 Do you pray for your country? Is the United States of America, her leadership and direction, a regular part of your conversation with God? For the world's sake, I hope it is. America is a very special nation; a conduit of blessings to every corner of the globe, regardless of what is taught in our public school system.
For the last few months I've felt to pray for the USA as though we'd entered a unique window of opportunity with the Almighty. A pivotal moment for us to say to this mountain, “be though removed into the sea,” and it will happen! Not because God has changed or we are different people somehow. But because of the darkness around us. I believe NOW is the time for us Bible believing Christians to pray for the unrighteous to fall backward and for the godly to rise up! And if we do pray that way, we WILL see AMAZING things take place.
If you see America in decline as I do, can you also see that if God's people will diligently pray for her to repent and change, that she will? I do! In my spirit, I believe that God is desirous to do great, mighty, even terrible things if his people call upon his name! Are you familiar with King Josiah of the Old Testament? 2 Kings 22-23 tells of that remarkable man who lived in the shadow of approaching destruction. God was determined to destroy Judah because of the wickedness of previous kings (Josiah's father and grandfather). When Josiah heard the word of God, and the prophesy of coming destruction, Josiah tore his clothes in repentance and commanded all of Judah to repent. Almighty God was so moved, he postponed judgement until after the death of Josiah. America may be headed for destruction because of rampant sin and wickedness in high places, but I believe we can turn to God now and postpone judgement just as Josiah did. This is a year of decision; an election year. But let's not focus on right-left, Republican or Democrat ideology. America is more important than politics and parties. I'm not praying for God to bless a candidate; rather I'm encouraging us to pray that candidates repent and seek the Lord and his Word. Laughing yet? Don't! Is anything too hard for God? - Not only did God roll back the waters of the Red Sea for his people, but drowned the enemy! (Exodus 14)
- Jericho's walls fell without being touched by man's hands or weapons of war (Joshua 6).
- By the request of one man, the sun and moon stood still (Joshua 10:12-14).
If God's people call upon the Lord, he will answer in mighty ways! We can make a difference in our generation! How To Pray For America 1. First, we all need to understand our own individual importance to God. Each of us can make a difference no matter our social status, age, appearance, income level or abilities. We all matter! Our prayers count! God hears and will respond! A man with faith is never at the mercy of a man with only an argument or opinion. 2. Next, let's be be honest about our relationship with the Lord. If we have sin in our lives or too much of the world in our heart, it's time we repent and return to our first love. We cannot secretly harbor sin in our lives and have power with God at the same time. And if any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him (1 John 2:15-17). It's the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man that availeth much (James 5:16) 3. Consider adding this to your prayer schedule every day: - Ask for a hunger and a thirst for righteousness for yourself, your family, your community and your country. The blessings of God are upon the righteous; his wrath is upon the wicked.
- Ask for the removal of unrighteous, unwise leaders at every level of government and authority. If leaders won't repent and govern wisely, they should be removed. I'm not suggesting we grab our guns and hit the streets. A leader can be removed by any number of ways (misconduct, investigation, poor performance, vote, illness, relocation, etc., ) I suggest we pray and leave the details to God.
- Ask for the rise of righteous, wise leaders. Pray that God will place and guide these leaders through the minefield laid by the forces of darkness. They and their families need our prayers.
- Ask for a change of heart within the news media. May they submit to true reporting. If not, may the public to turn against them. May every attempt to push an ungodly agenda be stopped. May every attempt to undermine wise candidates and leaders backfire. May these entities go bankrupt.
- Ask for spiritual victory within our military. May every service member feel the love and protection of God and the support of the country.
- Ask for election fraud to be discovered, reported on, and discounted.
- Be specific! Be courageous in prayer! Expect great things! Pray and thank God for what he is doing!
| | Expect the Lord to lead you to pray for other areas in your community and sphere of influence. God may lead you to pray for certain judges, school board officials, business leaders, community causes, etc., Instead of bombing a Planned Parenthood building where infants are murdered, pray for a complete change of heart that turns the building into a center for adoption.
I believe this is how to pray for America now. Pray for America with a childlike faith and expectation. Remember the wild imaginations we had as kids? We believed anything was possible! If we only look at our abilities as men and women, then this is all a joke. But if we get outside of ourselves and take on God's perspective, then all things are possible.
America can change her course! Consider being part of those who will make that change possible through prayer, fasting and courageous action in Jesus' name!
Consider passing this on to others, and please leave praise reports below! Thanks!
 Church Fellowship In Chandler Arizona How well do we know each other in the Kingdom of God? Are we well acquainted enough to share our burdens and confess our faults to other believers like the Bible talks about? I'd say that's not the case in the modern church. Instead, most of us have been taught that church is a Sunday event and church fellowship is a hand shake or a wave between pews. And don't ever fellowship with that other denomination!
The house church has it's own set of challenges. At least in a denominational church, most everyone shares common beliefs. In home churches, people from all walks of faith and beliefs come together, usually with doctrine front and center. When we disagree, too often we bail and go look for another group. We never really get to know each other and why we believe what we believe.
If there's one thing God has been showing me recently, it's the value of fellowship and having a long-term perspective. Fellowship by definition involves some important ingredients:
1. Companionship; society; consort; mutual association of persons on equal and friendly terms;
2. Partnership; joint interest; as fellowship in pain.
3. Company; a state of being together.
Christ designed his church around relationships; first with himself, then our families, then each other. He has gifted us to edify one another, and to function as individual members, yet together as part of a singular body. You're a hand, he's an ear, she's an arm, I'm a knee, etc., We are placed together according to his design and purpose.
But our usefulness to each other is based on how close we are to Christ, and how close we are to each other. If we're distant from either, we won't be effective ministers.
We Americans tend to be time and results oriented. We give a stranger on the phone or at our front door nano seconds to get to the point, don't we? That's me to a “T”. We're busy, we're trying to get things done so we can move on to the next thing.
Are we sometimes like that when it comes to our church fellowship too? Do we faithfully go to church, but even before we sing the first song we're already thinking about what we're going to do with the rest of the day? Do we ever look at relationships as just too much work?
Real church fellowship is a dying art from my perspective. Relationships take time, they can hurt, and can push us out of our comfort zones. Even with the best of intentions we'll be misunderstood, our charity will be taken advantage of, and our kindness mistaken for weakness. In short, fellowship can be messy, but it's also a gold mine of blessings!
James 5:16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
Proverbs 18:24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
Proverbs 27:17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
 When we meet together as a church here in Chandler, Arizona, we start by sharing a meal. We talk about our week, our families, plans and pursuits. Then afterward, we get into the word, pray for each other and so on. Sometimes, even through the week, we'll share prayer requests or we'll meet at a restaurant and just have dinner together. It's never time wasted; it's an investment.
We're different people, in different stages of life, but we're coming to love one another deeply. And here's something else: we're building trust. Trust helps us to be vulnerable to each other, to ask for prayer about needs and situations, and to confess our faults to one another.
Looking at my own life, I've been so doctrinally focused sometimes, that I've missed the other equally important aspects of the kingdom of God like fellowship. I chose to dwell on our disagreements rather than on where we did agree. I overlooked the person and the friendship while trying to win an argument.
May I urge us all to reconsider the importance of church fellowship? Set the program aside and get to really know the other believers around us. Invite people into our lives and forget trying to sway others over to our doctrinal view for a season. Let trust and the genuine love of Christ develop in our hearts, and let's see what God will do with all of us!
I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:1-3)
 Have you seen the Mormon commercials on TV and the billboards along the highways? It seems there is a strong move to freshen up the LDS image. It probably has a lot to do with the fact that Mit Romney, a devout Mormon, is running for president.
I'm not bashing Mormonism here. From a marketing perspective, I think the ads are well made. Rather, I'm looking at the core of the ads. “Hi, I'm Everyday Joe, from Anywhere, USA. I surf, ride a bike and live in a house. And I'm a Mormon.” What I get in the ads is the importance of a corporate identity. Frankly, I see no difference between what these LDS commercials present and whenever I hear someone say, “I'm a Baptist” or “We're Catholics,” or “We belong to Central Christian.” Really? Does that matter at all?
Did Jesus ever promote organizational identity? If he did, I must have missed it. Labels, denominations, and Bible school credentials mean nothing. Being a disciple of Jesus Christ isn't defined by a lapel pin, bumper sticker, or where we gather to worship. Take a look at just a few things that do matter to Jesus:
Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; (John 8:31)
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. (John 13:35)He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. (Mark 16:16-18)Do people see those signs in our lives?Interesting that there's no talk of big brick buildings or temples mentioned. No talk of denominations or how to start a 501(c) 3 non-profit ministry.
And what about following big name personalities? How many of us race to be a part of Dr. Rev. SoAndso's Ministry? The Mormons elevate Joseph Smith. Catholics elevate a Pope. Others flock to where Dr. Rev. SoAndso is holding a crusade. Should we swarm to certain people? Let's see what Paul had to say about that...
For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. (1 Corinthians 3:3-7)
Speaking of personalities, there is a common misreading of Matt. 28:19-20. I've heard people say that we are to “go and make disciples.” That's not what the Bible says. Have a look:
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
We are not to make disciples, we are to teach truth. It's the truth that makes us free. The focus should always be on Christ and his Word, not on us. Consider this warning from Paul:
For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. (Acts 20:29-31)
Joseph Smith, the Pope, Mary the mother of Jesus, and every Christian Celebrity was born in sin and is in need of the Savior. Every one of us is fallible and capable of wickedness and even of being false prophets. Beware of those who add to the word or take away from it! That warning is to all of us – not just Mormons. (See Which Bible?)
Our organizational identity or church affiliation means absolutely nothing. We will all individually stand before God and give an account of ourselves. No cardinal or church elder will be standing with us. Our works will be judged according to the Word of God, not a denominational handbook.
We're not special or chosen because we belong to a certain denomination or even because we're "non-denominational" and have church in our house. If we don't have a love of the truth and follow God with all my heart, we'll be lost.
Slick ad campaigns like the Mormon commercials with wholesome imagery isn't truth. Religious organizations don't save us and shouldn't be where our allegiance is found. May people call us “Christians” because they can't help but see Christ in us. Our daily witness, in word and deed, should proclaim the power of God, not what organization we belong to.
Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. (2 Timothy 3:1-7)
 Feeling unappreciated? Are you discouraged about where you are in life? Does the rapid decline of America fill you with a sense of hopelessness?
Rude Awakening #14: Everyone feels this way now and then.
Remember Elijah? He was so discouraged he asked God to take is life – and this happened right after fire fell from heaven in answer to Elijah's prayer on mount Carmel! (1 Kings 18-19).
And let's not forget that Jesus called out from the cross, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” (Matt. 27:46)
It's important to remember that these feelings will probably pass soon. But maybe we should take a look at why we're feeling this way. David wrote in Psalms 42:11 "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.”
David reminded himself to hope in God! Our God is mighty, faithful and true. Nothing, and no one compares to him! His promises are real! He is worthy of our trust, and worthy of all of our hope. When we lose sight of his greatness, our problems look bigger than they really are.
How are things between us and God? Have we strayed from regular prayer and time alone with him in his word?
The times I'm most down and feeling that I don't matter, stem from a lack of praising God and time in prayer. I get so easily distracted, putting trivial things ahead of what's really important. Prayer takes a back seat, and soon I feel like I'm in the trunk next to the spare tire. That's a lousy place to be on this great road trip of life. Yuck! |  Don't Travel The Road of Life In The Trunk! |
A soul that continues this way could eventually lose all hope and become bitter. The list of spiritual and physical side effects that accompany bitterness would last longer than a prescription drug commercial. Let's not go there, shall we? Instead, let's hope in God!
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. (1 Peter 5:6-7)
Sometimes we bring discouragement onto ourselves because we try to do everything our way, in our own strength, without seeking the Lord. It's easy to do. But let's consider this option instead...
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
“Do I matter?” we ask. We matter so much that Almighty God is willing and desirous to - exalt us in due time if we humble ourselves under his might hand;
- take on our care for he careth for us;
- and direct our paths if we'll trust in him with all our heart.
Jesus Christ didn't only come to earth to die on a cross for our sins. He came to give us life, and that more abundantly. Discouragement, disappointments, and even the end of the world are just part of this life. But let's keep things in perspective...
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)
Psalm 103 is one of my favorites. The first 14 verses are especially uplifting. As soon as you can read those verses out loud to yourself from the King James Version. You can't read that passage without feeling loved and appreciated.
You do matter! Your life does count! Encourage yourself in God today and RSVP to this great invitation personally addressed to each of us...
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30) Thanks for sharing this with others!
 _Have you ever wondered what the point of getting together as a church is? Is it because the Bible says we're supposed to go to church? Do we gather just to hear preaching that helps us stay on the “straight and narrow” and to have a place to pay tithes? Is it to have a positive social outlet?For many years, I used Hebrews 10:25 as the catchall reason for why we should go to church:
_Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is...
I concluded that we should go to church because the Bible says to not be like those who've stopped assembling together. Hearing preaching, singing songs, etc., are helpful and important to the soul as well. But is that really what the purpose of church is all about?
For many Christians, church has been reduced to a weekly program. It's something we do rather than something we are. We're like spectators who go to movies or watch sporting events. We go, we watch and listen, then we go home. But this perspective is so far removed from what Christ had in mind it's almost laughable.
Let's revisit that verse in Hebrews and read it in context:
Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
(Hebrews 10:23-25)
The rest of the chapter talks about not falling away from God but believing to the saving of the soul. But do you see the important element of participation? The purpose of assembling together is to edify, encourage and even provoke each other to love and good works. Notice that the verse isn't specific to pastors, but every believer is to share the responsibility of provoking and exhorting each other, not just a select few. Does this describe your overall church experience? Many of us would be surprised to read this instruction from Paul...
How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. (1 Corinthians 14:26)
Part of the reason why people are leaving the static traditional church setting in favor of something more interactive and biblical is because people are hungry for purpose and spiritual fulfillment. They're tired of merely sitting on pews watching others perform without any invitation to contribute week after week. Christians are waking up to the reality of participatory fellowship. They want to see the power of God and to exercise the gifts that God has given them. Teachers want to teach. Prophets want to prophesy. Exhorters want to exhort and don't we all want to see miracles, signs and wonders like the early church did in the Book of Acts?
Let's take this a bit further. What's the point of encouraging one another on to love and to good works? Is it to feel good about ourselves or is there a deeper purpose?
Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. (Matthew 5:13-16)
We are to be salt and light to the flavorless, dark world we live in so people will see our good works and turn to God. Sinners don't care that we “go to church.” They want to see power! They want something real - not a ritual! They want to see the church that Jesus said the gates of hell won't prevail against! Where is that church???
What are we showing people? What is our witness to the world around us? Do our co-workers and neighbors see godly men and women who live their faith, heal the sick and speak the truth in love? Or do they see people who live just like they do except for a couple of hours on Sunday? Do we bring light into the room or does the room lighten when we leave?
What is the purpose of the church? To be the body of Christ! How did Christ act when he walked in the flesh? Consider this brief summation:
...God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. (Acts 10:38) May people say that about us!
Using a football game analogy, I liken the gathering of the church to the huddle. The church rallies around the Quarterback, Jesus Christ. We encourage each other on to the next play. Then we go back out onto the playing field of the world, full of the Holy Ghost and power, to be witnesses unto Christ.
 _Are you wondering how to start a home church? Starting a home church could be the right direction for you, but the process might be very different than what you expect. And I don't necessarily mean that in a positive way. It can be one of the most exciting, aggravating and heartbreaking journeys of your life.
_ 2011 for us here in Chandler, Arizona, was an interesting year of meeting new people, growing, adjusting, saying goodbye, and putting things in perspective. Let me share some of the things we've learned. Fellowship, Or Lack Thereof...One thing that most of us crave is wholesome church fellowship. But when a person or family leaves a traditional church setting, fellowship is often the first thing to stop, unless you're part of a group from the beginning. I know there are many people who've gone months, dare I say years, without finding others to fellowship with as a church. If you're going to start a home church, be prepared to go it alone for a while. It will require Stand Alone Faith. Having Little In Common... When you do find others who are interested in starting a home church, you might meet people with wildly different doctrinal views, unique perspectives, and different levels of spiritual maturity. It's also a possible to meet with others and discover that the only thing in common you share with them is an interest in home church – and little to nothing else. What denominational churches have going for them is having some basic doctrines, worship styles, songs, etc., in common. But people who meet together independently, may have nothing in common. We come from all over the map (geographically and spiritually) and soon discover how different we really are. That can be intriguing, eye-opening, unsettling and even scary. But if we're willing to stick it out, stay in God's word while being open to other perspectives, and seek to understand and much as we want to be understood, we could form new and lasting bonds with others God has sent our way. Unfortunately, it's way too easy to break fellowship at the first signs of disagreement. That will hurt. In my novel Parting Ways I write about what happens to a young, ambitious minister who can no longer follow the denominational teachings he grew up with. The only thing he could trust and stand on was the Bible. God leads him to a whole new understanding of church. Which leads me to pose this question: Did Jesus command his disciples to start churches? Have you found that in the scriptures? I haven't yet, but here's what I do read: Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. (Matthew 28:19-20) And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. (Mark 16:15) And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. (Luke 24:46-47) I see a repeated pattern of preaching and teaching. Let's see what happened when the word is preached in the book of Acts... Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. (Acts 2:41) And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith. (Acts 6:7) Is it possible that our focus shouldn't be on staring a home church, but rather to seek opportunities to preach and teach the word? In other words, instead of putting a "Church Meeting Tonight - All Welcome" sign in our front yards, perhaps asking a co-worker or neighbor for a no-obligation, one-on-one Bible Study would be better. Paul often encouraged Timothy to preach the word and to take it a step further... And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. (2 Timothy 2:2)Paul didn't tell Timothy to build buildings, start denominations or to plant churches. He instructed him to teach faithful men to teach. One-on-one will likely grow to one-on-two, or three. Then a whole family or two or three. Over time, a group - a church - is gathering in a house, because the word was preached. I hope to do more preaching and teaching in this new year, and be less concerned about starting a home church. The gospel is the power of God unto salvation, not if or how we start a home church. I've come to the realization that church is a natural outgrowth of preaching and teaching. When God's word is preached, churches are the result. Check out the Free Bible Studies Page for simple Bible Studies you can download and share with anyone!Related Posts You Might Enjoy:
Home Church, Evangelism, and Winning Souls Stand Alone FaithWhich Bible?
 _If you're wondering what to do about guilt, that kind of crippling guilt that ruins what otherwise would be a great day, then please keep reading. I know there are many of us who struggle getting past feelings of guilt.
I believe guilt is an important and helpful part of lives. Guilt let's us know that we have a properly functioning conscience. If we've done something or someone wrong, we should feel guilty. That kind of guilt motivates us to make things right with whomever we've hurt or trespassed against. Consider the words of Jesus on what to do about guilt:
_Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. (Matthew 5:23-25)
Our God is a God of resolve, not of festering wounds and lingering guilt. He expects his children to make things right with those we've offended. Then he expects those offended to forgive the offender. Much easier said than done, but that's how we're supposed to act.
However, guilt stops being helpful when it continues to haunt us even after we've done all we can do to make things right. Like when a single bad memory hits us, and we become emotionally bottomed out for the rest of the day. It's really tough to be a blessing to others when we're drowning in our own swamp of negative feelings. That kind of recurring guilt is neither helpful or productive and here's something else: It's not from God.
Take a look at John 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. Life more abundantly does not include crippling guilt!
Jesus Christ came to bring deliverance to us captives. It's our lifelong enemy, the devil, that will use anything and everything to steal our joy and get us down and depressed. Bringing up past mistakes and blowing them way out of proportion is one of his most successful tactics. He'll use old memories against us to make us feel like failures. But let's never forget: God Is Bigger Than Our Past Mistakes.
Here are a few suggestions for what to do about guilt:- Ask yourself if you've really done all you can do to make things right. If you haven't, then you need to. This guilt is still serving a purpose. If you have, then stand on that knowledge and let it go. Brush the mud off and move on!
- Keep things in perspective. All of us can look back on some situation and wished we would have handled things differently. But we can't change the past. We can only learn from the past and do better next time. Don't be so down on yourself for not knowing then what you know now.
- If you've made things right, and you can see things in perspective, but still get stuck on the ol' emotional roller coaster, then maybe it's a trick of the devil. Perhaps he's found a weakness in you and is pressing those tender wounds to take you out of the game. It's tough to rejoice when you're hurting, right? It may be time to join the resistance! Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (James 4:7) Remind Satan that you've obeyed the word, you've done all you can do, and he can take his guilt trip somewhere else!
We might have to walk through this a few times till our emotions catch up with our head, but being free from soul sucking guilt is a real blessing that can be ours!
If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. (John 8:36)
 Church Is Like A Potluck! __ Most of us in America share a similar church experience, don't we? We understand gathering in a building on Sunday mornings, singing songs picked out by a praise leader, getting the latest announcements, passing an offering basket, listening to preaching from the same person or people, concluding in prayer and going home. Except for some denominational differences, church size and multimedia bells and whistles, this is the general church pattern.
But isn't it interesting that there is no such checklist taught in the scriptures? This plan was developed and perfected by men generations ago and, for better or worse, we've been running with it ever since.
_ One of the first questions about how to have church at home is how does it work? What does church in a house look like? How much should we change and what should we keep the same?
If you're reading about how to have church at home, then you're already thinking outside of the traditional box. Allow me to suggest this: Keep going! Be open to leaving traditions and habits behind in favor of the liberty found in the scriptures. Since the Bible doesn't give us a step by step church program, how about we not create one either? In fact, let's focus on “Family” not “Program.”
Jesus didn't give outlines and the apostles didn't teach on how to run a church meeting. Church is all about God's people coming together in the name of the Lord to worship Christ and to edify one another. The number of ways that can happen are countless. There are however, elements we can pull together from the Bible on how to please God and make the most of our time when we do come together as a church. Here are a few suggestions:
First, come prepared. Do you pray before the church meets together? Do you have a sense of expectation? Spending some time in prayer before church is a great way to prepare your mind and heart for what God wants to do.
Consider starting with praise. Psalm 100:4 says, Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
King David said, “I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD.” Are we glad when we gather together with the household of God? We should be. Let's offer up praise and speak out our thanksgiving when we gather in his name. Singing songs, shouting praises, and clapping hands are all biblical ways to give glory to God.
Then what? Again, there is no set plan, but here's what Paul wrote to the church at Corinth: How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.
(1 Corinthians 14:26)
Church is the body of Christ and every one of us are members of that body. We like to have full use of our bodies; so does Christ. Everyone of us should come prepared to take part whether it's sharing a testimony to God's goodness, a short teaching or doctrine, a special song, a word in tongues followed by interpretation, etc., Share life situations, ask for prayer and wisdom and expect God to move. The end goal should be full participation so that everyone is edified, rather than one person preaching to everyone else week after week. Allow room for everyone to share something and watch how God uses everyone - including you!
To me, church is like a potluck. Everyone brings something that compliments what others have brought. Some bring main dishes, others bring sides and desserts. All the elements form a complete meal and no one person is responsible for everything. If we gather together with the understanding that it's God's church and not our program, then we'll be more focused on God having his way with his people. Sometimes that means I'll be teaching today...or that I'll be listening. Either way is fine with me because I've learned to check my ego and agenda at the door. It's not about me; it's about us together.
Finally, church is a family. It's not a weekly event. How many perfect families do you know? I'll bet not many. Every family has a their celebrities and “interesting” aunts and uncles. They all have their sweet fathers and overly organized mothers. Let's give out as much grace as we want in return and realize that church isn't "perfect" now but an ongoing work in progress.
I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:1-3)
Learning how to have church at home involves lots of love and endurance. One gathering may be vastly different from another, but each time can be a great learning and growing experience. Be open to everything that doesn't go against the Word of God. Meet in different houses, meet at the park, go to the beach! Sing with music or a capella. Meeting around a kitchen table works for some but the living room might be more comfortable. Share a meal, consider having soft instrumental music playing in the background or enjoy the sunshine in your back yard. Don't feel like it has to be a certain way every time or that it should resemble a denominational church service. Be the church God wants you to be and grow together. Dress comfortably, relax about how long things go, and enjoy each other!
Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. (Ephesians 2:19-22)
 Grace, like many other words we use, gets tossed around to the point of abuse in my humble opinion. Some have elevated God's grace above God's Word and righteousness. They believe that God will ultimately overlook all of man's sinful ways in the end. "We're all God's children." They say. But is that true? Is that what the Bible says?
How have you heard grace defined? For me, grace was summarized as “unmerited favor” from God toward man. We're “sinners saved by grace” was another popular phrase I'd heard, and then there's a song entitled “Grace Alone.” But songs and catchy phrases aren't the same as scripture.
Grace was a topic of conversation with some friends recently, and I realized I needed to do some digging into the Bible for myself. I don't want to believe and teach something, no matter how "popular," it is if it's not scriptural. Are we sinners saved by grace? Are we saved by grace alone? Is that what Jesus commanded his disciples to preach? The more I see grace in the context of the scriptures the more I sense that grace, as it pertains to salvation, has been wildly mischaracterized.
An online dictionary defines grace as: favor or goodwill. Synonymous with: kindness, kindliness, love, benignity; condescension. Now, let's go to the scriptures...
The first time we read about grace, we meet a man called Noah in Genesis 6...
And the LORD said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them. But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD. (Genesis 6:7-8)
If Noah was saved by grace alone, then this would be about the end of the chapter. We'd rejoice with Noah for his salvation. But this is far from the end of the story. Let's see if there's anything more to this grace that Noah found in the eyes of the Lord...
Make thee an ark of gopher wood; rooms shalt thou make in the ark, and shalt pitch it within and without with pitch. And this is the fashion which thou shalt make it of: The length of the ark shall be three hundred cubits, the breadth of it fifty cubits, and the height of it thirty cubits. A window shalt thou make to the ark, and in a cubit shalt thou finish it above; and the door of the ark shalt thou set in the side thereof; with lower, second, and third stories shalt thou make it. (Genesis 6:14-16)
Now, wait a minute. If Noah found grace, and grace is all we need, then what's all this talk about building an ark? Wasn't grace enough? Apparently not. Rather, because Noah found grace, God warned him of the coming destruction, and told him to build an ark. Noah believe the word and acted accordingly. Without grace, Noah would not have received the word. Without faith, Noah would not have obeyed and built the ark.
By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. (Hebrews 11:7)
Grace isn't the end of our salvation; it's the beginning. God showed us his grace by giving his word. Like Noah, we show our faith by obeying that word.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)Faith is how we properly respond to God's grace. But Some will take that verse and say, “We don't have to do anything. It's not about works, therefore by grace alone are we saved.” It's true that our works won't save us. But if the Word of God tells to do something, then it's not our works.Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock. (Matthew 7:24) When we obey the scriptures, we are demonstrating faith. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. (James 2:18)
Building an ark wasn't Noah's idea. Like many people today, Noah could have ignored God's word. Instead of building an ark like God commanded, he could have given away all his goods to the poor, volunteered at a animal shelter and tried to be a good person. And he would have been lost just like everyone else because he didn't do what God commanded him to do.
For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. (Titus 2:11-14)Read how the apostles preached The Gospel on the Free Bible Studies page!
 God doesn't throw revelation out to just anyone. Psalms 25:14 says, The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant. He reserves deep truths for those who have the right heart toward him. Consider this observation from Jesus when he told the parable of the sower...
For this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them. (Matthew 13:15)
Contrast that heart with this one...
But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. (Matthew 13:23)
If I have an open heart, I'll hear the word, understand it, and my life will bear fruit!
So here's the real question: Am I open to hear, or do I think I know it all and can't be taught anything else? Do I have a teachable spirit?
I'm convinced that sometimes God purposely uses unexpected ways and unlikely people to share great and deep truths with us. To hear, we might have to humble ourselves or let go of preconceived ideas. If we're too hung up on the messenger, we could miss a great blessing - just ask Naaman about that (2 Kings 5).
How To Get Revelation
First, the word of God is truth (John 17:17), and we must never deviate, add to or take away from the scriptures.
Secondly, don't forget that the Holy Ghost is the Spirit of Truth. We need the Holy Ghost to be led in to all truth (John 16:13) and keep in mind that God's Spirit will never go against God's Word. Jesus told his disciples not to start preaching until they received the Holy Ghost! (Acts 1-2)
Third, truth has always been there, but our understanding of truth may need ongoing development. Peter wrote, “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ...” (2 Peter 3:18). Growing means there's more to learn.
Church should be the perfect setting for interactive teaching and open discussions that lead to growth and revelation in the word. Allow me to use a simple beach ball to illustrate how to get revelation...
Everyone of us approaches truth from a different angle based on how we've been taught, personal experiences, relationship with God, etc. Let's imagine we're looking at a beach ball for the very first time. From my angle, I see something round with blue, white, and yellow stripes. Someone else from a different angle agrees that it's round, but disagrees with the yellow and blue. "It's just red and white! No blue or yellow at all!
Some will end fellowship right there because of disagreement. But if we can agree to stay in the word and try to understand each other, we might come to realize that we both lack the 3-dimensional perspective. What we know individually is good and right, but incomplete. If we can reason together, forebear with one another, discuss it, and pray about it, we'll both get a more perfect understanding. This might take more than one discussion.
Later we'll meet someone else with even more understanding, and they'll blow us away by explaining how this beach ball truth is not only round and colorful, but it bounces, floats and if you let the air out, it goes flat! But he's a kook who fasts and prays a lot - way too much if you ask me - and who's gonna believe him? Ha ha. Let the air out...that's funny...
Truth and revelation may come a puzzle piece at a time. But if we have the right heart, if we're open to learn, if we pray and seek the Lord, if we read and study the Word for ourselves we'll come to understand how those pieces all connect together to form a beautiful secret the world will never see. That's how to get revelation!
|
RSS Feed