Tag: love

faith, courage, and obedience

In the realm of Christianity, the relationship between faith, courage, and obedience is a central theme that has guided the lives of countless believers throughout history. These three elements are intertwined, forming a foundation upon which Christians build their spiritual journey. Let’s explore together how faith, courage, and obedience work in harmony to strengthen one’s walk with God.

Faith is the cornerstone of Christianity, the belief in things unseen and the trust in God’s promises. The Bible teaches that “faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). It is the starting point for any Christian journey, as it is through faith that individuals accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.

Faith involves surrendering control and placing one’s trust in God’s plan. This act of surrender requires tremendous courage. In a world that often questions or ridicules faith, it takes courage to stand firm in one’s beliefs. The Apostle Paul, who played a pivotal role in spreading Christianity, exemplified this courage. Despite facing persecution and adversity, he proclaimed, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).

Courage is not the absence of fear but rather the strength to face fear head-on, knowing that God is with you. Throughout the Bible, there are countless examples of individuals who exhibited remarkable courage in their faith journey. The story of David and Goliath is a classic illustration. David, a young shepherd boy, faced the fearsome giant Goliath with unwavering faith in God’s protection. He declared, “The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine” (1 Samuel 17:37).

Similarly, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego displayed courage when they refused to bow down to the idol set up by King Nebuchadnezzar. They faced the fiery furnace with faith in God’s deliverance, saying, “If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it” (Daniel 3:17). Their courage in the face of certain death not only saved them but also brought glory to God.

Obedience is the natural outgrowth of faith and courage. It is the active response to God’s call and commandments. For Christians, obedience is not seen as a burdensome duty but as a joyful act of aligning one’s will with God’s will. Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of obedience when He said, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15).

Abraham’s obedience is a compelling example. God called him to leave his homeland and journey to an unknown land. Without knowing where he was going, Abraham obeyed in faith. The author of Hebrews notes, “By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going” (Hebrews 11:8). Abraham’s obedience not only resulted in the fulfillment of God’s promise of descendants but also made him the father of faith for future generations.

The interplay of faith, courage, and obedience for Christians can be likened to a three-legged stool. Each element is essential, and the absence of one can lead to instability in one’s spiritual walk. Faith provides the foundation, courage fuels action, and obedience demonstrates a genuine relationship with God.

When faith is strong, it emboldens believers to face challenges with courage. Courage, in turn, empowers believers to step out in obedience to God’s call. Obedience, rooted in faith and fueled by courage, brings believers closer to God and allows them to experience the richness of His blessings.

Faith, courage, and obedience are not isolated concepts but a beautifully intertwined tapestry that weaves together a strong and vibrant relationship with God. Faith is the starting point, courage fuels action, and obedience is the tangible expression of a life surrendered to God’s will. As Christians navigate the ups and downs of life’s journey, we do so with the unwavering belief that faith, courage, and obedience will guide us and draw us closer to the Creator who loves us.

Dear Heavenly Father,

We come before You today with hearts full of gratitude and reverence, acknowledging the profound interplay of faith, courage, and obedience in our journey with You. We recognize that these three pillars are essential in deepening our relationship with You and fulfilling Your purpose for our lives.

Firstly, we thank You for the gift of faith. It is through faith that we have come to know You, believe in Your promises, and accept Your Son, Jesus Christ, as our Lord and Savior. We humbly ask You to strengthen our faith, Lord, for it is the foundation of our walk with You. Help us trust in the unseen, knowing that You are the author and finisher of our faith.

Grant us the courage, dear Lord, to face the challenges and uncertainties of life with unwavering trust in You. Just as David confronted Goliath and Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego faced the fiery furnace, we pray for the courage to stand firm in our convictions, knowing that You are with us in every trial and tribulation. Help us to step out in faith, even when the path ahead seems daunting, knowing that You are our fortress and refuge.

Father, we also seek to walk in obedience to Your commands. May our obedience be born out of love for You, not as a mere duty but as a joyful response to Your grace. Help us align our will with Yours, knowing that Your plans for us are far greater than anything we can imagine. Grant us the humility to submit ourselves to Your divine authority and the wisdom to discern Your guidance in our lives.

Lord, as we navigate the intricate dance of faith, courage, and obedience, may our lives be a testimony to Your goodness and faithfulness. May our faith inspire courage, our courage lead to obedience, and our obedience bring glory to Your name. In the moments when doubt creeps in, when fear tries to paralyze us, or when disobedience tempts us, remind us of Your promises and the example of Christ, who, in perfect obedience, endured the cross for our salvation.

We pray for Your guidance, Lord, as we seek to live out this interplay of faith, courage, and obedience daily. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live lives that honor You. May our faith shine as a beacon of hope to those around us, and may our courage be a source of encouragement to others facing their own trials.

We offer this prayer in faith, with courage in our hearts, and a desire for obedient lives that bring glory and honor to You, our loving Heavenly Father. We pray all these things in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ.

Amen.

thy kingdom come, thy will be done…

The concept of the Kingdom of God is a central theme in Christian theology, representing the reign of God’s divine authority, love, and justice over all creation. However, this kingdom is often understood as having a dual nature: the “now” and the “not yet.” This tension between the present reality and the future promise of God’s kingdom forms a significant aspect of Christian belief. Right now, we will reflect the tension between the “now” and the “not yet” of the Kingdom of God.

In the teachings of Jesus, the arrival of the Kingdom of God was proclaimed as a present reality. He displayed the kingdom’s presence through his miracles, teachings, and acts of compassion. These manifestations offered a glimpse of the divine order characterized by love, mercy, and justice. As believers, we experience the “now” of the Kingdom of God in several different ways.

We experience the transformative power of Christ’s love and can see it in the lives of people who have been healed, restored, and renewed by their encounter with God. Such experiences are a testament to the presence of the Kingdom in the here and now.

The unity and fellowship among believers reflect the ideal of the Kingdom of God, where people from diverse backgrounds are united in love and purpose.

Whenever we extend kindness, compassion, and care to others, we participate in bringing the Kingdom of God closer to Earth. Our actions echo the values of the kingdom.

While we witness glimpses of the Kingdom of God in the present, its full and complete realization remains a future promise. The “not yet” aspect of the Kingdom speaks to the anticipation of God’s ultimate plan for restoration and renewal.

The world continues to be plagued by various forms of injustice, suffering, and brokenness. The “not yet” reminds us that the final defeat of evil and the establishment of God’s perfect justice are yet to come.

The Bible speaks of creation itself longing for redemption and renewal. The “not yet” prompts us to await the time when creation will be fully liberated from decay and groaning.

The promise of eternal life and the complete restoration of all things underscores the “not yet” aspect of the Kingdom. Believers eagerly await the day when death will be defeated, and life will triumph over mortality.

The tension between the “now” and the “not yet” of the Kingdom of God presents believers with a profound paradox. How do we navigate this tension in our faith journey?

We are called to live with a hopeful expectation of the Kingdom’s ultimate fulfillment. Our present actions are influenced by our future hope, inspiring us to work for justice, reconciliation, and transformation.

As citizens of the Kingdom, we are invited to actively participate in ushering in God’s reign. We engage in acts of love, mercy, and justice, contributing to the advancement of the Kingdom’s values in our world.

The “not yet” challenges us to maintain an enduring faith amid life’s trials and uncertainties. Our trust in God’s promises sustains us as we await the final coming of the Kingdom.

The tension between the “now” and the “not yet” of the Kingdom of God invites believers to embrace the complexity of their faith journey. We live in a world where we experience glimpses of God’s love and justice, while also acknowledging the brokenness that persists. This tension encourages us to remain steadfast in hope, active in our participation, and unwavering in our trust. As we navigate this paradox, we are reminded that the Kingdom of God is both a present reality and a future promise—a divine mystery that shapes our lives and propels us to work for a world characterized by God’s grace, love, and righteousness.

Dear Heavenly Father,

As we reflect on the tension between the “now” and the “not yet” of your Kingdom, we are humbled by the depth of your wisdom and the vastness of your plan. We thank you for the glimpses of your love and justice that we see in the world around us, and for the transformative power of your presence in our lives.

Lord, help us to hold onto hope during challenges, knowing that you are faithful to fulfill your promises. Empower us to actively participate in bringing your Kingdom values to our communities and to be instruments of your grace and compassion.

As we navigate the complexities of this world, remind us that the tension we experience is a reminder of the tension your Son bore on the cross—between the suffering of the present and the glory of the resurrection. May our faith remain unwavering, and our trust in you unshaken.

We pray for the day when your Kingdom will be fully realized, when injustice will be vanquished, when creation will be restored, and when your love will reign supreme. Until then, grant us the strength to persevere, the wisdom to discern, and the courage to live as citizens of your Kingdom.

In the name of Jesus, who ushered in your Kingdom with grace and love, we offer this prayer. Amen.

want a friend? be friendly

The Bible has a lot to say about friendship. It tells us how to be a good friend;

1 Thessalonians 5:11

11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Why having the right friends is important:

1 Corinthians 15:33

33 Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.”

It tells us about the many benefits of friendship:

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: 10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.

Friendship is a vital part of human existence. It is a bond that connects us to others, enriches our lives, and helps us navigate through the ups and downs of life. The importance of friendship is often overlooked, but it is a fundamental part of our well-being and happiness.

One of the greatest benefits of friendship is the sense of belonging and connection it brings. Having a friend means that we have someone who understands us, accepts us for who we are, and is there for us in both good times and bad. Friendships provide a sense of security and comfort, knowing that we have someone to turn to in times of need.

Friendship also helps us to grow and learn. Through our interactions with friends, we learn new perspectives, develop empathy, and expand our understanding of the world around us. A good friend will challenge us to be our best selves and push us to reach our goals. They will also be there to celebrate our successes and support us when we fall short.

Another important aspect of friendship is the sense of fun and enjoyment it brings. Friendships are built on shared experiences and memories, and these memories can be some of the most cherished moments of our lives. Whether it’s a spontaneous road trip, a day of laughter playing games, friends create memories that last a lifetime.

Friendship is also a powerful tool for self-discovery. Through our interactions with friends, we learn more about ourselves and what we value. We can explore our interests, passions and goals with friends, and they can often provide valuable insights and advice. Friendships also give us the opportunity to try new things and step out of our comfort zones.

However, friendships are not always easy. Conflicts and disagreements are a natural part of any relationship, and it is important to learn how to navigate these challenges. A good friend will be able to communicate openly and honestly, and will be willing to work through any issues that may arise.

The beauty of friendship is that it can come in many forms. It can be a bond between two people, a group of friends, or even a community. The key is to find people who share your values, interests, and goals. It is also important to remember that friendships can develop at any stage of life, and it’s never too late to make new friends.

In conclusion, friendship is an essential part of life. It brings a sense of belonging, connection, growth, and joy. Friendships help us navigate the complexities of life and provide us with valuable support and guidance. It is important to cherish and nurture our friendships, and to be open to making new friends. Remember, a true friend is a treasure and a gift, and it is a privilege to have them in our lives.

Lord I thank you for the many friends that you have given me during my life. Each of them was a unique blessing to me. Please bless them today as they blessed me. Continue to provide me with the friends that I need. Friends that will encourage me, help me, and add something vital to my experience on this earth.

Help me to be a good friend as well. Let me be an encouragement to some. Help me to bear the burdens of others. Make me into the good friend that someone needs today. Amen

I had it upside down

Wasted time equals a neglected page. Never thought I would admit something like that. It’s been said to me many times throughout my life but somehow I seem to get by. But I’ve had some time to really reflect this past week or so and I’ve learned a few things about myself that aren’t very flattering.

Toss in the topics I’ve been preaching on the last few weeks and oh boy.

Let’s start by saying that self-reflection has never been my strongest trait. I tend to find what I like and stick to it. I’m not saying that I’ve never had a wake up moment but they are pretty rare. It’s easier for me to slide into the sin of pride than I’d like.

I take a lot of things in my life for granted and if those granted things go away I have a powerful tendency to turn my back on them. New things will come right? But what if I’m wrong? My strategy seemed to work for me. What if I had done things differently?

I know it’s a waste of time to dwell on the past. But what if it’s not?

If you look over my old posts you’ll see two characters pop up a lot.

Worthless

Worthwhile

I wrote about my struggle with these two and which was winning. I think my struggle is real but my analysis flawed. Let me explain briefly as an intro.

I always thought that Worthwhile ought to win but it was my pride that made me feel Worthwhile. Getting knocked down a peg or two and suddenly I’m Worthless and fighting to regain my stubborn pride, thinking I’m winning.

Sometimes I’m a moron.

Father God, all praise to You who created me. Forgive my sin of pride. Bless my mother who bore me, bless my father too. Bless my children with my secret hope for them. Bless my wife who loves me in spite of my failures. Remove my pride even if it hurts. I yield to you. Let Worthless win. Amen

More to come

just a prayer

Dear Heavenly Father You are the only one worthy of my praise, worthy of my worship. I honor You and believe in You. I believe that You created me for a purpose, and I count on You to guide my life such that that purpose will be revealed and accomplished.

I believe that you sent Your son, Jesus, to live among us perfectly, to bring us the Good News, to die on a cross and to rise again three days later to fully conquer sin and death. He is the Lord of my life.

I am sorry for all the times I’ve let you down. But I know that all my sin and iniquity are covered by His precious blood. Please continue to point out the error in my life so that my life will continually grow more pleasing to You.

Father God I am so troubled by the way events are going right now. We are more divided than we have been in America than at any time during my life. So many people are falling away from the faith or never even coming to it at all. Our leaders bicker and backstab. They are cowardly and lazy. There is corruption all around. We need You now more than ever yet You seem so far away.

Your Word says that all authority on Earth belongs to You. So take it away from those that use it for evil and harm. Deliver it instead to men and women that will use it in wisdom. Deliver to us justice and hope.

I am asking You to send revival to Your church. We are in dire need and only Your Holy Spirit can bring us back to life. Deliver to us the boldness and courage that we have lost. Prune any sin and error that You find.

For myself Father guide me in the way You would have me go. Bless the ministry that You have called me to. Stir up the Spirit that lives in me. Give to me good ideas and the courage to implement them. Let Your love shine through me so that all can see it. Mold me into a leader that You can use. Send revival and let it start with me.

Amen

volunteers make the church work

At the beginning of the year I put out the call for volunteers at the church where I pastor. I made a list of needed help and called the church to pray for the right people to come to us and fill the roles that had been identified. I don’t know if anyone is still praying over our list but we did see some results and I’d like to publically thank those that stepped up to help out.

Brian thank you so much for taking on the task of maintaining our grounds. It is a very important task and I know that it takes up a lot of time. How the property looks is the very first impression that people have of our church and we want that impression to be a good one. Without your efforts that wouldn’t be possible. Paul and Junia I know that you have also pitched in and your help is very much appreciated. You two were also instrumental in the ongoing remodel of the new classroom. It was your efforts that really got that project moving again after it had gotten stalled.

Good first impressions continue because Sandy came forward and volunteered to take on the task of keeping the sanctuary, bathrooms, and other spaces clean and tidy. Your personal touches in those areas have really made a huge difference in the way members and visitors alike see our facility. I don’t know if anyone has thanked you personally but several people have asked me who has been cleaning because the place looks great. It feels like somebody actually loves it and wants it to look it’s very best. Your servant’s heart really shines through the work that you do.  I pray that God bless you abundantly.

Stan and Kathy have continued to keep the kitchen and coffee room clean and tidy. I always know that you’ve been there even if I didn’t see you because of the smell of Pine-Sol in the air after you leave. You two have been performing this task for several years and it’s about time you got a public thank you for it.

Papa G, Stan, and Dan have done a lot of work in our new classroom and I am really happy to let you all know that we will be opening up one side of it this Sunday for use. These men have worked very hard to present to you all a building that you can be proud of. They’ve done demolition, put up Sheetrock, textured and painted. They’ve dug trenches, run wires, installed a bunch of stuff. Been up and down ladders countless times and made numerous trips to a variety of home improvement stores. Their work has been done with excellence and love. There is still a lot more to be done but I know that these men will be there to do the job and do it right. Thank you thank you thank you.

In one sense a church is just a bunch of people that get together once in a while and do church. If that’s all you get from it God bless you and expand your thoughts. Because really a church ought to be like a family with all that implies. A family does things together with a common goal and so should a church. I am certain that if you are attending a church somewhere that there are plenty of opportunities for you to serve. It is my prayer that you find that spot and fill it because you are necessary and important no matter what you think. God will use you if you make yourself available for use.

I know that I have not mentioned every person that volunteers in our church. Fear not I see all and so does God. There are many more blogs to write.

 

 

Be the bigger person

If God were easy to follow everybody would be doing it. If God always made you comfortable, if there were never any trials in your life because Of some kind of supernatural intervention there would not be any need for faith. I think that I like that He lets us face difficulty, that our decisions matter and we are made to face the consequences of the decisions that we make both the good and the bad.

It seems to me that today many people think that it is actually good to let themselves off the hook for the things that they do or think. I hear people say things like all ideas are good or that all lifestyle choices are equal. This seems absurd to me. One person says that it is society’s responsibility to take care of everybody and another says that each person is responsible for his own wellbeing. Those are quite opposite and can’t both be true. I know that is a extreme example but it makes the point.

This kind of thing gets truly evil when people think that they ought to be able to get away with stuff but you over there ought to be punished for the same thing. The more polarized we get the more that this mindset seems to rear it’s ugly head.

I know I’m being a little vague here by not pointing out some real world examples but I really want to stay a bit neutral while I think this through. I know that the us and them mentality has always been around I know that. I also know that long ago people were deeply divided by a lot of things that led to very extreme behavior but I thought that perhaps we had outgrown some of the really terrible ideas that had ruled interaction between people. I thought we had learned to be at least civil with each other, that we could share problems and solutions and be able to come to some kind of consensus. But Solomon was right. There really is nothing new under the sun.

So now I need to look into my own life to see if there is any of that in me. I don’t want to be the man that is shouting down somebody for what they did while excusing myself for my own misdeeds. I want to be the man that can listen respectfully to someone that I may disagree with and be able to have a reasonable discussion about it. I don’t want to be the man that looks past someone’s problems because I happen to agree with some of his or her thoughts or ideas. I want to be the man that is able to discern truth but not be filled with hate. I want to be the man that can be persuaded when I am wrong to see the error and make the appropriate change. I want to be the man that will gently but firmly hold fast to those things that I am confident are the truth. I want to be the man that is persuasive not belligerent. Mostly I want to be the man that loving and merciful to those around me wether I agree with them or not.

Lest I am misunderstood let me state that I will not tolerate evil. I do believe that there is real evil in the world and it must be opposed. But I must not allow myself to be evil to oppose it. Opposition must still come from a place of love and yes even mercy.

It is my prayer that after you read this you will join me in this self examination to find the condition of your heart and then follow me and make the commitment to love even those that you find youself opposing.