Tag Archives: kindness

The Change that Changes Us–Hebrews 5 Part 1

31 Monday Jul 2017

Posted by in Creation, Devotions, spiritual warfare, wisdom, worship

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , , , , , ,

There is no doubt that Jesus is God.  In the theological realm he is God the Son in the trinity.  But, when he came to earth, he took off all the trappings of his Godly nature–the immortality, the complete power, The complete perspective of eternity and the protection from pain and suffering.  He did that physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.  He came here as an equal–simply to provide the sacrifice we needed to be restored once and for all to God.  He was given a name above every name–after he suffered the pain and inhumanity dealt him.  He had to pray and seek the Lord–just as we do, while here on earth.

That is what makes him the right choice as our intercessor.  He not only knows us, but he has been us! He did it without grumbling or making an excuse.  He lived it, suffered it and endured it to the end in a flurry of humiliation and degradation. Yet, he still rose and became our greatest advocate.  He loves us like none other.  In the midst of that love and sacrifice–all he asks, is that we follow him and accept the gift he paid such a high price to provide.

What about us? Well we simply confess with our mouths that he is LORD and believe God has raised him from the dead–and we will be saved.(Romans 10:9).  It is a simple, but–life changing adventure.  Once done, like Jesus, we are never the same again.  We quickly learn that our behavior does not save us, but, the change in our life affects our view and actions in this world. We do not do the actions to gain salvation–instead, as his chosen, we simply live differently, as he did.  We must humbly embrace that we are new creations; (2 Corinthians 5:17) and enjoy the life that brings!

God Bless You

5 Every high priest is selected from among the people and is appointed to represent the people in matters related to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. 2 He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and are going astray, since he himself is subject to weakness. 3 This is why he has to offer sacrifices for his own sins, as well as for the sins of the people. 4 And no one takes this honor on himself, but he receives it when called by God, just as Aaron was.

5 In the same way, Christ did not take on himself the glory of becoming a high priest. But God said to him,

“You are my Son;
    today I have become your Father.”[a]

6 And he says in another place,

“You are a priest forever,
    in the order of Melchizedek.”[b]

7 During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. 8 Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered 9 and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him 10 and was designated by God to be high priest in the order of Melchizedek.

The Supremacy Of Christ–Hebrews 1 Part 1

19 Wednesday Jul 2017

Posted by in A Father's Love, Creation, Devotions, Holiness, spiritual warfare, wisdom, worship

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , , , , , , , , ,

My mentor as a youth, would often quote Soren Kierkigaard when he talked about Jesus.  The quote has stuck with me since 7th grade…”Jesus was the most definitive figure ever to stalk the panorama of human history.” When the author of Hebrews started his discussion of God’s desire for relationship with his chosen people–the Hebrew nation; he showcased the main thing, first–Jesus.  

When we discuss Jesus, we first need to take stock in who He is. Jesus is God–He traded his Immortal, omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent nature–to become the example, the messenger, the message and the sacrifice for the restoration of our relationship with a Holy and eternal God. He was not just an amazing man, teacher, leader or rebel–He is God, in the flesh.

He created the universe, he defeated sin and he rose from the dead and remains our advocate to the Father. Because he is God, he is above the angels–in fact, as Paul said in Philippians 2, “Therefore, God placed him at the highest place and placed his name above every name; so, that at the name of Jesus, every knee will bow in heaven, on earth and under the earth; and, every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father!”  

For us, the issue is not his lordship–that has been long established.  The issue is whether we are willing to bow the knee, and confess that lordship in our daily life. When we do, He promises to lead us through the amazing journey of life–to our eternal home with Him, in Heaven. It is a great gift–especially when we grasp from whom we received it.

God Bless You

In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whomalso he made the universe. 3 The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. 4 So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs.  5 For to which of the angels did God ever say,

“You are my Son;
    today I have become your Father”[a]?

Or again,

“I will be his Father,
    and he will be my Son”[b]?

6 And again, when God brings his firstborn into the world, he says,

“Let all God’s angels worship him.”[c]

7 In speaking of the angels he says,

“He makes his angels spirits,
    and his servants flames of fire.”[d]

8 But about the Son he says,

“Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever;
    a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom.
9 You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness;
    therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions
    by anointing you with the oil of joy.”[e]

Leaders–God’s Plan–Titus 1 part 1

12 Wednesday Jul 2017

Posted by in A Father's Love, Creation, Devotions, Holiness, spiritual warfare, wisdom, worship

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , , , , , , , , ,

Paul was preparing Titus, another young preacher, for leading a church.  Crete, Titus’s hometown, was a wild place.  So, Paul for priorities sake, hits on a critical issue–what should your leaders look like? Paul knew that the leadership would set the tone for the people in the church.  Paul knew leaders needed to be above reproach, committed to their families and gracious to others.  He knew that to best lead others, the focus for the leader needed not be clouded by life issues.  He made no judgement of folks that did not qualify–he simply pointed Titus to people that lived simple lives–to deal with the issues of the church community.
 
In our world, we all have issues. I have counseled many couples on the fact that everyone has some baggage, the trick is making sure the baggage you and your spouse have fits in the closet. If Christians look for perfect people to lead in the community–there simply will be no leadership.  
 
But, if we look for people that are gracious, love their families and live a life above reproach–well then, the baggage will fit, and the community will be blessed.  God used Noah–the drunk,Moses–the killer, Samson–the cocky, self-absorbed troublemaker, David–the adulterer and murderer, Peter–the lair and chicken, and Paul-the persecutor of Christians; to lead his people–all had major issues in their walks with God–still, upon reflection, they all qualified because they trusted him to lead through them–That should also be our goal!
 
God Bless You
 
 

The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint[a] elders in every town, as I directed you. 6 An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children believe[b] and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient.7 Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. 8 Rather, he must be hospitable,one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. 9 He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.

Victors and Victory 2 Timothy 4 Part 2

11 Tuesday Jul 2017

Posted by in A Father's Love, Devotions, Holiness, Marraige, spiritual warfare, wisdom, worship

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , , , , , , , , , ,

What makes this amazing journey a true victory?  As an athlete, I was never a star.  My brother was amazing–won decathlon 2 out of 3 years and finished 2nd the middle year by 10 points–sporting a cast on his right arm. He was the fastest most gifted runner we knew.  Me, history explains, not so much…my coach said it best, “Well Smith can’t catch, but he sure is slow!” So, early on, I learned that for me it truly was a victory to simply finish the race and fight the good fight.

Paul was, by far, a greater spiritual athlete. He completely embraced the faith he sought to destroy.  He focused his ministry upon the people he was raised and trained to abhor. He taught salvation by faith–when his legal righteousness was above reproach–he was a Christian superstar. Yet, on this day, as his final appeals were winding down and Nero was soon to take his head, Paul faced the truth–HE FOUGHT THE GOOD FIGHT, FINISHED THE RACE and kept the faith. He realized this marathon was not about the medals; it was about the journey and the struggle.

As he was sharing his heart with Timothy, he expressed his loneliness, his regret for not using John Mark–and his gratitude to Luke and to God who had remained along side.  Paul never expected to win the race or win the fight–that was for God.  He only expected to finish strong and fight to the end–a great goal.

As for us–we are called to follow Paul’s example–Phil 4:9-“ Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” If we will embrace what is tough, focus on those no one else will, and keep battling until God calls us home; even if you are not a christian decathlete–you can run, fight and finish–ready to claim the reward for which you were prepared. Not a bad trade off!

God Bless You

For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

9 Do your best to come to me quickly, 10 for Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia. 11 Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry. 12 I sent Tychicus to Ephesus. 13 When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, and my scrolls, especially the parchments.

14 Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will repay him for what he has done. 15 You too should be on your guard against him, because he strongly opposed our message.

16 At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. 17 But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth. 18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

The Amazing Bible–2 Timothy 3 Part 2

07 Friday Jul 2017

Posted by in A Father's Love, Creation, Devotions, Holiness, spiritual warfare, wisdom, worship

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , , , , , , , , , ,

No matter the culture, no matter the circumstance, Paul knew, and wanted to make sure Timothy knew–the critical nature of scripture.  Paul had been through every kind of trial and tribulation.  As he was writing the letter, he knew time was drawing short.  In that context, he wanted Timothy to be prepared for what was ahead.
 
So Paul sent Timothy back to scripture.  He told Timothy that his knowledge of God’s word  would serve him–no matter what the circumstance.  He reminded Timothy that God inspired all scripture–not just an allegory or a good book–it is the Creator guiding the ones he lovingly made.  Further, since God’s word is inspired; it is timeless and useful for teaching, correcting, rebuking  and training folks to live amazing lives.  It will lead those that read it–to lives that are full and meaningful.  It will prepare those that use it to be ready for an eternity with God.
 
Scripture is still our best tool and weapon.  We must be armed with its truth to face many of life’s battles.  It is the truth in scripture that deflects the lies told by the world and the enemy.  The more we are equipped, the more we can walk confidently through this maze.  In addition, we are equipped to help and lead others to Christ and to a full and meaningful life.  This book is a tool and map to complete our journey.  We will be lost without it.  Stay armed and grounded in God’s word and watch him transform you into his likeness.
 
God Bless You
 

You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, 11 persecutions, sufferings—what kinds of things happened to me in Antioch, Iconium and Lystra, the persecutions I endured. Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them. 12 In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, 13 while evildoers and impostors will go from bad to worse,deceiving and being deceived. 14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God[a] may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

The Pursuit of Righteousness–2 Timothy 2 Final

05 Wednesday Jul 2017

Posted by in A Father's Love, Devotions, Holiness, spiritual warfare, wisdom, worship

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , , , , , , , ,

As a Pastor, Timothy was truly seeking to be and lead a godly group at Ephesus.  Paul continued to encourage and mentor him on how to walk and how to lead.  As they moved forward, Paul focused upon Christ, avoiding senseless arguments, and not being bogged down in the theology–but to speak the truth in love.  Paul made clear to Timothy that the arguments over the fine points of religion completely confused the purpose of Christ’s message.

So, instead, Paul refocused Timothy on presentation of righteousness.  He was to walk in a way that honors God, teach in a way that draws men to God and treat others in a way that reflects the heart of God.  God’s chosen neither have the time or the capacity to become entrapped in silly arguments over senseless points.  Still, in the journey, Christians needed to remain kind, righteous and humble.

That model is still the model for the family of Christ.  We need not focus on the things that divide and destroy the message.  Instead, we must walk in a way that honors God.  Further, our message should speak the truth in love.  Our presentation should shine with humility and kindness.  Our battles should be with the enemy not with the people we call family. Walk faithfully, honor God consistently and love the church graciously!

God Bless You

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 16 Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly. 17 Their teaching will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, 18 who have departed from the truth. They say that the resurrection has already taken place, and they destroy the faith of some. 19 Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness.”

20 In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes and some for common use. 21 Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.

22 Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 23 Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. 24 And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.

Hospitality the best Evangelism Tool–3 John

30 Tuesday Sep 2014

Posted by in A Father's Love, devotion, Devotions, Holiness, spiritual warfare

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , , , , , , , , , ,

There are so many tools for evangelism.  Pamphlets, tracts, revivals movies, skits and the list goes on.  But since the first century, the best tool of evangelism has been hospitality and love.  I remember in college hearing again and again–“People do not care what you know until they know that you care.” Everyone longs to be treated well. We in the Church should be the masters of treating folks well.

So, welcome people, listen to them share your heart with them.  When they see the difference Christ has made in us, they will want what we have.  Sadly, many in the Church practice exclusivity. they do not want to be exposed to “Pagans”.  Truth is we are called to be in the lives of those who need Christ–then they will see our hearts and want Christ in their lives.  Lord, help me to treat folks well!!!

God Bless You

Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, just as you are progressing spiritually. 3 It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.

5 Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters,[a] even though they are strangers to you. 6 They have told the church about your love. Please send them on their way in a manner that honours God. 7 It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans. 8 We ought therefore to show hospitality to such people so that we may work together for the truth…Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.