2010-06-25 - Life of Jesus (part 1) Preached on 2003-12-28 1 John 2:3-6
John 3:1-15; 4:1-26; 39-42
John 4:43-54
John 5:1-15
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2010-07-04 - Desire's Journey - The Grand Affair (part 1) To know and to be known. It is our deepest ache. Love makes us to crazy things for love. No union on earth like the consummation of love between a man and woman Becoming one - this is what God is seeking with us Bible is the greatest romance ever written |
2010-07-05 - Desire's Journey - The Grand Affair (part 2) As a bride you loved me and followed me through the desert - Jeremiah 2:2-3 If you're writing a romanc, love is the goal - you must allow for the possiblity of betrayal Hebrews thought God would be satisfied with some religious rituals and rule keeping You said, "I will not serve you!" - Jeremiah 2:20 True love never fails I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her - Hosea 2:14
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2010-09-14 - I Am Willing Preached by Dan Rice on 2002-09-15 Matthew 8:1-3
Could you love if you they do not love you? Jesus was!! Love the Unloved Matthew 20:29-34
Matthew 5:43-48
Matthew 15:29-31
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2010-09-29 - Contagious Christian - People Matter (part 1) We might like the idea of having a spiritual impact on others, we won't take decisive action unless we raise our motivation level The best way to do this is to have God's perspective on the matter 1. The way things are - Science Anthropic principle - when we look at the world around us, the universe was somehow designed to support and nourish human life
We matter to God 2. The way things ought to be - Business Business is turning to the "upside-down" approached They refocus on they are there - to server their customers Focus must be outside the church as well It is easy to get entangled and ensnared in internal issues in our church that it is hard to remember the primary reason we remain on this planet - to reach out to other people If we matter to God, then they'd better matter to us too |
2010-10-05 - Contagious Christian - Impacting Your World (part 1) There are expectations everywhere, to have:
Many times the "ought to" comes through louder than the "how to" We need to focus on the important steps to have maximum impact We are the salt of the world - Matthew 5:13
Which did Jesus have in mind? We don't know |
2010-10-11 - God and Your Money
QUESTIONS
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2010-11-10 - Contagious Christian - Dorcas' Service Approach Dorcas was "always doing good and helping the poor" - Acts 9:36 She well-known for her loving acts of service She made robes and articles of clothing for widows and other needy people in her town It was very difficult to see her activity without seeing the love of Christ that inspired Her work was so important that when she died a premature death, God sent Peter to raise her from the dead People who take on this approach find it relatively easy to servers others Often those who are quite and enjoy expressing compassion through action No one fits perfectly into just one approach and you probably use all of them one way or another God has designed diversity on His team and each member is stronger in some styles than others A team of Christians who are made up of different styles will strong because they can reach virtually every type of seeker |
2010-11-16 - Contagious Christian - Making the Message Clear (part I) Before you can bring the message to others, need to make sure we clearly understand we understand the message ourselves Making the message clear will need us to be able to illustrate it for those we talk to God Three aspects of God we need to look at:
God made us without sin but we abused our freedom and became evil Sin requires God to pronounce upon us the death penalty - both physical and spiritual This is separation from God via hell We are helpless to change this Christ God had the power and authority to devise a plan for our salvation Christ died and suffered the death penalty debt for us and
You don't deserve it, we didn't pay for it, we can not earn it He paid a debt He did not owe I owned a debt I could not pay |
2010-12-14 - Knowing Jesus (part I) Who is Jesus? John 1:1, 14
~Mark 1:21-45
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2011-01-31 - Followup - Servant (part II) Humble Servant - Luke 17:7-10 Question: What should our attitude be while serving?
When we serve, we’ve done nothing special except our duty Excellent Servant - Mark 7:37 Jesus did all things well When we serve, we must do so with excellence Ephesians 6:7-8 - When we serve, we must serve as though Jesus himself had asked us to do it! |
2011-02-13 - Discipleship - Kansas City (part III) Cost of Following Jesus Luke 14:25-33
Matthew 28:16-20
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2011-02-15 - Sin and Repentance - Kansas City (part II) Definition of Sin
Sins of Omission
Sin of Commission
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2011-02-16 - Sin and Repentance - Kansas City (part III) Romans 6:23
John 3:1-7
Acts 2:22-24
Acts 2:36-41
Romans 6:1-4
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2011-03-16 - One Another (part II) Some more scriptures about relationships:
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2011-03-19 - One Another (part V) Reading through the one another scriptures this week:
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2011-04-06 - Old Testament - Counting the Cost Counting the Cost in the Old testament
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2011-07-25 - Mind of Christ - Servant (part I) I. Jesus came to earth as a servant A. He is spoken of by the prophets as a servant.
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2011-07-26 - Mind of Christ - Servant (part II) The nature of a servant A. He is emptied of self interest
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2011-07-27 - Mind of Christ - Servant (part III) The nature of a servant (continued): C. His mind is focused on the work and interest of his master
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2011-08-01 - Mind of Christ - Servant, Washing Feet (part II) The washing of the disciples feet was illustrative of Christ’s life and ministry
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2011-08-09 - Daughter Needs - All-Male Dad (part II) Lots priority:
There is a high cost to be paid when dad treats his daughter as 3rd rate They are prime targets for a smooth talking guy who offers some sense of male love Our daughters deserve 1st rate love Don't leave them to figure out what it will cost to be loved by a man Give them lots and lots of love, attention and time |
2011-08-23 - Fearing God - Splendor on Display DNA is estimated to contain instructions that would fill 1,000 600-page books yet it all would fit inside an ice cube Human brain consists of 10 billion nerve cells The best possible end of all God's actions is His own glory Everything God does or allows in all His creation must ultimately serve His glory - there is no end higher How many are your works? the earth is full of your creatures - Psalms 104:24 All creation is an art gallery for which God displays His splendor of His wisdom Intricate designs are endless in their variety In USA and Canada:
God did not have to rely on trial and error |
2011-08-30 - Fearing God - Turning Aside Wrath It is difficult for us to think about God's wrath; we prefer to think about his love We envision a wrathful person as out of control God's wrath is controlled, it is also described as anger, fury, and indignation Unrepentant people are storing up wrath - Romans 2:5 We were born by nature as objects of wrath - Ephesians 2:3 Through condemnation of Adam's sin and our own personal sin On the cross, Jesus suffered God's wrath in our place "Why have you forsaken me?" - Matthew 27:46 Really start to enjoy fearing God:
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2011-09-06 - Followup: Grace (part I) The understanding of grace is the foundation for a love-motivated relationship with God, rather than one that is works-motivated. We can become Pharisees (knowing the requirements of Christian life but missing the heart motivation. Similarly, overachievers (in the world or in the kingdom) are valued by others and value themselves based on their performance. The goal of follow up is to build security, self-esteem and worth based on God’s grace and love not on their Christian duty of perfect performance. Question: How do you define “grace”?
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2011-09-07 - Followup: Grace (part II) Grace is almost too good to be true, but it is. The goal of this study is to help you to see the real God who loves you and how valuable you are to him. He valued you at the cost of his only Son, whom he gave up so that thee could be grace to forgive your sins and restore your relationship with him. Psalms 103:8-10
Matthew 18:21-35
As you continue your walk with God picture yourself in a world of God’s grace. And remember every time you stumble or fall down your landing in God’s grace. Just get back up and continue on in God’s grace. Not once, not twice, not seven times but continue on in God’s grace for eternity. |
2011-09-09 - Followup: Humility I (part II) What humility is not:
How was Jesus humble?
Question: What would Jesus advise you to do with that situation? To be like Jesus is to be humble |
2011-09-25 - Proverbs on Pride (part V) #3. Humility heals our view of self (Proverbs 15:33) (Proverbs 22:4)
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2011-10-15 - Genesis 15 - Abraham Believed God SummaryThe Lord promised Abram an heir and many descendants. Abram believed. He was told that they would be enslaved but would then return. ObservationsGenesis 15:6 - Abram believed the LORD ... credited it to him as righteousness Personal ApplicationSometimes I believe that perseverance is my strength but as I look at my prayers for the desires of my heart, I give up way easily. "But it has not happened in 2 weeks, 2 months, 2 years" - I say. Abram waited until he was 100 years for his son to be born. |
2011-11-18 - Thankfulness Thankfulness Colossians 1:3,10-12, 2:6-7, 3:15, 17, 4:2 - In one letter we are instructed SEVEN times to be thankful people. Pretty important CHART Philippians 4:10-13 ~ Paul did not start out this way
1. Remember the past. Ephesians 2:1-10 ~ Remember how you used to live.
Serve with a grateful heart Matthew 6:1-4 ~ Remember it is more blessed to give than receive.
Romans 8:28 ~ God works out EVERYTHING for the good of those who love him. Do you believe this ? 3. Think toward the future. Philippians 4:2-8 ~ You name is written in the book of life.
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2011-12-22 - Day 19 - Powerful Prayers 1 Chronicles 17:15-22
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2012-01-13 - Genesis 20 - Abraham lies about Serah at GerarSummaryIn Gerar Abraham said, "Sarah is my sister." King Abimelech took her but God warned him in a dream. He restored Sarah to Abraham. ObservationsGenesis 20:3 - You are as good as dead because of the woman you have taken Personal ApplicationI usually don't have an issue with knowing right from wrong. It is usually that I am not aware of what I am doing. I am either not paying attention or not focused. I need to watch my life closely so I will be righteous in God's eyes and so others can be saved because of it [1 Timothy 4:16]. |
2012-01-18 - Ministry - The Heart of Humility Matt. 18:4, Luke 14:10, James 4:10, Phil. 2:5,7-8 Have you ever made a goal in your life to become a humble person? Have you ever prayed consistently over a period of time for God to give you a humble heart? Jesus shocked the crowds following him that day when he declared for all men to change and become like little children or they would not enter the kingdom of heaven! Then he lifts up the quality of humility in a child's heart and commands his disciples to have this heart! The world teaches us that humility is soft, weak, passive, no convictions. Jesus was certainly not this! He was a man of convictions, fearless with the opposition, and pressed on resolutely about his goals! However, he washed the disciples feet, touched the leper, served the crowds, and obeyed the Father in everything. One of the real tests comes in serving. Jesus made himself nothing, became a servant, and humbled himself on the cross for us! Do people know me to be a serving person? How do I feel when I am serving-awesome? Do I serve only when I want to serve and what I want to do if it serves my interests?Jesus came to serve and not to be served! He came to give his life as a ransom for many! Whoever wants to be great among you must be your slave! Matt. 20:26-28 Questions:
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2012-01-25 - Ministry - Jesus' Rescue Mission Matthew 18:10-14 (Luke 15:3-10) It is comforting to know we serve a God who is not only all-powerful and all-knowing, but also all-loving. Sometimes the spiritual battle gets so intense that we wonder if God really cares. This passage proves how deeply God cares about each individual "sheep". How we do spiritually does matter to God. He does not want any of his disciples to wander off and fall away. Jesus is the perfect shepherd who will do whatever it takes to go after the one lost sheep. Each soul matters to God. Jesus' heart is to keep on searching, keep on hoping, and keep on loving until the sheep is found and returns home. We need to take on Jesus' heart and persevere in rescuing those who have given up on their relationship with God. Satan wants us to get hurt, get bitter and angry instead of being compassionate and determined to help those who have lost faith. Let's be inspired by Jesus' unfailing love and decide to be part of Jesus' rescue team! Questions:
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2012-02-01 - Ministry - Intimidated or Inspired? Matthew 23:1-7 The austere lifestyles of the Pharisees were not ones that Christ wanted us to imitate. They said all the right things and lived in all the wrong ways. People felt burdened around the Pharisees because they knew they could not match up to that kind of lifestyle. The Pharisees were not just legalists; they were separatists, which is what the word Pharisee means. They were men preaching a life too big for them to live. They did not readily inspire the average Jew to follow them. People were afraid of them. They lead by intimidation rather than by inspiration. In vs. 5, Jesus chastises them for doing everything for men to see. In vs.6 he condemns their obsession with position and again in vs. 7, Jesus rebukes their love of role. They did not attract the kind of following that Jesus did and this made them bitter and envious. They did not really have the hearts of the people because they had only a heart for themselves. Do you call attention to yourself? Do you focus on your position or your role and get angry when it is not what you want? A person focused on men, role, or position will not want to serve and therefore will not inspire, only intimidate. Find some way, even small way, in which you can serve or encourage someone today. This will be an inspiration to them and to you. |
2012-02-07 - Ministry - The Serving Heart of Jesus John 13: 1 - 17 At a time when Jesus could have most concerned about himself and what lay ahead he chose to serve the disciples instead. Jesus was known for his acts of service before God and men. Rather than just telling people what they should do for him and each other Jesus set the example. After he served them he asked them if they understood what he had done for them. Do we really understand the importance of serving? True servitude comes from a childlike heart. Matthew 18: 1 - 9 Children are humble-hearted and love to serve. We need to consider others and look for ways to meet their needs both physically and spiritually. Sin is what stops us from serving. When we are in sin we are serving ourselves: our pleasures and desires. Jesus had a radical attitude toward sin because it keeps us from the spiritual act of serving and into the acts of the sinful nature. When we are serving it is difficult to be selfish, inward focused, prideful, self-righteous, sad and depressed. Jesus experienced great joy by meeting other people's needs. Jesus understood that serving is the true path to greatness. If we desire to be like Jesus we must develop deep convictions in the area of servitude. How did Jesus Serve?
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2012-02-09 - Ministry - Jesus Stayed Focused Amidst Challenges Matthew 14:13-21 How do you respond to bad news? Do you get angry? Faithless? Hard hearted? Self-piteous? When John the Baptist's disciples came to Jesus to tell him that his predecessor and cousin had been beheaded (Mt.14: 12) Jesus "withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place." When Jesus withdrew it wasn't to indulge in his emotions, but to call on his Father in heaven for the strength to handle pressure. Jesus didn't withdraw to escape the demands of the ministry. His dependence on God made it possible for him to deal with pain and still meet the needs of those around him. "Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick." (Mt.14: 14) It's a temptation for me - when I am feeling all the pressures from my life - to place limits on how much I love and serve others. Even though Jesus had just received news of his cousin's death, he didn't get irritated with the demands of the crowds. He healed their sick, then fed them. He didn't "send them away", as his disciples had suggested earlier. If we want to have impact like Jesus did, we must treasure our solitary time with God so that we can remain focused of the needs of others. At some point today or this week, you are going to be confronted with a challenge to give when you really do not want to. You may have to stay up late, get up early, or give in an uncomfortable, inconvenient way. Respond with a spiritual perspective. Respond with compassion. |
2012-02-12 - Ministry - But Because You Say So Luke 5:1-11 Peter's faith was ebbing with the tide. No fish, no breakfast. After a frustrating night of fruitless fishing he was struggling to accept a carpenter's fishing tip to let down the nets yet again. Yet Peter softened his will to the Master's will and obeyed out of faith. He had no other reason to believe he would even get a nibble at the net. As the fish came in Peter got that sinking feeling of realizing the depth of his own sin. He deferred to Jesus and knew he did not deserve to be in the Master's presence. I am struck by Peter's decision to follow Christ's command to let down the net again even though years of experience and an empty-netted night begged him not to. Sometimes experience can breed cynicism because we are used to certain results and have formed certain expectations. Cynicism replaces obedience and robs us of faith. It gives us a reason to not have to believe because "we have been there, done that" and it has never work. Peter's humility is convicting and his responsiveness to Jesus is a powerful example. We can easily be deceived by experience that has result in fruitless and netted us nothing. Is your evangelism producing fruit? Maybe you are letting your nets down in the wrong place or in the wrong way. Find a new fishing hole. Consider reaching out to different kinds of people. |
2012-02-24 - Fear of Failure - When We Don't Meet Expectations by Maritza Kim - Ministry Intern: San Francisco Church of Christ Jeremiah 1:4-10 To me, "failure" has meant not living up to expectations--either what I expect of myself or what others expect of me. In my pride, I get angry when my weakness is exposed, and I see how ill equipped I am to face a certain task or spiritual battle. Instead of trusting in God and turning to him to strengthen me, give me wisdom, and make me able, I get a quitter's mentality. I decide that because I am not already able, I will take myself out so I no longer have to face my failure. I decide to take the easy road, where I can be "successful" and no longer feel the pressure to change the core sin in my character. In this scripture, I learn that God has had a destiny for our lives. God has known me since 'before I was in the womb.' He knows the stuff I'm made of. He knows what I am weak in and what I can and can't do. Yet he has still called me to serve him in awesome ways, and to do it with all my heart. He has appointed me to serve him, and that needs to be my focus. If I am focused on my daily relationship with him, get humble and open about my failures, and if I serve him with all my heart, he will fulfill the destiny he has for my life! Three Decisions I've Made
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2012-08-02 - Genesis 21 - The Birth of IsaacSummaryAs promised, Sarah had a son: Isaac. She had Hagar and Ishmael sent away but God preserved them. Abraham and Abimelech made a treaty. ObservationsGenesis 21:1 - The LORD visited Sarah just as he had said he would and did for Sarah what he had promised Personal ApplicationI need to unmoved by the changing seas around me. I go all over the place on where I stand on giving to others without resolve. Need to be consistent as I faithfully follow the Lord. |
2012-10-12 - Prayer of the Righeous - Arms Wide Open (part II) The lost son took his first steps home and was ready to apologize Father perhaps had been scanning the horizon day after day - Luke 15:20 Until one day his dream came true The celebration spared no expense - Luke 15:22-24 He welcomes sinners who do not deserve it - it is how he feels about us Jesus literally opened wide his arms for us on the cross He opens his arms for us all day long - Romans 10:21 Peter, at Pentecost, pleaded with the people to be saved on God's behalf - Acts 2:40 God's heart cares deeply for us His heart was filled with pain during the time of Noah - Genesis 6:6 His heart is in that same way now - Luke 17:26 |
2013-01-25 - Prayer of the Righeous - God is a Consuming Fire (part III) When we pray, let us give God the respect he deserves A holy God requires us to be righteous
All the prayer in the world will not get through to God if it is not uttered from a pure heart
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2013-03-18 - Prayer of the Righeous - God is Preparing a Place (part II) John was given a glemce of what heaven would be like in Revelations:
Heaven is a place full of blessings Jesus referred serveral times to our reward in heaven No eyes have seen, no ears have heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared - 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 No one can stop us from going to heaven but ourselves Do you think of God as one who wants nothing more than to bless your life? |
2013-10-10 - Resolve to Lead Your Marriage Do you realize that as the leader of your home? We must take courage and always be willing to make the first move, God has put something into men that longs to be courageous. The idea of 50/50 leadership is a farce that creates two heads and two directions. History is littered with self-centered men who have dominated, belittled, ignored, and abused their wives in the name of male leadership. Jesus, God’s Son was the most powerful leader of all time Lead your wife by serving her well. |
2013-11-08 - Teach Them to Serve When Jesus loved people, He identified their needs and then served them. |
2014-05-15 - Genesis 23 - The Death of SarahSummarySarah died in Kiriath-arba and Abraham asked the Hittites for a burial site. He bought a cave at full price from Ephron and buried Sarah there. ObservationsGenesis 23:6 - Listen, my lord, you are an honored prince ApplicationWhat kind of reputation do I have at work, at home, and at church? What do others say about me? How has that helped or hindered me? Do I become impatient in waiting for God's promises? Do I try to fulfill God's promises for him? Do we avoid giving when it really costs us something? PrayerLord, help me to have the faith to wait on your promises and to always be ambassador of yours no matter where I am. |
2014-12-11 - Genesis 24 - Search for the Bride of Isaac (part III)SummaryRebebekah went back with Eliezer and she married Isaac. ObservationsGenesis 24:49 - Tell me yes or no, then I know what to do next ApplicationThe God should be obvious in our lives. Do people see God in us and if so is it obvious or is there doubt in their mind? In order for me to reach out to others, my life needs to show Jesus. When I speak and invite others to church/Bible study does it come as a surpise or an invitation or extention of what I am already doing? PrayerPray to be real with people and to share my faith without reservation. |
2015-02-02 - Stability You were first and rank and power but you are as unruly as a flood - Genesis 49:3-4 Reben did some good things but made some terriable mistakes GOOD - Spoke up for his brother Joesph which lead to saving his life - Genesis 37:21-22 As the first born, Reuben should have received special privileges and promises but Jacob said he was first no longer Reuben's life serves as both as a encouragement and warning about how importance of consistency for us and our family Would you call yourself a stable man or unruly like a flood? |
2015-02-11 - Lead By Example Everyone must turn from their evil ways and stop all their violence - Jonah 3:7-8 The biggest enemy of godly leaders is not leading by example Leading by example has always been one of a leader's greatest goals
Jonah warned the Ninevites of God's coming judgement and wrath Their king responded by instructing his people to:
...in hopes that God would change his minds and spare the city The king of the Ninevites humility and leading by example saved his city from judgement and wrath When you do as you say in life, you make it far easier for everyone around you to do the same |
2015-02-25 - Savior's Love The disciple Jesus loved - John 13:23 He referred to himself as "the disciple Jesus loved" John understood Jesus' love for him was God's love He probably had the most acute awareness of his Master's love John found the motivation and empowerment to do courageous and selfless things in Christ's name through love He had no doubts of the savior's love - John freely gave and served Does your family and friends know beyond all doubt that you love them? |
2015-03-04 - Love Like a Man Love your wives like Christ loves the church - Ephesians 5:25-26 God created man to look after his wife, to love her perfectly Love as Jesus loved! Want to know how to love?
Jesus is our perfect example of love in action |
2015-03-14 - No-Compromise Faithfullness Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, The God whom we serve is able to save us - Daniel 3:16-17 Compromise can help you move ahead or it can lead to utter disaster At time, they freely altered some things to please their Babylonians masters But an order to compromise their commitment to God, they adamantly refused Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego did not need to discuss anything, there was no decision to be made After the king saw how the three young men were saved, he sang a different tune - Daniel 3:28 Any choice to distance you from God, there is no compromise, the only answer is "NO". |
2015-03-18 - Overcoming Inadequacy ISAIAH It's over, I am doomed - Isaiah 6:4-5 Isaiah looked into the mirror of God's perfection and saw his own inadequacy starting back at him He knew he wasn't fit to serve God, much less stand in his presence God sent an angel and tocuhed his lips with coal and pronounced his guilt removed and sins forgiven - Isaiah 6:6-7 Isaiah changed and boldly called out, "Here I am. Send me" - Isaiah 6:8 |
2015-04-05 - Perfect Servant Unless I wash you, you won't belong to me - John 13:8 Jesus servered to the point of where the Jewish people considered demeaning even to the lowliest servant: He washed their feet Peter's protests were not going to stop him Jesus explained he whad set an example of how they were to treat one another and us too when he had returned to his Father God put us on the earth to server others, even if we do not know them personally Serving is a privilege because it builds up others and gives them to chance to see God's love in action. |
2015-04-13 - True Friend Jonathan loved David as he loved himself - 1 Samuel 20:17 God appointed David as Saul's successor This made King Saul jealous and he made serveral attempts on David's life Jonathon stood up for his friend David - warning and encourging him whenever his father sought to harm David Jonathan would normally had ascended to the throne after his father's death How was it possible that Jonathan, who should have been the most mad about the appointment of David, was the one who helped his replacement? Jonathan loved David as he loved himself - he sacrificed himself for his friend Do you have a friend like Jonathan? Are you a friend like Jonathan? Who is a good candidate for a Jonathan-David friendship? What would it take for you to develop such a relationship? |
2015-05-04 - Worthy I am the least of all the apostles and not worthy to called an apostle after the way I percuted God's church - 1 Corinthians 15:9 In mercy and grace, God calls, enables to serve, and declares worthliness Paul voliently persecution of those he would later call his brothers and sisters - 1 Timothy 1:13 Why did God make Paul worthy to serve? It was due entirely to God's grace and goodness Your worthiness to serve God does not come from any of your talents, abilities, or credentials |
2015-05-13 - Wise and Humble Leadership He had become powerful, he also became proud, which led to his downfall - 2 Chronicles 26:16 It takes a man of true humility to keep his feet on the ground over the long haul when he is given power and authority over others Uzziah, Judah's tenth king, was not such a man His long and sometimes distinguished reign came to an unfortunate end because of his arrogant thirst for power Uzziah expressed his arrogance by entering the sactuary though this job was reserved for his priest Had Uzziah remained humble, he might have become one of the nation's greatest kings - instead, he spent his later years shut away from people in a leper colony Do you understand your place in the big picture? |
2015-05-17 - What's Inside Don't let anyone think less of you - 1 Timothy 4:12 What really counts is on the inside Paul wanted Timothy to understand that his fitness to serve had nothing to do with his age or experience It had everything to do with what lay within him - godly character and good understanding of the Word If people could look inside of your soul, what would they see? |
2015-05-29 - Opportunity Knocks Jesus sat wearily beside the well; soon a Samaritan woman came to draw water - John 4:6-7 Jesus understood the importance of making the best use of every opportunity to preach and teach his message He was ready for the opportunity to share his message with the people of Samaria via the woman he jusr meet Jesus' words made a lasting impression on the woman, her neighbors - John 4:39 They were stunned that she meet the Messiah Life will present you with opportunities to serve God through serving others |
2015-06-01 - Honesty's Rewards Have I ever... Tell me and I will make right whatever I have done wrong - 1 Samuel 12:3 Samuel earned a reputation for unimoeachable honesty that served him well At Saul's coronation, he asked the people to declare if Samuel was honest and person of integrity Everyone knew the answer and didn't hesitate to give it - YES! Samuel could speak to the people with great authority because he had carefully maintained his reputation as an honest man How can Samuel's example help you to choose honesty? |
2015-06-07 - Learn to Listen Fools think their own way is right - Proverbs 12:15 David advised Solomon to observe the requirements of the Lord and follow all his ways - 1 Kings 2:3-4 Solomon may have spoken words of wisdom but his life ended in foolishness:
Solomon's failure to practice what he preached led to his downfall His wives turned his heart away from God and toward idol worship You will save yourself a lot of trouble by knowing the Word of God and doing what is says
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2015-06-21 - Your Smallness It's the voice of a god, not of a man - Acts 12:22 It is easy to recoginze a man who does not realize his own smallness He is one of with an air of self-sufficiency and self-satisfaction Herod was known for his terrible treatment of his subjects and his uncontrolled egotism (a quality that cost him everything) When a delegation of men from Tyre and Sidon, they stroked Herod's ego and he accepted their adulation That day, Herod usurped the worship that God reserved for himself; Herod's life ended that day |
2015-07-06 - Effects of Jealous Saul had a spear in his hand and suddenly hurled it at David intending to pin him to the wall - 1 Samuel 18:11 Jealousy is the emotion we feel toward someone who has something we believe we should have KIng Saul jealous toward David, who did nothing but serve the king faithfully Saul grow angry with him because of his growing popularity Saul promoted David to army commander where he excelled, defeating the Philistines Jealousy took over and and Saul went insane and it his life's goal to kill David Being jealous steals the joy and contentment the Lord wants us to experience Who is most likely to make you feel jealous? Rest content in the knowledge of God - He has mapped out a life of blessing specifically for you |
2015-07-08 - Anticipation Rewarded Holy Spirit reveal to him that he woul not die until he had seen the Lord's Messiah - Luke 2:26 Humans are creatures of anticipation. Serveral studies show expectation of something good benefits our health and sense of well-being Simon had lived a long life of such close fellowship with God and the Holy Spirit told him he would see the Messiah A voice told him to go to the Temple, this was his day When Simon saw baby Jesus, he knew immediately that this was the One he had been waiting for Simon: Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people - Luke 2:29-31 |
2015-07-09 - Lead by Doing From the days of our ancestors until now, we have been steeped in sin - Ezra 9:7 People usually follow an example than any amount of talking If you want people to do what is good and right, do those things yourself Ezra led the second wave of Jewish exiles to their homeland after 70 years of capivity They started living like pagans they had married - Ezra 9:1 Ezra was innocent of any wrongdoing and could have let God deal with them as they deserved Instead, Ezra prayed in repentance on behalf of all the people and included himself His repentance by example move his people to change their ways |
2015-07-28 - Significant Melchizedek blessed Abram - Genesis 14:19 Most men want to feel significant; their lives to matter to God Melchizedek appeared with Abram as almost a footnote in Genesis and then disappeared Then out of nowhere, God announces Messiah will be "a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek" - Pslam 110:4 After serveral more centuries, Melchizedek minstry is liken to that of Jesus Christ - Hebrews 5 Although Melchizedek is only mentioned four times in the Old Testament, God had a plan to give him enternal significance
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2015-07-29 - Unexpected Blessings The Lord fulfilled the prophecy he had given Jeremiah - Ezra 1:1 What tools has God used to mold you?
Cyrus issued a decree to free the people of Judah and have all the gold and silver returned At first, it might appear acted out of compassion and love of God He did not serve God but God stirred his heart Cyrus was an instrument in God's hands as he worked out his will in his people's lives When you submit to his will and purpose, he can even use thing you consider "secular". |
2015-08-16 - Unintended Consequences Gideon made a sacred ephod from the gold and put it in Ophrah; it became a trap for Gideon and his family - Judges 8:27 Sometimes our best-intended actions have negative consequences Gideon had just led Israel in a rousing victory over Midian and they elected him ruler He said thanks, but no thanks - he knew not to take an office that had not appointed him to Gideon asked everyone to gather up the gold colleced from the Midianite enemies so that he could make an ephod to server as a memorial to God's goodness for defeat the Midianites Instead of remembering God, the Israelites began to worship it instead Gideon provided leadership during the time of war but failed to offer it at a time when the people needed spiritual guidance When you set out to do something you see as important, seek God and his approval before moving forward
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2015-08-21 - Credentials I'm not a professional prophet but the Lord called me away from my flock and told me, 'Go and prophesy to my people in Israel' - Amos 7:14-15 Willingness may not impress some personnel managers but it is exactly God looks for in a servant Amos was a humble shepherd who also tended a grove of sycamore-fig trees He had something God values about professional credentials - willingness to follow and obey God gave him a message to preach and he preached it with enthusiasm Most people believe that they need training credentials to minister to others God cares most about your willingness to faithfully serve him |
2015-08-24 - Set Apart Take the special vow of a Nazirite, setting themselves apart to the Lord in a special way - Numbers 6:2 Nazirite had taken special vows of obedience to a set of rules that others didn't have to follow Samson and Samuel followed rules like abstaining from alcoholic beverages and refusing to cut their hair Samson on the other hand used his strength to push his own agenda Only Samuel made a lasting impact for the Lord and his people It not what a man does on the outside that matters to God but the inside |
2015-08-28 - Basis of Confidence It is not for you, Uzziah, to burn incense to the Lord - 2 Chronicles 26:17-18 Nothing keeps you from what God calls like self-doubt and fear Nothing gives you confidence like knowing you have God's full support King Uzziah of Judah was arguably one of the most powerful men in the world - few dared to say "no" to him Azariah, the high priest, knew Uzziah had been out of line by burning incense - a duty reserved for the priests alone He knew confronting the king of Judah entailed a great deal of risk Uzzuiah had the authority, temperament, and the inclination to end Azariah's life Azariah spoke out because he knew he had God's full support Uzziah flew into a rage but it ended up Azariah who continue to stand in the Temple as God's servant |
2015-08-30 - Show Appreciation They have been providing the help you weren't here to give me - 1 Corinthians 16:17 Paul made a practice of giving and receiveing appreciation He took time to praise Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus - Corinthian believers who traveled out of their way to encourage and assist Paul in his ministry This was important enough to Paul he didn't just suggest that people show their appreciation - he commanded it Paul: You must show your appreciation to all who serve so well Why not thank people who make your life better? You will be blessed when you offer your thanks and so will they |
2015-08-31 - Unexpected Wisdom I am full of pent-up words and the spirit within me urges me on - Job 32:18 Job's three friends felt that God was punishing Job for some hidden sin - he rejected this Job thought God was treating him unfairly All four of them had it wrong Elihu: God repays people according to their deeds. He treats people as they deserve - Job 34:10-11 His knew Job's suffering could not be in vain. Job shouldn't see his affection as God didn't care about him rather as a tool in God's hand to teach Job more |
2015-09-12 - Get Into Action We decided to leave for Macedonia at once, having concluded that God was calling us to preach the Good News there - Acts 16:10 In Acts 16, Luke's language changed from third person to first person as he took an active part of the ministry We decided to leave for Macedonia at once - Acts 16:11 Luke was not content to just sit back and observe other people's experiences of faith He became an integal part:
Christian growthis throwing yourself into the work of the KIngdom |
2015-09-25 - Encouragement Judas and Silas spoke at length to the believers, encouraging and strengthing their faith - Acts 15:32 They were choosen to travel with Paul and Barnabas to Antioch Judas and Silas were chosen to deliver a letter that communicated what the apostles had decided about what Jewish laws the Gentile Christians needed to observe They did not just read the letter and head home - they took the time and went out of their way to speak words of encouragement and strength to the believers You can bless others as you go out of your way to encourage them |