Bible Verse:
The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)
Devotional:
As a mother of two preschool children, I find myself actively encouraging my little ones to try new things, to explore the world around them, and even to get back up when they fall down. Just being by their side is likely the greatest source of their comfort and confidence at this point in their lives. When you are two, I imagine there are not many constants, so I can easily see the importance of reassuring them that I’m here for them, and I’ll always be cheering them on. This perspective encourages me to remember God’s active presence in my life. In all that I do, in all that I am, God goes before me and is present with me.
When I read the words first spoken to Joshua by Moses, I wonder how his perspective was being shaped in knowing the Lord would go before him. Joshua was stepping into a rather significant role and faced a daunting leadership task. “Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged. The Lord himself will go before you and He won’t leave you.” Joshua would hear this same message again, directly from the Lord, and leave for us an example of how the Lord was indeed going before him and remained faithfully with Joshua as he led the nation of Israel across the Jordan into the Promised Land.
As we step into unknown territory, whether in a campaign to expand our physical church or taking a step of faith to trust the Lord with an intimate area of our life, we must trust that God goes before us. As we face the struggles of this world, God goes before us. As we stumble and fall, perhaps for a second or third time, God quietly says, “Do not be discouraged, for I am with you.”
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for Your presence in my life. As I face today, I pray I would face it with the confidence that only You provide. Lord, let my confidence in You be an encouragement to others and embolden me to be faithful to You. Oh, how fortunate I am to be Your child. Would You steer me to lean on You as I depend on Your presence. Show me the things that I fear so that I might turn them over to You. Show me how to follow the way You provide. Knowing that You go before me, I want to faithfully follow.
Written by Misty Persefield. Misty and John have attended Northwest for 11 years. They have two children: Holden (3) and Madeleine (2).
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
OVERCOMING GIANTS
Bible Verse:
“I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Mark 10:15 (NIV)
“Be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” Ephesians 5:15-17 (NIV)
Devotional:
Many of you have read a Chuck Swindoll book called “Killing Giants, Pulling Thorns” and I think that this is a good description of how we go about spiritual formation.
Giants are the beasts that come to us — so big, so terrorizing that they block out our reason and leave us shaking and despondent. Thorns are the smaller obstacles that must be overcome regularly in our everyday living. There have been questions raised as to why we would consider undertaking a $12 million construction program, with the world and economic conditions being what they are today. A real “Giant” to overcome!
In my opinion the main issue in our facilities expansion is the construction of the children’s ministry areas. Children are not peripheral to His kingdom, but vital to it. Christ told us of the importance of children to His kingdom in Mark 10:14-15.
How do we overcome our “Giants”?
When I first became aware of the urgency of the needs of the facilities that we have for our children’s ministry, I was greatly burdened. I was burdened about the lack of space for them, the inadequacy of it, and the state of the economy. Each issue was a “Giant.”
Ephesians 5:15-17 reveals to us God’s message as to how to deal with these things. God has given the elders the courage to take the first step of following His will by proceeding with the master plan for our facilities, as well as incorporating schematic plans for the immediate improvement of our children ministry facilities. As we take the next steps, I believe He will reveal His on-going will related to His providing the funds and other means to undertake the construction program. God has the answer to overcome. He will guide us if we but listen to Him and seek His will. What a joy it will be to see Him lead us to accomplish the work set before us!
Prayer:
Lord, sometimes I face challenges that leave me feeling inadequate and afraid. When I am fearful, let me see Your strength. When I am anxious, give me faith. Keep me mindful, Lord, that You are my God. With You by my side, I have nothing to fear. With You, I can overcome the giants that come into my life. Without You, I can do nothing. Lead me in the paths of good stewardship of those things You have entrusted to me. Show me Your will for my life and for the plans You have for me and Your church. Help me to be Your courageous servant this day and every day. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
Written by Doug Williams. Doug and Nancy have attended Northwest for 27 years.
“I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Mark 10:15 (NIV)
“Be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” Ephesians 5:15-17 (NIV)
Devotional:
Many of you have read a Chuck Swindoll book called “Killing Giants, Pulling Thorns” and I think that this is a good description of how we go about spiritual formation.
Giants are the beasts that come to us — so big, so terrorizing that they block out our reason and leave us shaking and despondent. Thorns are the smaller obstacles that must be overcome regularly in our everyday living. There have been questions raised as to why we would consider undertaking a $12 million construction program, with the world and economic conditions being what they are today. A real “Giant” to overcome!
In my opinion the main issue in our facilities expansion is the construction of the children’s ministry areas. Children are not peripheral to His kingdom, but vital to it. Christ told us of the importance of children to His kingdom in Mark 10:14-15.
How do we overcome our “Giants”?
When I first became aware of the urgency of the needs of the facilities that we have for our children’s ministry, I was greatly burdened. I was burdened about the lack of space for them, the inadequacy of it, and the state of the economy. Each issue was a “Giant.”
Ephesians 5:15-17 reveals to us God’s message as to how to deal with these things. God has given the elders the courage to take the first step of following His will by proceeding with the master plan for our facilities, as well as incorporating schematic plans for the immediate improvement of our children ministry facilities. As we take the next steps, I believe He will reveal His on-going will related to His providing the funds and other means to undertake the construction program. God has the answer to overcome. He will guide us if we but listen to Him and seek His will. What a joy it will be to see Him lead us to accomplish the work set before us!
Prayer:
Lord, sometimes I face challenges that leave me feeling inadequate and afraid. When I am fearful, let me see Your strength. When I am anxious, give me faith. Keep me mindful, Lord, that You are my God. With You by my side, I have nothing to fear. With You, I can overcome the giants that come into my life. Without You, I can do nothing. Lead me in the paths of good stewardship of those things You have entrusted to me. Show me Your will for my life and for the plans You have for me and Your church. Help me to be Your courageous servant this day and every day. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
Written by Doug Williams. Doug and Nancy have attended Northwest for 27 years.
Monday, October 12, 2009
PASSING THE FAITH ON TO THE NEXT GENERATION AND BEYOND
Bible Verse:
Listen, O my people, to my instruction; incline your ears to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings of old, which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us. We will not conceal them from their children, but tell to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and His strength and His wondrous works that He has done. For He established a testimony in Jacob and appointed a law in Israel, which He commanded our fathers that they should teach them to their children, that the generation to come might know, even the children yet to be born, that they may arise and tell them to their children, that they should put their confidence in God and not forget the works of God, but keep His commandments.
Psalm 78.1-7 (NASV)
Devotional:
In Psalm 78, Asaph encourages folks from his generation to continue the tradition of passing on the story of God’s marvelous works of old to the next generation. What better encouragement for us today, as we seek God as we embark on a project impacting not only the current generation of believers, but many generations to come!
I want to highlight a couple of things from this passage. First, in order to have something to pass on to future generations, you yourself have to know “the praises of the LORD, and His strength and His wondrous works that He has done.” In ancient Israel, this often referred to His deliverance of the Israelites from the land of Egypt and through 40 years of wilderness wandering, to His bringing them into the land and rescuing them from their enemies.
As a New Testament believer, we can look to His great love for us demonstrated through the sacrifice of His one and only son Jesus, so that we could have a relationship with Him. Those are the broader, faith-community things. But along the way, God did wondrous things for individuals like Ruth and Hannah and Samuel and David and a host of others throughout salvation history. What are the wondrous things that God has done for you? For your family? For our church? It starts with sharing the amazing story of how God rescued you from the kingdom of darkness and transferred you to the kingdom of light. Who have you told?
Second, Asaph’s encouragement applies not only to the faith community at large, but it also applies to us as individuals within that faith community. How will I as a father tell my sons about the wondrous things that God has done? How will you as a grandparent pass the faith on to your grandchildren? How will you as a single person praise God to your friends? Your co-workers?
Prayer:
Spend some time today meditating on what wonderful things God has done in your life. If you are one who likes to journal, write them down. Tell a friend. Consider how you will be a part of proclaiming the praises of the Lord to the next generation.
Written by Matt Dumas, our equipping minister. Matt and Wendy have attended Northwest for seven years. They have three children: Life (11), Jack (8) and Luke (4).
Listen, O my people, to my instruction; incline your ears to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings of old, which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us. We will not conceal them from their children, but tell to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and His strength and His wondrous works that He has done. For He established a testimony in Jacob and appointed a law in Israel, which He commanded our fathers that they should teach them to their children, that the generation to come might know, even the children yet to be born, that they may arise and tell them to their children, that they should put their confidence in God and not forget the works of God, but keep His commandments.
Psalm 78.1-7 (NASV)
Devotional:
In Psalm 78, Asaph encourages folks from his generation to continue the tradition of passing on the story of God’s marvelous works of old to the next generation. What better encouragement for us today, as we seek God as we embark on a project impacting not only the current generation of believers, but many generations to come!
I want to highlight a couple of things from this passage. First, in order to have something to pass on to future generations, you yourself have to know “the praises of the LORD, and His strength and His wondrous works that He has done.” In ancient Israel, this often referred to His deliverance of the Israelites from the land of Egypt and through 40 years of wilderness wandering, to His bringing them into the land and rescuing them from their enemies.
As a New Testament believer, we can look to His great love for us demonstrated through the sacrifice of His one and only son Jesus, so that we could have a relationship with Him. Those are the broader, faith-community things. But along the way, God did wondrous things for individuals like Ruth and Hannah and Samuel and David and a host of others throughout salvation history. What are the wondrous things that God has done for you? For your family? For our church? It starts with sharing the amazing story of how God rescued you from the kingdom of darkness and transferred you to the kingdom of light. Who have you told?
Second, Asaph’s encouragement applies not only to the faith community at large, but it also applies to us as individuals within that faith community. How will I as a father tell my sons about the wondrous things that God has done? How will you as a grandparent pass the faith on to your grandchildren? How will you as a single person praise God to your friends? Your co-workers?
Prayer:
Spend some time today meditating on what wonderful things God has done in your life. If you are one who likes to journal, write them down. Tell a friend. Consider how you will be a part of proclaiming the praises of the Lord to the next generation.
Written by Matt Dumas, our equipping minister. Matt and Wendy have attended Northwest for seven years. They have three children: Life (11), Jack (8) and Luke (4).
Saturday, October 10, 2009
FROM THOSE TO WHOM MUCH IS GIVEN, MUCH IS EXPECTED
Bible Verse:
…From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. (NIV)
Luke 12:48
Devotional:
Jesus challenges us throughout Scripture to be careful stewards of those things God has entrusted to us. That includes our time, our talents, and our money. What better opportunity could we have than serving the next generation by constructing a facility that will house children from birth through fifth grade.
As I have journeyed this year to India and Guatemala, I have been struck once again by how “rich” we are. In addition to the material “stuff” that we have, we have also been given the gift of time. How we use our “stuff “ and how we use our time is something upon which Christ challenges us. Rebeccah and I are convinced that Northwest Bible Church and, in particular, the construction of this children’s building, is a wonderful stewardship opportunity. We pray that our response to that opportunity would be pleasing to Him.
Prayer:
Ask God what He would have you do to support this new children’s building. Thank Him for how richly He has blessed you. Ask for His clear direction for you, and ask Him for ears to hear His voice in the “quiet whisper.”
Written by Douglas Sullivan. Doug and Rebeccah have attended Northwest for 22 years.
…From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. (NIV)
Luke 12:48
Devotional:
Jesus challenges us throughout Scripture to be careful stewards of those things God has entrusted to us. That includes our time, our talents, and our money. What better opportunity could we have than serving the next generation by constructing a facility that will house children from birth through fifth grade.
As I have journeyed this year to India and Guatemala, I have been struck once again by how “rich” we are. In addition to the material “stuff” that we have, we have also been given the gift of time. How we use our “stuff “ and how we use our time is something upon which Christ challenges us. Rebeccah and I are convinced that Northwest Bible Church and, in particular, the construction of this children’s building, is a wonderful stewardship opportunity. We pray that our response to that opportunity would be pleasing to Him.
Prayer:
Ask God what He would have you do to support this new children’s building. Thank Him for how richly He has blessed you. Ask for His clear direction for you, and ask Him for ears to hear His voice in the “quiet whisper.”
Written by Douglas Sullivan. Doug and Rebeccah have attended Northwest for 22 years.
Friday, October 09, 2009
STOMP ON YOUR SPIRITUAL PRIDE TODAY!
This is one of my regular blog posts, not a Connect with Future Generations journal entry. I have been home sick the last couple days. With a huge library of bibles and commentaries on my computer and internet access, sick days have become a real blessing and extended time with the Lord of study, prayer, and meditation. I feel like the past two days were like one long quiet time with a lot of coughing and blowing my nose in between. So here are some thoughts from this morning.
Romans 9:6-8; 14-16
6For not all who are descended from Israel are Israel. 7Nor are they all children because they are Abraham’s descendants. On the contrary, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.” 8In other words, it is not the natural children who are God’s children, but it is the children of the promise who are regarded as Abraham’s offspring. 14What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! 15For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.”16It does not, therefore, depend on man’s desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.
How does your spiritual pride raise its ugly head? One of the most obvious ways for me is the metaphorical shaking of my head at others when it appears to me that they are refusing the gift of Jesus and creating damage in their own life and the world around them.
Romans 9:1-21 sent a chill down my spine as well as created questions. It creates in me the very questions that Paul knew it would create. Is God unjust? How can God blame anyone for not running to Jesus? What about people I love that seem to be rejecting Christ? I’ll throw up the white flag on this one and go with Paul and say that the clay doesn’t talk back to the hands that shape it.
But about this chill down my spine that I am sure is not related to my illness…as I read this I began to think about direct descendents of Abraham (those Paul himself was distraught over) not being “children of promise.” We are talking about people uniquely valued, blessed, prized by God. Yet, we are told He has mercy on whom He will have mercy. The Potter has the right to make what He wants with the clay. The bigger question this spiked in me was, “Who am I?” Think about of all the people that have ever lived. According to the International Programs Center, U.S. Census Bureau, the total population of the World, projected to 10/09/09 at 15:29 GMT (EST+5) is 6,789,393,995. Who am I? God has mercy on whom He chooses. The chill down my spine is a Holy fear that pulls my arrogant head down in humility rather than letting me raise it up to shake it at someone. It is a holy fear that swallows my self-righteous pride and anger, at least for a moment.
So here is my question for all of us who claim to have been beneficiaries of the mercy of God in Christ today, “Are we a people characterized by holy fear or spiritual pride?”
Let’s pray together:
Father, thank You that salvation does not depend on man’s desire or effort but on Your mercy. I have seen the pain and disconnections my own woeful desires and efforts have brought apart from Christ. Forgive me for approaching the lost outwardly or inwardly as an arrogant punk. Help me to violently and regularly throw my spiritual pride on the ground and stomp it until I can stomp no more. May I exhibit Your great patience and forgiveness toward the lost of this world.
Romans 9:6-8; 14-16
6For not all who are descended from Israel are Israel. 7Nor are they all children because they are Abraham’s descendants. On the contrary, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.” 8In other words, it is not the natural children who are God’s children, but it is the children of the promise who are regarded as Abraham’s offspring. 14What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! 15For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.”16It does not, therefore, depend on man’s desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.
How does your spiritual pride raise its ugly head? One of the most obvious ways for me is the metaphorical shaking of my head at others when it appears to me that they are refusing the gift of Jesus and creating damage in their own life and the world around them.
Romans 9:1-21 sent a chill down my spine as well as created questions. It creates in me the very questions that Paul knew it would create. Is God unjust? How can God blame anyone for not running to Jesus? What about people I love that seem to be rejecting Christ? I’ll throw up the white flag on this one and go with Paul and say that the clay doesn’t talk back to the hands that shape it.
But about this chill down my spine that I am sure is not related to my illness…as I read this I began to think about direct descendents of Abraham (those Paul himself was distraught over) not being “children of promise.” We are talking about people uniquely valued, blessed, prized by God. Yet, we are told He has mercy on whom He will have mercy. The Potter has the right to make what He wants with the clay. The bigger question this spiked in me was, “Who am I?” Think about of all the people that have ever lived. According to the International Programs Center, U.S. Census Bureau, the total population of the World, projected to 10/09/09 at 15:29 GMT (EST+5) is 6,789,393,995. Who am I? God has mercy on whom He chooses. The chill down my spine is a Holy fear that pulls my arrogant head down in humility rather than letting me raise it up to shake it at someone. It is a holy fear that swallows my self-righteous pride and anger, at least for a moment.
So here is my question for all of us who claim to have been beneficiaries of the mercy of God in Christ today, “Are we a people characterized by holy fear or spiritual pride?”
Let’s pray together:
Father, thank You that salvation does not depend on man’s desire or effort but on Your mercy. I have seen the pain and disconnections my own woeful desires and efforts have brought apart from Christ. Forgive me for approaching the lost outwardly or inwardly as an arrogant punk. Help me to violently and regularly throw my spiritual pride on the ground and stomp it until I can stomp no more. May I exhibit Your great patience and forgiveness toward the lost of this world.
ALL ABOARD
Bible Verse:
For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.
Romans 12:4-5 (NASB)
Devotional:
Romans 12 launches us into Paul’s explanation of how the gospel transforms a person’s life. A Jesus follower sacrifices himself to God (vv1-2), an offering that places him in a new community (vv3-21). This community, enthralled with Jesus, is one unified body, composed of many diverse members (vv4-5).
We have no choice in the matter. That’s right — we as American, rebellious, diplomatic, individuals have no choice in the matter. When we trust in Jesus, we are placed into a unified body that demands we each serve the whole. We are His body. Paul’s words emphasize this unity: “one body… one body in Christ… members one of another.” Where does individualism rule in your life? When our self-interest or pride overrules the unified movement of Jesus’ body, we act as though the gospel has not radically changed our lives, adopting us into His body. Do your thoughts, words, and actions reflect unity in the movement of our body to connect with future generations?
Though we are His body, we are each a diverse part grafted together to form Jesus’ presence here on earth. Notice Paul’s emphasis on diversity: “we have many members… all the members do not have the same function… individually members of one another.” We all have differing amounts of time, treasure, and talents. God, thank God, has made us differently and purposefully. Our task is to come before Him to ask, “How have You built me to serve You in this body?” As God answers, which He often does through others, we must act. What time has He gifted you with? Might you arrange it to serve His body in this movement? What treasure has He given you? Might you expend it for His work in this mission? What talents has He given you? Might you use them uniquely to advance this project?
Jesus has placed a grand purpose before our body, that each member would fully invest their unique gifts for the advancement of His gospel in this city. What part will you play?
Prayer:
Confess any individualism or pride that might be keeping you from living as a member of His one body. Praise Him for the opportunity to live as a part of a greater movement which is carried out by His body here on earth. Reflect on your time, treasure, and talents; how has He made you? Ask God what part you are to play in His body as He reaches future generations through us.
Written by Matt Klingler, our singles minister. Matt and Courtney have attended Northwest for six years. They have three children: Jacob (3), Eden (2) and Camryn (6 months).
For just as we have many members in one body and all the members do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.
Romans 12:4-5 (NASB)
Devotional:
Romans 12 launches us into Paul’s explanation of how the gospel transforms a person’s life. A Jesus follower sacrifices himself to God (vv1-2), an offering that places him in a new community (vv3-21). This community, enthralled with Jesus, is one unified body, composed of many diverse members (vv4-5).
We have no choice in the matter. That’s right — we as American, rebellious, diplomatic, individuals have no choice in the matter. When we trust in Jesus, we are placed into a unified body that demands we each serve the whole. We are His body. Paul’s words emphasize this unity: “one body… one body in Christ… members one of another.” Where does individualism rule in your life? When our self-interest or pride overrules the unified movement of Jesus’ body, we act as though the gospel has not radically changed our lives, adopting us into His body. Do your thoughts, words, and actions reflect unity in the movement of our body to connect with future generations?
Though we are His body, we are each a diverse part grafted together to form Jesus’ presence here on earth. Notice Paul’s emphasis on diversity: “we have many members… all the members do not have the same function… individually members of one another.” We all have differing amounts of time, treasure, and talents. God, thank God, has made us differently and purposefully. Our task is to come before Him to ask, “How have You built me to serve You in this body?” As God answers, which He often does through others, we must act. What time has He gifted you with? Might you arrange it to serve His body in this movement? What treasure has He given you? Might you expend it for His work in this mission? What talents has He given you? Might you use them uniquely to advance this project?
Jesus has placed a grand purpose before our body, that each member would fully invest their unique gifts for the advancement of His gospel in this city. What part will you play?
Prayer:
Confess any individualism or pride that might be keeping you from living as a member of His one body. Praise Him for the opportunity to live as a part of a greater movement which is carried out by His body here on earth. Reflect on your time, treasure, and talents; how has He made you? Ask God what part you are to play in His body as He reaches future generations through us.
Written by Matt Klingler, our singles minister. Matt and Courtney have attended Northwest for six years. They have three children: Jacob (3), Eden (2) and Camryn (6 months).
Thursday, October 08, 2009
LORD, TEACH US TO LOVE
Bible Verse:
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ — to the glory and praise of God.
Philippians 1:9-11 (NIV)
Devotional:
Paul prayed that the Philippians would be a community of believers who were increasingly characterized by love. Paul knew that the Philippians possessed love because he had been a recipient of their love, but he also recognized that there was still room for their love to grow. An ever-increasing love, which was guided by knowledge and insight, would enable them to recognize and act upon the most important issues in life. They would become spiritually mature people who were morally pure, not causing others to stumble, and allowing Christ to produce good fruit in their lives. As a result, God would be glorified and praised among them.
What was true for the Philippians is also true for us today, both as individuals and as a body of believers. As we read through the New Testament, we cannot help but see that love is a characteristic which is near and dear to the heart of Christ. As I examine my own life, I ask myself several questions: Is my life characterized by an ever-increasing love that has no limit to its growth? Does my love look like a drippy faucet or Niagara Falls? When making decisions, am I motivated by my own self-interests or do I consider the interests of others? Do I promote reconciliation and unity? Is my attitude one of humility or pride? Are my choices hindering the spiritual growth of others and myself? Are my words and actions beneficial to others?
During this time of prayer at Northwest Bible Church, let us look beyond a building program and ask the Lord to use this period of time in our lives to increase our love. Of course, we have love — but like the Philippians, there is still room for our love to grow! May Northwest Bible Church be known as a community of believers characterized by love.
Prayer:
As you meditate on Paul’s prayer, ask the Lord to reveal to you areas where He wants your love to increase toward family, friends, strangers, and even your enemies. Ask the Lord to teach you to love. To God be all praise and glory.
Written by Laurie Ledbetter. Laurie and Terry have attended Northwest for 19 years.
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ — to the glory and praise of God.
Philippians 1:9-11 (NIV)
Devotional:
Paul prayed that the Philippians would be a community of believers who were increasingly characterized by love. Paul knew that the Philippians possessed love because he had been a recipient of their love, but he also recognized that there was still room for their love to grow. An ever-increasing love, which was guided by knowledge and insight, would enable them to recognize and act upon the most important issues in life. They would become spiritually mature people who were morally pure, not causing others to stumble, and allowing Christ to produce good fruit in their lives. As a result, God would be glorified and praised among them.
What was true for the Philippians is also true for us today, both as individuals and as a body of believers. As we read through the New Testament, we cannot help but see that love is a characteristic which is near and dear to the heart of Christ. As I examine my own life, I ask myself several questions: Is my life characterized by an ever-increasing love that has no limit to its growth? Does my love look like a drippy faucet or Niagara Falls? When making decisions, am I motivated by my own self-interests or do I consider the interests of others? Do I promote reconciliation and unity? Is my attitude one of humility or pride? Are my choices hindering the spiritual growth of others and myself? Are my words and actions beneficial to others?
During this time of prayer at Northwest Bible Church, let us look beyond a building program and ask the Lord to use this period of time in our lives to increase our love. Of course, we have love — but like the Philippians, there is still room for our love to grow! May Northwest Bible Church be known as a community of believers characterized by love.
Prayer:
As you meditate on Paul’s prayer, ask the Lord to reveal to you areas where He wants your love to increase toward family, friends, strangers, and even your enemies. Ask the Lord to teach you to love. To God be all praise and glory.
Written by Laurie Ledbetter. Laurie and Terry have attended Northwest for 19 years.
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
What do I know about the Holy Spirit?
This is one of my regular blog posts, not a Connect with Future Generations journal entry.
This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It’s adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike, “What’s next, Papa?” God’s Spirit touches our spirits and confirms who we really are. We know who he is, and we know who we are: Father and children. And we know we are going to get what’s coming to us—an unbelievable inheritance! Romans 8:15-17 (The Message)
In my time with God today, I was reading Romans 8:1-17. Three hours later I am still praying, thinking, meditating, and reading what others have said. It seems like every time I come across verses that reference the Holy Spirit I have more questions than answers. Do you ever feel like that?
I think there are several reasons. One, I assume that I can figure out God but I can’t. His ways are not my ways, His thoughts are not my thoughts. You think I would have learned that in four years of seminary. Two, I don’t want to be disappointed. When I first came to Christ, my theology of the Holy Spirit could be summarized in these words, “A Supernatural Zap.” Too often, I didn’t get a zap to keep me from sinning or give me great boldness in telling the world about Jesus. Three, there is clearly a subjective nature to the role and working of the Spirit of Jesus that people who like control (i.e. me) are not always comfortable with. Yet, I know I have experienced this at times. I still cannot explain it. Four, I have read too many differing opinions about the nature and role of the Spirit of Jesus today. The people pleasing part of me takes over here so that I want to find a comfortable middle ground that is more about pleasing others than pursuing the living, holy God. Bummer.
Today while praying, I was impressed to just make a list of what is true from Romans 8:1-17. Don’t try to figure it out. Don’t ask, “How do I do it?” Just rest in what is true. So here it is straight from my journal:
The Spirit of Jesus lives in me!
The Spirit of Jesus guarantees I will not be condemned to death!
The Spirit of Jesus fulfills the requirements of the law for me!
The Spirit of Jesus sets my mind on the things of the Spirit!
The Spirit of Jesus is working in me to produce life and peace!
The Spirit of Jesus gives me a direct connection with the resurrection life of Christ!
The Spirit of Jesus enables me to put to death the deeds of the body!
The Spirit of Jesus leads me!
The Spirit of Jesus declares me a child of God!
The Spirit of Jesus in me is diametrically opposed to feeling of enslavement and fear!
The Spirit of Jesus is the spirit of adoption encouraging me to call God—Father!
The Spirit of Jesus declares to me that I am a child of God!
The Spirit of Jesus guarantees that I am an heir of God and a fellow heir with Christ!
I am not sure how all this works out in my life as a believer, husband, father, and pastor. However, I am thankful and believing that the Spirit of Jesus is moving, blowing, and working in my life, your life and the world right now. For now I think I will keep it simple and follow Jesus. (And I only do that because the Spirit enables me!)
PRAYER: Father, fill us with the knowledge of Your will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding so that we might more fully understand You and Your ways, that we might produce the fruit for which you called us, and that we might please You in all that we think, say and do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
I would sure like to hear your thoughts on this one.
This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It’s adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike, “What’s next, Papa?” God’s Spirit touches our spirits and confirms who we really are. We know who he is, and we know who we are: Father and children. And we know we are going to get what’s coming to us—an unbelievable inheritance! Romans 8:15-17 (The Message)
In my time with God today, I was reading Romans 8:1-17. Three hours later I am still praying, thinking, meditating, and reading what others have said. It seems like every time I come across verses that reference the Holy Spirit I have more questions than answers. Do you ever feel like that?
I think there are several reasons. One, I assume that I can figure out God but I can’t. His ways are not my ways, His thoughts are not my thoughts. You think I would have learned that in four years of seminary. Two, I don’t want to be disappointed. When I first came to Christ, my theology of the Holy Spirit could be summarized in these words, “A Supernatural Zap.” Too often, I didn’t get a zap to keep me from sinning or give me great boldness in telling the world about Jesus. Three, there is clearly a subjective nature to the role and working of the Spirit of Jesus that people who like control (i.e. me) are not always comfortable with. Yet, I know I have experienced this at times. I still cannot explain it. Four, I have read too many differing opinions about the nature and role of the Spirit of Jesus today. The people pleasing part of me takes over here so that I want to find a comfortable middle ground that is more about pleasing others than pursuing the living, holy God. Bummer.
Today while praying, I was impressed to just make a list of what is true from Romans 8:1-17. Don’t try to figure it out. Don’t ask, “How do I do it?” Just rest in what is true. So here it is straight from my journal:
The Spirit of Jesus lives in me!
The Spirit of Jesus guarantees I will not be condemned to death!
The Spirit of Jesus fulfills the requirements of the law for me!
The Spirit of Jesus sets my mind on the things of the Spirit!
The Spirit of Jesus is working in me to produce life and peace!
The Spirit of Jesus gives me a direct connection with the resurrection life of Christ!
The Spirit of Jesus enables me to put to death the deeds of the body!
The Spirit of Jesus leads me!
The Spirit of Jesus declares me a child of God!
The Spirit of Jesus in me is diametrically opposed to feeling of enslavement and fear!
The Spirit of Jesus is the spirit of adoption encouraging me to call God—Father!
The Spirit of Jesus declares to me that I am a child of God!
The Spirit of Jesus guarantees that I am an heir of God and a fellow heir with Christ!
I am not sure how all this works out in my life as a believer, husband, father, and pastor. However, I am thankful and believing that the Spirit of Jesus is moving, blowing, and working in my life, your life and the world right now. For now I think I will keep it simple and follow Jesus. (And I only do that because the Spirit enables me!)
PRAYER: Father, fill us with the knowledge of Your will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding so that we might more fully understand You and Your ways, that we might produce the fruit for which you called us, and that we might please You in all that we think, say and do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
I would sure like to hear your thoughts on this one.
STRETCH TO OUR FUTURE
Bible Verse:
Caleb interrupted, called for silence before Moses and said, “Let’s go up and take the land — now. We can do it.” Numbers 13:30 (TM)
Devotional:
I watched as my three-year-old and two-year-old granddaughters ran around the playground. Predictably, the older attacked the slide, the swings and the monkey bars, as the younger stood and watched. After much coaxing, Morgan joined her sister reluctantly on the slide. Frozen at the top, she turned to come down but couldn’t; another child was right behind her. Crying, she slid down and found the ride was fun! With new courage she climbed back up and did it again, experiencing the rush of the slide. Morgan is fortunate to have an “in house” encourager, someone to stretch her comfort zone, to push her beyond her fears, to help her experience more of life.
In the middle of the night, the children of Israel hurriedly left their Egyptian captors for freedom in the Promised Land. However, like Morgan, they “froze” in fear at the entrance because of the challenges ahead. Their focus was on the obstacles, not the power of the God they worshipped. The minority voice that called them to stretch to their future was vehemently refused, resulting in a 40-year detour. I wonder what they missed during those wasted years?
We have an opportunity now to be stretched to our future. How will we respond? I found it interesting to discover, while talking to those who have been here longer than I, that over 20 years ago, in the midst of a financial downturn, our church stretched to build the current Christian Life Center. There were moments along that journey that proved impossible unless God showed up. Isn’t that just where God shows us our faith — it is not in ourselves or the surrounding circumstances, but in Him and His power to do exceeding beyond what we ask or think? In fact, if you look at the history of this church from the beginning, faithful men and women have been stretched to the future we now enjoy. It is now our turn. How will you respond?
Prayer:
As you answer that question you might pray: Lord, stretch us. Give us the measure of faith and confidence we need to trust You to provide for our future as Your church on this corner. Lord, show me where I need to stop looking at the circumstances and instead allow You to stretch me. For Your Glory. Amen.
Written by Dianne Miller. Dianna and Brad have attended Northwest for 10 years.
Caleb interrupted, called for silence before Moses and said, “Let’s go up and take the land — now. We can do it.” Numbers 13:30 (TM)
Devotional:
I watched as my three-year-old and two-year-old granddaughters ran around the playground. Predictably, the older attacked the slide, the swings and the monkey bars, as the younger stood and watched. After much coaxing, Morgan joined her sister reluctantly on the slide. Frozen at the top, she turned to come down but couldn’t; another child was right behind her. Crying, she slid down and found the ride was fun! With new courage she climbed back up and did it again, experiencing the rush of the slide. Morgan is fortunate to have an “in house” encourager, someone to stretch her comfort zone, to push her beyond her fears, to help her experience more of life.
In the middle of the night, the children of Israel hurriedly left their Egyptian captors for freedom in the Promised Land. However, like Morgan, they “froze” in fear at the entrance because of the challenges ahead. Their focus was on the obstacles, not the power of the God they worshipped. The minority voice that called them to stretch to their future was vehemently refused, resulting in a 40-year detour. I wonder what they missed during those wasted years?
We have an opportunity now to be stretched to our future. How will we respond? I found it interesting to discover, while talking to those who have been here longer than I, that over 20 years ago, in the midst of a financial downturn, our church stretched to build the current Christian Life Center. There were moments along that journey that proved impossible unless God showed up. Isn’t that just where God shows us our faith — it is not in ourselves or the surrounding circumstances, but in Him and His power to do exceeding beyond what we ask or think? In fact, if you look at the history of this church from the beginning, faithful men and women have been stretched to the future we now enjoy. It is now our turn. How will you respond?
Prayer:
As you answer that question you might pray: Lord, stretch us. Give us the measure of faith and confidence we need to trust You to provide for our future as Your church on this corner. Lord, show me where I need to stop looking at the circumstances and instead allow You to stretch me. For Your Glory. Amen.
Written by Dianne Miller. Dianna and Brad have attended Northwest for 10 years.
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
IT’S NOT ABOUT THE BUILDING
Bible Verse:
Jesus replied, “Believe me, dear woman, the time is coming when it will no longer matter whether you worship the Father on this mountain or in Jerusalem. You Samaritans know very little about the one you worship, while we Jews know all about him, for salvation comes through the Jews. But the time is coming — indeed it’s here now — when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.”
John 4:21-24 (NLT)
Devotional:
When I think about the new building project, I think about spiders. No, it’s not because of all the creepy, crawly inhabitants of our current buildings. It’s because of the example of my friend John. About six years ago John’s life was changed forever by a venomous spider bite. It took John two years to discover that the spider caused his symptoms — debilitating, chronic pain and muscle spasms — and several more years of experimental treatments to learn that there would be no cure for him in this lifetime. Yet, if you were to talk to John or read his letters, you would clearly hear, “It’s not about the spider!” And he would go on and on about God’s abundant love, and how the Lord has used this very painful and difficult circumstance to draw John and his family into a deeper love relationship with Him than they ever would have imagined. As I read John’s letters, I see a family worshipping God in spirit and in truth despite their circumstances.
So, when I think about the new building project, I realize that it’s going to be a long, difficult, inconvenient and even painful process. I know it will require sacrifice on my part. But as a parent of three children who are scattered throughout various places all over campus on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights, I’m very excited about the vision for a more welcoming, efficient and secure building plan. I also know that our circumstances could change, my husband’s job could transfer him, and we may not be here to see the final results of our investment.
But the thing is, it’s really not about the building. It’s about worshiping God in spirit and in truth wherever and with whomever I am. By nature, I’m a goal-oriented, rather than a process-oriented, person. But I’m learning that God cares more about my heart towards Him and my attitude and actions towards others throughout the process than He does about the end product. Recently I have found that sincerely praying, “Jesus, I want what You want,” helps my attitude a lot in this respect.
Prayer:
Reflect on your worship of God. Is God truly preeminent in your heart, or is there something or someone else that holds that place instead? Have you invested the time to get to know the one you worship, or are you like the Samaritans who “know very little about the one you worship”? Ask the Father to help you know Him better so you can worship Him fully in spirit and in truth. Ask Him to use the circumstances in your life today to draw you into a deeper relationship with Him.
Written by Kay Halligan. Kay and Kevin have attended Northwest for 20 years. They have three children: Emily (11), Erin (8) and Elissa (5).
Jesus replied, “Believe me, dear woman, the time is coming when it will no longer matter whether you worship the Father on this mountain or in Jerusalem. You Samaritans know very little about the one you worship, while we Jews know all about him, for salvation comes through the Jews. But the time is coming — indeed it’s here now — when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.”
John 4:21-24 (NLT)
Devotional:
When I think about the new building project, I think about spiders. No, it’s not because of all the creepy, crawly inhabitants of our current buildings. It’s because of the example of my friend John. About six years ago John’s life was changed forever by a venomous spider bite. It took John two years to discover that the spider caused his symptoms — debilitating, chronic pain and muscle spasms — and several more years of experimental treatments to learn that there would be no cure for him in this lifetime. Yet, if you were to talk to John or read his letters, you would clearly hear, “It’s not about the spider!” And he would go on and on about God’s abundant love, and how the Lord has used this very painful and difficult circumstance to draw John and his family into a deeper love relationship with Him than they ever would have imagined. As I read John’s letters, I see a family worshipping God in spirit and in truth despite their circumstances.
So, when I think about the new building project, I realize that it’s going to be a long, difficult, inconvenient and even painful process. I know it will require sacrifice on my part. But as a parent of three children who are scattered throughout various places all over campus on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights, I’m very excited about the vision for a more welcoming, efficient and secure building plan. I also know that our circumstances could change, my husband’s job could transfer him, and we may not be here to see the final results of our investment.
But the thing is, it’s really not about the building. It’s about worshiping God in spirit and in truth wherever and with whomever I am. By nature, I’m a goal-oriented, rather than a process-oriented, person. But I’m learning that God cares more about my heart towards Him and my attitude and actions towards others throughout the process than He does about the end product. Recently I have found that sincerely praying, “Jesus, I want what You want,” helps my attitude a lot in this respect.
Prayer:
Reflect on your worship of God. Is God truly preeminent in your heart, or is there something or someone else that holds that place instead? Have you invested the time to get to know the one you worship, or are you like the Samaritans who “know very little about the one you worship”? Ask the Father to help you know Him better so you can worship Him fully in spirit and in truth. Ask Him to use the circumstances in your life today to draw you into a deeper relationship with Him.
Written by Kay Halligan. Kay and Kevin have attended Northwest for 20 years. They have three children: Emily (11), Erin (8) and Elissa (5).
Monday, October 05, 2009
BUILDING MATERIALS
Bible Verse:
For through Jesus we (Jews and Gentiles) both have access to the Father by one Spirit. Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
Ephesians 2:18-21 (NIV)
Devotional:
What a great passage about building! It gives wise instructions — to build on a strong foundation. To measure it against the perfect cornerstone. To join each part together as the building rises to become a dwelling place. If you’re like me, you envision bulldozers and cranes, with construction workers laying steel beams and surrounding it with concrete. I can’t help but look ahead to the excitement as the dirt flies and our new children’s building is constructed.
But that’s not what this passage is about. Paul writes to non-Jewish believers and reminds them that everyone has access to God because of Christ’s death on our behalf. God’s household is made up of people. That is us — you and me. We are the dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
As we pray about a physical building project for our church, let’s remember first that the church is not made up of bricks and mortar. The building materials are God’s people. We must align our lives and our plans against Jesus Christ as the cornerstone. Otherwise, whatever we do will be crooked. And that’s no way to build.
Finally, we need to seek unity in this decision, so that we are joined together as the building rises to become a holy temple in the Lord.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for the gift of Jesus — through Him we have access to You. Help us remember this building project is about much more than square footage. It is about creating a place where Your people can grow. Help us to align our desires with Your plan. We pray for unity as we move forward. God, if we move forward with this project, may it always be about You and Your glory — the building up of Your people into a holy temple where You live by Your Spirit. Amen.
Written by Paul DeHaven, our children’s minister. Paul and Jill have attended Northwest for two months. They have two children: Johanna (18) and Kari (16).
For through Jesus we (Jews and Gentiles) both have access to the Father by one Spirit. Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
Ephesians 2:18-21 (NIV)
Devotional:
What a great passage about building! It gives wise instructions — to build on a strong foundation. To measure it against the perfect cornerstone. To join each part together as the building rises to become a dwelling place. If you’re like me, you envision bulldozers and cranes, with construction workers laying steel beams and surrounding it with concrete. I can’t help but look ahead to the excitement as the dirt flies and our new children’s building is constructed.
But that’s not what this passage is about. Paul writes to non-Jewish believers and reminds them that everyone has access to God because of Christ’s death on our behalf. God’s household is made up of people. That is us — you and me. We are the dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
As we pray about a physical building project for our church, let’s remember first that the church is not made up of bricks and mortar. The building materials are God’s people. We must align our lives and our plans against Jesus Christ as the cornerstone. Otherwise, whatever we do will be crooked. And that’s no way to build.
Finally, we need to seek unity in this decision, so that we are joined together as the building rises to become a holy temple in the Lord.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for the gift of Jesus — through Him we have access to You. Help us remember this building project is about much more than square footage. It is about creating a place where Your people can grow. Help us to align our desires with Your plan. We pray for unity as we move forward. God, if we move forward with this project, may it always be about You and Your glory — the building up of Your people into a holy temple where You live by Your Spirit. Amen.
Written by Paul DeHaven, our children’s minister. Paul and Jill have attended Northwest for two months. They have two children: Johanna (18) and Kari (16).
Thursday, October 01, 2009
The Victory Belongs to the Lord
The horse is prepared for the day of battle,
But victory belongs to the LORD. Proverbs 21:31
I just finished my one month of praying through the names of people at Northwest Bible church in view of Connect with Future Generations. It has been a great month of extended prayer for you. On Sunday you will be receiving a devotional guide so that all of us can pray daily together this October.
A missionary friend of mine sent Proverbs 21:31 with some comments to me this week. I have adapted some of his comments and added a few of my own. I was encouraged and challenged by this verse as I thought how it applies to Connect with Future Generations. It would be foolish or presumptuous for God's people NOT to prepare for battle! To have an army equipped and trained (prepared) is essential.
The main point of the proverb is the truth that even though the horse is prepared, the victory comes only from God! It reminds me that we’re dead wrong if we think success in Connect with Future Generations or any breakthroughs in our ministry are a result of our own efforts or preparedness. God is the one who works in the heart of man. God must get all credit.
What’s more, we’re dead wrong to think that lack of success in Connect with Future Generations is a result of our own efforts or preparedness. Certainly, we can’t have un-confessed sins and expect God to bless. But the main point is that the church is God’s business from start to finish.
So we communicate, communicate, communicate. Plan, plan, plan. We ask questions. We answer questions. We seek understanding. We challenge and we ask people to give. But all the while we pray and pray, asking God to work in people’s hearts. We pray asking God to provide supernaturally though his people, trusting Him to work in His own way in His own time. When the success (however, we define it, comes) He gets all the glory.
Please join the elders and me in prayer this month. Let's pray first, pray hard, pray together, and pray a lot for Connect with Future Generations.
Neil
But victory belongs to the LORD. Proverbs 21:31
I just finished my one month of praying through the names of people at Northwest Bible church in view of Connect with Future Generations. It has been a great month of extended prayer for you. On Sunday you will be receiving a devotional guide so that all of us can pray daily together this October.
A missionary friend of mine sent Proverbs 21:31 with some comments to me this week. I have adapted some of his comments and added a few of my own. I was encouraged and challenged by this verse as I thought how it applies to Connect with Future Generations. It would be foolish or presumptuous for God's people NOT to prepare for battle! To have an army equipped and trained (prepared) is essential.
The main point of the proverb is the truth that even though the horse is prepared, the victory comes only from God! It reminds me that we’re dead wrong if we think success in Connect with Future Generations or any breakthroughs in our ministry are a result of our own efforts or preparedness. God is the one who works in the heart of man. God must get all credit.
What’s more, we’re dead wrong to think that lack of success in Connect with Future Generations is a result of our own efforts or preparedness. Certainly, we can’t have un-confessed sins and expect God to bless. But the main point is that the church is God’s business from start to finish.
So we communicate, communicate, communicate. Plan, plan, plan. We ask questions. We answer questions. We seek understanding. We challenge and we ask people to give. But all the while we pray and pray, asking God to work in people’s hearts. We pray asking God to provide supernaturally though his people, trusting Him to work in His own way in His own time. When the success (however, we define it, comes) He gets all the glory.
Please join the elders and me in prayer this month. Let's pray first, pray hard, pray together, and pray a lot for Connect with Future Generations.
Neil
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Are you like the disciples or Bartimaeus?
Mark 10:46 Then they came to Jericho. And as He was leaving Jericho with His disciples and a large crowd, a blind beggar named Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, was sitting by the road.
This Sunday we talked about one of the favorites. A simple story about a blind man, Bartimaeus, who begs for his eyes to be healed. Take a minute and read the story. Mark 10:46-52. Jesus, the greater wonder worker, heals him. End of story. Application-if you have eye troubles ask Jesus for healing. Simple enough. Maybe you can avoid Lasik surgery or be freed from the hassle of contacts.
Of course there is more here than meets the eye. In fact, Mark carefully develops this story so that we look at Bartimaeus and the disciples standing in contrast to one another. The disciples are pictured as those who have physical sight and are spiritually blind. Bartimaeus is pictured as someone who has spiritual sight although physically blind. We see this in his address to Jesus in calling him, “Son of David,” and asking for mercy. At the end of the story, Bartimaeus is no longer sitting on the side of the road but following Jesus to the cross.
Here’s one way I know I can be like the disciples even though I don’t like to admit it: my present self always looks at my past self and says, “How could you have been so stupid?” Example: Today as I look at myself when I was first married I realize I could have been a more loving husband—at least a little bit. The problem is I have said this every year of my marriage. The bigger problem is that I can vaguely remember Vela saying something last week about fixing a light switch as an act of love. I also vaguely remember that she might have already asked a couple times.
So what do we do? Does anybody reading this want to be like Bartimaeus? Anybody want to see Jesus more clearly and follow Jesus more freely? Since Bartimaeus is clearly the model of faith and discipleship, maybe we should do just what Bartimaeus did. Confess our unworthiness by saying, “Lord, have mercy on me.” Then, cry out, “Lord, open my eyes.
PRAYER:
Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me. Open my eyes!
This Sunday we talked about one of the favorites. A simple story about a blind man, Bartimaeus, who begs for his eyes to be healed. Take a minute and read the story. Mark 10:46-52. Jesus, the greater wonder worker, heals him. End of story. Application-if you have eye troubles ask Jesus for healing. Simple enough. Maybe you can avoid Lasik surgery or be freed from the hassle of contacts.
Of course there is more here than meets the eye. In fact, Mark carefully develops this story so that we look at Bartimaeus and the disciples standing in contrast to one another. The disciples are pictured as those who have physical sight and are spiritually blind. Bartimaeus is pictured as someone who has spiritual sight although physically blind. We see this in his address to Jesus in calling him, “Son of David,” and asking for mercy. At the end of the story, Bartimaeus is no longer sitting on the side of the road but following Jesus to the cross.
Here’s one way I know I can be like the disciples even though I don’t like to admit it: my present self always looks at my past self and says, “How could you have been so stupid?” Example: Today as I look at myself when I was first married I realize I could have been a more loving husband—at least a little bit. The problem is I have said this every year of my marriage. The bigger problem is that I can vaguely remember Vela saying something last week about fixing a light switch as an act of love. I also vaguely remember that she might have already asked a couple times.
So what do we do? Does anybody reading this want to be like Bartimaeus? Anybody want to see Jesus more clearly and follow Jesus more freely? Since Bartimaeus is clearly the model of faith and discipleship, maybe we should do just what Bartimaeus did. Confess our unworthiness by saying, “Lord, have mercy on me.” Then, cry out, “Lord, open my eyes.
PRAYER:
Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me. Open my eyes!
Saturday, September 26, 2009
AN UNSHAKEABLE KINGDOM
Hebrews 12:27 (NIV)The words “once more” indicate the removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain.
Check out this graph of the stockmarket. Stop and list at least five thoughts or feelings that come to you as you look at this before you read any further. What other events, relationships, disappointments or struggles give you the same thoughts or feelings? The author of Hebrews reminds us that everything on this earth can and will be shaken. Everything not bolted down to Jesus, the rock the doesn’t move, will be shaken. We live in a time when clearly things are being shaken—our money, security, health, centers of power, marriages, families, etc. How do we respond? Notice what the author of Hebrews goes on to say in the next two verses.
Hebrews 12:28-29 (NIV)Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our “God is a consuming fire.”
How do we respond? We give THANKS and we WORSHIP. Why? Because we are promised that moving into a world where nothing will be shaken and our God is a consuming fire. When was the last time you looked at the stock market going down, read bad news in the newspaper, had an awful day at work, etc. and you responded by giving thanks and worshiping God? I wish I could say that's my regular practice. The other night I challenged the elders to memorize verses28-29. Will you join with us?
PRAYER:
Father, in a world that seems to be spinning out of control I thank you that because of the perfect sacrifice of Jesus I am guaranteed to live in Your kingdom that cannot be shaken. Father I worship You as that which cannot be shaken. When I sense my world is being shaken remind to respond with thanksgiving and worship. To the best of my ability I anchor all of me to all of You.
Check out this graph of the stockmarket. Stop and list at least five thoughts or feelings that come to you as you look at this before you read any further. What other events, relationships, disappointments or struggles give you the same thoughts or feelings? The author of Hebrews reminds us that everything on this earth can and will be shaken. Everything not bolted down to Jesus, the rock the doesn’t move, will be shaken. We live in a time when clearly things are being shaken—our money, security, health, centers of power, marriages, families, etc. How do we respond? Notice what the author of Hebrews goes on to say in the next two verses.
Hebrews 12:28-29 (NIV)Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our “God is a consuming fire.”
How do we respond? We give THANKS and we WORSHIP. Why? Because we are promised that moving into a world where nothing will be shaken and our God is a consuming fire. When was the last time you looked at the stock market going down, read bad news in the newspaper, had an awful day at work, etc. and you responded by giving thanks and worshiping God? I wish I could say that's my regular practice. The other night I challenged the elders to memorize verses28-29. Will you join with us?
PRAYER:
Father, in a world that seems to be spinning out of control I thank you that because of the perfect sacrifice of Jesus I am guaranteed to live in Your kingdom that cannot be shaken. Father I worship You as that which cannot be shaken. When I sense my world is being shaken remind to respond with thanksgiving and worship. To the best of my ability I anchor all of me to all of You.
HOW DO YOU NORMALLY RESPOND WHEN IT FEELS LIKE YOUR WORLD IS BEING SHAKEN?
Monday, September 21, 2009
Whac-A-Mole for the Pastor
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For even the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and give His life a ransom for many. Mk 10:45
In Mark 10:32-45, for the third time Jesus says, “The Son of Man must suffer, die, and rise.” For the third time the disciples insist, “We want to be number 1.” For the third time Jesus says, “Number 1 is in the back of the line.” You get the idea that maybe this is something that we need to hear more than once.
I preach three times on Sunday mornings. The first time didn’t go as planned. Our reader read Matthew 10 instead of Mark 10. Stunned, I just sat there. Gosh, we have been studying Mark all year. Then I had a powerpoint slide (that I had made) with a mistake on it. The slide came at a point in the sermon where I felt things were not going well. In the middle of passionately speaking of the greatness of Jesus, a cell phone started ringing. I am sure it rang for at least 5 minutes. After it stopped, I guess the caller decided to try again. Another 5 minutes. With all the distractions I basically ran out of time and crash landed the plane. I felt like the crash landing put everyone out of their misery. Except me—I was miserable about this the rest of the day. I was the poor pilot who survived.
What was my problem? Right before the service, I had prayed with an elder. We actually talked about the fact that it is okay to make mistakes. I just finished reading 1776 before going to bed Saturday night. George Washington made some huge mistakes the first year of leading the army. What was my problem? In the act of preaching and leading that service, what I really wanted was to serve Jesus so that I could look like a put together leader who does everything right. What I really wanted was the same thing all the disciples wanted from Jesus…personal glory. Ugh! It is painful to be a living example of failure of the very lesson you are preaching.
If you heard the sermon I said that we didn’t need to play Whac-A-Mole with our failures but instead think hard on Jesus’ death. I went ahead and played Whac-A-Mole for the rest of the day.
PRAYER:
Jesus, You alone are holy, perfect, righteous, together. You alone are worthy. I confess that my flesh insists on being number one. Purify my heart of this selfish service that plagues me. Not only do I have too lofty of a view of myself, I have too lowly a view of You. Open my eyes to see more clearly Your greatness. May I learn to serve and give freely as I follow You.
In Mark 10:32-45, for the third time Jesus says, “The Son of Man must suffer, die, and rise.” For the third time the disciples insist, “We want to be number 1.” For the third time Jesus says, “Number 1 is in the back of the line.” You get the idea that maybe this is something that we need to hear more than once.
I preach three times on Sunday mornings. The first time didn’t go as planned. Our reader read Matthew 10 instead of Mark 10. Stunned, I just sat there. Gosh, we have been studying Mark all year. Then I had a powerpoint slide (that I had made) with a mistake on it. The slide came at a point in the sermon where I felt things were not going well. In the middle of passionately speaking of the greatness of Jesus, a cell phone started ringing. I am sure it rang for at least 5 minutes. After it stopped, I guess the caller decided to try again. Another 5 minutes. With all the distractions I basically ran out of time and crash landed the plane. I felt like the crash landing put everyone out of their misery. Except me—I was miserable about this the rest of the day. I was the poor pilot who survived.
What was my problem? Right before the service, I had prayed with an elder. We actually talked about the fact that it is okay to make mistakes. I just finished reading 1776 before going to bed Saturday night. George Washington made some huge mistakes the first year of leading the army. What was my problem? In the act of preaching and leading that service, what I really wanted was to serve Jesus so that I could look like a put together leader who does everything right. What I really wanted was the same thing all the disciples wanted from Jesus…personal glory. Ugh! It is painful to be a living example of failure of the very lesson you are preaching.
If you heard the sermon I said that we didn’t need to play Whac-A-Mole with our failures but instead think hard on Jesus’ death. I went ahead and played Whac-A-Mole for the rest of the day.
PRAYER:
Jesus, You alone are holy, perfect, righteous, together. You alone are worthy. I confess that my flesh insists on being number one. Purify my heart of this selfish service that plagues me. Not only do I have too lofty of a view of myself, I have too lowly a view of You. Open my eyes to see more clearly Your greatness. May I learn to serve and give freely as I follow You.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Want to preach this Sunday…or at least give some input?
This Sunday we will be studying Mark 10:32-45. Here is what is going on. This is the third time Jesus predicts his death in the gospel of Mark. Again, the disciples reveal by their words that they really don’t get it! They really have not grasped Jesus’ purpose and therefore are out in left field concerning their own calling. Actually, they are not even in the ball park.
When Jesus says get ready because I am going to die a nasty death, James and John run up to him and want to talk about their inheritance. They ask, “Grant that we may sit, one on Your right and one on Your left, in Your glory.” Pretty bold! Obviously, all Jesus previous lessons have not registered—“save your life by losing it, the last will be first, if anyone want to be first he must be the servant of all.” James and John view greatness in terms of power and pride.
Jesus helps them along by clearly stating His purpose verse 45.
For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.
Here’s how you can help with this Sunday. Please tell me how in specific ways you see yourself (or others) in James and John as a comment on the blog. You might think of it this way: where and how do you see the gap between Jesus coming to serve through death, and your own attempts to serve Him and others around you?
Recruit some friends to give their opinion.
When Jesus says get ready because I am going to die a nasty death, James and John run up to him and want to talk about their inheritance. They ask, “Grant that we may sit, one on Your right and one on Your left, in Your glory.” Pretty bold! Obviously, all Jesus previous lessons have not registered—“save your life by losing it, the last will be first, if anyone want to be first he must be the servant of all.” James and John view greatness in terms of power and pride.
Jesus helps them along by clearly stating His purpose verse 45.
For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.
Here’s how you can help with this Sunday. Please tell me how in specific ways you see yourself (or others) in James and John as a comment on the blog. You might think of it this way: where and how do you see the gap between Jesus coming to serve through death, and your own attempts to serve Him and others around you?
Recruit some friends to give their opinion.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Faith says, "I will..."
Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
Here are some thoughts based on Hebrews 11:1-16 from some time with the LORD yesterday.
Because my faith is in the Creator God who made holy through Jesus and an heir of his kingdom, because I want to please him, because of the joy of this thought, “God is not ashamed to be called their God”,
I will do what he says no matter what anyone else is doing or how they respond to me,
I will seek to know him and love him with my whole heart, soul, mind, and strength,
I will live in holy fear listening to his warnings in calling myself, my family and others to repentance,
I will go where ever, whenever, to whomever when he says go,
I will go as far as and no further than the light he gives me,
I will live fully in this God-ordained moment never forgetting this verse is not my home,
I will meditate long and hard on the faithfulness of God,
I will believe God for great things while releasing times of fulfillment and results to him,
I will live with a constant greatest longing for a heavenly place where I will see Jesus in all his glory.
Prayer:
Spirit of Jesus, I believe you can empower me to live this life of faith.
BE ENCOURAGED TODAY—Every act of faith regardless of the outcome leads to this:
God is not ashamed to be called your God Heb 10:16
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
Here are some thoughts based on Hebrews 11:1-16 from some time with the LORD yesterday.
Because my faith is in the Creator God who made holy through Jesus and an heir of his kingdom, because I want to please him, because of the joy of this thought, “God is not ashamed to be called their God”,
I will do what he says no matter what anyone else is doing or how they respond to me,
I will seek to know him and love him with my whole heart, soul, mind, and strength,
I will live in holy fear listening to his warnings in calling myself, my family and others to repentance,
I will go where ever, whenever, to whomever when he says go,
I will go as far as and no further than the light he gives me,
I will live fully in this God-ordained moment never forgetting this verse is not my home,
I will meditate long and hard on the faithfulness of God,
I will believe God for great things while releasing times of fulfillment and results to him,
I will live with a constant greatest longing for a heavenly place where I will see Jesus in all his glory.
Prayer:
Spirit of Jesus, I believe you can empower me to live this life of faith.
BE ENCOURAGED TODAY—Every act of faith regardless of the outcome leads to this:
God is not ashamed to be called your God Heb 10:16
Friday, September 11, 2009
A thought for all us perfectionists
In almost everything we do in life, we want a “do over.” We almost always think with another try we could do a little better. We could run a little faster, jump a little higher, love more fully, be a better parent, get a better deal, etc. Why is this? We know we are not perfect and we desire the possibility of it. Even those of us who are proud of our accomplishments keep going for more. Hussein Bolt still plans to run faster and break his own world records. We love to watch the pursuit of perfection. We ooh and ahh when we see the perfect car. We cheer when we watch a performance that is close to perfection.
Hebrews 10:14
because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.
Jesus, in one act, dealt with the sins of the whole world. Unlike the sacrifices of the Old Testament, He didn’t need a “do over” year after year. If we really grasp this perfect performance we would do more than ooh and ahh or cheer for a moment. We would praise Him forever ever and ever. That’s what the book of Revelation tells us is happening because the Lamb who was slain is worthy. We can also give ourselves a break and rest in His finished work on our behalf. Jesus died for imperfect people.
Prayer and Praise.
Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise! To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!
Hebrews 10:14
because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.
Jesus, in one act, dealt with the sins of the whole world. Unlike the sacrifices of the Old Testament, He didn’t need a “do over” year after year. If we really grasp this perfect performance we would do more than ooh and ahh or cheer for a moment. We would praise Him forever ever and ever. That’s what the book of Revelation tells us is happening because the Lamb who was slain is worthy. We can also give ourselves a break and rest in His finished work on our behalf. Jesus died for imperfect people.
Prayer and Praise.
Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise! To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, forever and ever!
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Please don’t think you are the only one who struggles in your marriage.
I often wonder if I should preach the exact same sermon two or maybe even three Sunday’s in a row. This past week I talked about marriage from Mark 10:1-13. We heard an honest story from a staff member and his wife how they experienced failures in their marriage and also fought for their marriage. Here is the outline:
Title: Let the Cross Shape our Marriages
Why our marriages is worth fighting for:
Jesus doesn’t want us to die of a long slow heart attack.
Jesus doesn’t want us to experience the pain of an amputation.
Jesus doesn’t want us to go toe to toe against God.
JESUS WANTS GOD’S VERY BEST FOR US.
Although, I have not been made privy to all the details or even names, I have heard from many that there are lots of stories coming out of marriages in trouble. I ask all of us that if anyone is moving towards a divorce, about to get one, or about to have an affair please swallow your pride or whatever holds you back and call someone today.
If Sunday wasn’t motivation enough, I want to remind us that marriage is a God-given picture to show how He relates to the world. Think about this:
The coming together of a man and a woman in marriage is a picture of…
The oneness of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. (Gen 1 & 2)
The relationship between Jesus and His church. (Eph 5)
What it will be like the day we see Jesus in glory. (Rev 19)
Maybe I should preach this outline this Sunday-not just for everyone else but also for me.
Please don’t let Satan trick you into thinking you are the only one who struggles in marriage and therefore hiding your problem. Please don’t let your flesh, Satan, and the world trick you into thinking marriage is more about your happiness than your holiness. Please don’t let your flesh trick you into thinking that life will be simpler and the consequences will not last if you don’t fight for your marriage.
PRAYER
Jesus, for your glory shine your light on our sins and failures. Expose the darkness so that honesty and healing can break forth. Protect us from the evil one! Protect us from ourselves! Make Northwest Bible Church a place of grace so that sinners like me can come forward and find help at the cross of Jesus. We need you now!
Please, right now pray for marriages. Please, right now if you need help call someone.
Title: Let the Cross Shape our Marriages
Why our marriages is worth fighting for:
Jesus doesn’t want us to die of a long slow heart attack.
Jesus doesn’t want us to experience the pain of an amputation.
Jesus doesn’t want us to go toe to toe against God.
JESUS WANTS GOD’S VERY BEST FOR US.
Although, I have not been made privy to all the details or even names, I have heard from many that there are lots of stories coming out of marriages in trouble. I ask all of us that if anyone is moving towards a divorce, about to get one, or about to have an affair please swallow your pride or whatever holds you back and call someone today.
If Sunday wasn’t motivation enough, I want to remind us that marriage is a God-given picture to show how He relates to the world. Think about this:
The coming together of a man and a woman in marriage is a picture of…
The oneness of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. (Gen 1 & 2)
The relationship between Jesus and His church. (Eph 5)
What it will be like the day we see Jesus in glory. (Rev 19)
Maybe I should preach this outline this Sunday-not just for everyone else but also for me.
Please don’t let Satan trick you into thinking you are the only one who struggles in marriage and therefore hiding your problem. Please don’t let your flesh, Satan, and the world trick you into thinking marriage is more about your happiness than your holiness. Please don’t let your flesh trick you into thinking that life will be simpler and the consequences will not last if you don’t fight for your marriage.
PRAYER
Jesus, for your glory shine your light on our sins and failures. Expose the darkness so that honesty and healing can break forth. Protect us from the evil one! Protect us from ourselves! Make Northwest Bible Church a place of grace so that sinners like me can come forward and find help at the cross of Jesus. We need you now!
Please, right now pray for marriages. Please, right now if you need help call someone.
Saturday, September 05, 2009
Connecting with Future Generations
How many of you know what I mean when I say, Connecting with Future Generations?
This is the official name for the facilities master plan project we introduced to you this summer and we highlighted at the ministry expo two weeks ago.
I want you to know what this project means to me.
First, we have some older buildings that are beyond their useful life. While they have served us well and we are thankful, they need to be replaced. Second, I am excited that the first phase of this project is focused primarily on enhancing the environment we are creating for children and families to come to know Jesus and grow in Him. Third, we are embracing our stewardship of the land God gave this church 57 years ago. We are building to meet the needs of current and future generations just like people did when they built the old chapel, old gym, the CE building, the CLC and all of the buildings we enjoy today.
So when you hear connecting with future generations know that we are talking about phase one of our master plan.
Many of you are now asking, “How are we going to get the money for Connecting with Future Generations?” And as elders we have been asking, “How are we believing God for the necessary resources?” After months of prayer and wrestling, here is what we believe God is calling us to do over the next sixty days; everyone prays hard and leaders give first.
First, everyone prays hard.
God has put it on my heart that my primary responsibility is to pray. On September 1st I began praying though our master list of people in our church body. Over the next 30 days my commitment is to spend two hours a day during the week praying for the individuals on this list. I am praying that we will see more clearly the greatness of the One who loves us, that we will desire Jesus deeply, follow Jesus closely and trust Jesus fully. And as we trust Jesus as the owner of the world and all it contains I am praying that we will live as stewards storing up treasure in heaven. I am praying that God will put on your heart to engage, pray and give toward Connecting with Future Generations.
If you would like to bring a friend and join me in prayer call the pastors office. In October you will receive a devotional developed by people in our body to help us spend the month praying in one accord.
Second, leaders give first.
In 1 Chronicles 29 David was gathering the resources for God’s temple that would serve future generations. Let’s be clear, we are not building a temple but we are relying on God to provide for what we believe is His work. There are some things David did that we believe God is calling us to do. The first thing that David did was give from his own treasury and call on leaders to give. And as David and the leaders gave, guess what happened? The scriptures tell us everyone was encouraged in the LORD and everyone gave gladly. Therefore, I am praying and asking you – if you see yourself as a leader here – because of the ministry you hold, because of the influence you have, or because of the gifts that God has entrusted to you, I am asking you to start praying right now about what you will invest in Connecting with Future Generations.
Leaders, as God puts on your heart what you are to give, we invite you to let us know during the month of October. As you give, we will keep the body updated regarding our progress, so that the body will be encouraged and take joy in your willingness as they consider what they will pledge the first Sunday in November.
In the mean time, our elders will be considering their own gifts, and speaking with many of you to answer your questions and to help you understand what this project is about. Please feel free to contact one of them or our executive pastor Brandt Wright. In addition, we have established a Connecting with Future Generations page on our website to help answer your questions.
May we passionately pursue Jesus Christ in the midst of this venture of faith. I am believing God to use this project to produce great rejoicing and lead us to overflowing, humble worship as David and the Isrealites experienced in 2 Chronicles 29.
This is the official name for the facilities master plan project we introduced to you this summer and we highlighted at the ministry expo two weeks ago.
I want you to know what this project means to me.
First, we have some older buildings that are beyond their useful life. While they have served us well and we are thankful, they need to be replaced. Second, I am excited that the first phase of this project is focused primarily on enhancing the environment we are creating for children and families to come to know Jesus and grow in Him. Third, we are embracing our stewardship of the land God gave this church 57 years ago. We are building to meet the needs of current and future generations just like people did when they built the old chapel, old gym, the CE building, the CLC and all of the buildings we enjoy today.
So when you hear connecting with future generations know that we are talking about phase one of our master plan.
Many of you are now asking, “How are we going to get the money for Connecting with Future Generations?” And as elders we have been asking, “How are we believing God for the necessary resources?” After months of prayer and wrestling, here is what we believe God is calling us to do over the next sixty days; everyone prays hard and leaders give first.
First, everyone prays hard.
God has put it on my heart that my primary responsibility is to pray. On September 1st I began praying though our master list of people in our church body. Over the next 30 days my commitment is to spend two hours a day during the week praying for the individuals on this list. I am praying that we will see more clearly the greatness of the One who loves us, that we will desire Jesus deeply, follow Jesus closely and trust Jesus fully. And as we trust Jesus as the owner of the world and all it contains I am praying that we will live as stewards storing up treasure in heaven. I am praying that God will put on your heart to engage, pray and give toward Connecting with Future Generations.
If you would like to bring a friend and join me in prayer call the pastors office. In October you will receive a devotional developed by people in our body to help us spend the month praying in one accord.
Second, leaders give first.
In 1 Chronicles 29 David was gathering the resources for God’s temple that would serve future generations. Let’s be clear, we are not building a temple but we are relying on God to provide for what we believe is His work. There are some things David did that we believe God is calling us to do. The first thing that David did was give from his own treasury and call on leaders to give. And as David and the leaders gave, guess what happened? The scriptures tell us everyone was encouraged in the LORD and everyone gave gladly. Therefore, I am praying and asking you – if you see yourself as a leader here – because of the ministry you hold, because of the influence you have, or because of the gifts that God has entrusted to you, I am asking you to start praying right now about what you will invest in Connecting with Future Generations.
Leaders, as God puts on your heart what you are to give, we invite you to let us know during the month of October. As you give, we will keep the body updated regarding our progress, so that the body will be encouraged and take joy in your willingness as they consider what they will pledge the first Sunday in November.
In the mean time, our elders will be considering their own gifts, and speaking with many of you to answer your questions and to help you understand what this project is about. Please feel free to contact one of them or our executive pastor Brandt Wright. In addition, we have established a Connecting with Future Generations page on our website to help answer your questions.
May we passionately pursue Jesus Christ in the midst of this venture of faith. I am believing God to use this project to produce great rejoicing and lead us to overflowing, humble worship as David and the Isrealites experienced in 2 Chronicles 29.
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