at the door, she also “sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what He said.” She recognized that opening up to the things of God and preparing room for His presence is only preliminary to the real joy that sitting at the Master’s feet can bring. While it is wonderful to read a great devotional or hear an inspiring message about Jesus, how much more awesome is it to sit down in the presence of the Lord and allow Him to speak directly to your heart? Mary had certainly heard the Jesus message from others, and yet her heart longed to hear the Lord’s voice for herself. Now that you have opened the door of your heart to God and prepared for His presence, what are you now doing to nurture true intimacy with God? How will you now position yourself to spiritually receive from God?
Position Yourself to Receive God’s Best!
There is something quite special about Mary’s physical and spiritual positioning in verse 39. She is seen “at the Lord’s feet”. This position implies one of submission and expectation. I can imagine her sitting there, looking up at Jesus knowing full well that her knowledge of God and faith in His promises for her own life were being renewed by the Word. She had heard about Jesus, and now was her opportunity to hear Him for herself. What grace Mary was afforded here…grace to increase her faith! Romans 10:17 reminds us that “…faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” We must remember to position ourselves through prayer and study of the Word of God to receive greater measures of faith, guidance through difficult life decisions, as well as the wisdom and strength to complete everyday tasks. There is no way that we can be effective at maintaining a true relationship with Christ and then sharing His message with others if we are unwilling to humbly make time to intimately know Him ourselves. There were times in my younger, more arrogant phases of life when I felt self sufficient and much too busy for more than a few moments of prayer. Most often my hurried prayers were thrown toward Heaven before eating a meal, while in the dental chair, after just missing a car crash, etc. How pathetic to see myself in memory “praying” while laying down and quickly falling asleep! Sadly, my Bible study consisted of the couple of scriptures I read from the screen with the rest of the Sunday Morning TV congregation. There was very little prayer power in my life and when I needed a Word from God, I couldn’t identify a single passage that spoke to my situation. After fully surrendering my life, and re-positioning myself at the feet of Jesus, I have found so much more peace. I now find answers to my life’s most difficult questions whilst on my knees in times of prayer and Biblical study. Matthew 6:33 and 34 always encourages me: “33) But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34: Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” God knows the troublesome nature of being busy and striving to do your best. He also desires for us to get in a position to receive an outpouring of His choicest blessings!
No Time for Distractions!
Our poor friend Martha is seen here dotting about the house preparing for Jesus and company. No doubt she is locating fresh water for their feet, flour to make fresh bread and maybe even preparing a catch of shiny fish. Perhaps, the visit caught her by total surprise and she felt compelled to do some last minute tidying as well. With all of this work going on, Martha quickly notices that Mary is calmly sitting at the feet of Jesus enraptured in His message of salvation, hope, healing and restoration of the Kingdom of God. Certainly Mary can’t be so caught up in the message that she fails to see how much work was yet to be done. It just doesn’t seem fair for her to be sitting there, seemingly idle while Martha was breaking her back to meet the needs of her visitors. Martha questions Jesus’ lack of concern for her busy work and demands in verse 40 that he has Mary to help with the work of the house. In verse 4, Jesus speaks emphatically to Martha by calling her name twice, “Martha, Martha”…"you are worried and upset about many things 42) but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." I am certain that all of us reading this could at some point insert our names in for Martha’s. “Son, Daughter”…you are worried and upset about many things!” When we feel that we are going above and beyond for God and that neither He nor those around us recognize our effort, we become frustrated and distracted from our true Kingdom purpose. Sure you started out playing a meaningful role on one or two church committees, now you are spread so thinly that you simply want to scream at most auxiliary meetings. Your focus is no longer on the real reason you joined the mission and is now on what others are not doing, as you grow increasingly frustrated with the busy-ness of it all. You may even cry out to God begging Him to make Bro. This Guy and Sister That Lady shape up or ship out! Ask yourself, why am I even doing this work? Have I succumb to distractions, or are my actions planted solidly in the perfect plan and will of God for my life in His Kingdom? Galatians 6: 9 reminds us that we should “not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Jesus truly cares and sees your effort, but He desires more than a good effort. He desires a purposeful effort that is couched safely within His Divine will. Our Lord desires our attention to be so toward Him that even in the face of distractions, we maintain a Heavenly connection that sustains us, renews our strength and always keeps us on the path to glorifying the Father. It is not by our own power that we function. It is by the Spirit of God. Submission to the Word of God and the resulting connection to the Holy Spirit is that “one thing” Jesus mentioned in verse 42. Moments allocated to the Presence of God leave little time for distractions, and make way for a God connection that mortal men simply cannot take away! In our busy work for God and ever tightening schedules, let’s put to memory a thought expressed by a nineteenth century clergyman and great proponent of prayer, E.M. Bounds: "Talking to men for God is a great thing, but talking to God for men is greater still."
Dr.’s Orders: During this week, write down the time you spend in Biblical study, prayer and personal devotion. Do not include church meetings or functions. Make a true assessment of your time spent with the Lord. In the coming days we will focus on prayer. I pray that you will be blessed by this week’s devotional series.
38) As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39) She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. 40) But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!" 41) "Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, 42) but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."
For most of us, one of our most prized commodities is time. As children we learn to value time at crowed supper tables, noisy classrooms, and dizzying playgrounds. Bath time, dinner time and bed time became so well known to us that we figured out creative ways to either avoid or be first in line for these special times depending on the level actual or perceived fun to be had. Having grown up in the wide-open spaces of the South, I remember outdoor games fondly. Even today, boys and girls today innocent enough to still play “Hide and Seek frantically search for friend-proof hiding places until the clarion call of “TIIIIIIIIME!” is heard. Oh how I loved the dashing about against both the clock and my three brothers’ swift feet. As adults we turn away from innocent games and move on to package our time into tight hours, precious minutes, and ticking seconds- all dedicated to countless tasks during a day. We cringe at the very thought of anyone wasting a moment of our all too little time. Upon awakening to a painfully annoying alarm, we hop into quick showers, after which we gulp down the processed breakfast item of choice along with an instant coffee. We dash in and out of traffic with horns blaring and glances glaring to drop off kids, swing by grocers and pick up laundry. Miraculously we arrive at work with coiffed hair, a polished smile and frazzled nerves still intact. I don’t know about you, but there are days when I arrive at work dog tired, weary, worn and looking at the clock!
Occasionally,we followers of Christ rush past chaotic days so quickly in the name of work, school, play and all tasks in between, that we enter and exit each hourly gift without any true communication with the Lord. No wonder that many well meaning Christians suffer stress, depression, anxiety and an overall sense of disconnection from the Lord when we finally do go to God in prayer. There are valuable lessons to be learned from the two sisters in our text. We must learn to transcend beyond simply being busy preparing for the presence of God and press on toward a deeper relationship with the Captain of our souls.
Open the door…and then what?
In our study passage, we see Jesus traveling about the countryside and a woman named Martha who “opened her home to him” and later busied herself with “preparations” for Him. The messages and fame of our Lord were spreading far and wide at this point in His ministry and no doubt these friends of Jesus felt honored to welcome Him in to rest from travel. Martha, like many today, are happy to hear of the coming of Jesus and will even allow Him to enter beyond the door of our hearts, but we grow so busy with doing good works that we fail to allow the Lord full access to all that we are. We get dressed up, and pumped up and fluffed up in preparation for a “mighty move of God” but never enter into His presence in such a way that our lives are transformed and our hearts lightened as we move forward working for the Kingdom. Martha’s sister Mary on the other hand, not only greeted Jesus at the door, she also “sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what He said.” She recognized that opening up to the things of God and preparing room for His presence is only preliminary to the real joy that sitting at the Master’s feet can bring. While it is wonderful to read a great devotional or hear an inspiring message about Jesus, how much more awesome is it to sit down in the presence of the Lord and allow Him to speak directly to your heart? Mary had certainly heard the Jesus message from others, and yet her heart longed to hear the Lord’s voice for herself. Now that you have opened the door of your heart to God and prepared for His presence, what are you now doing to nurture true intimacy with God? How will you now position yourself to spiritually receive from God?
Position Yourself to Receive God’s Best!
There is something quite special about Mary’s physical and spiritual positioning in verse 39. She is seen “at the Lord’s feet”. This position implies one of submission and expectation. I can imagine her sitting there, looking up at Jesus knowing full well that her knowledge of God and faith in His promises for her own life were being renewed by the Word. She had heard about Jesus, and now was her opportunity to hear Him for herself. What grace Mary was afforded here…grace to increase her faith! Romans 10:17 reminds us that “…faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” We must remember to position ourselves through prayer and study of the Word of God to receive greater measures of faith, guidance through difficult life decisions, as well as the wisdom and strength to complete everyday tasks. There is no way that we can be effective at maintaining a true relationship with Christ and then sharing His message with others if we are unwilling to humbly make time to intimately know Him ourselves. There were times in my younger, more arrogant phases of life when I felt self sufficient and much too busy for more than a few moments of prayer. Most often my hurried prayers were thrown toward Heaven before eating a meal, while in the dental chair, after just missing a car crash, etc. How pathetic to see myself in memory “praying” while laying down and quickly falling asleep! Sadly, my Bible study consisted of the couple of scriptures I read from the screen with the rest of the Sunday Morning TV congregation. There was very little prayer power in my life and when I needed a Word from God, I couldn’t identify a single passage that spoke to my situation. After fully surrendering my life, and re-positioning myself at the feet of Jesus, I have found so much more peace. I now find answers to my life’s most difficult questions whilst on my knees in times of prayer and Biblical study. Matthew 6:33 and 34 always encourages me: “33) But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34: Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” God knows the troublesome nature of being busy and striving to do your best. He also desires for us to get in a position to receive an outpouring of His choicest blessings!
No Time for Distractions!
Our poor friend Martha is seen here dotting about the house preparing for Jesus and company. No doubt she is locating fresh water for their feet, flour to make fresh bread and maybe even preparing a catch of shiny fish. Perhaps, the visit caught her by total surprise and she felt compelled to do some last minute tidying as well. With all of this work going on, Martha quickly notices that Mary is calmly sitting at the feet of Jesus enraptured in His message of salvation, hope, healing and restoration of the Kingdom of God. Certainly Mary can’t be so caught up in the message that she fails to see how much work was yet to be done. It just doesn’t seem fair for her to be sitting there, seemingly idle while Martha was breaking her back to meet the needs of her visitors. Martha questions Jesus’ lack of concern for her busy work and demands in verse 40 that he has Mary to help with the work of the house. In verse 4, Jesus speaks emphatically to Martha by calling her name twice, “Martha, Martha”…"you are worried and upset about many things 42) but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." I am certain that all of us reading this could at some point insert our names in for Martha’s. “Son, Daughter”…you are worried and upset about many things!” When we feel that we are going above and beyond for God and that neither He nor those around us recognize our effort, we become frustrated and distracted from our true Kingdom purpose. Sure you started out playing a meaningful role on one or two church committees, now you are spread so thinly that you simply want to scream at most auxiliary meetings. Your focus is no longer on the real reason you joined the mission and is now on what others are not doing, as you grow increasingly frustrated with the busy-ness of it all. You may even cry out to God begging Him to make Bro. This Guy and Sister That Lady shape up or ship out! Ask yourself, why am I even doing this work? Have I succumb to distractions, or are my actions planted solidly in the perfect plan and will of God for my life in His Kingdom? Galatians 6: 9 reminds us that we should “not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Jesus truly cares and sees your effort, but He desires more than a good effort. He desires a purposeful effort that is couched safely within His Divine will. Our Lord desires our attention to be so toward Him that even in the face of distractions, we maintain a Heavenly connection that sustains us, renews our strength and always keeps us on the path to glorifying the Father. It is not by our own power that we function. It is by the Spirit of God. Submission to the Word of God and the resulting connection to the Holy Spirit is that “one thing” Jesus mentioned in verse 42. Moments allocated to the Presence of God leave little time for distractions, and make way for a God connection that mortal men simply cannot take away! In our busy work for God and ever tightening schedules, let’s put to memory a thought expressed by a nineteenth century clergyman and great proponent of prayer, E.M. Bounds: "Talking to men for God is a great thing, but talking to God for men is greater still."
Dr.’s Orders: During this week, write down the time you spend in Biblical study, prayer and personal devotion. Do not include church meetings or functions. Make a true assessment of your time spent with the Lord. In the coming days we will focus on prayer. I pray that you will be blessed by this week’s devotional series.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Hallelujah Anyhow!
Acts 16: 16-26
16Once when we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit by which she predicted the future. She earned a great deal of money for her owners by fortune-telling. 17This girl followed Paul and the rest of us, shouting, "These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved." 18She kept this up for many days. Finally Paul became so troubled that he turned around and said to the spirit, "In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!" At that moment the spirit left her.
19When the owners of the slave girl realized that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to face the authorities. 20They brought them before the magistrates and said, "These men are Jews, and are throwing our city into an uproar 21by advocating customs unlawful for us Romans to accept or practice."
22The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten. 23After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. 24Upon receiving such orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.
25About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. 26Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody's chains came loose.
Every November, my Young Adult Ministry Pastor, Elder Benjamin Stephens facilitates a life changing visit to Eastlake Juvenile Hall. Many young adults from our ministry answer the call to go behind the four walls of our church to provide Thanksgiving dinner, conversation, worship and prayer to some of the most misguided young people in our communities. All attendees have powerful stories of hope, faith and the enduring human spirit. I can recall listening to story after story of hurt, misguided anger and emptiness from young girls much to young to carry such heavy and worrisome burdens. Elder Ben often recalls an interaction he had with a six-teen year old ex-gang member who is currently serving a double life prison sentence and the powerful sinner’s prayer that he was able to have with this young person. Though the young man that Elder Ben ministered is to spend the remainder of his natural life behind bars, it is our hope that he has maintained the mental and spiritual freedom that only a personal relationship with Christ can provide. Such freedom is truly something to share with others and certainly a blessing to praise God for! Our voices and hearts ring out in praise to God: Hallelujah anyhow!
Praise in the Right Direction!
Today’s passage of scripture is an interesting one, and begins with a description of a woman who is following after the men of God and proclaiming: "These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved.". Her words seem almost harmless upon initial review, but the word reveals that this young woman was actually demon possessed and was “owned” by individuals as a fortune teller. People were using her demonic “gifts” to tell the future for monetary gain. Her incessant words of perceived praise for Paul and his fellow laborers, was simply a distraction used by satan to deter the people away from the One who is truly worthy of praise. We must be careful to maintain the center of our worship and praise to directly on the Lord. While we have all learned the right words to say, the proper facial expressions and physical affect that personify worship, it is critical that we present praise to God from a sincere heart that longs to connect with the God of the Universe. Don’t settle for a look-like, sound-like sort of praise. Be real with God! Recall that in Matthew 15, the Lord Jesus reprimands the spiritual leaders of Jerusalem: 7You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you: 8" 'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. 9They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.’” Some people find that their ability to praise God is predicated upon a particular row in the sanctuary, song, choir, or a favorite minister. True sons and daughters of God, praise Him not because a world-renowned praise and worship leader is up or because the bass player is on point. We don’t even praise God because our mega-minister of choice is billed to bring an anointed word. We praise God for who He is for His favor toward us. We appropriately seek to connect with the Anointing that flows through the men and women He has chosen to go forth in ministry. Because the woman’s “praise” in our text was misdirected, distracting and persistently under the influence of satan, Paul was compelled to cast the demon from her in the name of the Lord Jesus. Instantly, she was delivered from the chains of demonic oppression and possession and fully able to experience the true liberation of the knowledge and relationship with Jesus Christ. Praise must be pointed in the right direction; away from mortal men and decidedly to the throne of God.
Praise Break!
Know that obedience to God can result in persecution by those around you. After freeing the demon possessed sister free in verse 18, Paul and his brother in ministry Silas, were arrested and delivered to the ruling Roman forces for freeing the income-generating slave girl from the physical and spiritual claws of the evil one. Can you imagine being severely beaten, physically chained and taken to court for praying for the oppressed, healing the sick, and bringing liberty to the captives? What a seemingly thankless job! The Bible describes in verse 24 that they were taken into the “inner cell”. These mighty men of God sat bent and bowed in the dark, foul prison. Roman soldiers were experts of torture and no doubt the clothes that were stripped from them in verse 22 were replaced by oozing wounds and torn flesh. Verse 24 tells us that their feet were placed into stocks that disabled them from walking leaving no natural means of escape. It became very clear to Paul and Silas that there was nothing within their physical power that could bring freedom and deliverance. They remained steadfast in prayer and exuberant in praise (v.25). They knew that they could not dwell on the present situation, but that they were to maintain hope and trust in Jesus. Isaiah 26:33 reminds us that we can have peace in times such as this: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” A mind that is focused on God pushes us toward praise and praise promotes a supernatural move by God! The prayers and praise offered at the darkest hour by Paul and Silas, were acts of faith so sincere and so connected to the Heart of God that the very Earth moved in response to it! The Bible states that the earth shook, all the prison doors were opened and all the chains were broken! Prayer and praise change things!
Make Room for Praise!
If we are honest with ourselves, there exists for many of us something that disallows total freedom in God. Despite our best efforts, there are areas of our innermost existences that have left us sore and bruised? Where is that dark prison that only you and a precious few people know about? For most reading this, our prisons are not physical, but the stocks hold us fast nonetheless. Perhaps your prison room is greed, sexual sin, unforgiveness, pride, or drug and alcohol addiction. Others may be imprisoned in rooms of a negative workplace, metal illnesses or abusive relationships. Some of our prison sentences are our own fault and a direct result of disobedience to God. The prison rooms are plenteous, and we have made very little if any room for praise Regardless of how you arrived upon this painful destination, know that there is delivering power in praise. We have to remember that we have a reason to praise God in spite of our present circumstance. We are not in these debilitating places to stay. We will P.U.S.H! Praise Until Something Happens. Psalm 22:3 reminds us to make room for the living God: “But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.” Wow! When we make room for praise, we are actually making room for God. It is then that His awesome presence and delivering power is made manifest in our lives.
Dr.’s Orders:
1) Dare to share your praise report! Tell someone today of the delivering power of God in your life. If you read Act 16 on to verse 30 you will find that the jailer who was guarding Paul and Silas, actually received salvation after witnessing the Earth moving power of God. Share your deliverance story and rejoice in the resultant souls that will be freed.
2) Please consider supporting this year’s Eastlake Juvenile Hall Thanksgiving Outreach through the West Angeles Church of God in Christ Young Adult Ministry. Saturday, November 21, 2009. For more information, please email jwilliams@westa.org.
16Once when we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit by which she predicted the future. She earned a great deal of money for her owners by fortune-telling. 17This girl followed Paul and the rest of us, shouting, "These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved." 18She kept this up for many days. Finally Paul became so troubled that he turned around and said to the spirit, "In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!" At that moment the spirit left her.
19When the owners of the slave girl realized that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to face the authorities. 20They brought them before the magistrates and said, "These men are Jews, and are throwing our city into an uproar 21by advocating customs unlawful for us Romans to accept or practice."
22The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten. 23After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. 24Upon receiving such orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.
25About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. 26Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody's chains came loose.
Every November, my Young Adult Ministry Pastor, Elder Benjamin Stephens facilitates a life changing visit to Eastlake Juvenile Hall. Many young adults from our ministry answer the call to go behind the four walls of our church to provide Thanksgiving dinner, conversation, worship and prayer to some of the most misguided young people in our communities. All attendees have powerful stories of hope, faith and the enduring human spirit. I can recall listening to story after story of hurt, misguided anger and emptiness from young girls much to young to carry such heavy and worrisome burdens. Elder Ben often recalls an interaction he had with a six-teen year old ex-gang member who is currently serving a double life prison sentence and the powerful sinner’s prayer that he was able to have with this young person. Though the young man that Elder Ben ministered is to spend the remainder of his natural life behind bars, it is our hope that he has maintained the mental and spiritual freedom that only a personal relationship with Christ can provide. Such freedom is truly something to share with others and certainly a blessing to praise God for! Our voices and hearts ring out in praise to God: Hallelujah anyhow!
Praise in the Right Direction!
Today’s passage of scripture is an interesting one, and begins with a description of a woman who is following after the men of God and proclaiming: "These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved.". Her words seem almost harmless upon initial review, but the word reveals that this young woman was actually demon possessed and was “owned” by individuals as a fortune teller. People were using her demonic “gifts” to tell the future for monetary gain. Her incessant words of perceived praise for Paul and his fellow laborers, was simply a distraction used by satan to deter the people away from the One who is truly worthy of praise. We must be careful to maintain the center of our worship and praise to directly on the Lord. While we have all learned the right words to say, the proper facial expressions and physical affect that personify worship, it is critical that we present praise to God from a sincere heart that longs to connect with the God of the Universe. Don’t settle for a look-like, sound-like sort of praise. Be real with God! Recall that in Matthew 15, the Lord Jesus reprimands the spiritual leaders of Jerusalem: 7You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you: 8" 'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. 9They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.’” Some people find that their ability to praise God is predicated upon a particular row in the sanctuary, song, choir, or a favorite minister. True sons and daughters of God, praise Him not because a world-renowned praise and worship leader is up or because the bass player is on point. We don’t even praise God because our mega-minister of choice is billed to bring an anointed word. We praise God for who He is for His favor toward us. We appropriately seek to connect with the Anointing that flows through the men and women He has chosen to go forth in ministry. Because the woman’s “praise” in our text was misdirected, distracting and persistently under the influence of satan, Paul was compelled to cast the demon from her in the name of the Lord Jesus. Instantly, she was delivered from the chains of demonic oppression and possession and fully able to experience the true liberation of the knowledge and relationship with Jesus Christ. Praise must be pointed in the right direction; away from mortal men and decidedly to the throne of God.
Praise Break!
Know that obedience to God can result in persecution by those around you. After freeing the demon possessed sister free in verse 18, Paul and his brother in ministry Silas, were arrested and delivered to the ruling Roman forces for freeing the income-generating slave girl from the physical and spiritual claws of the evil one. Can you imagine being severely beaten, physically chained and taken to court for praying for the oppressed, healing the sick, and bringing liberty to the captives? What a seemingly thankless job! The Bible describes in verse 24 that they were taken into the “inner cell”. These mighty men of God sat bent and bowed in the dark, foul prison. Roman soldiers were experts of torture and no doubt the clothes that were stripped from them in verse 22 were replaced by oozing wounds and torn flesh. Verse 24 tells us that their feet were placed into stocks that disabled them from walking leaving no natural means of escape. It became very clear to Paul and Silas that there was nothing within their physical power that could bring freedom and deliverance. They remained steadfast in prayer and exuberant in praise (v.25). They knew that they could not dwell on the present situation, but that they were to maintain hope and trust in Jesus. Isaiah 26:33 reminds us that we can have peace in times such as this: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” A mind that is focused on God pushes us toward praise and praise promotes a supernatural move by God! The prayers and praise offered at the darkest hour by Paul and Silas, were acts of faith so sincere and so connected to the Heart of God that the very Earth moved in response to it! The Bible states that the earth shook, all the prison doors were opened and all the chains were broken! Prayer and praise change things!
Make Room for Praise!
If we are honest with ourselves, there exists for many of us something that disallows total freedom in God. Despite our best efforts, there are areas of our innermost existences that have left us sore and bruised? Where is that dark prison that only you and a precious few people know about? For most reading this, our prisons are not physical, but the stocks hold us fast nonetheless. Perhaps your prison room is greed, sexual sin, unforgiveness, pride, or drug and alcohol addiction. Others may be imprisoned in rooms of a negative workplace, metal illnesses or abusive relationships. Some of our prison sentences are our own fault and a direct result of disobedience to God. The prison rooms are plenteous, and we have made very little if any room for praise Regardless of how you arrived upon this painful destination, know that there is delivering power in praise. We have to remember that we have a reason to praise God in spite of our present circumstance. We are not in these debilitating places to stay. We will P.U.S.H! Praise Until Something Happens. Psalm 22:3 reminds us to make room for the living God: “But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.” Wow! When we make room for praise, we are actually making room for God. It is then that His awesome presence and delivering power is made manifest in our lives.
Dr.’s Orders:
1) Dare to share your praise report! Tell someone today of the delivering power of God in your life. If you read Act 16 on to verse 30 you will find that the jailer who was guarding Paul and Silas, actually received salvation after witnessing the Earth moving power of God. Share your deliverance story and rejoice in the resultant souls that will be freed.
2) Please consider supporting this year’s Eastlake Juvenile Hall Thanksgiving Outreach through the West Angeles Church of God in Christ Young Adult Ministry. Saturday, November 21, 2009. For more information, please email jwilliams@westa.org.
Monday, November 2, 2009
More than Enough!
John 6: 1-13 New Living Translation
1 After this, Jesus crossed over to the far side of the Sea of Galilee, also known as the Sea of Tiberias. 2 A huge crowd kept following him wherever he went, because they saw his miraculous signs as he healed the sick. 3 Then Jesus climbed a hill and sat down with his disciples around him. 4 (It was nearly time for the Jewish Passover celebration.) 5 Jesus soon saw a huge crowd of people coming to look for him. Turning to Philip, he asked, “Where can we buy bread to feed all these people?” 6 He was testing Philip, for he already knew what he was going to do.
7 Philip replied, “Even if we worked for months, we wouldn’t have enough money* to feed them!”
8 Then Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up. 9 “There’s a young boy here with five barley loaves and two fish. But what good is that with this huge crowd?”
10 “Tell everyone to sit down,” Jesus said. So they all sat down on the grassy slopes. (The men alone numbered 5,000.) 11 Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks to God, and distributed them to the people. Afterward he did the same with the fish. And they all ate as much as they wanted. 12 After everyone was full, Jesus told his disciples, “Now gather the leftovers, so that nothing is wasted.” 13 So they picked up the pieces and filled twelve baskets with scraps left by the people who had eaten from the five barley loaves.
Positioned for Plenty!
My maternal grandmother, Florence, was one of my favorite people on the planet. I have fond memories of climbing up onto her triple mattress high bed to receive sweet candies, fruits and nuts as well as vivid stories of country life. Gram never failed to offer some sort of tangible or cerebral treat, and even after I became an adult, I never approached her little room without the expectation that my sweet tooth would be amply satisfied. Gram’s spirit moved to Heaven this summer, and today I recall the many treasures she gave, both natural and spiritual. She taught those of us who would listen, so much about trusting God in the rough times and praising Him for even the little things like a good catch of fish at the lake or a little less pain in an old, worn knee. There are a few unfortunate members of my family that never sat at her feet. Grandchildren who never paused to hear her adventurous tales of “Papa Sandy” and “Mama Kizzie” and farm family follies must now depend on her children for just a taste of those days gone by. While they may read of bitter Arkansas winters and promising Arkansas springs in our family newsletter, they will not enjoy the pictures our grandmother painted memory by memory upon the canvas of our minds. We, the one’s who staid after the candy was gone, can now close our eyes and relive the precious moments anew. Because we were in the right place at the right time, we were provided with physical, emotional and spiritual nurturing that was only gotten through proper positioning beneath the loving care of my grandmother’s hands.
I often think of Jesus and His disciples; how after his death and resurrection, these chosen few must have thought back to amazing days like that detailed in John 6. Oh how their hearts must have been filled with joy at the memory of our Lord’s provision. The crowds described here were “huge”, and the people had seen Jesus’ “miraculous signs as he healed the sick.” The disciples and the crowd were compelled by His good works to position themselves in the presence of Jesus. If we are to enjoy the blessings and provision of the Lord, we must be willing to follow Him as far as is necessary to receive. The scripture says that Jesus has crossed over to the “far side of the Sea of Galilee” and later up onto “a hill”. Many of these followers had left the comfort and predictability of their homes in pursuit of the Son of God. Positioning ourselves in the presence of the Master may require a move outside of our comfort zones into a far away place. We may have to travel across uncertain terrain of new jobs, new ways of thinking or new avenues in ministry. Thank God, that we can follow Jesus with trusting expectation that in doing so we are being positioned for plenty! An old, old song rings in my spirit even now: “Where He leads me, I will follow. I’ll go with Him, all the way!”
All is well! You’ve been here before!
Jesus recognized the physical needs of His followers. He knowingly asks his disciple Phillip in Verse 5 where they stand with regard to food for the masses. Isn’t it amazing how our Lord empathizes with our every day needs. He not only feels our physical, emotional and spiritual hunger, He is leading and guiding you to the proper place of breakthrough. Verse 7 makes me smile every time I read it. Here we see Philip, a trusted follower of Jesus, answers that there are simply not enough resources either present or in the future ample enough to meet the needs of the crowd. I smile because, Phillip is not naïve to the miraculous works of Jesus. He has traveled with Him day in and day out. He has witnessed Jesus turn water into wine in John chapter 2. No doubt his heart raced at the sight of Jesus speaking a healing and restorative Word to the man lame for 38 years at the pool of Bethesda in chapter 5. And if that wasn’t enough, Philip has heard Jesus declare in chapter 5 verse 37 that the Father Himself had sent Jesus and was a witness to His divinity. So it is somewhat amusing to see Philip sitting in the atmosphere for a miracle with seemingly NO CLUE as to what God was about to do. How many of us have somehow forgotten the amazing things that God has done in our own lives. Refuse to sit helplessly in situations of spiritual, emotional or physical hunger. Remember that Jesus is with you in this far off place. Don’t wallow in discontent and self-pity as if God has not brought us through these same types of situations before. We must recognize our difficult situations as the ideal positions for Divine intervention! Testify to yourself and others regarding what God has done for you in times past. Don’t be fooled into “hustling” your way into a way out. Refuse to compromise your integrity or relationship with God in order to meet your needs. The enemy will present you with very appealing avenues out of temporary pain, heartache and struggle. Know that this is a trick. You already know that his job is to kill, steal and to destroy your destiny and purpose in God. Against all odds, maintain uncompromising and unwavering faith in God! While it may be true that there is no amount of additional work or effort you may be able to put toward your current situation (v. 7), understand that when you present BIG problems to Jesus you can have equally BIG expectations. You are a child of God, a follower of the Cross and Daddy God is seriously up to something in YOUR situation. He has seen you through so many times before. Continue to trust your Father to do it again. You are truly in an atmosphere for a miracle!
Closer than you think!
Even if you are in familiar places of provision, your miracle may still feel very far away. Brother Andrew, in verse 8 inspires us to speak up and recognize that we are closer to our miracle of provision than it may appear. While Andrew does admit that he doesn’t see how the with five barley loaves and two fish are sufficient, he has recognized the potential in the “little” that is there. We must choose to present our “little” to the Lord. God can take what you feel is small in this life and multiply it beyond your imagination in the Kingdom of God. In verse 10, Jesus commands the crowd to sit down. He then takes what initially seemed an inadequate meal for even one child and transforms it into an abundance of food for over five thousand men, women and children. After following after the heart of God, over difficult and challenging terrain, why not sit down in His presence. Prepare your heart and mind to receive your present miracle by remembering the great things He has done in your distant and immediate past. Look around you now, and see the little things that God may be trying to use to bring your miracle to life. Follow the example of Jesus and lift up your “little” substance to God. Give sincere thanks for what you have in hand right now. Finally, have a heart for those beyond your inner circle. Look closely at the example of Jesus in our text. Not only did Jesus not feed Himself or the disciples first, verse 11 clearly relays that they first “distributed [the food] to the people”. After feeding the many, the disciples were then able to collect baskets and baskets of tasty leftovers for themselves! Not only are you very close to your personal miracle, you are also very close to being a conduit for the love and power of God to other people. You are about to be blessed to be a blessing!
Dr.’s Orders:
1) Pray for a friend or family member that is in a place of lack. Ask God to miraculously increase the “little” in their lives for His glory. Don’t forget to tell this person that you are praying for them. They will be so encouraged by your prayerful concern. Just knowing that you are going to God on their behalf will inspire them to continue to pursue Godly provision.
2) Look at your own life and recall deliverances and miracles past and begin to meditate on the goodness of God. Praise Him for taking your “little” and creating financial, physical, emotional, and spiritual abundance in your life! Encourage yourself in the Lord!
3) I challenge you to give of yourself. What “little” talent, gift or resource lies dormant in your God given treasure box? Ask God to give you the courage to offer your talents, gifts and resources back to Him in the coming months. Write down several ways you can give more in your family, the work place and the church. Prepare to see a miracle in your giving!
1 After this, Jesus crossed over to the far side of the Sea of Galilee, also known as the Sea of Tiberias. 2 A huge crowd kept following him wherever he went, because they saw his miraculous signs as he healed the sick. 3 Then Jesus climbed a hill and sat down with his disciples around him. 4 (It was nearly time for the Jewish Passover celebration.) 5 Jesus soon saw a huge crowd of people coming to look for him. Turning to Philip, he asked, “Where can we buy bread to feed all these people?” 6 He was testing Philip, for he already knew what he was going to do.
7 Philip replied, “Even if we worked for months, we wouldn’t have enough money* to feed them!”
8 Then Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up. 9 “There’s a young boy here with five barley loaves and two fish. But what good is that with this huge crowd?”
10 “Tell everyone to sit down,” Jesus said. So they all sat down on the grassy slopes. (The men alone numbered 5,000.) 11 Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks to God, and distributed them to the people. Afterward he did the same with the fish. And they all ate as much as they wanted. 12 After everyone was full, Jesus told his disciples, “Now gather the leftovers, so that nothing is wasted.” 13 So they picked up the pieces and filled twelve baskets with scraps left by the people who had eaten from the five barley loaves.
Positioned for Plenty!
My maternal grandmother, Florence, was one of my favorite people on the planet. I have fond memories of climbing up onto her triple mattress high bed to receive sweet candies, fruits and nuts as well as vivid stories of country life. Gram never failed to offer some sort of tangible or cerebral treat, and even after I became an adult, I never approached her little room without the expectation that my sweet tooth would be amply satisfied. Gram’s spirit moved to Heaven this summer, and today I recall the many treasures she gave, both natural and spiritual. She taught those of us who would listen, so much about trusting God in the rough times and praising Him for even the little things like a good catch of fish at the lake or a little less pain in an old, worn knee. There are a few unfortunate members of my family that never sat at her feet. Grandchildren who never paused to hear her adventurous tales of “Papa Sandy” and “Mama Kizzie” and farm family follies must now depend on her children for just a taste of those days gone by. While they may read of bitter Arkansas winters and promising Arkansas springs in our family newsletter, they will not enjoy the pictures our grandmother painted memory by memory upon the canvas of our minds. We, the one’s who staid after the candy was gone, can now close our eyes and relive the precious moments anew. Because we were in the right place at the right time, we were provided with physical, emotional and spiritual nurturing that was only gotten through proper positioning beneath the loving care of my grandmother’s hands.
I often think of Jesus and His disciples; how after his death and resurrection, these chosen few must have thought back to amazing days like that detailed in John 6. Oh how their hearts must have been filled with joy at the memory of our Lord’s provision. The crowds described here were “huge”, and the people had seen Jesus’ “miraculous signs as he healed the sick.” The disciples and the crowd were compelled by His good works to position themselves in the presence of Jesus. If we are to enjoy the blessings and provision of the Lord, we must be willing to follow Him as far as is necessary to receive. The scripture says that Jesus has crossed over to the “far side of the Sea of Galilee” and later up onto “a hill”. Many of these followers had left the comfort and predictability of their homes in pursuit of the Son of God. Positioning ourselves in the presence of the Master may require a move outside of our comfort zones into a far away place. We may have to travel across uncertain terrain of new jobs, new ways of thinking or new avenues in ministry. Thank God, that we can follow Jesus with trusting expectation that in doing so we are being positioned for plenty! An old, old song rings in my spirit even now: “Where He leads me, I will follow. I’ll go with Him, all the way!”
All is well! You’ve been here before!
Jesus recognized the physical needs of His followers. He knowingly asks his disciple Phillip in Verse 5 where they stand with regard to food for the masses. Isn’t it amazing how our Lord empathizes with our every day needs. He not only feels our physical, emotional and spiritual hunger, He is leading and guiding you to the proper place of breakthrough. Verse 7 makes me smile every time I read it. Here we see Philip, a trusted follower of Jesus, answers that there are simply not enough resources either present or in the future ample enough to meet the needs of the crowd. I smile because, Phillip is not naïve to the miraculous works of Jesus. He has traveled with Him day in and day out. He has witnessed Jesus turn water into wine in John chapter 2. No doubt his heart raced at the sight of Jesus speaking a healing and restorative Word to the man lame for 38 years at the pool of Bethesda in chapter 5. And if that wasn’t enough, Philip has heard Jesus declare in chapter 5 verse 37 that the Father Himself had sent Jesus and was a witness to His divinity. So it is somewhat amusing to see Philip sitting in the atmosphere for a miracle with seemingly NO CLUE as to what God was about to do. How many of us have somehow forgotten the amazing things that God has done in our own lives. Refuse to sit helplessly in situations of spiritual, emotional or physical hunger. Remember that Jesus is with you in this far off place. Don’t wallow in discontent and self-pity as if God has not brought us through these same types of situations before. We must recognize our difficult situations as the ideal positions for Divine intervention! Testify to yourself and others regarding what God has done for you in times past. Don’t be fooled into “hustling” your way into a way out. Refuse to compromise your integrity or relationship with God in order to meet your needs. The enemy will present you with very appealing avenues out of temporary pain, heartache and struggle. Know that this is a trick. You already know that his job is to kill, steal and to destroy your destiny and purpose in God. Against all odds, maintain uncompromising and unwavering faith in God! While it may be true that there is no amount of additional work or effort you may be able to put toward your current situation (v. 7), understand that when you present BIG problems to Jesus you can have equally BIG expectations. You are a child of God, a follower of the Cross and Daddy God is seriously up to something in YOUR situation. He has seen you through so many times before. Continue to trust your Father to do it again. You are truly in an atmosphere for a miracle!
Closer than you think!
Even if you are in familiar places of provision, your miracle may still feel very far away. Brother Andrew, in verse 8 inspires us to speak up and recognize that we are closer to our miracle of provision than it may appear. While Andrew does admit that he doesn’t see how the with five barley loaves and two fish are sufficient, he has recognized the potential in the “little” that is there. We must choose to present our “little” to the Lord. God can take what you feel is small in this life and multiply it beyond your imagination in the Kingdom of God. In verse 10, Jesus commands the crowd to sit down. He then takes what initially seemed an inadequate meal for even one child and transforms it into an abundance of food for over five thousand men, women and children. After following after the heart of God, over difficult and challenging terrain, why not sit down in His presence. Prepare your heart and mind to receive your present miracle by remembering the great things He has done in your distant and immediate past. Look around you now, and see the little things that God may be trying to use to bring your miracle to life. Follow the example of Jesus and lift up your “little” substance to God. Give sincere thanks for what you have in hand right now. Finally, have a heart for those beyond your inner circle. Look closely at the example of Jesus in our text. Not only did Jesus not feed Himself or the disciples first, verse 11 clearly relays that they first “distributed [the food] to the people”. After feeding the many, the disciples were then able to collect baskets and baskets of tasty leftovers for themselves! Not only are you very close to your personal miracle, you are also very close to being a conduit for the love and power of God to other people. You are about to be blessed to be a blessing!
Dr.’s Orders:
1) Pray for a friend or family member that is in a place of lack. Ask God to miraculously increase the “little” in their lives for His glory. Don’t forget to tell this person that you are praying for them. They will be so encouraged by your prayerful concern. Just knowing that you are going to God on their behalf will inspire them to continue to pursue Godly provision.
2) Look at your own life and recall deliverances and miracles past and begin to meditate on the goodness of God. Praise Him for taking your “little” and creating financial, physical, emotional, and spiritual abundance in your life! Encourage yourself in the Lord!
3) I challenge you to give of yourself. What “little” talent, gift or resource lies dormant in your God given treasure box? Ask God to give you the courage to offer your talents, gifts and resources back to Him in the coming months. Write down several ways you can give more in your family, the work place and the church. Prepare to see a miracle in your giving!
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