Already given!

“Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins.” Psalm 51:1

Men and Women’s definition of compassion are night and day. Women define compassion as gentle, sympathetic, understanding, loving, supportive. And men well to be honest I am not sure, all I know is that it is one word I remind my husband of often.

Number 22-Compassion

It never fails the more I pray for God to fill my husband with compassion, the more God teaches me of compassion.

So what have I been learning? Compassion is what is given to us each and every day. It comes in the form of mercy and grace. It is all those things I desire from my husband plus more! And I receive it with every breath that I take. And Christ is the only one that can give it!

“The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him. For he understands how weak we are; he knows we are only dust.” Psalm 103:13-14

God knows that one of my deepest needs is compassion and instead of looking to my husband I need to look to the Lord and rejoice in the most undeserved gift I have been given. For His compassion is more than enough, and far more satisfying!

Today we can be sure of one thing! That compassion given from Christ is offered to all who are willing to receive it. And it is far more beneficial than what any human could ever offer.

Prayer: Jesus thank You for opening my eyes to understand the true meaning of compassion. Lord I ask for an extra dose of compassion on all those who need it today! In Jesus name, Amen

There is only one way to love

“We know what real love is because Christ gave up his life for us. And so we also ought to give up our lives for our Christian brothers and sisters.” 1 John 3:16

Think of a sentence that describes love? What did you come up with? How about, Christ on the Cross! Now think of a word that describes love? You got it-Christ!

Number 23 on our list of things to crave-Love

Love is one of the hardest actions to display. It goes against the flesh, which is full of self.  Instead of walking with confidence we battle insecurity. Instead of walking in the mercy of Christ we walk in self-condemnation. Instead of yielding to others we demand to be yielded to. However, we can overcome the flesh and love because of Christ in us. 

We must understand however, that we are INCAPABLE of loving or displaying love without Christ in us. 

Love can only be displayed through us, when, we let the Holy Spirit have control of our lives.

When the Holy Spirit takes control He fills our thoughts with things that are true, honorable and right-thoughts that are pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and worthy of praise.

THEN

From those thoughts He will produce fruit that is of; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

When you receive the love of Christ you will also cling to His every Word.

You were made in the very image of God! He knit you together with His own two hands and made you wonderfully complex! His workmanship is marvelous, therefore making you marvelous! You are not worthless because God does not make worthless things! You are of more value than the birds in the sky, or the lilies in the fields. You are so loved and wonderful to the Lord that out of 7 BILLION people He desires an intimate one on one relationship with you!

When we allow those thoughts to take root, our whole mind set changes, and true beauty begins to pour out from within us.

Love is the ultimate expression of God’s loyalty, purity, and mercy extended toward his people. Love is the picture of Christ when placed upon the cross bearing the sin of the world. Love is the picture of His nail scarred hands. Jesus is love! And when we have Jesus we have love!

Today let love overtake you by putting your thoughts on Jesus!  Let love be the sweetest thing you crave today. Because once you have a taste, you will become addicted.

Prayer: Jesus thank you for being the ultimate expression of love. Thank you that Your love is unconditional, perfect, and extremely intoxicating! Amen

A forever companion!

“Afterward Jesus went up on a mountain and called the ones he wanted to go with him. And they came to him. Then he selected twelve of them to be his regular companions, calling them apostles.” Mark 3:13-14

They have been regular companions of my parents for over 35 years. They have been through everything you could ever imagine, illness, hurt, death etc. They are each other’s backbone! I don’t remember a time growing up that this core group of friends, which was 4 families, was not either at our house or we were not at one of theirs.

And it never failed come rain or shine, every Wednesday night they would all meet up (kids and all) at one of the homes for dinner, praise and worship, and devotion. All of us kids would go and play while they met. Little did my parents know there would be times that I would sneak in to listen. I remember Garland would always bring his guitar and lead the worship while everyone else sang along. I would watch as some of them would stand to their feet and sing to the Lord, while others would be bowed in prayer. I also remember it feeling like they sang a gazillion songs. But now grown I realize that they sang as the Spirit led them and for as long as He desired. Following the music they would discuss prayer requests, and pray, followed by one of the men leading the devotional. And no matter what, there was always lots of loud laughter, and quite tears!

For my mom and dad these people who still get together no matter the distance are their soul mates. They are their regular companions who have a selfless love for Jesus and one another.

Number 24 on our list of things to crave-Spiritual Fellowship

It is the example my parents set for me that leaves me craving Spiritual Fellowship! I desire that type of fellowship that is based around the Word of God. Fellowship that is uplifting, encouraging, and accountable. Fellowship that does not waiver no matter the disagreement, no matter the sickness, no matter the hurt! Fellowship that is selfless, pure, and full of Jesus’ unfailing love. Fellowship like that is only found in Jesus Christ and a passion for Him.

It reminds me of 12 chosen disciples, Jesus’ “regular companions” what an unbelievable honor for them! Could you imagine how great their fellowship was?  I can, to an extent and while I live here on earth, I desire to be surrounded with companions that desire to walk in the ways of the Lord. How about you, what type of fellowship/companionship do you desire?

Prayer: Jesus help us crave more Spiritual fellowship. Thank you for placing companions in our lives that love unconditionally, are selfless, forgiving and accountable. Jesus may we place You always in the center of fellowship. When we meet may we honor You in all we say and do. In Your Name, Jesus, Amen

Bite your tongue!

”We all make many mistakes, but those who control their tongues can also control themselves in every other way.” James 3:2

It never fails no matter how heated our conversations can become, my husband has never raised his voice at me. Now, as for me, I have to admit I do raise mine. No matter how angry he gets he never lets spite come from his mouth. No matter how bad I think a situation is he is always finding the positive. No matter how bad the storm, he is always their providing protection and peace.

Number 25-Self Control!

I have been blessed with not only an earthly husband whom exemplifies self-control, but, I have a heavenly Father that defines it!

I can tell you that this is one thing I crave more than anything! Especially when I see the peace my husband has, it makes me long for it even more. I can say the more devoted I become to the Lord, the more I fill my thoughts with His word, the better I do. But it is work!

In 2 Peter 1:5-6 Peter shows us how to obtain better self-control. “A life of moral excellence leads to knowing God better. Knowing God leads to self-control. Self-control leads to patient endurance.”

It is a daily commitment that requires lots of practice, humility and patience! It is taking a step back and trusting in Jesus to calm the storm within you. James puts it best when he says if you can control your tongue, you can also control yourself in every other way.

So today we begin with our tongue, when you find yourself in a heated situation, bite it, literally! The pull from the Word of God stored within you and start saying it over and over until your thoughts conform to His Word.

Jesus take control of what I say O’ Lord, keep my lips sealed. Let no unwholesome thought come out in my speech. Help me to remember the example of self-control you set for me when you stood before Your accusers. Amen

Transformed and Representing

“Throw off your old evil nature and your former way of life, which is rotten through and through, full of lust and deception. Instead, there must be a spiritual renewal of your thoughts and attitudes. You must display a new nature because you are a new person, created in God’s likeness,-righteous, holy, and true.” Ephesians 4:22-24

A while back I had a conversation with a relative about drinking. And during the discussion the comment was made as always, “I don’t think there is anything wrong with drinking, if you don’t abuse it.” As I sat and listened trying to understand their point of view I realized just how many people agree with them. I immediately began praying that the Holy Spirit would  take over the conversation and speak the exact words that would need to be spoken.

And as they looked at me and asked; “Why do you think it is bad, what is the big deal?” I sat there for a moment and thought; I can either tell them my opinion or let the Holy Spirit speak for me. And for once in my life I made a good judgment call and allowed the Holy Spirit to work.

This is what came out “When I chose to become a follower of Jesus Christ, I made the commitment to die to myself and put on Christ. In doing that, I now represent Jesus in all I do and say. So upon that decision my every move, word, and action needs to be bringing Christ glory. They interrupted, “I made that decision also.” My response; “That is wonderful and I am not questioning that. But when we choose to go out and drink, and other people see us with that drink in our hand what do they see? Do they see us partaking in a worldly thing, or do they see Jesus?” It is the same with the words that come out of our mouth, what music we listen to, what TV shows we watch, our actions towards others, etc. Does it represent Jesus?

This brings me to number 26 on our list of things to crave-Transformation.

It is not about who is right and who is wrong! It is about doing exactly what Paul tells us in Ephesians 4:22-24, and that is transforming ourselves by throwing off our old evil nature and former way of life, and putting on Christ who is righteous, holy and true.

When we truly cloth ourselves in the Word of God, our thoughts and attitudes become aligned with God’s thoughts and attitude. It is that, which we should crave, to be one with Christ-enthroned in His will! We should desire transformation everyday as we fill our hearts with His Word, love, mercy, and grace.

Prayer: Jesus, come in and transform us by changing the way we think. Come sit in the driver seat of our hearts, and steer us in the direction of Your will! In Jesus name, Amen.

How do you prepare?

“Your eye is a lamp for your body. A pure eye lets sunshine into your soul. But an evil eye shuts out the light and plunges you into darkness. If the light you think you have is really darkness, how deep that darkness will be!” Matthew6:22-23

What do they do on third and short, third and medium, and third and long. Do they run or throw? What do they line up in, what play do they run the most. Do they do a lot of trick plays? Are they quick? This is just a fraction of the things my husband looks at when preparing for a football game. And I am sure; actually I know it gets even more detailed and specific than that. He could probably tell you what finger moved when the center touched the ball. I mean it is that detailed. And the hours put into breaking down film is endless. The longer the season the more film they watch. It becomes very strenuous and demanding.  But it is all the preparation the coaches do that help prepare their team for battle.

This brings me to number 27 on our list-Insight

Just as a football team needs insight on their opponent, we as Christians need insight to defeat our opponent- Satan.

Could you imagine if we all put in endless hours breaking down the Word of God, looking at the detail and specifics of His word? Wouldn’t our insight be more clear on what plays we needed to run to be victorious.

Instead some of us put in hours of self-gratification, such as watching T.V. which as we all know fills our mind with worldly things, thus putting the wrong kind of insight in our mind. And that is what makes our passage so powerful. What you allow your eye to see is what goes into your body. If you put the Word of God in, you are letting sunshine into your soul. If you put things of the world in, which is all darkness, than blindness will set in, and how deep that darkness will be. So when temptation shows itself, you will not be prepared because you will be blind to it. Just like that football team that didn’t prepare down to the specifics or that let pride seep in. 

Our eyes need to be fixed on the Lord, the one who gives us insight into eternity. 

Jesus, help us receive more insight from Your Word. May we become more devoted coaches and prepare our team for battle. In Jesus name Amen.

What’s the call?

“A servant girl noticed him in the firelight and began staring at him. Finally she said, “This man was one of Jesus’ followers!”Luke 22:56

He was one of the three core disciples. He was impulsive, bold in his preaching and when he was questioned for being a follower of Jesus, he denied him three times!

They had just arrested Jesus and led Him away to the high priest’s residence, He followed far behind. The guards lit a fire in the courtyard and everyone set around it, including Peter. It was there that the servant girl noticed him and called him out in front of the crowd. Upon her accusation which was the truth Peter was quick to say “Woman, I don’t even know the man!”

Number 28 on our list of things to crave-Good Judgment

It was a heated, intense moment for Peter during the time of Jesus’ arrest, and when faced with the decision to stand for the Lord, to make a good judgment call, he chose to deny him all for the sake of his own life.  

It comes down to making a morally right decision despite the circumstance. And just like Peter we too have faltered at times.

Solomon puts it best when he says “Learn to be wise, and develop good judgment.” Proverbs 4:5 and not only did he say it in verse 5 he goes on to say again in 7 “And whatever else you do, get good judgment.”

Always take a step back no matter how heated or intense a situation becomes and let the Holy Spirit give you discernment which will result in a good judgment call, because your heart will be Jesus focused and not self-focused!

Jesus, help us to develop good judgment, no matter the situation or outcome. Lord we can only discern good judgment when we allow Your Word to penetrate within us. Help us learn from Peter and not act out of impulse, anger, or fear. Amen

Knowing the difference?

“Get the truth and don’t ever sell it; also get wisdom, discipline, and discernment.”

He turned one and the desire to explore and discover new things was of such intrigue. It easily amused him for hours. The more and more he discovered, the more and more he heard the word “No, no” And it never failed, every time he heard no, his curiosity grew, until one day, no, was not enough to keep him from pursuing his curiosity. Thus, disobedience began and discipline was needed. When the discipline came through a spanking, he finally began to realize the difference between what was okay to play with and what was not?

That one year old is now five, and as each year comes, so does his desire to learn more. Instead of exploring with his hands, he now explores with many questions. He craves to understand and learn new things. He is seeking deeper understanding, which has given my husband and me the opportunity to teach him right and wrong. Although, at times he walks away completely puzzled of what we just spoke about, we both know that the Lord is at work within him, and over time he will grasp the true meaning of discernment.

Number 29 on our list of things to crave is-Discernment!

Discernment is the ability to discover and recognize things. It is the one thing we should seek every day as we read the Word of God. Paul gives us a great example of the importance of discernment when he says in Philippians 1:10 “For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until Christ returns.”

Not only do we need to be able to discern right from wrong, we need to be able to discern false teaching. In our world today there are many people who teach their own beliefs, and who try to twist and manipulate the Word of God for their own personal gain. Paul again shows us how necessary it is to discern between the two. “Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people’s faith by teaching things that are contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them. Such people are not serving Christ our Lord; they are serving their own personal interests. By smooth talk and glowing words they deceive innocent people.”Romans 16:18

Now more than ever we should crave deeper discernment so we can be aware of false teachings.

Jesus as we read Your word give us discernment to know the difference between those who are truly working for You and those who are working for the enemy. In Jesus name Amen

He Knows!

“They tell the prophets, ‘Shut up! We don’t want any more of your reports.’ They say, “Don’t tell us the truth. Tell us nice things. Tell us lies. Forget all this gloom. We have heard more than enough about your ‘Holy One of Israel.’ We are tired of listening to what he has to say.” Isaiah 30:10-11

Growing up my husband and his best friend came up with the saying “He Knows” (meaning Jesus knows) it was reassurance they were telling the truth. Some 15 years later we too have picked up on that saying. It is actually used quite often around our house. For example; “Honey does this outfit look okay?” My husband’s reply “Yes it looks fine!” Really, are you sure? Say He Knows!”  “He knows Kristi it looks fine” He would not have to say anything else. 

When we ask or seek answers we search for the truth, and a lot of times when we are given the answer we take it with skepticism and doubt. It is because we only want to hear what we want to hear and what makes us feel good. We even, when giving an answer, will sugar-coat the truth to avoid dissension or hurt. At times we would rather lie to dodge trouble or disappointing someone.

That leads us to Number 30-Truth

Truth-is accurate and trustworthy for all people, time, and situations. Solomon puts it best when he says.”A wise person is hungry for truth, while the fool feeds on trash.” Proverbs 16:14 isn’t that exactly what the people from Judah did in our passage? They were fools who wanted to be fed trash instead of the truth.

God’s truth reveals our sins and our true intentions; God’s truth is given in a loving manner with real sincerity, and though it hurts, it also brings a deeper healing and stronger bond with the Lord. When you seek the truth from the Word of God you won’t need the reassurance of “He knows!”

Have we been refraining from getting in God’s Word because we too want to be fed trash? Do we keep going around to different people seeking to hear only what we want to hear? We need to let God fill us with guaranteed truth, it will make us wiser, and who does not want to become more wise?

Jesus fill us with an intense craving for truth. May we not be satisfied until we get into Your Word. Amen.

Crave-o-lution!

“By God’s special favor and mighty power, I have been given the wonderful privilege of serving him by spreading this Good News.” Ephesians 3:7

We all have them and at times they can become so strong we would be willing to do just about anything to satisfy them.

Cravings! They are an intense, consuming desire for a particular thing. They leave us longing for more and can even become a requirement. There are many different types of cravings, food, attention, affection, alcohol, T.V., hobbies, money, drugs, etc. The list goes on and on.

Just the other day my husband was craving something sweet and he was very persistent about one particular thing-a homemade chocolate meringue pie. Of course knowing the time it would take me to prepare it, I was not that excited about doing it. But after an hour of his begging I finally gave in and made him a pie.

Later that night as I sat down to spend time with the Lord it hit me. When was the last time we craved Jesus? I mean really craved Him with an intense consuming desire. It devastated me to think that we would do just about anything for a temporary fix.

So today is the first day of our Crave-o-lution! We are going to look at 31 of the most important things we should crave. Starting with number 31!

Opportunity-Just as I had the opportunity to satisfy my husband’s sweet craving-we too have the opportunity to satisfy Jesus’ sweet craving.

And today the opportunity just so presents itself. We have the opportunity to receive Christ by asking Him to come live in our hearts. We have the opportunity to confess and repent from our sins. And we have the opportunity to serve Christ by sharing the Good News.

When is the last time you craved for the opportunity to share Jesus with someone?

“Jesus today we await the opportunity to share Your word with someone-give us an intense craving to bring salvation to the lost. Amen.”

Planning on Him, in Him, about Him, and for Him

 “You can make many plans, but the LORD’s purpose will prevail.” Proverbs 19:21

I am sure you can tell God is teaching me something, and hopefully you as well, about His leading and guidance in our lives.

I love how the verse yesterday and today both start with how we can make plans, ours or many, but then ends with how God determines the steps and purpose of those plans.

Today the Holy Spirit spoke something very powerful within me. If I am making plans for my family and myself today and next week, they need to be aligned with the Word of God. And He must be included in every plan.

Spending time with the Lord as individuals and as a family MUST be the very first thing planned and done. G and I need not to determine worldly plans for our family, but spiritual and everlasting plans. We must plan on teaching our boys about Jesus and His Word today. We must plan on when we will do that as a family and when G and I will do that as a couple and as individuals.

We must plan on applying what we study in God’s Word today, through our actions, speech, thoughts, and attitudes. Today God will carry out His purpose in spite of whether or not G and I do. Today He will determine our steps and it will be up to G and me whether we walk in those steps.

We can make a lot of worldly plans, but I would rather make spiritual everlasting plans, wouldn’t you?

Jesus help us to not get caught up in planning around things of this world. Instead may our plans be made for You; to know You, to invest in You as a family and as individuals. May we plan to teach our boys about You and the importance of putting You first. Straighten out our priorities Lord. Amen

Planning in the future of this day.

“We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.” Proverbs 16:9

I am not sure I would consider myself or my family planners. Actually my husband and I are really last minute planners. We get a thought or an idea, and, if we are able, we go and do it. It just seems to work best for us, especially since G’s job is time consuming.

Honestly, I have never been one who has found future planning so necessary. However; I do have many thoughts of the future for my boys, but never make concrete plans of what we will do. I do have hopes of what I would like, but that is as far as it goes for me and I believe God has a very specific reason for that.

Only He is able to see my family’s future. Only He knows exactly how far in the future we will go. He does determine our steps and He tells us that in our passage above.

Maybe that is the reason my future is the two days or two weeks that are ahead. I think I would become so consumed with planning for the future that I would forget to live in the day I have been given.

I cannot see what my future in this ministry is, but I can see that today He is determining my steps and I need to just keep stepping today. I need to plan on sharing His name and His message in the future of today.

What if we planned the future of today out? Before we lay down tonight, what if we planned on being obedient and sharing the Word of God, His love, and His grace before we went to sleep? I mean isn’t five o’clock today considered the future? It is what lies ahead of us, isn’t it?

He determines our steps, and today, He could determine our step to be in Heaven with Him.

Jesus thank You for allowing my mind to only go so far into the future! Thank You that I am only able to see the future of today, this week, and next week. May my plans in this day align with the steps You have determined for me today. Amen

We will be robbed! They will be robbed!

“If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done.” Ecclesiastes 11:4

What can I apply today from this powerful verse that cuts to the core of my heart? I can apply faithful action, action that moves with the commands of the Spirit. Actions that look down to ensure every step I take are placed in the steps of His.  

I can apply the reality that perfect only exists in the Holiness of Christ, not in human form. Therefore I must not allow this perfect to keep me from stepping forward-forward in His direction. It will rob me if I let it, this perfect condition. It will rob me from growth, from wisdom, and it will rob the lost from hearing the message, seeing the compassion, and experiencing His grace. 

It will rob that woman He laid on my heart to pray with, to hug, to encourage. It will rob my marriage from being the best it can be. It will rob my boys from desiring more of Him. It will rob those who are lost, broken, or lonely from experiencing the love and presence of Christ. It will rob the one trapped in sin from experiencing the freedom of grace. It will rob the hopeless from finding hope. It will rob me from being the blessings of Christ. And it will rob me from being a light.

Why do I wait? Why do you wait?

This perfect, it only comes in the form of heaven. This earth cannot hold perfect nor can it grasp it.

So we need to act today and wait no longer for the perfect time to speak of His name, to share His grace, or to study His word. It is time brethren!

Jesus help us to act on the prompting of the Holy Spirit. Keep us from waiting to do what You have called us to do today. Amen

His Workmanship

"He covers the heavens with clouds, provides rain for the earth, and makes the green grass grow in the mountains pastures." Psalm 147:8

"Praise him, skies above! Praise him, vapors high above the clouds! Let every created thing give praise to the Lord, for he issued his command, and they came into being." Psalm 148:4-5

Jesus Your workmanship is breath-taking. Thank You for giving me the vision to see the works of Your hands and for the ability to capture it and stand in awe of it. Amen

Through Your Eyes I see…

“His eyes are like doves beside brooks of water; they are set like jewels.” Song of Songs 5:12

He looks at me tired and worn from the heat and long hours he puts into work. He looks at me with those beautiful brown eyes and they speak so subtle yet strong, “Pray for me, pray for us, pray for these kids, just pray.”  

So my sweet love I will pray. I will pray, and I will know, that this Mighty God in whom we serve will meet the needs that pour from those beautiful brown eyes of yours.

Those eyes of His, they can speak to my heart in ways I cannot express. They give me a sense of peace, joy, love, and protection.  Yet all the while display his needs, his hurts, and his fears, when his words are nowhere near.  Those brown eyes of His express a love for which I know can only be given through the eyes of Christ.

He is who I see when I look into those brown eyes of G’s. I see the eyes of Christ looking at me, and though he disagrees, he doesn’t get to see what I see.

You my precious love are dark and dazzling. You are better than ten thousand others! Your head is the finest gold. Your eyes are like doves beside brooks of water; they are set like jewels. Your cheeks are like sweetly scented beds of spices. Your lips are like perfume lilies. Your arms are like round bars of gold, set with chrysolite. Your body is like bright ivory, aglow sapphires. Your legs are like pillars of marble set in sockets of the finest gold, strong as the cedars of Lebanon. None can rival you. Your mouth altogether is sweet; you are lovely in every way. You, sweet man are my lover and friend. Song of Songs 5:10-16 (My paraphrase)

Jesus You have called him to be more than a coach. You have called him to be a reflection of You. You have made him strong and courageous, loving and kind. You have given him a heart like Yours and it radiates through his eyes. You do not leave him in need, yet You supply his every need. You know his strengthens and You step in where he is weak. Blessed are You, O Lord, who created, equips and love this man You have made and called to lead. Amen

The Church

“And the church is his body; it is filled by Christ, who fills everything everywhere with his presence.” Ephesians 1:23

Do you ever wonder what God sees when He looks down at the Body of Christ? I do!

I wonder if He sees unity or a bunch of broken limbs trying to go in different directions?

When we hear the word “Church” today our first thoughts are of a building. What comes with that building-a name, Baptist, Church of Christ, Catholic, Pentecostal, Jehovah Witness, etc.

But what does the “Church” really mean.

I have asked a precious and dear friend of mine Ryan Burchett to take a few questions a little deeper about Church.  It is lengthy but every bit is very important and necessary. I hope you find this extremely helpful especially if you are searching for a church home or if you have not attended church, maybe this will be an encouragement as to the necessity of going.

1.      Church membership – what is the significance of being a member of a ‘church?’

2.      Have we not fallen away from our real membership, Christ, because we are so caught up in the number of the ‘church’ membership?

3.      How much different today is the meaning of church compared to the church in the Bible?

*First, we need to ask the question ‘why does the Church exist?’

Ephesians 3:10-11

“to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places, according to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord”

-The Church was established in Acts so that God might be made known to the world.  He died for ALL people, so it’s our job as the Church to show and tell of that great gift of grace.

*Church membership – what is the significance of being a member of a ‘church?’

Hebrews 10:24-25

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.  Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

-First, we meet together in our ‘churches’ so that we can be an encouragement to one another in the faith.  Meeting together in fellowship/worship is very important to that faith.

Ephesians 4:11-13

“It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.”

-Secondly, we meet together in our ‘churches’ so that we can be instructed and taught, and through that instruction we reach full unity as a church body.

Bottom line, if we aren’t meeting together in fellowship with a Biblical church, we’re starving ourselves of Biblical teaching and instruction from those called by God to teach us more (pastors, etc.), and we are depriving ourselves of fellowship with our brothers and sisters in Jesus.

*Have we not fallen away from our real membership, Christ, because we are so caught up in the number of the ‘church’ membership?  How much different today is the meaning of church compared to the church in the Bible?

-There are so many churches out there today, that we can’t make this general assumption for every single one of them.  The fact is, yes, some churches have gone astray and teach false doctrines such as Joel Osteen’s church in Houston (and others like it) that teach a ‘health, wealth, and prosperity’ gospel.  Then, there are others who fall under the ‘Emergent Church’ movement.  They practice things like meditative prayer, which is a pagan Eastern culture ritual to hear from the spirit world.  They also teach there is no Hell amongst other things.  Again, false doctrine.

-However, there are other churches which are very Biblical and teach the truth in God’s Word as it’s presented.  So we can’t make this claim of the church ‘falling away’ for everyone.

-On the other side of things, we may have the question ‘why are there so many different denominations stemming from the same book (Bible)?’  There’s something like 500+ different denominations that all claim the same Bible.  That’s simply a human issue.   Someone gets upset or disagrees with an interpretation; they make up their own interpretation, and form a new denomination.

-How we go about this division is by looking at the core issue:  Does this difference in this particular denomination make or break the core theology?  In other words, does that view/interpretation of that particular church change the gospel message?  Does it change who Jesus is?  Does it change the End such as what Heaven and Hell are, or if they really exist?  These would be crucial issues that matter.

-Issues that wouldn’t really matter, for example, would be like the difference of opinion over using musical instruments or not in worship.  Church of Christ will not use instruments for their own reasons.  Baptists do.  Both can seemingly find Biblical evidence to back up both points.  So what do you do?  Ask the question, does this change the core of Biblical theology?  Does playing/not playing music change who Jesus is?  Heaven or Hell?  The Genesis record?  The gospel?  No, it doesn’t, so it’s not a crucial issue.  That’s how we go about it.

-Another great message about issues like this is found in Romans 14.  We all have different convictions than one another on different issues because none of us are on the same level in our Christian walk as the other.  We’re all on our own walk with God.  We’re all on the same path, but we’re at different points on that path:

Romans 14:1-14;22

^“1 Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters. ² One man’s faith allows him to eat everything, but another man, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. ³ The man who eats everything must not look down on him who does not, and the man who does not eat everything must not condemn the man who does, for God has accepted him. ⁴ Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand. ⁵ One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. ⁶ He who regards one day as special, does so to the Lord. He who eats meat, eats to the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who abstains, does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God. ⁷ For none of us lives to himself alone and none of us dies to himself alone. ⁸ If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.  ⁹ For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living. ¹⁰ You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. ¹¹ It is written: “‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God.’” ¹² So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God. ¹³ Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way.

²² So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the man who does not condemn himself by what he approves.”

-We all have different convictions about things, but as long as they don’t go against the essentials (gospel, deity of Jesus, etc.) then God says ‘That’s ok.’

One last thing; what it all comes down to is finding a Biblical church.  Does the Bible give us things to look for in a church before we make a decision to join that body?  Yes it does!

1.      What is the IMAGE of that church? Colossians 1:18

a.      ^“18 And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.”

Where do we see this image in Scripture?

a.      Creation – Genesis 1:26

b.      The Fall – Genesis 5:1

c.       Israel – Leviticus 11:44

d.      Jesus – John 14:9, Hebrews 1:3

e.      The Early Church – Gal. 3:26-27

f.        God’s Glory – 1 John 3:2

2.      Is there GROWTH in that church?  Colossians 1:10

a.      ^“10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;”

What kind of growth should we see?

a.      Members gain a sense of responsibility in evangelism

b.      Increased prayer

c.       Members sharing the gospel

d.      More spontaneous ministry activities

e.      Informal gatherings characterized by spiritual conversation

f.        Increased & sacrificial giving

g.      Increased fruit of the Spirit

h.      Members making career sacrifices or changes so they can serve the Church

i.        Husbands leading wives sacrificially

j.        Wives submitting to their husbands

k.       Parents disciplining children in faith

l.        A corporate love for the lost

3.      What is the source of LIFE in that church? 

a.      The Church finds its life as it listens to the Word of God.

What does this life give us?

a.      Security

b.      Joy

c.       Peace

d.      Purpose

e.      Victory

I know this is a lot of info and lists, but if we can go through all of this as we search out a church, we will find the place God wants/needs us to be.

The bottom line is no church gets everything perfect all the time.  In fact, the early church in the Bible didn’t either.  They had just as many problems, if not more, than our churches do today.  They had false doctrine being taught.  They had people splitting churches and causing arguments.  They had people not tithing.  They had people not observing the Lord’s Supper properly.  They had people who would skip church.  They had idolaters, fornicators, adulterers, thieves, drunkards, etc. in their churches just like we do today.  What should that tell us?  Christ will take care of His church.  We just need to apply the Biblical principles that we went through above and remain faithful.  If a church that we are a part of is not doing the Biblical things required of it, then we need to find one that is.  But we cannot afford to leave church fellowship altogether.

Ryan also has a blog called Along the Way you can find the link under Blogs that Inspire me. Check it out!

Living and Being

Living for Christ takes trust, thought, and discipline. Being Christ-like takes desire, action, and surrender.

Jesus the day I asked You to live within me was the day I began living for You, but I want to do more than just live for You, I want to be like You. Amen

...yet I stay, trapped in the fear of me.

I sit here weeping and broken, crying out, “I know there is more Lord!” I know You have called me to do more, more than sit within the comfort of these four walls. More than writing the mere words You put upon this page. More, Jesus, there is more. I sense it; I hear it-Your whisper, “Go and do for Me. Be the hands and feet of Me. Love and be loved.”

All of these whispers I hear, yet I stay, wondering how, where, when, even if it is really just me hearing me, or trapped in the fear of me. But then again I hear the whisper. “People need Me, they need to feel Me, see Me, and know Me. Let Me use you to be the Me in flesh. Go my child, you who are covered and wrapped up in Me…the very blood of Me. Go!”

Yet again I ask from the very brokenness of my longing soul, in words broken from my crying. “How Lord? Where? Who? Are You sure me? What if…”

“Just go, I will lead the way.”

“Who makes mouths? The Lord asked him. Who makes people so they can speak or not speak, hear or not hear, see or not see? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go, and do as I have told you. I will help you speak well, and I will tell you what to say.” Exodus 4:11-12

The Cost

“So no one can become my disciple without giving up everything for me.” Luke 14:33

I could spend each day telling you about what our days are like in the Morgan house. From the things my boys do, to G's ministry as a Football coach. And though those would keep you very entertained, they would offer nothing compared to what Jesus has to offer you through His Word.

So I stick to what He has called me to do, share His Word, His life, His adventures, His ministry. I write about Him and what each day is like with Him.

Unfortunately, Jesus is not very popular because many do not find Him as entertaining as some of us do. To you I ask why?

Nor do many people like to hear His Word, His stories, His adventures, His ministry, because it causes an uncomfortable feeling within them. To that, can I say, join the crowd, there is nothing comfortable about conviction, no matter how close you are to the Lord. However, it is needed, necessary, and rewarding when you heed to the Holy Spirit's warnings. It is life-changing and life-saving!

The road is narrow and often lonely; it is not for those weak in faith, but for those with persistent faith willing to obey no matter the COST. It is the very road G and I travel on and the road we teach our boys to walk down. No matter the cost!

Jesus says, "If ANY of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for me, you will find true life." Luke 9:23

We have counted the cost of following Christ. We have familiarized ourselves and have received full knowledge of what the costs are; persecution, separation, His pleasure over our own, constant cleansing and purification. Giving more than there is to give, for the sake of Him receiving all He can receive. Standing out rather than blending in, standing firm in His truth rather than giving in for the sake of worldly acceptance. The cost of being hated, not accepted, even often un-invited. Constant persistence despite those unwilling to hear, even the cost of our lives for the sake of Christ! We are willing to be talked about, laughed at, ignored, disliked, and even broken, all for His glory. We are willing to have little so others can have more. And we daily choose to give up ourselves, our wants, our needs, and our comfort, all to follow Him.

“So no one can become my disciple without GIVING UP EVERYTHING for me.” Luke 14:33

Jesus keep us in constant check. Keep us from desiring the things of self; luxury, worldly gain, wealth, praise, and popularity. For we know those things have no lasting value, nor do they offer true life. Amen

Politics, Appearance, or Worship

“Passion for God’s house burns within me.” John 2:17

Jesus, His mother, and disciples just left Capernaum and were headed to Jerusalem for the annual Passover. As they made their way to the Temple, Jesus walked in to find merchants selling cattle, sheep, and doves for sacrifices and saw money changers behind their counters.

Jesus became so angry He began chasing out the animals turning over tables and scattering the money changers coins all over the floor. “Get these things out of here. Don’t turn my Father’s house into a marketplace.”John 2:16, how dare you come into My Father’s house and use it for your own self-gain.

How dare us enter our Father’s house and use it for our own self-gain. Jesus sees our true intentions for being at church. What is yours, politics, appearance, or true worship? Not only are we to not use the Lord’s house for self-gain, but we are not to use our bodies which are the Temple of the Holy Spirit for ourselves. Our bodies belong to Christ and if we use them carelessly that anger’s the Lord.

Just as Jesus shouted in the Temple to get all that garbage out and not use His Father’s house as a marketplace, He tells us to get the sin out and not use the Holy Spirit’s Temple as a place of gluttony, sexual immorality, lust, hate, greed, etc.  Our bodies were bought at a high price and are to be used to bring honor and glory to God not ourselves.

As we clean out our Temple’s for the Holy Spirit to live in, then, as we enter the house of the Lord we will have true worship in our hearts. And that my friend is very pleasing to the Lord!

Two things the Lord takes seriously-His Father’s house and our Temple’s. (Bodies) And we should also take very seriously as followers of Jesus Christ, those two things. Don’t wait to prepare your hearts for worship Sunday morning, prepare your heart every day. Don’t use the Lord’s house as a place to be seen, go to the Father’s house to bring true sacrifices of praise, with an alert and open mind to receive your daily bread, and to worship and fellowship with other believers as one body. Use your body to be a reflection of Christ and His word, not as another moving object that blends in with the world.

Jesus fill each of us with a passion for God that burns within us. Amen