For many of us, Christmas has ceased to be a merry time of the year. It has become a hurried and harried time. There is not enough time to do all of the shopping, decorating, cooking, baking, school and church programs...Ho, Ho, Woe.
Perhaps this year is the year to bring back the more simple days of Christmas past. We see readily how abuse of credit has gotten the world's economy into a mess. Charlie Brown was surrounded by those who were caught up in the commercialization of Christmas. The retailers depend on us buying now, and paying later. Let's not get caught in that trap this year. Let's do what we can, perhaps in a more simple way. Let's enjoy celebrating our Savior's birth. Let's be reminded of God's love for us. Let's be reminded that Christ followers have our citizenship in Heaven.
Here are a few gifts that cost little, but return great rewards. Friends are one of life's greatest gifts. Use this Christmas season to nurture these relationships. I Timothy 6:6-10 reads, "Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." This Christmas give yourself the gift of contentment.
It is more blessed to give than to receive. Give yourself and your family the gift of giving to those in need. The recipient and the giver will be greatly blessed. Take some of what you would spend on yourselves and help a person in need have a Merry Christmas.
My friend Tony Cooke shared these thoughts recently. He compiled a list of eight things we can all give (and receive):
Give the gift of listening.
Give the gift of affection.
Give the gift of laughter.
Give the gift of a written note.
Give the gift of a compliment.
Give the gift of a favor.
Give the gift of solitude.
Give the gift of a cheerful disposition.
These are a few tips that could make your Christmas a bit more merry.
Merry Christmas and peace,
Stan
Monday, December 8, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Guest Blog by Micah Ferguson
Ahh, here we are the day before Thanksgiving in beautiful Colorado. We've had the pleasure of enjoying time spent with family all week. We can't help but think of all the things in our life we are thankful for. Instead of listing the material things, we would like to go in a different route.
During this time of year it's easy to be distracted, overwhelmed and overextended. There are so many things demanding our time, energy, and of course our money. Yet we're determined not to get sucked into the usual holiday madness. We're going to make every effort to focus on the "Reason for the Season" who of course, is Jesus Christ. First and foremost we're thankful for His love. The fact that He died on the cross so we can live eternally with Him is what keeps us going every day. We're also thankful for all the intangible things He has given to us: Our health, peace, joy, love of our family, our freedom, and His Word.
1st Thessalonians 5:16-18 says - Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
We don't know about you, but we have learned, witnessed, and grown quite alot this year. Our circumstances have changed and caused us to realize that at the end of the day, all we can really do is trust in the Lord to take care of us.
Our hope is that this year, you find hope. That you experience God and all that He is. He can, and will be your provider, your best friend, your counselor and comforter - if you just invite Him to do so. During this season, don't lose sight of the source for everything in which we are thankful.
Eat, love and be thankful, as much as you can. Have a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!
During this time of year it's easy to be distracted, overwhelmed and overextended. There are so many things demanding our time, energy, and of course our money. Yet we're determined not to get sucked into the usual holiday madness. We're going to make every effort to focus on the "Reason for the Season" who of course, is Jesus Christ. First and foremost we're thankful for His love. The fact that He died on the cross so we can live eternally with Him is what keeps us going every day. We're also thankful for all the intangible things He has given to us: Our health, peace, joy, love of our family, our freedom, and His Word.
1st Thessalonians 5:16-18 says - Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
We don't know about you, but we have learned, witnessed, and grown quite alot this year. Our circumstances have changed and caused us to realize that at the end of the day, all we can really do is trust in the Lord to take care of us.
Our hope is that this year, you find hope. That you experience God and all that He is. He can, and will be your provider, your best friend, your counselor and comforter - if you just invite Him to do so. During this season, don't lose sight of the source for everything in which we are thankful.
Eat, love and be thankful, as much as you can. Have a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Obsessed
I find myself obsessed with the Lord's eternal obsession: the harvest of souls. Jesus came into this world with one purpose, to seek and to save the lost. The apostle Paul wrote in 1 Timothy 1:15,“This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.” I am so glad that Jesus came looking for me.
James 5:7 tells us the Lord is waiting patiently on the precious fruit of the earth. In 2 Peter 3:9 we read, “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” After talking with the woman at the well in Samaria, she ran into the city to tell everyone that she had met the Christ. The people flocked out of the city to see Jesus. Upon seeing this, Jesus said in John 4:35, "Do you not say, 'There are still four months and then comes the harvest?' Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest!" God is obsessed with the idea of people receiving eternal life through Jesus Christ.
As I sit at my desk in my church office, I am seeking (thinking, meditating, reasoning; to enquire into, aim at, strive for) the lost. Jesus' mission is our mission. The church, for the most part, has lost her way, its reason for being, lost its Priority One—the seeking and saving of the lost. We live in a day of distractions (lovers of pleasures, pet doctrines, useless trifles). Preachers of the Gospel have lost their way.
Charles G. Finney, in Revival Lectures, wrote, “Prayer is an essential link in the chain of causes that leads to revival…Some have zealously used truth to convert men, and laid very little stress on prayer. They have preached, and talked, and distributed tracts with little success. And the reason was, that they forgot to use the other branch of the means, effectual prayer. They overlooked the fact that truth, by itself, will never produce the effect, without the Spirit of God, and that the Spirit is given in answer to prayer.”
Leonard Ravenhill, in Revival Praying, wrote, “The state of praying that we seek is free from all personal request for personal benefit. We are seeking a love for the will of God among men, for the manifestation of the glory of God among men.”
Let us pray, plan, seek and save the lost.
Peace,
Stan
James 5:7 tells us the Lord is waiting patiently on the precious fruit of the earth. In 2 Peter 3:9 we read, “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” After talking with the woman at the well in Samaria, she ran into the city to tell everyone that she had met the Christ. The people flocked out of the city to see Jesus. Upon seeing this, Jesus said in John 4:35, "Do you not say, 'There are still four months and then comes the harvest?' Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest!" God is obsessed with the idea of people receiving eternal life through Jesus Christ.
As I sit at my desk in my church office, I am seeking (thinking, meditating, reasoning; to enquire into, aim at, strive for) the lost. Jesus' mission is our mission. The church, for the most part, has lost her way, its reason for being, lost its Priority One—the seeking and saving of the lost. We live in a day of distractions (lovers of pleasures, pet doctrines, useless trifles). Preachers of the Gospel have lost their way.
Charles G. Finney, in Revival Lectures, wrote, “Prayer is an essential link in the chain of causes that leads to revival…Some have zealously used truth to convert men, and laid very little stress on prayer. They have preached, and talked, and distributed tracts with little success. And the reason was, that they forgot to use the other branch of the means, effectual prayer. They overlooked the fact that truth, by itself, will never produce the effect, without the Spirit of God, and that the Spirit is given in answer to prayer.”
Leonard Ravenhill, in Revival Praying, wrote, “The state of praying that we seek is free from all personal request for personal benefit. We are seeking a love for the will of God among men, for the manifestation of the glory of God among men.”
Let us pray, plan, seek and save the lost.
Peace,
Stan
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Great As It Gets
As I sit in my bed thinking about the last week. Hundreds of people called on the name of the Lord receiving eternal life. Dozens were healed of pain and diseases. A little girl around 10 years old had never been able to speak. She spoke for the first time in her life on Monday night. That's as great as it gets.
I have met people from a different culture. I have bounced all over a brand new country in a van. I spent a couple of days in a dusty village watching the donkey carts pull heavy loads up and down the narrow streets. I watched little old ladies pick cotton. I watched crusty little men cut wheat by hand with a cycle. Then they thrashed it by beating they sheaves over a big rock. Cool, huh.
I have been eating some great new food. Listening to some very interesting music. Having a great time.
The greatest thing is that we get to do it again this week.
Peace,
Stan
Monday, October 27, 2008
Help is on the Way
We live in days that require each of us to live in the Spirit. Living in the flesh will certainly end in disaster. In 2 Timothy 3, Paul described the last days as perilous (difficult & distressing). Jesus in addition to Paul made predictions about the last days.
To summarize Jesus and Paul these days will be marked by great deception to such the extent that some Christ followers will abandon their faith. This is a day of fear—from the news and threats of war and conflict. Fear will result from natural disasters and economic uncertainty. Christians have and will be persecuted for their faith. Families will be filled with strife and hatred. People mostly will be interested in themselves, as their love for others grows cold.
People will love pleasure more than God. They will desire theirs ears to be tickled by preachers, much more than desiring truth that hurts the flesh. Many will have a form of godliness, but deny the power of God. The day will be filled with those who mock God. Paul wrote about people who will constantly seek knowledge, but who will never be able to find it. These are always latching on to some new teaching, but never understand truth.
To summarize Jesus and Paul these days will be marked by great deception to such the extent that some Christ followers will abandon their faith. This is a day of fear—from the news and threats of war and conflict. Fear will result from natural disasters and economic uncertainty. Christians have and will be persecuted for their faith. Families will be filled with strife and hatred. People mostly will be interested in themselves, as their love for others grows cold.
People will love pleasure more than God. They will desire theirs ears to be tickled by preachers, much more than desiring truth that hurts the flesh. Many will have a form of godliness, but deny the power of God. The day will be filled with those who mock God. Paul wrote about people who will constantly seek knowledge, but who will never be able to find it. These are always latching on to some new teaching, but never understand truth.
What shall we do? In 1 Corinthians 9:27 Paul wrote this about himself, “I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.” We can and must train ourselves to live in the Spirit and to keep our flesh under control. We must learn to lean on the Holy Spirit living in us.
Jesus told this to His closest followers in John 16:7, "Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you." This Holy Spirit must be awesome, if it is better to have Him than to have Jesus. In John 14 Jesus told us that the Holy Spirit would be with us AND live inside of us. What a powerful promise, that God would live inside of us.
In this troubling day, we need this kind of help. The Helper (Counselor, Intercessor, Strengthener & Standby) will advise us. He will make us stronger. He is our personal trainer to help us physically, financially, relationally, emotionally, spiritually, etc. He is always with us and in us standing by in our time of need.
Peace,
Stan
Thursday, October 23, 2008
What Matters More?
We are days away from an historic election. Just to mention the name of an opposing candidate evokes hatred and fear in the hearts of many. It seems that so many people are hanging their hopes for the future on the results of this election. Nearly half of the country is going to be certain that we have chosen the wrong solution. To the most convinced, certainly prophecy of disaster will follow news of the proclaimed winners and losers. I think to myself, "Will it matter as much as we think?"
Peace,
Stan
Then other thoughts come to mind, "What matters more?" Can the results of this election matter as much to me as other things? My own hard work ethic matter more that who is President? My own positive or negative attitude must matter more? How I love and care for my family matters to the results of my life more than who is elected to any government position. What matters more?
As I sit blogging, sipping my cup of coffee at the local coffee house, the conversation of the women at the next table drifts over my ears. The discussion is political. Each is convinced of the absurdity of the values of the wrong party. What matters more, their opinion of politics or their hateful attitudes towards those of opposing opinions? As they sit and gossip about so-and-so, it is apparent to me that their uppity attitudes will determine much more of the outcomes of their lives that the results of the election.
The Bible teaches that our choice of thinking about our own flesh or thinking about things of the Holy Spirit will bring drastically different results. There is a constant battle for dominance of our thoughts. What we think about will determine the outcomes of our life. Colossians 3:2 reads, "Set your mind on things above, not on things of the earth." Let's allow the life-giving Holy Spirit to control our thoughts. The results of the election or what controls our thoughts: what matters more? I think you know.
Stan
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Outsider's View of Church
At the end of August I asked the folks at church what their co-workers, family and friends think and say about God. It seems that many non-church-going-people think that they are not worthy of God. Others think they have no need for God. Still others believe in God, but don't think they fit in with the church going crowd. We found that many people are mad at God for what they believe he has done to them, or not done for them.
One thing we found is that many people are cool with God and Jesus, but they just don't like church people. Church people are seen by much of the non-church going populace as the "church lady" Dana Carvey made famous on Saturday Night Live. Because of church people they have met, they are convinced that to follow Jesus they will have to become angry, judgmental and narrow. They think that going to church will steal all the fun from their lives. The hypocrites in the church drive people away.
Un-churched people perceive church as boring, irrelevant and a pain-in-the-butt that could not be worth being part of. They think they don't have the right clothes or talk the lingo. If they ever worked up enough courage to attend a church they would be looking for a place to love, understand and to accept them. They definitely do not want to be judged by people. I saw a tattoo on a young man which actually read, "No man can judge me!"
Simply put, if the church is going to reach the un-churched we will have to change our attitude towards them. We need to act more like Jesus. We need to be less about rules and more about love, forgiveness, tolerance and serving. We need to explain better why we do what we are doing in a church service. We need to teach on subjects that will mean something to them.
At the end of the day, people need Jesus. Whatever we need to do to help the world perceive Jesus in truth is our duty. Our mission is to introduce Jesus to people. Let's break down the barriers. Let's take a look at ourselves often through the eyes of an outsider. Let's become better fishers of men.
Peace,
Stan
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Purpose
In John 14:16-17 Jesus said, "And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—The Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you." In verse 12 Jesus made one of His most fascinating statements, “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father." In other words, believers will do the works of Jesus by the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. The purpose of indwelling Holy Spirit is connected with doing the works that Jesus did.
The works of Jesus can be summarized by this: Jesus came to seek and to save the lost. The Greek word translated "save" means to save, heal, deliver, set free and to make whole. In Acts 10:38 Peter spoke this about Jesus' ministry, "how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him." Jesus was born of the Spirit. On the day of His water baptism, the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus. Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit and operated by the power of the Holy Spirit. The works that Jesus did we will do also. By the power of the Holy Spirit we are called to seek and to save the lost. This is real purpose.
At home, at work, wherever we go, God goes. God, the Holy Spirit lives in us. Our purpose is to continue the ministry of Jesus on the earth. We are born of the Spirit and filled with the Holy Spirit. In Acts 1:8 Jesus told us that we would receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon us. This endowment of power is for the purpose of being a witness for Jesus.
The works of Jesus can be summarized by this: Jesus came to seek and to save the lost. The Greek word translated "save" means to save, heal, deliver, set free and to make whole. In Acts 10:38 Peter spoke this about Jesus' ministry, "how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him." Jesus was born of the Spirit. On the day of His water baptism, the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus. Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit and operated by the power of the Holy Spirit. The works that Jesus did we will do also. By the power of the Holy Spirit we are called to seek and to save the lost. This is real purpose.
At home, at work, wherever we go, God goes. God, the Holy Spirit lives in us. Our purpose is to continue the ministry of Jesus on the earth. We are born of the Spirit and filled with the Holy Spirit. In Acts 1:8 Jesus told us that we would receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon us. This endowment of power is for the purpose of being a witness for Jesus.
Peace,
Stan
Monday, September 29, 2008
Church as it Should Be
We have been feeding about 1000 people from the Life Center for many months now. After all of these months, we decided to invite them back to a party. So, on Friday night we grilled hotdogs, had games for the kids, had nice gifts to give away... Over 200 people came. What a fun idea!
Reet, our outreach pastor, organized the event and preached to the crowd. Several decided to follow Jesus. Many came to church on Sunday. And the greatest part is--Michelle and I were out of town at a meeting. We had nothing to do with this highly successful event, but to cheer it on from the sidelines.
This is a great example of the church being the church. Church is not something one attends. Church is something a person does. We are a go-and-do it church, NOT a come and watch us church.
What idea is the Holy Spirit giving you to be a blessing to others?
Peace,
Stan
Monday, September 15, 2008
Spirit Consciousness
Brother Lawrence from The Practice of the Presence of God p. 61 wrote, “The most holy and necessary practice in our spiritual life is the presence of God. That means finding constant pleasure in His divine company, speaking humbly and lovingly with Him in all seasons, at every moment, without limiting the conversation in any way.” This book written nearly 300 years ago gives instruction about the blessing of knowing God in all His majesty and feeling His presence every day. If you are born again, you are the temple of the Holy Spirit. God lives in you. Christ lives in you.
What would my life look like, if I was constantly filled with joy and CONTROLLED by the Holy Spirit? Acts 13:52, from The New Testament by Kenneth S. Wuest, “And the disciples were constantly filled with joy and CONTROLLED by the Holy Spirit.” To be more controlled by the Holy Spirit, we will have to be more Spirit conscious. I have learned to say, "I am a spirit being. I have a soul. And, I live in a body."
With my body I contact the physical realm. With my spirit I contact the spiritual realm. With my soul I contact the intellectual realm. Our soul is our mind, will, and emotions. In the war between spirit and flesh, the soul casts the deciding vote. Whether I walk in the spirit or in the flesh is decided by my will (soul). It is in our emotions (soul) that we are offended, or happy, or sad.
At the new birth, my spirit was instantly changed from dead to alive. I instantly became the righteousness of God thru Christ Jesus. I am now complete in him. My body (flesh) will not be “saved” until Jesus comes again. My flesh must constantly be put under subjection to my spirit. Romans 12:1 - 2 (NASB)reads , “Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” The more renewed my mind is, the more spirit controlled my life will be.
To be more spirit conscious, let’s say to ourselves, “I am a spirit being. I have a soul. And I live in a body.” Let’s pray without ceasing. Let’s keep a dialogue running continuously with God throughout the day. Bro. Lawrence wrote, “Whatever we do, even if we are reading the Word or praying, we should stop for a few minutes—as often as possible—to praise God from the depths of our hearts, to enjoy Him there in secret…What could please God more than for us to leave the cares of the world temporarily in order to worship Him in our spirits? These momentary retreats serve to free us from our selfishness, which can only exist in the world. In short, we cannot show our loyalty to God more than by renouncing our worldly selves even a single moment with Him.”
Let’s renew our minds with God’s Word, so we will not be conformed to this world. Get started on a Bible reading plan. Study the Word in area of need. Consult Word before decision making. Let’s be more Spirit controlled and less Flesh controlled
Peace,
Stan
What would my life look like, if I was constantly filled with joy and CONTROLLED by the Holy Spirit? Acts 13:52, from The New Testament by Kenneth S. Wuest, “And the disciples were constantly filled with joy and CONTROLLED by the Holy Spirit.” To be more controlled by the Holy Spirit, we will have to be more Spirit conscious. I have learned to say, "I am a spirit being. I have a soul. And, I live in a body."
With my body I contact the physical realm. With my spirit I contact the spiritual realm. With my soul I contact the intellectual realm. Our soul is our mind, will, and emotions. In the war between spirit and flesh, the soul casts the deciding vote. Whether I walk in the spirit or in the flesh is decided by my will (soul). It is in our emotions (soul) that we are offended, or happy, or sad.
At the new birth, my spirit was instantly changed from dead to alive. I instantly became the righteousness of God thru Christ Jesus. I am now complete in him. My body (flesh) will not be “saved” until Jesus comes again. My flesh must constantly be put under subjection to my spirit. Romans 12:1 - 2 (NASB)reads , “Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” The more renewed my mind is, the more spirit controlled my life will be.
To be more spirit conscious, let’s say to ourselves, “I am a spirit being. I have a soul. And I live in a body.” Let’s pray without ceasing. Let’s keep a dialogue running continuously with God throughout the day. Bro. Lawrence wrote, “Whatever we do, even if we are reading the Word or praying, we should stop for a few minutes—as often as possible—to praise God from the depths of our hearts, to enjoy Him there in secret…What could please God more than for us to leave the cares of the world temporarily in order to worship Him in our spirits? These momentary retreats serve to free us from our selfishness, which can only exist in the world. In short, we cannot show our loyalty to God more than by renouncing our worldly selves even a single moment with Him.”
Let’s renew our minds with God’s Word, so we will not be conformed to this world. Get started on a Bible reading plan. Study the Word in area of need. Consult Word before decision making. Let’s be more Spirit controlled and less Flesh controlled
Peace,
Stan
Monday, September 8, 2008
Controlled by the Holy Spirit
Acts 13:52, from The New Testament by Kenneth S. Wuest reads, “And the disciples were constantly filled with joy and CONTROLLED by the Holy Spirit.” What would your life look like, if you were constantly filled with joy and CONTROLLED by the Holy Spirit? What would the church looks like, if all followers of Jesus Christ would be more controlled by the Holy Spirit?
There have been three phases of God's relationship with humans. Phase One could be called: God Out There. For most of human history God was mysterious and unapproachable. He interacted sporadically with a few prophets and sheep herders. The rest of humanity was left in the dark.
The second phase began with an angelic announcement of Emmanuel--God with us. When Jesus came to the earth, God came to live among us. We beheld the glory of God. Jesus was the exact representation of God. He walked and talked with the folks. He ate meals in their homes. He was fascinating and compassionate. Then He left the scene. Before He left, He promised to send another Helper. The Holy Spirit, according to Jesus, would be with us and live in us.
When a person becomes a Christ follower, he is born of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit comes to live inside. God makes His home inside the spirit of human beings. How powerful it must be to be controlled by the One who lives inside.
"Is it in you?" is the question asked by Gatorade. The suggestion is that if Gatorade is in you, you can perform like an elite athlete. Perhaps you will not become dehydrated. I am not sure Gatorade will imporve your athletic skills. One thing I know, the Holy Spirit in you will absolutely improve your daily performance in life. The better question is, "Is He in you?"
Peace,
Stan
There have been three phases of God's relationship with humans. Phase One could be called: God Out There. For most of human history God was mysterious and unapproachable. He interacted sporadically with a few prophets and sheep herders. The rest of humanity was left in the dark.
The second phase began with an angelic announcement of Emmanuel--God with us. When Jesus came to the earth, God came to live among us. We beheld the glory of God. Jesus was the exact representation of God. He walked and talked with the folks. He ate meals in their homes. He was fascinating and compassionate. Then He left the scene. Before He left, He promised to send another Helper. The Holy Spirit, according to Jesus, would be with us and live in us.
When a person becomes a Christ follower, he is born of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit comes to live inside. God makes His home inside the spirit of human beings. How powerful it must be to be controlled by the One who lives inside.
"Is it in you?" is the question asked by Gatorade. The suggestion is that if Gatorade is in you, you can perform like an elite athlete. Perhaps you will not become dehydrated. I am not sure Gatorade will imporve your athletic skills. One thing I know, the Holy Spirit in you will absolutely improve your daily performance in life. The better question is, "Is He in you?"
Peace,
Stan
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Outside Look at Church
On Sunday I asked our church a list of questions that caused us to consider what people outside of church think about God, Jesus and church. The responses were very interesting.
People are scared of God, mad at God and are confused by God. People in Bible days seemed to like Jesus OK. Yet, today it seems that people are very uncomfortable talking about Jesus. I think people are confused by Jesus today, because His followers are not much like Him.
If people are going to warm up to Jesus, I think Christians are going to have to start acting, talking, being more like Jesus. If people were to meet Jesus today, I think they would respond to Him just like they did years ago. The only Jesus people can see is the Jesus they see in Christians.
The world does not need judgmental, hypocritical, self-righteous Christians. The world needs loving, compassionate, humble servants of Jesus. God loved the world so much that He sent us Jesus. Jesus loves the world so much, He sends us to them. Let's do a better job of showing them the real Jesus.
Peace,
Stan
People are scared of God, mad at God and are confused by God. People in Bible days seemed to like Jesus OK. Yet, today it seems that people are very uncomfortable talking about Jesus. I think people are confused by Jesus today, because His followers are not much like Him.
If people are going to warm up to Jesus, I think Christians are going to have to start acting, talking, being more like Jesus. If people were to meet Jesus today, I think they would respond to Him just like they did years ago. The only Jesus people can see is the Jesus they see in Christians.
The world does not need judgmental, hypocritical, self-righteous Christians. The world needs loving, compassionate, humble servants of Jesus. God loved the world so much that He sent us Jesus. Jesus loves the world so much, He sends us to them. Let's do a better job of showing them the real Jesus.
Peace,
Stan
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Our Ideal Church
Our ideal church is one filled with people who love God passionately and love one another genuinely. We want our church to improve people's lives, not burden them. We aspire for our church to be relevant in everyday life. We long to see people live victoriously. No one wants surprises, scandals, or secrets from the church leadership, so we promise to be honest and forthright concerning church matters.
No one should have to go through life alone. We want to do life together with people who love us just the way we are, but exhort us to get better. Everyone should have a place to be themselves, without having to put on airs. At church, we want every person to find good friends who are a delight and who provide comfort and stability during life's difficult times. We want to build a church where people laugh freely and often.
We want every Sunday to be a family reunion. We want Sunday to be the best day of the week. We desire a church where people stay for years, grow old together, and watch their children grow up, get married, and have children of their own.
This what we try to accomplish at Cornerstone Church.
Peace,
Stan
No one should have to go through life alone. We want to do life together with people who love us just the way we are, but exhort us to get better. Everyone should have a place to be themselves, without having to put on airs. At church, we want every person to find good friends who are a delight and who provide comfort and stability during life's difficult times. We want to build a church where people laugh freely and often.
We want every Sunday to be a family reunion. We want Sunday to be the best day of the week. We desire a church where people stay for years, grow old together, and watch their children grow up, get married, and have children of their own.
This what we try to accomplish at Cornerstone Church.
Peace,
Stan
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Changes
Ch-ch-ch-changes. We all want to grow and progress in live. BUT, we seldom want to change. We want "things" to change. WE just don't want to have to change anything. I have found that if I want "things" to change I have to change. I will have to change what I am doing, saying, who I am associating with, etc.
Some changes are forced upon us. We just lost our youth and music pastors, JD and Jame Swilley. They have been with us for seven years. They did a wonderful job. I did not want anything to change. Guess what, "Life happens!" They now live in Colorado. My kids are growing up and moving away from home. I don't like that either. Whitney lives in Tulsa. Morgan leaves on Monday for Thailand! I am glad for them, and sad for me.
Ch-ch-ch-changes. We should embrace change. It is part of life. If our children don't grow up and sprout their wings and fly, then there is a big problem. This change is good and healthy, even if it is painful for the parents.
If my financial situation is going to change, I might have to make changes. If my marriage is going to change, I will have to make changes. If I am going to be more healthy, I will have to make changes. Change, grow, live!
Peace,
Stan
Some changes are forced upon us. We just lost our youth and music pastors, JD and Jame Swilley. They have been with us for seven years. They did a wonderful job. I did not want anything to change. Guess what, "Life happens!" They now live in Colorado. My kids are growing up and moving away from home. I don't like that either. Whitney lives in Tulsa. Morgan leaves on Monday for Thailand! I am glad for them, and sad for me.
Ch-ch-ch-changes. We should embrace change. It is part of life. If our children don't grow up and sprout their wings and fly, then there is a big problem. This change is good and healthy, even if it is painful for the parents.
If my financial situation is going to change, I might have to make changes. If my marriage is going to change, I will have to make changes. If I am going to be more healthy, I will have to make changes. Change, grow, live!
Peace,
Stan
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Hope
The lack of hope is a great tragedy in life. Pearl S. Buck said, "We must have hope or starve to death." I see so many people that have little or no hope. They seem to only be existing in this world, not really living.
Helen Keller has always been such an inspiration to me. She said some amazing things about hope. Here are a couple: "When one door of happiness closes, another opens" and my favorite "Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadow. It's what sunflowers do."
Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT), "'For I know the plans I have for you,' says the LORD. 'They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.'" Jeremiah 31:17 (NKJV), "There is hope in your future, says the Lord." Every person with a relationship with God through Jesus Christ has hope for the future.
There is hope for you!
Peace,
Stan
Helen Keller has always been such an inspiration to me. She said some amazing things about hope. Here are a couple: "When one door of happiness closes, another opens" and my favorite "Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadow. It's what sunflowers do."
Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT), "'For I know the plans I have for you,' says the LORD. 'They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.'" Jeremiah 31:17 (NKJV), "There is hope in your future, says the Lord." Every person with a relationship with God through Jesus Christ has hope for the future.
There is hope for you!
Peace,
Stan
Monday, August 11, 2008
King's Kid
Romans 5:17 (NKJV), "For if by the one man’s offense death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ." Because of our relationship with Jesus Christ, we reign in this life. The idea of reigning suggests that we are royalty. In fact we are. Romans 8:14 - 17 (NKJV), "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together."
We are heirs of God and joint heirs with Jesus Christ. We have not earned this position; it is a gift. We have received abundance of grace. Grace is the ability of God freely given to us. We have been given the gift of righteousness. Righteousness is the ability of God to stand in the presence of God without any sense of guilt or shame, as if sin never existed in our life. Jesus became sin, so we can be made right with God.
Jesus' authority is our authority. Jesus gave us power of attorney to use his name. Jesus is the name above every other name. Every knee bows to that name. All the resources of the kingdom are at our disposal. Psalms 24:1 (NKJV), "The earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein."
When the crippled son of Jonathan was found, King David called Mephibosheth to come to him and to eat at his table continually. In the same way, our Heavenly Father calls us to dine with Him continually. Live like a king's kid, because you are.
Peace,
Stan
We are heirs of God and joint heirs with Jesus Christ. We have not earned this position; it is a gift. We have received abundance of grace. Grace is the ability of God freely given to us. We have been given the gift of righteousness. Righteousness is the ability of God to stand in the presence of God without any sense of guilt or shame, as if sin never existed in our life. Jesus became sin, so we can be made right with God.
Jesus' authority is our authority. Jesus gave us power of attorney to use his name. Jesus is the name above every other name. Every knee bows to that name. All the resources of the kingdom are at our disposal. Psalms 24:1 (NKJV), "The earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein."
When the crippled son of Jonathan was found, King David called Mephibosheth to come to him and to eat at his table continually. In the same way, our Heavenly Father calls us to dine with Him continually. Live like a king's kid, because you are.
Peace,
Stan
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Hearing From God
While interviewing potential candidates for our job openings in our youth and music departments, one candidate said something quite thought provoking. He said that he wished God would just speak to us in an audible voice about our decision. That would be nice, but we can't count on it.
Romans 8:14 (NASB), "For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God." One thing we can count on is that God will lead us by the Holy Spirit. We must trust guidance He gives us, which is followed by supernatural peace. We can train ourselves to be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Regular reading and study of God's Word helps us to hear the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the author of the Bible. This is the language He speaks. Knowing God's written Word helps us discern the subtle leading of the Holy Spirit. Usually the Holy Spirit will lead us in small, unimportant matters. As we learn to trust those inward impressions and that still small voice, we gain confidence in following His leadership in more weighty matters.
God will speak through others. Usually this is in agreement with what we already know to be true inwardly. Jesus said, "My sheep know my voice..."
Peace,
Stan
Romans 8:14 (NASB), "For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God." One thing we can count on is that God will lead us by the Holy Spirit. We must trust guidance He gives us, which is followed by supernatural peace. We can train ourselves to be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Regular reading and study of God's Word helps us to hear the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the author of the Bible. This is the language He speaks. Knowing God's written Word helps us discern the subtle leading of the Holy Spirit. Usually the Holy Spirit will lead us in small, unimportant matters. As we learn to trust those inward impressions and that still small voice, we gain confidence in following His leadership in more weighty matters.
God will speak through others. Usually this is in agreement with what we already know to be true inwardly. Jesus said, "My sheep know my voice..."
Peace,
Stan
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Passionate Love
Zechariah 8:2 (NLT), “This is what the LORD of Heaven’s Armies says: My love for Mount Zion is passionate and strong; I am consumed with passion for Jerusalem!" God's love for the church is passionate and strong. There is nothing like the church. We are God's plan for man on the earth. He has no other plan! The church is the body of Christ. He is the head, and we are the body. God loves us like He loves His own Son.
Zechariah 8:4 - 5 (NLT), “This is what the LORD of Heaven’s Armies says: Once again old men and women will walk Jerusalem’s streets with their canes and will sit together in the city squares. And the streets of the city will be filled with boys and girls at play." This is a wonderful picture of the way church ought to be. Old people sitting around enjoying each other's conversation. Young people playing together. This is church.
When church is done well people are happy. Those outside become intrigued with what they see. Many are drawn to the fellowship of the church. God loves the church. We should love it too.
Peace,
Stan
Zechariah 8:4 - 5 (NLT), “This is what the LORD of Heaven’s Armies says: Once again old men and women will walk Jerusalem’s streets with their canes and will sit together in the city squares. And the streets of the city will be filled with boys and girls at play." This is a wonderful picture of the way church ought to be. Old people sitting around enjoying each other's conversation. Young people playing together. This is church.
When church is done well people are happy. Those outside become intrigued with what they see. Many are drawn to the fellowship of the church. God loves the church. We should love it too.
Peace,
Stan
Saturday, July 19, 2008
And on it goes...
My last blog was about how Life Happens. The example I used was the injury my wife, Michelle, sustained while on vacation in Colorado. She handled that situation very well. She is mending quite well. Thank you.
Speaking of Life Happens. JD Swilley, our youth pastor, came in my office on Monday to inform me that he and Jame are moving the family to Loveland, Colorado to take a position in a church there. I wish I could say that I was prepared for this announcement. However, I was not. Life Happens.
So, we have a big challenge ahead. We need to replace our youth pastor and music leader. These are important roles at Cornerstone Church. I believe that Jehovah Jireh (God who see ahead at supplies our need) is already on the job. He is preparing the right people to fill our vacancies.
Life Happens. Thank God for God.
Peace,
Stan
Speaking of Life Happens. JD Swilley, our youth pastor, came in my office on Monday to inform me that he and Jame are moving the family to Loveland, Colorado to take a position in a church there. I wish I could say that I was prepared for this announcement. However, I was not. Life Happens.
So, we have a big challenge ahead. We need to replace our youth pastor and music leader. These are important roles at Cornerstone Church. I believe that Jehovah Jireh (God who see ahead at supplies our need) is already on the job. He is preparing the right people to fill our vacancies.
Life Happens. Thank God for God.
Peace,
Stan
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Life Happens
I am home from vacation now. We like to ride bikes and hike in Colorado. On the first day of vacation, the entire family went on a ten mile hike with our friends. The twelve of us are quite a site. The park ranger asked what group we were? "Just two families," I replied! The trail followed the stream down the mountain. It was a good hike.
Michelle and I took a bike ride around Lake Dillon on the second day of vacation. It is a beautiful ride. She was riding very strongly. It started raining. Then it rained harder. So, we decided to pull over. Mistake! Michelle executed a perfect stop, twisting her foot our of her clipless pedals. She put her left foot down of the slippery trail, and slid. Her bike came crashing down. As she fell, her right leg landed on the crank of the bike. The crank sliced her right calf open like a filet knife would have. She immediately instructed me to take off my jersey to stop the bleeding.
Several rescue workers responded to my 9-1-1 call. The ambulance pulled away, leaving me on the trail with my bike. I rode hard and fast on the wet trail to catch up to Michelle at the emergency room of the local hospital. After the wound was cleaned, the doctor put about 30 stitches into my wife's leg. Our vaction took an immediate turn.
Michelle's vacation was stolen from her. It was altered for the rest of the family. Life happens. I am proud to announce that prayer and praise came immediately out of my wife's mouth during her accident. She was a perfect peace. During the remainder of our vacation, she had a wonderful attitude, as the rest of us took off on hikes and other biking adventures.
We sure have a memory. God is good. Michelle is on the mend. The stitches come out in a few days. Scars are tatoos with stories. She has one to tell. There will be future vacations. Life is hard and sometimes unfair. During Michelle's trial, her faith was strong, and her attitude was great.
What comes out of you, when Life Happens?
Peace,
Stan
Michelle and I took a bike ride around Lake Dillon on the second day of vacation. It is a beautiful ride. She was riding very strongly. It started raining. Then it rained harder. So, we decided to pull over. Mistake! Michelle executed a perfect stop, twisting her foot our of her clipless pedals. She put her left foot down of the slippery trail, and slid. Her bike came crashing down. As she fell, her right leg landed on the crank of the bike. The crank sliced her right calf open like a filet knife would have. She immediately instructed me to take off my jersey to stop the bleeding.
Several rescue workers responded to my 9-1-1 call. The ambulance pulled away, leaving me on the trail with my bike. I rode hard and fast on the wet trail to catch up to Michelle at the emergency room of the local hospital. After the wound was cleaned, the doctor put about 30 stitches into my wife's leg. Our vaction took an immediate turn.
Michelle's vacation was stolen from her. It was altered for the rest of the family. Life happens. I am proud to announce that prayer and praise came immediately out of my wife's mouth during her accident. She was a perfect peace. During the remainder of our vacation, she had a wonderful attitude, as the rest of us took off on hikes and other biking adventures.
We sure have a memory. God is good. Michelle is on the mend. The stitches come out in a few days. Scars are tatoos with stories. She has one to tell. There will be future vacations. Life is hard and sometimes unfair. During Michelle's trial, her faith was strong, and her attitude was great.
What comes out of you, when Life Happens?
Peace,
Stan
Monday, June 23, 2008
25 Years
Cornerstone Church is 25 years old. Twenty-five years goes so quickly. I start wondering, "What am I doing today that will make a difference 25 years from now?"
In 1983 these were popular songs: Girls Just Want to Have Fun by Cindy Lauper, God Bless the USA by Lee Greenwood, Jump by Van Halen, Mr. Roboto by Styx, Sharp Dressed Man by ZZ Top, She Works Hard for the Money by Donna Summer, and Thriller by Michael Jackson. These were popular movies: Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, National Lampoon’s Vacation, Flashdance, The Right Stuff, and Scarface. Television was filled with these timeless classics? TJ Hooker, Cagney and Lacey, Mama’s Family, Dynasty, Fall Guy, Newhart, Knight Rider, and Hill Street Blues. What difference does it make?
The only thing that will make a difference 25 years from now will be what we do for people. We express our love for God by loving people. 1 John 4:7 - 11 (NKJV), "Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another."
In 1983 these were popular songs: Girls Just Want to Have Fun by Cindy Lauper, God Bless the USA by Lee Greenwood, Jump by Van Halen, Mr. Roboto by Styx, Sharp Dressed Man by ZZ Top, She Works Hard for the Money by Donna Summer, and Thriller by Michael Jackson. These were popular movies: Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, National Lampoon’s Vacation, Flashdance, The Right Stuff, and Scarface. Television was filled with these timeless classics? TJ Hooker, Cagney and Lacey, Mama’s Family, Dynasty, Fall Guy, Newhart, Knight Rider, and Hill Street Blues. What difference does it make?
The only thing that will make a difference 25 years from now will be what we do for people. We express our love for God by loving people. 1 John 4:7 - 11 (NKJV), "Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another."
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Ten Things I Want My Kids To Know
There are ten things I want my kids to know, before I cut them loose into the world. My daughter is nearly out there on her own now at almost 21. My older son just graduated high school. So, he's on his way. Several years ago I questioned myself as to whether I had done everything to prepare my children to be successful in this world. I came up with this list of ten things.
1. Put God first
2. Always do right
3. Treat everyone well
4. Choose your friends wisely
5. Try new things
6. Don’t be afraid to fail
7. If you fall down, get up
8. Help people, especially those who cannot repay you
9. Ask questions and listen to answers
10. Honor your father and mother
Happy parenting!
Peace,
Stan
1. Put God first
2. Always do right
3. Treat everyone well
4. Choose your friends wisely
5. Try new things
6. Don’t be afraid to fail
7. If you fall down, get up
8. Help people, especially those who cannot repay you
9. Ask questions and listen to answers
10. Honor your father and mother
Happy parenting!
Peace,
Stan
Monday, June 9, 2008
Father's Day
Father's Day reminds us of many things. We live in a day when men sire children, but fewer father them. What does it mean to be a father? There are three things which fathers should remember.
1) Children are gifts from God. Psalms 127:3, "Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward." Children should be treated as precious and special gifts from God.
2) Children are a stewardship from God. A steward is one who manages another's property. Children should be considered God's possessions. They should be raised according to God's plan for them. Edith Schaeffer, wife of Francis Schaeffer, answered the question, “What is a family?” by stating, “It is a perpetual relay of truth!” Fathers have a responsibility to pass on God's truth and values to his children.
3) Children must be trained. Noone is born knowing what to do in order to succeed in this world. Each must be trained to walk with integrity. Children need to be taught how to work hard and the value of money. Children need to be trained to use their words to edify not to destroy. Etc.
The best way to train children is by example, more than words.
Peace,
Stan
1) Children are gifts from God. Psalms 127:3, "Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward." Children should be treated as precious and special gifts from God.
2) Children are a stewardship from God. A steward is one who manages another's property. Children should be considered God's possessions. They should be raised according to God's plan for them. Edith Schaeffer, wife of Francis Schaeffer, answered the question, “What is a family?” by stating, “It is a perpetual relay of truth!” Fathers have a responsibility to pass on God's truth and values to his children.
3) Children must be trained. Noone is born knowing what to do in order to succeed in this world. Each must be trained to walk with integrity. Children need to be taught how to work hard and the value of money. Children need to be trained to use their words to edify not to destroy. Etc.
The best way to train children is by example, more than words.
Peace,
Stan
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Great Opportunity
A few days ago I had a thought. It is always nice to have a thought. Here's my newest thought: "We have 250+ children and teenagers at church. God must expect us to minister to them." Many young people today have no one who believes in them or shows interest in them. We have a wonderful opportunity to change lives for eternity.
I asked our congregation to give special attention to individual youth who attend our church. Get to know them. Find out what their interest are. Let them know that we are glad to see them and believe in them. We know kids who live with no living relative. They have been passed on to step parents, girlfriends, etc. God loves everyone. The greatest mark of a Christian is our love for people.
Luke 18:16 - 17 (NKJV) But Jesus called them to Him and said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” We all need some children in our lives to bless. In Mark 9 Jesus gave such a brilliant object lesson. Mark 9:35 - 37 (NKJV) And He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, “If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.” Then He took a little child and set him in the midst of them. And when He had taken him in His arms, He said to them, “Whoever receives one of these little children in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me, receives not Me but Him who sent Me.”
Look for opportunities around you to be a blessing to people. Remember that kids are people. At Cornerstone Church, we love kids.
Peace,
Stan
I asked our congregation to give special attention to individual youth who attend our church. Get to know them. Find out what their interest are. Let them know that we are glad to see them and believe in them. We know kids who live with no living relative. They have been passed on to step parents, girlfriends, etc. God loves everyone. The greatest mark of a Christian is our love for people.
Luke 18:16 - 17 (NKJV) But Jesus called them to Him and said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” We all need some children in our lives to bless. In Mark 9 Jesus gave such a brilliant object lesson. Mark 9:35 - 37 (NKJV) And He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, “If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.” Then He took a little child and set him in the midst of them. And when He had taken him in His arms, He said to them, “Whoever receives one of these little children in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me, receives not Me but Him who sent Me.”
Look for opportunities around you to be a blessing to people. Remember that kids are people. At Cornerstone Church, we love kids.
Peace,
Stan
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Sweeter Than Honey
Given the incredible uncertainty in the world today, we look for stability and security. We don’t know the how long we will be at war in the Middle East. We don’t know if the stock market is going up or down. Will we develop alternative energy before existing sources become unaffordable? Who will be our next president? In what will we find stability?
People certainly can let us down. Our job offers little guarantee for the future. One thing we know never changes—God and His Word. Mark 13:31 says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.”
Psalms 19:7 - 10, "The instructions of the LORD are perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The commandments of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are clear, giving insight for living. Reverence for the LORD is pure, lasting forever. The laws of the LORD are true; each one is fair. They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb."
God's Words revive the soul. They make wise the simple and bring joy to the heart. God's Words give insight for living and last forever. They are true. They are more desirable than gold. God's Words are sweeter than honey and have great reward. Everyone feeds his own body as well as possible, even more than necessary. God's Word is like food to our spirit. How well do we feed our spirit? How healthy is our spirit?
God's Word is sweeter than honey. In Jeremiah 15:16 we read, "Your words were found, and I ate them, And Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart; For I am called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts." God's Word will bring stability to your life. So, take a big bite out every day.
Peace,
Stan
People certainly can let us down. Our job offers little guarantee for the future. One thing we know never changes—God and His Word. Mark 13:31 says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.”
Psalms 19:7 - 10, "The instructions of the LORD are perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The commandments of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are clear, giving insight for living. Reverence for the LORD is pure, lasting forever. The laws of the LORD are true; each one is fair. They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb."
God's Words revive the soul. They make wise the simple and bring joy to the heart. God's Words give insight for living and last forever. They are true. They are more desirable than gold. God's Words are sweeter than honey and have great reward. Everyone feeds his own body as well as possible, even more than necessary. God's Word is like food to our spirit. How well do we feed our spirit? How healthy is our spirit?
God's Word is sweeter than honey. In Jeremiah 15:16 we read, "Your words were found, and I ate them, And Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart; For I am called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts." God's Word will bring stability to your life. So, take a big bite out every day.
Peace,
Stan
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Don’t Worry, Be Happy
Philippians 4:6 - 7 in The Message reads, "Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life."
Worry is destructive. The word translated anxious, worry or fret in Philippians 4:6 means to be torn apart. It is the picture of a ship being tossed in a storm. Our English word worry comes from an old Anglo-Saxon word that means: to strangle. “Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow,” said Corrie Ten Boom; “it empties today of its strength.”
Worry is also deceptive. It gives us a false view of life, of self, and of God. Hugh Blair wrote, “Worry not about the possible troubles of the future; for if they come, you are but anticipating and adding to their weight; and if they do not come, your worry is useless; and in either case it is weak and in vain, and a distrust of God's providence.” The great cartoonist Charles Schultz, “Don't worry about the world coming to an end today. It's already tomorrow in Australia.” Plato mused, “Nothing in the affairs of men is worthy of great anxiety.”
Worry is de-formative. It keeps us from growing and it makes us like the unsaved in the world. In short, worry is unchristian; worry is a sin. How can we witness to a lost world and encourage them to put faith in Jesus Christ if we ourselves doubt God and worry? It is inconsistent to preach faith and not practice it? The late chaplain of the United States Senate, Peter Marshall, once prayed “that ulcers would not become the badge of our faith.”
How does worry begin? It begins with a thought or an imagination. It begins with negative feelings, all of which are contrary to God and His Word. Instead of rejoicing, praying, supplicating, and giving thanks, a person asks questions:
“Why is this happening to me?”
“What am I going to do?”
“Where is God?”
We read in Isaiah 26:3 - 4, “You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, For in YAH, the Lord, is everlasting strength.”
Peace,
Stan
Worry is destructive. The word translated anxious, worry or fret in Philippians 4:6 means to be torn apart. It is the picture of a ship being tossed in a storm. Our English word worry comes from an old Anglo-Saxon word that means: to strangle. “Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow,” said Corrie Ten Boom; “it empties today of its strength.”
Worry is also deceptive. It gives us a false view of life, of self, and of God. Hugh Blair wrote, “Worry not about the possible troubles of the future; for if they come, you are but anticipating and adding to their weight; and if they do not come, your worry is useless; and in either case it is weak and in vain, and a distrust of God's providence.” The great cartoonist Charles Schultz, “Don't worry about the world coming to an end today. It's already tomorrow in Australia.” Plato mused, “Nothing in the affairs of men is worthy of great anxiety.”
Worry is de-formative. It keeps us from growing and it makes us like the unsaved in the world. In short, worry is unchristian; worry is a sin. How can we witness to a lost world and encourage them to put faith in Jesus Christ if we ourselves doubt God and worry? It is inconsistent to preach faith and not practice it? The late chaplain of the United States Senate, Peter Marshall, once prayed “that ulcers would not become the badge of our faith.”
How does worry begin? It begins with a thought or an imagination. It begins with negative feelings, all of which are contrary to God and His Word. Instead of rejoicing, praying, supplicating, and giving thanks, a person asks questions:
“Why is this happening to me?”
“What am I going to do?”
“Where is God?”
We read in Isaiah 26:3 - 4, “You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, For in YAH, the Lord, is everlasting strength.”
Peace,
Stan
Monday, May 12, 2008
Random Thoughts
Morgan, our son, graduated from high school yesterday. It was a fun day. Graduating from high school must be the most liberating experience. Most of a person's life is compulsory through high school. Upon graduation, life is now more a series of choices. A young person becomes captain of their own ship. The future is theirs to seize. Congrats to all the graduates. Carpe Diem.
Recently a cyclone has leveled much on Myanmar (Burma). Tens of thousands are dead. Hundreds of thousands are homeless and are in danger of dying from unclean water and lack of food. Our missionary friend, Todd Powers, is going into Burma to bring relief in the form of water purification systems and money to purchase food, etc. If you would like to contribute to the cause, you may contact Todd at http://powersplanet.org.
Peace,
Stan
Recently a cyclone has leveled much on Myanmar (Burma). Tens of thousands are dead. Hundreds of thousands are homeless and are in danger of dying from unclean water and lack of food. Our missionary friend, Todd Powers, is going into Burma to bring relief in the form of water purification systems and money to purchase food, etc. If you would like to contribute to the cause, you may contact Todd at http://powersplanet.org.
Peace,
Stan
Monday, May 5, 2008
Recession
Recession, gas prices, flooding, tornados, Iraq war, negative political ads. We are bombarded daily with negative news. The coffee shops and hair salons are filled with the daily gossip and an increase in "gloom and doom" talk.
Are these difficult days? Sure. $3.50 gasoline, $4 per gallon milk, etc. Is this going to improve soon? Who knows? Are we helpless in these days? NO! I believe it will take exceptional faith to live victoriously in these last days. The great news is that faith is available for every Christ follower.
Galatians 3:6 - 9 (NLT), "In the same way, 'Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.' The real children of Abraham, then, are those who put their faith in God. What’s more, the Scriptures looked forward to this time when God would declare the Gentiles to be righteous because of their faith. God proclaimed this good news to Abraham long ago when he said, 'All nations will be blessed through you.' So all who put their faith in Christ share the same blessing Abraham received because of his faith."
Abraham believed God's word to him. As a result, he became the father of the Jewish nation. He bacame very rich and famous. All of the was the result of his faith in what God said. We have the same opportunity. Yet, not every day was stress free for Abraham. As soon as he took off on his journey of faith, it led him staight into a famine. Genesis 12:10 (NLT), "At that time a severe famine struck the land of Canaan, forcing Abram to go down to Egypt, where he lived as a foreigner."
Famine is a temporary, negative circumstance, which is subject to change. Famine is found 90 times in the Bible. Famine is something we will all face in life. Following the Word of the Lord, Abraham travels right into the middle of a famine. As you walk by faith (obedience to the Word of the Lord), you my travel right into the midst of a famine. The famine affected Abram. He had to make a temporary adjustment. Temporary adjustments do not change your ultimate outcome. Famine may require cut backs. If my family is not eating, I’ll do whatever I have to do. Unless God speaks, you must do what you know to do. If your faith does not work in a famine, you need to develop what Paul referred to as "genuine faith" in 2 Timothy 1:5.
Famine (recession) will reveal what a person trusts in. Psalms 37:18 - 19 (NLT), "Day by day the LORD takes care of the innocent, and they will receive an inheritance that lasts forever. They will not be disgraced in hard times; even in famine they will have more than enough." We can put our trust in the economy or put our trust in the Lord.
Peace,
Stan
Are these difficult days? Sure. $3.50 gasoline, $4 per gallon milk, etc. Is this going to improve soon? Who knows? Are we helpless in these days? NO! I believe it will take exceptional faith to live victoriously in these last days. The great news is that faith is available for every Christ follower.
Galatians 3:6 - 9 (NLT), "In the same way, 'Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.' The real children of Abraham, then, are those who put their faith in God. What’s more, the Scriptures looked forward to this time when God would declare the Gentiles to be righteous because of their faith. God proclaimed this good news to Abraham long ago when he said, 'All nations will be blessed through you.' So all who put their faith in Christ share the same blessing Abraham received because of his faith."
Abraham believed God's word to him. As a result, he became the father of the Jewish nation. He bacame very rich and famous. All of the was the result of his faith in what God said. We have the same opportunity. Yet, not every day was stress free for Abraham. As soon as he took off on his journey of faith, it led him staight into a famine. Genesis 12:10 (NLT), "At that time a severe famine struck the land of Canaan, forcing Abram to go down to Egypt, where he lived as a foreigner."
Famine is a temporary, negative circumstance, which is subject to change. Famine is found 90 times in the Bible. Famine is something we will all face in life. Following the Word of the Lord, Abraham travels right into the middle of a famine. As you walk by faith (obedience to the Word of the Lord), you my travel right into the midst of a famine. The famine affected Abram. He had to make a temporary adjustment. Temporary adjustments do not change your ultimate outcome. Famine may require cut backs. If my family is not eating, I’ll do whatever I have to do. Unless God speaks, you must do what you know to do. If your faith does not work in a famine, you need to develop what Paul referred to as "genuine faith" in 2 Timothy 1:5.
Famine (recession) will reveal what a person trusts in. Psalms 37:18 - 19 (NLT), "Day by day the LORD takes care of the innocent, and they will receive an inheritance that lasts forever. They will not be disgraced in hard times; even in famine they will have more than enough." We can put our trust in the economy or put our trust in the Lord.
Peace,
Stan
Monday, April 28, 2008
Black and White
Some of us have been discussing the question, "Is it a black & white world? Or, it is more grey?" On the surface, it seems easy to say. Right is right and wrong is wrong. Sin is sin, etc. But, should I always tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me, God?
What about the proverbial, "does this dress make me look fat" question? Can I tell the part of the truth that will not hurt the other's feelings? Do I have a close and secure enough relationship with the other person to tell them things they might not want to hear? Can something be wrong for me, but OK for my friend? Take, for example, the fact that John the Baptist was forbidden to drink wine. Yet, Jesus drank wine and turned water into wine. I guess we must "work out our own salvation with fear and trembling." Also, it is a good idea to let God judge others. I have enough to do judging my own self!
We struggle with the balance between reaching out to at risk students and providing a safe and sane atmosphere for our church kids. How much do we go after lost young people without losing the already saved? This is a grey question. What is the answer? We are to seek and to save the lost. We should leave the 99 and go after the one lost sheep. Yet, we are to train our children in the way they should go.
2 Timothy 3:1 (NLT) "You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times." We certainly live in these difficult days. The answers are not so easy. I believe it will take extrordinary faith to overcome the difficulties of this world. I believe, now more than ever, we must be directed by the leadership of the Holy Spirit. God will help us find the answer we are looking to find. We will make some mistakes along the way.
My heart, and I believe yours, is to please God in all my ways. His Word will light the path I need to walk on.
Peace,
Stan
What about the proverbial, "does this dress make me look fat" question? Can I tell the part of the truth that will not hurt the other's feelings? Do I have a close and secure enough relationship with the other person to tell them things they might not want to hear? Can something be wrong for me, but OK for my friend? Take, for example, the fact that John the Baptist was forbidden to drink wine. Yet, Jesus drank wine and turned water into wine. I guess we must "work out our own salvation with fear and trembling." Also, it is a good idea to let God judge others. I have enough to do judging my own self!
We struggle with the balance between reaching out to at risk students and providing a safe and sane atmosphere for our church kids. How much do we go after lost young people without losing the already saved? This is a grey question. What is the answer? We are to seek and to save the lost. We should leave the 99 and go after the one lost sheep. Yet, we are to train our children in the way they should go.
2 Timothy 3:1 (NLT) "You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times." We certainly live in these difficult days. The answers are not so easy. I believe it will take extrordinary faith to overcome the difficulties of this world. I believe, now more than ever, we must be directed by the leadership of the Holy Spirit. God will help us find the answer we are looking to find. We will make some mistakes along the way.
My heart, and I believe yours, is to please God in all my ways. His Word will light the path I need to walk on.
Peace,
Stan
Monday, April 21, 2008
Spring
I experienced Spring this past weekend. I heard someone predict a few weeks ago that we would go straight from Winter to Summer, skipping Spring altogether. So, obviously I was concerned! I like Spring. I like the warm weather, thunderstorms, flowers blooming and trees budding. I is like rebirth.
I mowed the yard on Saturday. It was the first day the mower was out of the old barn this year. Someone, probably me, left the key on the mower. So, the battery was dead. After a jump, I was off to the races, so to speak. The smell of fresh cut grass was exilerating. I helped Laine, my 15 year old son, mow another yard later in the day. After mowing, we played tennis. It was a great day.
Saturday night concluded with the Junior/Senior Prom. This is the ultimate Spring event. Boys and girls in their late teens getting all gussied up. We watched every one of them parade on to the stage to be announced to the crowd. It was a gala event. Prom is so much fun that no one wants it to end. Several students came over to our house until the wee hours of Sunday morning.
Sunday morning was great. Several guests visited the church. People made life changing decisions. 65 new people stayed to have lunch with the church staff. The meal was delicious, prepared by Stephanie Thieme and family.
By Sunday afternoon I was tuckered out. I stretched out on the deck OUTSIDE and took a nap. My face is all glowing with a tan this morning. It was so nice feeling the warm sun beating down on my prostrate body. After our nap, Michelle and I walked over to visit with the neighbors. We sat on the patio talking and watching the kids bounce on the trampoline. We capped off the afternoon with a game of tennis. Sunday night's meal was leftover hamburgers that we had grilled out Saturday afternoon.
I am sure glad we didn't have to skip Spring. It is a wonderful time of the year.
Peace,
Stan
I mowed the yard on Saturday. It was the first day the mower was out of the old barn this year. Someone, probably me, left the key on the mower. So, the battery was dead. After a jump, I was off to the races, so to speak. The smell of fresh cut grass was exilerating. I helped Laine, my 15 year old son, mow another yard later in the day. After mowing, we played tennis. It was a great day.
Saturday night concluded with the Junior/Senior Prom. This is the ultimate Spring event. Boys and girls in their late teens getting all gussied up. We watched every one of them parade on to the stage to be announced to the crowd. It was a gala event. Prom is so much fun that no one wants it to end. Several students came over to our house until the wee hours of Sunday morning.
Sunday morning was great. Several guests visited the church. People made life changing decisions. 65 new people stayed to have lunch with the church staff. The meal was delicious, prepared by Stephanie Thieme and family.
By Sunday afternoon I was tuckered out. I stretched out on the deck OUTSIDE and took a nap. My face is all glowing with a tan this morning. It was so nice feeling the warm sun beating down on my prostrate body. After our nap, Michelle and I walked over to visit with the neighbors. We sat on the patio talking and watching the kids bounce on the trampoline. We capped off the afternoon with a game of tennis. Sunday night's meal was leftover hamburgers that we had grilled out Saturday afternoon.
I am sure glad we didn't have to skip Spring. It is a wonderful time of the year.
Peace,
Stan
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
What if I told you there was a place where you can count on the awesome presence of God to manifest, a place where you are treated like one of the family, a place where miracles happen, the people there enjoy a high level of joy and peace, and continually people are getting saved?What if I told you this is not a fantasy, but can be a reality? Where can you find such a place? Acts 2:42-47 gives the only outline for doing church that I can find in the Bible.
Acts 2:42 - 47 (NLT) "All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer. A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity—all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved."
Everyone needs to receive solid teaching from the word of God. Faith is the basis for the Christian life. “The just shall live by faith.” Faith comes from hearing the Word of God proclaimed. Fellowship is much more than sharing coffee and donuts in the church basement. These guys shared their lives together. Contemporary English Version, “…they were like family to each other…” They were praying together. God heard them and granted their requests. This church had it going on. The people lived with an awareness of the awesome presence of God. Wonders and signs were expected and achieved.
People gave in proportion to what they had. The needs of the people were being met. There were high levels of unity and also high levels of joy and contentment. They were praising God. Praise keeps your focus on God, and off of self. It keeps the gift of God stirred up within you. The energy that will take you through any trial of life. People outside of the fellowship liked what they saw. High numbers were being saved and added to the church.
These elements are the pillars of the healthy, vibrant church--teaching, fellowship, prayer, giving and praise. The results of have strong pillars in place are a family of believers, who sense the awesome presence of God in their midst. Wonders and signs are a regular occurrence. The needs of the people are met. The members enjoy a high level of unity, joy and contentment. People outside of the church like what they see inside. So, they come to the church, get saved and become part of the church family.
Peace,
Stan
Acts 2:42 - 47 (NLT) "All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer. A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity—all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved."
Everyone needs to receive solid teaching from the word of God. Faith is the basis for the Christian life. “The just shall live by faith.” Faith comes from hearing the Word of God proclaimed. Fellowship is much more than sharing coffee and donuts in the church basement. These guys shared their lives together. Contemporary English Version, “…they were like family to each other…” They were praying together. God heard them and granted their requests. This church had it going on. The people lived with an awareness of the awesome presence of God. Wonders and signs were expected and achieved.
People gave in proportion to what they had. The needs of the people were being met. There were high levels of unity and also high levels of joy and contentment. They were praising God. Praise keeps your focus on God, and off of self. It keeps the gift of God stirred up within you. The energy that will take you through any trial of life. People outside of the fellowship liked what they saw. High numbers were being saved and added to the church.
These elements are the pillars of the healthy, vibrant church--teaching, fellowship, prayer, giving and praise. The results of have strong pillars in place are a family of believers, who sense the awesome presence of God in their midst. Wonders and signs are a regular occurrence. The needs of the people are met. The members enjoy a high level of unity, joy and contentment. People outside of the church like what they see inside. So, they come to the church, get saved and become part of the church family.
Peace,
Stan
Monday, March 31, 2008
Ideal Church
I wrote this statement a few years ago. This is how we try to do church...
The ideal church is a one filled with people who love God passionately and love one another genuinely. We want our church to improve people’s lives, not burden them. We aspire for our church to be relevant in everyday life. We long to see people live victoriously. No one wants surprises, scandals, or secrets from the church leadership, so we promise to be honest and forthright concerning church matters.
No one should have to go through life alone. We want to do life together with people who love us just the way we are, but exhort us to get better. Everyone should have a place to be themselves, without having to put on airs. At church, we want every person to find good friends who are a delight and who provide comfort and stability during life’s difficult times. We want to build a church where people laugh freely and often.
We want every Sunday to be a family reunion. We want Sunday to be the best day of the week. We desire a church where people stay for years, grow old together, and watch their children grow up, get married, and have children of their own.
Peace,
Stan
The ideal church is a one filled with people who love God passionately and love one another genuinely. We want our church to improve people’s lives, not burden them. We aspire for our church to be relevant in everyday life. We long to see people live victoriously. No one wants surprises, scandals, or secrets from the church leadership, so we promise to be honest and forthright concerning church matters.
No one should have to go through life alone. We want to do life together with people who love us just the way we are, but exhort us to get better. Everyone should have a place to be themselves, without having to put on airs. At church, we want every person to find good friends who are a delight and who provide comfort and stability during life’s difficult times. We want to build a church where people laugh freely and often.
We want every Sunday to be a family reunion. We want Sunday to be the best day of the week. We desire a church where people stay for years, grow old together, and watch their children grow up, get married, and have children of their own.
Peace,
Stan
Monday, March 24, 2008
Easter
This Easter was the earliest in 65 years I heard in a news report a few days ago. But, if the passing of Easter brings warmer weather, then I'm glad it came early. Yesterday, Easter, sure blazed by me in a hurry. All of the extra attention to details--music selection, sermon prep, getting everyone seated somehow, baptism, egg hunt... It seemed like it was over in a flash. People received eternal life through Jesus Christ, the food was delicious everywhere we ate. What a wonderful day!
I am so glad Jesus took my place, so I could be redeemed. Matthew 27:35 begins, "Then THEY crucified Him..." THEY is found 28 times in Matthew 27. I suppose it should read "we." They is always someone else, not me. In that crowd I suppose their were three different kinds of people. There was the sympathetic group. They were crying. They were asking, "Why? What did he do? What crime did he commit? He only helped and healed. Why?"
The antipathetic group was there shouting, "Crucify him. Crucify him." They were offended at Jesus' teaching. He exposed their hypocrisy, their sinfulness and crooked ways. I suppose some passers by were totally unconcerned and uninterested in what was happening on Golgotha's hill. The cross had no meaning or purpose for them. They were the apathetic group. The world never really changes. We still have these groups today.
Three cries were heard the day Jesus was crucified. There was a cry of unbelief from one of the thieves dying next to Jesus. He shouted, "If you are the Son of God, save yourself and us." There was a cry of repentance from the thief on the other side, "We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man is immocent. Lord, remember me when you enter your kingdom." Jesus also cried out from His cross, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."
A preacher was speaking to fishermen on an English seashore. He was trying to make it plain to the men what Christ's work on the cross really was.
Presently, he said, “Now will one of you men tell me, in your own words, what the Lord Jesus did there on the cross?”
An old seaman looked up and, with tears on his weather-beaten face, said: “He swapped with me.”
I love that. Jesus swapped with me. God gives us the cross, then the cross gives us God. When Jesus died, I died with Him. When He was raised, I was raised. Either I die with Jesus on that cross or I die alone, and face eternity alone. I will carry my sins alone, stand before God to be judged and condemned to eternal damnation alone.
But, if I die with Jesus on that cross, then I will rise with Him. When I die, He is with me. When I stand before God, Jesus stands before me. He swapped with me. He died so I can live. He is preparing a place of abode, a mansion, for me in heaven. He is coming to this earth again to get me.
Peace,
Stan
I am so glad Jesus took my place, so I could be redeemed. Matthew 27:35 begins, "Then THEY crucified Him..." THEY is found 28 times in Matthew 27. I suppose it should read "we." They is always someone else, not me. In that crowd I suppose their were three different kinds of people. There was the sympathetic group. They were crying. They were asking, "Why? What did he do? What crime did he commit? He only helped and healed. Why?"
The antipathetic group was there shouting, "Crucify him. Crucify him." They were offended at Jesus' teaching. He exposed their hypocrisy, their sinfulness and crooked ways. I suppose some passers by were totally unconcerned and uninterested in what was happening on Golgotha's hill. The cross had no meaning or purpose for them. They were the apathetic group. The world never really changes. We still have these groups today.
Three cries were heard the day Jesus was crucified. There was a cry of unbelief from one of the thieves dying next to Jesus. He shouted, "If you are the Son of God, save yourself and us." There was a cry of repentance from the thief on the other side, "We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man is immocent. Lord, remember me when you enter your kingdom." Jesus also cried out from His cross, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."
A preacher was speaking to fishermen on an English seashore. He was trying to make it plain to the men what Christ's work on the cross really was.
Presently, he said, “Now will one of you men tell me, in your own words, what the Lord Jesus did there on the cross?”
An old seaman looked up and, with tears on his weather-beaten face, said: “He swapped with me.”
I love that. Jesus swapped with me. God gives us the cross, then the cross gives us God. When Jesus died, I died with Him. When He was raised, I was raised. Either I die with Jesus on that cross or I die alone, and face eternity alone. I will carry my sins alone, stand before God to be judged and condemned to eternal damnation alone.
But, if I die with Jesus on that cross, then I will rise with Him. When I die, He is with me. When I stand before God, Jesus stands before me. He swapped with me. He died so I can live. He is preparing a place of abode, a mansion, for me in heaven. He is coming to this earth again to get me.
Peace,
Stan
Saturday, March 22, 2008
152
152. That's an interesting number. Compared to 6, its big. Compared to 42,348,439 its small. When talking about teenagers at a youth service at Cornerstone Church in Chillicothe, Missouri, its big. There were 152 teenagers at church Wednesday night.
At Cornerstone Church, we love kids. Apparently, kids love us too. We are reorganizing our Wednesday night program for K-5th grade. We have lots of children coming to church also. Miss Lisa does a fabulous job with our children's department. Our Sunday school teachers are the best. Our Wednesday night program is developing where kids will be jamming into the building to hear about Jesus.
If you are bored with your life, help us love kids. The reward will be immediate. In addition, you will be laying up treasure for yourself in heaven.
We set out 175 chairs for this week at the newly expanded 228 Student Auditorium. As soon as we finished the construction, the building is not big enough! Kids may take over the adult space yet. What a problem?
Peace,
Stan
At Cornerstone Church, we love kids. Apparently, kids love us too. We are reorganizing our Wednesday night program for K-5th grade. We have lots of children coming to church also. Miss Lisa does a fabulous job with our children's department. Our Sunday school teachers are the best. Our Wednesday night program is developing where kids will be jamming into the building to hear about Jesus.
If you are bored with your life, help us love kids. The reward will be immediate. In addition, you will be laying up treasure for yourself in heaven.
We set out 175 chairs for this week at the newly expanded 228 Student Auditorium. As soon as we finished the construction, the building is not big enough! Kids may take over the adult space yet. What a problem?
Peace,
Stan
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Teamwork
To answer the question, “What would Jesus do,” we need to examine what did Jesus did? Early in Jesus’ ministry He formed a team. The Apostle Paul had a team. If we will accomplish our given assignment, it will be done as a team. What God has given us to accomplish is too large for any individual. Each of us is an individual member of the body of Christ. We need others.
Mark 3:13 - 15 (NASB) "And He went up on the mountain and summoned those whom He Himself wanted, and they came to Him. And He appointed twelve, so that they would be with Him and that He could send them out to preach, and to have authority to cast out the demons." Jesus chose twelve guys to hang out with Him. Then he sent them out to preach. When He sent them out, He sent them with authority to get the job done. We try to follow this example in everything we do at Cornerstone Church.
There are many reasons not to form a team. It is too messy. More people means more problems. In the beginning it is easier and faster to do things yourself, than to train others. Yet, ultimately this frees you to pursue other things. It requires organization—meetings, discussion, persuasion. There is the false belief that no one can do it as well as I can. There is an insecurity of being replaced.
We don't want to lose control. An inexperienced or insecure leader wants to give directives, not share leadership and decisions. This results in people feeling unappreciated and they become uninterested in helping you. Tradition keeps people from forming a team. “We’ve always do things this way. We’ve never done that before.” The people expect the pastor to perform certain duties based on tradition, not on actual Biblical mandate.
There are many great reasons to form a team. The Bible endorses it. Success is not limited to an individual effort. It builds true community and unity. Teamwork creates synergy, which generates results far greater than the sum of the parts could have achieved. There is a multiplying effect in group dynamics.
Teamwork multiplies love, joy, peace…fun! It reduces stress. Success and failure is shared. The work load is shared. I can do what I am equipped to do, knowing that others are doing what I am not good at doing. I am not stressed out trying to perform duties that I am ill equipped to perform. There is more innovation in a group than in an individual.
I have a great team around me. Michelle, my wife, is my key teammate. JD, Greg, and Brent work closely with me every day. Amy and Barb are so valuable. Miss Lisa is awesome with our children, especially in Jumpgate. Jame does a wonderful job leading our music TEAM. Ronda and Jen are great. Judy runs a wonderful day care. Miss Kay is the best preschool teacher around. David keeps our facilities clean and running great. Our volunteers minister to others every day. We have about 20 LIFE Groups operating between Cornerstone and KC Life Churches combined.
God is good. Jesus is Lord. Life is great. Teamwork is one of the great reasons why.
Peace,
Stan
Mark 3:13 - 15 (NASB) "And He went up on the mountain and summoned those whom He Himself wanted, and they came to Him. And He appointed twelve, so that they would be with Him and that He could send them out to preach, and to have authority to cast out the demons." Jesus chose twelve guys to hang out with Him. Then he sent them out to preach. When He sent them out, He sent them with authority to get the job done. We try to follow this example in everything we do at Cornerstone Church.
There are many reasons not to form a team. It is too messy. More people means more problems. In the beginning it is easier and faster to do things yourself, than to train others. Yet, ultimately this frees you to pursue other things. It requires organization—meetings, discussion, persuasion. There is the false belief that no one can do it as well as I can. There is an insecurity of being replaced.
We don't want to lose control. An inexperienced or insecure leader wants to give directives, not share leadership and decisions. This results in people feeling unappreciated and they become uninterested in helping you. Tradition keeps people from forming a team. “We’ve always do things this way. We’ve never done that before.” The people expect the pastor to perform certain duties based on tradition, not on actual Biblical mandate.
There are many great reasons to form a team. The Bible endorses it. Success is not limited to an individual effort. It builds true community and unity. Teamwork creates synergy, which generates results far greater than the sum of the parts could have achieved. There is a multiplying effect in group dynamics.
Teamwork multiplies love, joy, peace…fun! It reduces stress. Success and failure is shared. The work load is shared. I can do what I am equipped to do, knowing that others are doing what I am not good at doing. I am not stressed out trying to perform duties that I am ill equipped to perform. There is more innovation in a group than in an individual.
I have a great team around me. Michelle, my wife, is my key teammate. JD, Greg, and Brent work closely with me every day. Amy and Barb are so valuable. Miss Lisa is awesome with our children, especially in Jumpgate. Jame does a wonderful job leading our music TEAM. Ronda and Jen are great. Judy runs a wonderful day care. Miss Kay is the best preschool teacher around. David keeps our facilities clean and running great. Our volunteers minister to others every day. We have about 20 LIFE Groups operating between Cornerstone and KC Life Churches combined.
God is good. Jesus is Lord. Life is great. Teamwork is one of the great reasons why.
Peace,
Stan
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Identity Crisis
Since Adam and Eve, most people consistently suffer from insecurity and inadequacy. Most people do not even understand themselves very well. Most of life is spent on a search to find myself—FINDING ME! Many look to culture find themselves and to improve their own self-image. Everyone needs to have positive self-image. This takes nothing away from God. Many in the church world would suggest that self-image steals from the proper emphasis on God. I disagree.
Proper self-image is found in the believer’s relationship to God through Jesus Christ. Isaiah wrote that our own righteousness is as filthy rags (Isaiah 64.5-7). Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 5:21, “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. In myself, I may have good reason to have a poor self-image. IN CHRIST, I have every reason to have a confident and positive image of myself. “… it is no longer I who lives, but Christ lives in me.” (Galatians 2.20).So many things are attempting to shape my life. There are so many traps to avoid in this world. Too may societal, cultural paths lead to no where, like a treadmill. I like to workout, but I really detest treadmills. I work so hard, and get no where. Let’s examine a few treadmills that many use to try to boost their self-image…
The Appearance Treadmill is all about body image—beauty products, lotions, creams, tanning beds, hair styles, weight loss products, workout programs, etc. It is fashion—clothes, shoes, jewelry. 1 Peter 3:3 - 4 (NLT) "Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God." Status, materialism, automobiles, houses, toys, … How much is enough? Confidence cannot be purchased. Self-worth is not for sale.
There is the Popularity Treadmill. Do I matter to anyone? Do I fit in? Many sell their own soul to fit in with the “popular” crowd. Girls (women) give their bodies sexually to be with the “right” guy—athletic, funny, rich, smart. Kids will shoplift, cuss, drink, do vandalism to fit in.
Many climb the social ladder to find nothing at the top, after they achieve the status they seeking. Yet, the truly popular march to their own beat. They set the pace, and lead the parade. Everyone else is just a want-to-be.
Far too many suffer from approval addiction. This is the Achievement Treadmill. These are driven by a craving for success. Life is measure by achievement of money, awards, degrees, recognition. These are the workaholics. Muhammad Ali said, “I had the world, and it wasn’t nothin’.” The cultural route to self-worth is an endless routine of running on one treadmill or another, which never get you to your destination.
Where can a person find true identity and worth? What does God think about me? The one who created me is the only one with whom my esteem is safe. Others do not know my true value. I don't even know myself. Value is determined by the price paid. 1 Peter 1:18 - 19 "knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot." You and I are valuable, because Jesus paid the ultimate price for us.
Proper self-image is found in the believer’s relationship to God through Jesus Christ. Isaiah wrote that our own righteousness is as filthy rags (Isaiah 64.5-7). Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 5:21, “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. In myself, I may have good reason to have a poor self-image. IN CHRIST, I have every reason to have a confident and positive image of myself. “… it is no longer I who lives, but Christ lives in me.” (Galatians 2.20).So many things are attempting to shape my life. There are so many traps to avoid in this world. Too may societal, cultural paths lead to no where, like a treadmill. I like to workout, but I really detest treadmills. I work so hard, and get no where. Let’s examine a few treadmills that many use to try to boost their self-image…
The Appearance Treadmill is all about body image—beauty products, lotions, creams, tanning beds, hair styles, weight loss products, workout programs, etc. It is fashion—clothes, shoes, jewelry. 1 Peter 3:3 - 4 (NLT) "Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God." Status, materialism, automobiles, houses, toys, … How much is enough? Confidence cannot be purchased. Self-worth is not for sale.
There is the Popularity Treadmill. Do I matter to anyone? Do I fit in? Many sell their own soul to fit in with the “popular” crowd. Girls (women) give their bodies sexually to be with the “right” guy—athletic, funny, rich, smart. Kids will shoplift, cuss, drink, do vandalism to fit in.
Many climb the social ladder to find nothing at the top, after they achieve the status they seeking. Yet, the truly popular march to their own beat. They set the pace, and lead the parade. Everyone else is just a want-to-be.
Far too many suffer from approval addiction. This is the Achievement Treadmill. These are driven by a craving for success. Life is measure by achievement of money, awards, degrees, recognition. These are the workaholics. Muhammad Ali said, “I had the world, and it wasn’t nothin’.” The cultural route to self-worth is an endless routine of running on one treadmill or another, which never get you to your destination.
Where can a person find true identity and worth? What does God think about me? The one who created me is the only one with whom my esteem is safe. Others do not know my true value. I don't even know myself. Value is determined by the price paid. 1 Peter 1:18 - 19 "knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot." You and I are valuable, because Jesus paid the ultimate price for us.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Pusuit of Happiness
Imagine actually living the life of which you have always dreamed. This is possible. The most wonderful life you can imagine can be yours. To obtain this wonderful & happy life, you may need a guide—A Guide To a Happy Life. Happiness really begins by engaging in worthwhile activities. Here are a list of ten suggestions to guide your way.
1. Live by the golden rule
"Do for others as you would like them to do for you." (Luke 6:31)
"For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”" (Galatians 5:14)
2. Forgive quickly
"’In your anger do not sin’: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold." (Ephesians 4:26-27)
"... Forgive, and you will be forgiven." (Luke 6:37)
3. Take care of yourself
"Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you." (1 Timothy 4:16)
Stay spiritually, mentally (emotionally), physically strong.
You cannot help others unless you are strong.
Get proper care when you are ill—Jesus said, “The sick need a physician.”
Wash your hands often.
Eat properly.
Get plenty on rest.
Make sure there is plenty of humor in your life.
4. Be temperate
"And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown." (1 Corinthians 9:25, NKJV)
Temperate: Marked by moderation: as
a: keeping or held within limits : not extreme or excessive: mild
b: moderate in indulgence of appetite or desire
c: moderate in the use of intoxicating liquors
d: marked by an absence or avoidance of extravagance, violence: restrained
Uncontrolled appetites and emotions will bring great stress to your life and to those closest to you.
5. Love and help children
"Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. " (James 1:27)
"Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”" (Matthew 19:13-14)
6. Be generous
Proverbs 22:9 (NASB) 9He who is generous will be blessed, for he gives some of his food to the poor.
Be a giver, not a taker. Takers are never happy or satisfied. Givers are blessed and happy.
Proverbs 11:24-25 (NASB) 24There is one who scatters, and yet increases all the more, and there is one who withholds what is justly due, and yet it results only in want. 25The generous man will be prosperous, and he who waters will himself be watered.
7. Don’t break the laws of man
There are a multitude of Scriptures exhorting believers to obey rulers and authority.
"Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king." (1 Peter 2:13-17, NIV)
It is very liberating to live free from the fear of getting caught!
8. Mind your own business
"This should be your ambition: to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we commanded you before." (1 Thessalonians 4:11, NLT)
I have more than enough to mind, trying to keep myself and my immediate family well off—spiritually, mentally, emotionally, financially, and physically.
When I take on responsibilities that are not God-given, I become stressed out without cause.
9. Build and value highly strong relationships
We should know many people and be friendly with nearly everyone.
However, each of us needs a few close friends that we can talk to about anything, who will challenge us to be the best we can be, and will challenge us to grow.
Everyone needs “safe” people in our lives.
We all need someone who believes in us, and encourages us.
Be a person worthy of the trust of others
Keep your word, once given.
Don’t break confidences.
The key to having great friends is to be one!
Become a good listener.
Bring joy to others.
Send cards, write notes, make phone calls.
Don’t be promiscuous
Be faithful.
The urge of the moment can become the sorrow of a lifetime!
10. Have a grateful heart
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
Answers come in a positive mindset much easier and faster than to a negative, hopeless mind.
Every great story includes great struggle, some suffering, even temporary defeats. AND every great story includes individuals overcoming such trials.
Be that kind of person!
It starts with a grateful heart.
1. Live by the golden rule
"Do for others as you would like them to do for you." (Luke 6:31)
"For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”" (Galatians 5:14)
2. Forgive quickly
"’In your anger do not sin’: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold." (Ephesians 4:26-27)
"... Forgive, and you will be forgiven." (Luke 6:37)
3. Take care of yourself
"Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you." (1 Timothy 4:16)
Stay spiritually, mentally (emotionally), physically strong.
You cannot help others unless you are strong.
Get proper care when you are ill—Jesus said, “The sick need a physician.”
Wash your hands often.
Eat properly.
Get plenty on rest.
Make sure there is plenty of humor in your life.
4. Be temperate
"And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown." (1 Corinthians 9:25, NKJV)
Temperate: Marked by moderation: as
a: keeping or held within limits : not extreme or excessive: mild
b: moderate in indulgence of appetite or desire
c: moderate in the use of intoxicating liquors
d: marked by an absence or avoidance of extravagance, violence: restrained
Uncontrolled appetites and emotions will bring great stress to your life and to those closest to you.
5. Love and help children
"Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. " (James 1:27)
"Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”" (Matthew 19:13-14)
6. Be generous
Proverbs 22:9 (NASB) 9He who is generous will be blessed, for he gives some of his food to the poor.
Be a giver, not a taker. Takers are never happy or satisfied. Givers are blessed and happy.
Proverbs 11:24-25 (NASB) 24There is one who scatters, and yet increases all the more, and there is one who withholds what is justly due, and yet it results only in want. 25The generous man will be prosperous, and he who waters will himself be watered.
7. Don’t break the laws of man
There are a multitude of Scriptures exhorting believers to obey rulers and authority.
"Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king." (1 Peter 2:13-17, NIV)
It is very liberating to live free from the fear of getting caught!
8. Mind your own business
"This should be your ambition: to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we commanded you before." (1 Thessalonians 4:11, NLT)
I have more than enough to mind, trying to keep myself and my immediate family well off—spiritually, mentally, emotionally, financially, and physically.
When I take on responsibilities that are not God-given, I become stressed out without cause.
9. Build and value highly strong relationships
We should know many people and be friendly with nearly everyone.
However, each of us needs a few close friends that we can talk to about anything, who will challenge us to be the best we can be, and will challenge us to grow.
Everyone needs “safe” people in our lives.
We all need someone who believes in us, and encourages us.
Be a person worthy of the trust of others
Keep your word, once given.
Don’t break confidences.
The key to having great friends is to be one!
Become a good listener.
Bring joy to others.
Send cards, write notes, make phone calls.
Don’t be promiscuous
Be faithful.
The urge of the moment can become the sorrow of a lifetime!
10. Have a grateful heart
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
Answers come in a positive mindset much easier and faster than to a negative, hopeless mind.
Every great story includes great struggle, some suffering, even temporary defeats. AND every great story includes individuals overcoming such trials.
Be that kind of person!
It starts with a grateful heart.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Sharpen the Ax
One man challenged another to an all-day wood chopping contest. The challenger worked very hard, stopping only for a brief lunch break. The other man had a leisurely lunch and took several breaks during the day. At the end of the day, the challenger was surprised and annoyed to find that the other fellow had chopped substantially more wood than he had.
"I don't get it," he said. "Every time I checked, you were taking a rest, yet you chopped more wood than I did."
"But you didn't notice," said the winning woodsman, "that I was sharpening my ax when I sat down to rest."
Luke 5:15-16, "But the news about Him was spreading even farther, and large crowds were gathering to hear Him and to be healed of their sicknesses. But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray." Of all of the wonderful truths we observe in the life of Jesus, this truth is often overlooked. After the demands of life and ministry, the Bible records for our benefit, "Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray."
If Jesus needed to get away from the demands of life to recharge His batteries, then how much more you and me? We are to be imitators of Christ. So, let's learn how to pull away, rest and talk to our Heavenly Father, just like Jesus.
Here are a few suggestions. Eliminate “hurry” from your life. John Ortberg asked a wise friend what needed to be done to be more spiritually healthy. The reply, “You must ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your life.” Famous turn of the century psychologist Carl Jung wrote, "Hurry is not of the devil; hurry is the devil.” Ortberg wrote, “For many of us the great danger is not that we will renounce our faith. It is that we will become so distracted and rushed and preoccupied that we will settle for a mediocre version of it.” You can be busy without being in a hurry!
Here is a radical idea, "Just say, 'NO.'" Say no to almost everything. Let your priorities determine your schedule. Learn how to practice daily solitude. Here's how to do it:
Turn Off and Tune Out (TV, internet, and/or telephone)
Find a place to be alone
Invest that time with God
Invest that time in rest
Invite Jesus into your moment
Replay video of your day
Move from one scene to other
Pray for people & situations; ask forgiveness
Seek Guidance
Jesus took time to refresh (sharpen the ax), perhaps we should also!
Peace,
Stan
"I don't get it," he said. "Every time I checked, you were taking a rest, yet you chopped more wood than I did."
"But you didn't notice," said the winning woodsman, "that I was sharpening my ax when I sat down to rest."
Luke 5:15-16, "But the news about Him was spreading even farther, and large crowds were gathering to hear Him and to be healed of their sicknesses. But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray." Of all of the wonderful truths we observe in the life of Jesus, this truth is often overlooked. After the demands of life and ministry, the Bible records for our benefit, "Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray."
If Jesus needed to get away from the demands of life to recharge His batteries, then how much more you and me? We are to be imitators of Christ. So, let's learn how to pull away, rest and talk to our Heavenly Father, just like Jesus.
Here are a few suggestions. Eliminate “hurry” from your life. John Ortberg asked a wise friend what needed to be done to be more spiritually healthy. The reply, “You must ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your life.” Famous turn of the century psychologist Carl Jung wrote, "Hurry is not of the devil; hurry is the devil.” Ortberg wrote, “For many of us the great danger is not that we will renounce our faith. It is that we will become so distracted and rushed and preoccupied that we will settle for a mediocre version of it.” You can be busy without being in a hurry!
Here is a radical idea, "Just say, 'NO.'" Say no to almost everything. Let your priorities determine your schedule. Learn how to practice daily solitude. Here's how to do it:
Turn Off and Tune Out (TV, internet, and/or telephone)
Find a place to be alone
Invest that time with God
Invest that time in rest
Invite Jesus into your moment
Replay video of your day
Move from one scene to other
Pray for people & situations; ask forgiveness
Seek Guidance
Jesus took time to refresh (sharpen the ax), perhaps we should also!
Peace,
Stan
Monday, January 14, 2008
Just Jesus
I am asked to teach on leadership periodically. I have read many books on the subject. Yet, I always come back to the gospels for my favorite leadership lessons. Jesus was the greatest leader ever. So, let’s learn leadership from Jesus.
On Amazon.com I found titles such as: Artist’s Way, Toyota Way, Wilderness Way, Way of the Turtle, The Way—Using the Wisdom of Kabala, and The Jesus Way. Let’s examine The Jesus Way.
Very often people outside of the church express great admiration for Jesus, while despising the church. They love Jesus, but not the church. The church to them is organized religion with various rules, conformity, and narrow-mindedness. They loathe the political agendas, both internal and external. They don’t like the holier-than-thou attitudes of some Christians.
So, I am not much interested in telling you what our church believes. I don’t want you to conform into our image of following Christ. You won’t hear much from me about the rules or religious ritual. You won’t hear much of my personal political leanings. You aren’t likely to hear condemnation of pet sins. We all sin. All sin is egregious, and should be repented of.
Hopefully, what you will hear from me is much teaching the Way of Jesus, the Jesus Way. I believe all of us, myself included, have some warped views concerning Jesus. These ideas, perhaps, have come from the opinions of others. Some misconceptions are of our own making. We put our mask over the “real Jesus.” The church, at times, has presented an angry, judgmental, narrow Jesus to the world. I am afraid people hear, “rules”, “religion”, or “politics.”
Christianity has been about achievement and retention of certain facts, like some academic endeavor. The Jesus Way is not concerned so much with accomplishment as with lifestyle and relationship, NOT rules, NOT religion, NOT politics—JUST JESUS! Jesus continually challenged individuals with this phrase, "Follow Me." Jesus' kingdom is relationship. We hang out with Jesus when we hang out with Jesus people, fellowship around His Word (The Bible), and talk with Him (prayer).
Jesus came to start a revolution. A revolution is a sudden, radical, or complete change, epecially the overthrow of a ruler and substitution of another by the governed. A revolution is a rebellion, a mutiny. I willingly choose to overthrow my selfish ambitions and replace them with Jesus. I believe we are living in a time and place where Christ followers are more interested in the kingdom of God than the kingdoms of this world. In previous generations these seasons where called revivals. To reach this condition requires rebellion and change. The question is, “Who’s going to rule my life?” Jesus said, “Follow me.” When I follow Jesus, I am going to become absorbed into what is important and priority to Him.
People are Jesus' priority. So, I need to value other people more than myself. People must believe that I like them. "Others" are not the enemy. People are hurting. Donald Miller wrote, "People are hurting. We need to take Jesus to people's wounds." Let's do church a new way, the Jesus Way.
Peace,
Stan
On Amazon.com I found titles such as: Artist’s Way, Toyota Way, Wilderness Way, Way of the Turtle, The Way—Using the Wisdom of Kabala, and The Jesus Way. Let’s examine The Jesus Way.
Very often people outside of the church express great admiration for Jesus, while despising the church. They love Jesus, but not the church. The church to them is organized religion with various rules, conformity, and narrow-mindedness. They loathe the political agendas, both internal and external. They don’t like the holier-than-thou attitudes of some Christians.
So, I am not much interested in telling you what our church believes. I don’t want you to conform into our image of following Christ. You won’t hear much from me about the rules or religious ritual. You won’t hear much of my personal political leanings. You aren’t likely to hear condemnation of pet sins. We all sin. All sin is egregious, and should be repented of.
Hopefully, what you will hear from me is much teaching the Way of Jesus, the Jesus Way. I believe all of us, myself included, have some warped views concerning Jesus. These ideas, perhaps, have come from the opinions of others. Some misconceptions are of our own making. We put our mask over the “real Jesus.” The church, at times, has presented an angry, judgmental, narrow Jesus to the world. I am afraid people hear, “rules”, “religion”, or “politics.”
Christianity has been about achievement and retention of certain facts, like some academic endeavor. The Jesus Way is not concerned so much with accomplishment as with lifestyle and relationship, NOT rules, NOT religion, NOT politics—JUST JESUS! Jesus continually challenged individuals with this phrase, "Follow Me." Jesus' kingdom is relationship. We hang out with Jesus when we hang out with Jesus people, fellowship around His Word (The Bible), and talk with Him (prayer).
Jesus came to start a revolution. A revolution is a sudden, radical, or complete change, epecially the overthrow of a ruler and substitution of another by the governed. A revolution is a rebellion, a mutiny. I willingly choose to overthrow my selfish ambitions and replace them with Jesus. I believe we are living in a time and place where Christ followers are more interested in the kingdom of God than the kingdoms of this world. In previous generations these seasons where called revivals. To reach this condition requires rebellion and change. The question is, “Who’s going to rule my life?” Jesus said, “Follow me.” When I follow Jesus, I am going to become absorbed into what is important and priority to Him.
People are Jesus' priority. So, I need to value other people more than myself. People must believe that I like them. "Others" are not the enemy. People are hurting. Donald Miller wrote, "People are hurting. We need to take Jesus to people's wounds." Let's do church a new way, the Jesus Way.
Peace,
Stan
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Making God's Dream Come True in Your Life
Jeremiah 29:11 - 14 (NKJV), "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, says the Lord, and I will bring you back from your captivity; I will gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you, says the Lord, and I will bring you to the place from which I cause you to be carried away captive."
Imagine being dropped by parachute into an undisclosed, remote area of India. At your drop site is a fueled up Jeep with the keys in the ignition. Your goal is to see the Taj Mahal. But, you have no idea where the Taj Mahal is located. And, you have never been to India before.
How insane would it be to just start driving, hoping you will eventually get there? Too many of us treat goal setting this same way. We dream about where we want to go in life, but don’t have a map to get there.
What is a map? {a picture with written words and markings of locations and destinations} To accomplish our purposes in life, we will need a vision from God of where He wants us to go, and how to get there.What is a vision? Bill Hybels calls vision a picture of the future that produces passion.
To get to your destination you need a picture of your future. God wants to show you the picture He has for your future. God's vision for your life will light you on fire. Here are a few suggestions on how to fulfill God's plan for your life:
1. Is your goal Good or God?
· Proverbs 8:17
· Matthew 7:7-8
2. Goals cannot contradict one another.
3. Develop goals for a balanced life.
· Personal (spiritual, health, financial, community)
· Family
· Business
4. Write your goals.
· Habakkuk 2:2-3
· Write them in detail.
· Write positive statements, not negative ones.
5. Make sure your goals are high enough.
· Goals should stretch you.
· Isaiah 54:2-3
6. Keep your goals before your eyes.
· Proverbs 4:20-27
· Keep in a place where you will see them often.
7. Seek to be a blessing. Don’t seek to be successful.
· This will keep your heart and conscience pure.
. 1 Timothy 1:5
Peace,
Stan
Imagine being dropped by parachute into an undisclosed, remote area of India. At your drop site is a fueled up Jeep with the keys in the ignition. Your goal is to see the Taj Mahal. But, you have no idea where the Taj Mahal is located. And, you have never been to India before.
How insane would it be to just start driving, hoping you will eventually get there? Too many of us treat goal setting this same way. We dream about where we want to go in life, but don’t have a map to get there.
What is a map? {a picture with written words and markings of locations and destinations} To accomplish our purposes in life, we will need a vision from God of where He wants us to go, and how to get there.What is a vision? Bill Hybels calls vision a picture of the future that produces passion.
To get to your destination you need a picture of your future. God wants to show you the picture He has for your future. God's vision for your life will light you on fire. Here are a few suggestions on how to fulfill God's plan for your life:
1. Is your goal Good or God?
· Proverbs 8:17
· Matthew 7:7-8
2. Goals cannot contradict one another.
3. Develop goals for a balanced life.
· Personal (spiritual, health, financial, community)
· Family
· Business
4. Write your goals.
· Habakkuk 2:2-3
· Write them in detail.
· Write positive statements, not negative ones.
5. Make sure your goals are high enough.
· Goals should stretch you.
· Isaiah 54:2-3
6. Keep your goals before your eyes.
· Proverbs 4:20-27
· Keep in a place where you will see them often.
7. Seek to be a blessing. Don’t seek to be successful.
· This will keep your heart and conscience pure.
. 1 Timothy 1:5
Peace,
Stan
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