Monday, January 10, 2005
My Future, My Prospering, My Goals - 2005
I have a LOT of ideas. I want to do so much. But invariably, I get overwhelmed or frustrated that I barely get anything done. Maybe it's also been because I have never felt like I knew what was really my purpose and my reason for being on this earth. 2005, I believe, is a very different year. And so I am focusing on 10 things I want to accomplish or see come to pass in my life this year. I know that each one is part of a bigger picture for my life, but at the same time are all interconnected in some way I have yet to fully see or understand. I just humbly and prayerfully lay them at my LORD's feet and leave many of the details into His care.
1. Put together a fund-raising campaign, and buy our cathedral!!!
2. Baby - Cindy and I are actively praying and "working" at this one... And a number of people have said we'd have twins... We'll see :)
3. Have a family income of $100,000/year - This is Cindy's, but I am agreeing and believing with her. Once she gets a full-time position, we will basically be there.
4. Buy a single-family home - this again is Cindy's, but I am agreeing with her and riding her faith on this one. With the market the way it is, and our finances the way they are, it WILL require a miracle from GOD. But He's more than able!
5. Put together business plan for the 24/7 House of Prayer & Praise - it will be a non-profit organization, so I need to get some info of how they are run.
6. Put together business plan for my coffee shop idea - incorporate the name.
7. Put together business plan for the traffic/driving awareness program.
8. Establish Project Revelation as a real, viable, working company - look into incorporating it.
9. Be consumer debt free
10. Go to Kansas City to visit their International House of Prayer.
Friday, January 07, 2005
Setting Priorities
There's a lot I want to write about -- nothing new -- and with three separate blogs and a church web-site, I've got the space and place, just not the time. However, I read something today that I received in my email from one of those daily "God's Promises" emails. (If you want to get that email just click here and subscribe to the "God's Daily Promises". Be careful, there's other ones there too. Make sure you read carefully before you click anything. That's how spamming starts!) So that's where I want to start.
But how hard is it to do in such a society as ours?! How hard is it to put God as our top priority every day?! I'm not making excuses and I'm not shirking my responsibility, but honestly, with work, family, friends, church (!?! Yeah, church responsibilities CAN be devoid of any service/worship to GOD) and your own needs/wants, how do you practically make God your priority?
Well, every day, we make something our priority based on many factors: ease of doing it, brings joy or happiness, brings money, get instant or fairly quick results/fruit from it, etc. So, we do prioritize. Where your heart is, that is where you will put your priorities.
Let's not kid ourselves. The reason you don't take part in more things with the church or do more things for God is that, deep down inside, you have other priorities. But the reality is, as God's children, He is our number one priority... At least He should be. And the great thing about it, when we do make Him our number one priority, then ALL the other stuff will be taken care of. Boy, THAT is where, I believe most of us get hung up. We don't really believe everything else will be taken care of. And I think I have the reason why. We separate the two!
Serving God and make Him a priority is one thing. Prayer, worship time, service, that is all separate and for God. BUT, my work, my family, my needs are a whole other entity that require my attention and time as well. NO.
When we change the way we view what service and worship to God is, then we can see that it is all part of the same thing. Why are we so dualistic (I don't know if that's the right word here) in the west. We need a more holistic approach to life. WHATEVER we do, we must do it as if we are doing it for the LORD. Heard that one before? (1 Corinthians 10:31)
I think too many Christians take Matthew 6:33, and say, "OK, I'll give God my morning devotion time." What? That's 10 minutes? 30 minutes? Maybe 1 hour? Don't get me wrong that's great... But then what about the rest of the day? God doesn't want us all to become monks and "worship" Him 24/7 (though there may be some of us out there). But He does want us to put Him at the forefront of everything we do. In that way, we do put Him first in all things!
I remember a few years back when I was a TA at Condordia University. I was administrating a lab exam. And there was this Indian student (from India, not native), and before every question, I saw him put his hands together, bow his head, and mutter something under his breath. He was praying (to some hindu god). I was amazed at how he was giving each question to his god before he even attempted it. Now, maybe it was because he wasn't prepared and he did not know what he was doing (he failed the exam). Nevertheless, the point was that even in such a small, seemingly insignificant thing, his god was made a priority.
How often do we do that? How often do we recognize the our God, the True and Living God, the One and Only God, has given us everything we have: family, friends, work, church, clothes, food. How often do we thank and praise Him for all that. You know, I am so thankful to God for the first two and a half years of marriage with Cindy, during which we went through some real tough financial times. Once we went two weeks eating instant noodles because we could not buy anything else. But it taught us to trust God for all our needs. The amazing thing was that even though we were VERY tight on cash, working part-time only (unable to find full-time work), we never lacked. We never missed a mortgage payment. We never missed a car payment. We never missed a meal, for a reason other than fasting... And trust me, we did not fast all that much in those first couple of years.
So how do we put God first, practically. I think, again, the Apostle Paul gives us the clue. "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
Be blessed!
__________________________________________That's a new way of putting Matthew 6:33. The more traditional translations sound more like this: "But seek first His Kingdom and His Righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." I know this. I know it's good. I know it's true. And if you've been a Christian for some time, you know this as well.
Seeking God's will first brings perspective
How do I set priorities?
". . .And He will give you all you need from day to day if you live for Him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern. "
Matthew 6:33
Be intentional about priorities. Set them and tend to them first. Only then will your life have its fullest meaning.
__________________________________________
But how hard is it to do in such a society as ours?! How hard is it to put God as our top priority every day?! I'm not making excuses and I'm not shirking my responsibility, but honestly, with work, family, friends, church (!?! Yeah, church responsibilities CAN be devoid of any service/worship to GOD) and your own needs/wants, how do you practically make God your priority?
Well, every day, we make something our priority based on many factors: ease of doing it, brings joy or happiness, brings money, get instant or fairly quick results/fruit from it, etc. So, we do prioritize. Where your heart is, that is where you will put your priorities.
Let's not kid ourselves. The reason you don't take part in more things with the church or do more things for God is that, deep down inside, you have other priorities. But the reality is, as God's children, He is our number one priority... At least He should be. And the great thing about it, when we do make Him our number one priority, then ALL the other stuff will be taken care of. Boy, THAT is where, I believe most of us get hung up. We don't really believe everything else will be taken care of. And I think I have the reason why. We separate the two!
Serving God and make Him a priority is one thing. Prayer, worship time, service, that is all separate and for God. BUT, my work, my family, my needs are a whole other entity that require my attention and time as well. NO.
When we change the way we view what service and worship to God is, then we can see that it is all part of the same thing. Why are we so dualistic (I don't know if that's the right word here) in the west. We need a more holistic approach to life. WHATEVER we do, we must do it as if we are doing it for the LORD. Heard that one before? (1 Corinthians 10:31)
I think too many Christians take Matthew 6:33, and say, "OK, I'll give God my morning devotion time." What? That's 10 minutes? 30 minutes? Maybe 1 hour? Don't get me wrong that's great... But then what about the rest of the day? God doesn't want us all to become monks and "worship" Him 24/7 (though there may be some of us out there). But He does want us to put Him at the forefront of everything we do. In that way, we do put Him first in all things!
I remember a few years back when I was a TA at Condordia University. I was administrating a lab exam. And there was this Indian student (from India, not native), and before every question, I saw him put his hands together, bow his head, and mutter something under his breath. He was praying (to some hindu god). I was amazed at how he was giving each question to his god before he even attempted it. Now, maybe it was because he wasn't prepared and he did not know what he was doing (he failed the exam). Nevertheless, the point was that even in such a small, seemingly insignificant thing, his god was made a priority.
How often do we do that? How often do we recognize the our God, the True and Living God, the One and Only God, has given us everything we have: family, friends, work, church, clothes, food. How often do we thank and praise Him for all that. You know, I am so thankful to God for the first two and a half years of marriage with Cindy, during which we went through some real tough financial times. Once we went two weeks eating instant noodles because we could not buy anything else. But it taught us to trust God for all our needs. The amazing thing was that even though we were VERY tight on cash, working part-time only (unable to find full-time work), we never lacked. We never missed a mortgage payment. We never missed a car payment. We never missed a meal, for a reason other than fasting... And trust me, we did not fast all that much in those first couple of years.
So how do we put God first, practically. I think, again, the Apostle Paul gives us the clue. "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
Be blessed!
Monday, January 03, 2005
Obeying God brings great joy
Obeying God brings great joy
How can I be happy in the midst of difficult circumstances?
"Dear friends, don't be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through. . . . Instead, be very glad—because . . . You will have the wonderful joy of sharing his glory. "
1 Peter 4: 12-13 NLT
As 2005 has started, I am on fire for God. I am so happy. I am so full of joy. But 2004 was a tough year. I was "joking" last year in January, saying "it's been a tough year!" And the year was only a couple of weeks old. But it was: Financially, relationally, career-wise, family-wise, church-wise. I was unsure of who I was, where I was going or even what I wanted to do. I went through many fiery trials.
But, now as those trials have ended I can look back and see that they were for my good. They made me strong. They "forced" me to grow. So don't be alarmed or freaked out by trials. Yes, they are tough at the moment, but you will come out of them, and when you do you will see the great and positive change. So learn to be glad, because the joy that comes is so great! Thank you, LORD!
Father, thank you so much that I could share in your glory on this earth and at this time. May Your light in me shine bright in 2005 for others to see You and come to You!
How can I be happy in the midst of difficult circumstances?
"Dear friends, don't be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through. . . . Instead, be very glad—because . . . You will have the wonderful joy of sharing his glory. "
1 Peter 4: 12-13 NLT
As 2005 has started, I am on fire for God. I am so happy. I am so full of joy. But 2004 was a tough year. I was "joking" last year in January, saying "it's been a tough year!" And the year was only a couple of weeks old. But it was: Financially, relationally, career-wise, family-wise, church-wise. I was unsure of who I was, where I was going or even what I wanted to do. I went through many fiery trials.
But, now as those trials have ended I can look back and see that they were for my good. They made me strong. They "forced" me to grow. So don't be alarmed or freaked out by trials. Yes, they are tough at the moment, but you will come out of them, and when you do you will see the great and positive change. So learn to be glad, because the joy that comes is so great! Thank you, LORD!
Father, thank you so much that I could share in your glory on this earth and at this time. May Your light in me shine bright in 2005 for others to see You and come to You!
Happy New Year.
Well, Happy New Year!
It's been a while since I've written anything, but the holidays were really good. I have to thank and praise God for that. Christmas day was actually enjoyable from start to finish (You have to understand that, with my family, eventually, someone will invariably say something that will hurt or offend another family member, or we'll get into some big argument--it's not that we're bad people, it's the way we learnt to talk and deal with out feelings... But it DIDN'T happen this year! I had a really good time with my folks, my brother and his wife).
With my first posting of 2005, I want to send out a blessing to anyone who is reading this (all one of you :). But how many people are reading this is unimportant. What is important is that I am declaring this over the web!
2005 is a year of the Lord's favour... If you will believe it! For the last month and a half, that's all that I've been hearing, reading and seeing... The Lord's favour! Ultimately, what that means is that we will receive preferential treatment when we go to work, or school, or church, or when we meet others, when we try to close a deal or a sale, or in what ever other area you can think of. It doesn't mean will will not have to do our part. But it DOES mean we will see results we weren't expecting, if we're persistent enough. Let me explain with two examples out of my own life.
The first is how Cindy and I bought our house. At the time (nearly three years ago), I was only working part-time as a teacher at Dawson, and my contract was up in June. We were getting married in May. Cindy was only working part-time and was in school. I had huge amounts of debt, plus car payments. My debt ratio was insanely high (your debt ratio is some calculation banks do that compares your salary to your debts... And normally, it should be less that 30% or so... I was somewhere over 40 or 50!!!) We also did not have to down payment for the house. But I believed that this house was to be ours. I believed God would give it to us. At that time, I had no concept of God's favour... But nevertheless I believe God would do it for me. And what did He do?
Well, we got approved for the loan (miracle #1) and I didn't close all my other debts (miracle #2). We got the house for $18,000 less than the asking price (miracle #3). I moved in one week before our wedding (miracle #4). The monetary gifts from our wedding paid our down payment and more (miracle #5). And we got to live in the house rent/mortgage payment free for three months (miracle #6). THAT is the favour of the Lord.
The second example happened more recently. Cindy and I applied for a line of credit so that we could consolidate our consumer debt. I still had a whack-load of debt, plus our tax return payments for 2003, which we could not pay due to our financial situation (I still was only working part-time as was Cindy). Anyway, we had been to the Royal Bank, and they declined us because my debt ratio was too high. Besides the payments would have been over $500 a month, and we could not handle that (I was missing payments on the credit cards because we were paying over $500 a month on them). So on Cindy's faith, we went to the National Bank and asked for a line of credit, which is actually more difficult to get than a personal loan, because the payment plan is more flexible. To make a long story short, we got it... And the only reason is the favour of the Lord!
So go out in 2005 and believe that God's favour is upon you in everything you do. Expect to be blessed. Expect to receive preferential treatment. Expect to get the unexpected!
Be blessed.
It's been a while since I've written anything, but the holidays were really good. I have to thank and praise God for that. Christmas day was actually enjoyable from start to finish (You have to understand that, with my family, eventually, someone will invariably say something that will hurt or offend another family member, or we'll get into some big argument--it's not that we're bad people, it's the way we learnt to talk and deal with out feelings... But it DIDN'T happen this year! I had a really good time with my folks, my brother and his wife).
With my first posting of 2005, I want to send out a blessing to anyone who is reading this (all one of you :). But how many people are reading this is unimportant. What is important is that I am declaring this over the web!
2005 is a year of the Lord's favour... If you will believe it! For the last month and a half, that's all that I've been hearing, reading and seeing... The Lord's favour! Ultimately, what that means is that we will receive preferential treatment when we go to work, or school, or church, or when we meet others, when we try to close a deal or a sale, or in what ever other area you can think of. It doesn't mean will will not have to do our part. But it DOES mean we will see results we weren't expecting, if we're persistent enough. Let me explain with two examples out of my own life.
The first is how Cindy and I bought our house. At the time (nearly three years ago), I was only working part-time as a teacher at Dawson, and my contract was up in June. We were getting married in May. Cindy was only working part-time and was in school. I had huge amounts of debt, plus car payments. My debt ratio was insanely high (your debt ratio is some calculation banks do that compares your salary to your debts... And normally, it should be less that 30% or so... I was somewhere over 40 or 50!!!) We also did not have to down payment for the house. But I believed that this house was to be ours. I believed God would give it to us. At that time, I had no concept of God's favour... But nevertheless I believe God would do it for me. And what did He do?
Well, we got approved for the loan (miracle #1) and I didn't close all my other debts (miracle #2). We got the house for $18,000 less than the asking price (miracle #3). I moved in one week before our wedding (miracle #4). The monetary gifts from our wedding paid our down payment and more (miracle #5). And we got to live in the house rent/mortgage payment free for three months (miracle #6). THAT is the favour of the Lord.
The second example happened more recently. Cindy and I applied for a line of credit so that we could consolidate our consumer debt. I still had a whack-load of debt, plus our tax return payments for 2003, which we could not pay due to our financial situation (I still was only working part-time as was Cindy). Anyway, we had been to the Royal Bank, and they declined us because my debt ratio was too high. Besides the payments would have been over $500 a month, and we could not handle that (I was missing payments on the credit cards because we were paying over $500 a month on them). So on Cindy's faith, we went to the National Bank and asked for a line of credit, which is actually more difficult to get than a personal loan, because the payment plan is more flexible. To make a long story short, we got it... And the only reason is the favour of the Lord!
So go out in 2005 and believe that God's favour is upon you in everything you do. Expect to be blessed. Expect to receive preferential treatment. Expect to get the unexpected!
Be blessed.
Thursday, December 23, 2004
MERRY CHRISTMAS
I may not be able to get to a computer for the next couple of days, so I just wanted to send out a Christmas blessing! May your holidays be filled with love, joy, hope, and happiness. And may the love of God fill your whole being!
Be blessed!
Be blessed!
Wednesday, December 22, 2004
Success... What is it? (part 4)
I really like the commentary to Joshua 1:8 in the Amplified Translation. It writes, "This is the only place in the early English versions where the word "success" is found. The secret of success is given in verses 5 through 9. Joshua accepted Moses' place of leadership without misgivings. God's will for him was his will, and he did not hesitate. To go "all out" for God was already habitual with him; it is the unfailing prerequisite of eternal success (Deut. 6:3-5; Ps. 1:1-3; Luke 10:25-28)."
So, do you want the secret to success? Here it is:
Well, if I may, what I see here is that success really means having God by your side. Success means that God will never forsake you or fail you. THEN we will prosper and "have success".
But, how do we know God is with us? What does success look like?
Does this answer our questions or just open up a whole slew of new ones? Hmmm...
So, do you want the secret to success? Here it is:
"No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you. Be strong (confident) and of good courage, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. Only you be strong and very courageous, that you may do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you. Turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have goodsuccess. Have not I commanded you? Be strong, vigorous, and very courageous. Be not afraid, neither be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." - Joshua 1:5-9Hmmmm? So to be success means (i) being strong, (ii) and courageous, (iii) keep God's law, (iv) let it not depart form our mouths, (v) meditate on it, (vi) observe, (vi) and do it. But if you look at those verses more closely, really what are they saying?
Well, if I may, what I see here is that success really means having God by your side. Success means that God will never forsake you or fail you. THEN we will prosper and "have success".
But, how do we know God is with us? What does success look like?
Does this answer our questions or just open up a whole slew of new ones? Hmmm...
Monday, December 20, 2004
Success... What Is It? (part 3)
As I mentioned in my previous post, the word success is actually only used once in the King James Translation. It is found in Joshua 1:8. And it comes from the Hebrew word sakal.
Now, this is not the only time we find sakal in the Old Testament, even though it is the only occurrence of the word success (in the early English translations). In other instances in the Old Testament (and there's over 60 instances) of the word sakal, it has been translated into the words understand or understanding, wise, wisely, or wisdom, prosper, consider, instruct, prudent, skill, teach, guiding, wittingly, behaved, skillful and, of course, success.
Interesting spread of words. No where in those words do I see any indication of success being some kind of destination or goal. Instead it seems to be very vague, at least vague to those who like things concrete, practical and in absolutes.
To me all these words give a sense of learning and growing; something that does not actually end. Because, we can always learn more, grow in deeper understanding (just ask a Microbiologist), have more wisdom, grow more skillful. Even when you are the best at something, say the fastest runner, you can always train more to gain that extra 1/100th of a second.
Well, I suppose we can then say that success is a journey, as John Maxwell put it.
But you know what. That also means that you are, or you can be, a success RIGHT NOW!
Think about it. Comment on it. I'll write more about that tomorrow.
Be blessed.
Now, this is not the only time we find sakal in the Old Testament, even though it is the only occurrence of the word success (in the early English translations). In other instances in the Old Testament (and there's over 60 instances) of the word sakal, it has been translated into the words understand or understanding, wise, wisely, or wisdom, prosper, consider, instruct, prudent, skill, teach, guiding, wittingly, behaved, skillful and, of course, success.
Interesting spread of words. No where in those words do I see any indication of success being some kind of destination or goal. Instead it seems to be very vague, at least vague to those who like things concrete, practical and in absolutes.
To me all these words give a sense of learning and growing; something that does not actually end. Because, we can always learn more, grow in deeper understanding (just ask a Microbiologist), have more wisdom, grow more skillful. Even when you are the best at something, say the fastest runner, you can always train more to gain that extra 1/100th of a second.
Well, I suppose we can then say that success is a journey, as John Maxwell put it.
But you know what. That also means that you are, or you can be, a success RIGHT NOW!
Think about it. Comment on it. I'll write more about that tomorrow.
Be blessed.
Friday, December 17, 2004
Success... What Is It? (part 2)
Did you know that in the King James Translation, there is only one use of the word success?
You'll find it in Joshua 1:8, and it reads, "This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success."
Interesting, eh!?
When I looked up the Hebrew word used here, it was sakal, pronounced saw-kal'. It's Biblical uses range as follows:
1. To be prudent, be circumspect, wisely understand, prosper
a) (active verb) to be prudent, be circumspect
b) (passive verb)
i) to look at or upon, have insight
ii) to give attention to, consider, ponder, be prudent
iii) to have insight, have comprehension
- insight, comprehension (subst)
iv) to cause to consider, give insight, teach
- the teachers, the wise
v) to act circumspectly, act prudently, act wisely
vi) to prosper, have success
vii) to cause to prosper
2. (intensive active verb) to lay crosswise, cross (hands)
Interesting, eh!?
The Amplified translation adds this to the verse: "This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success. [This is the only place in the early English versions where the word "success" is found. The secret of success is given in verses 5 through 9. Joshua accepted Moses' place of leadership without misgivings. God's will for him was his will, and he did not hesitate. To go "all out" for God was already habitual with him; it is the unfailing prerequisite of eternal success (Deut. 6:3-5; Ps. 1:1-3; Luke 10:25-28).]"
Interesting, eh!?
There's no mention of success being a destination... Or even having anything to do with money, wealth, power or possessions. Hmmm? The word prosper only shows up three times in that definition above. And even that word has been twisted in its meaning. We often equate prosperity with financial prosperity, but it actually has a more holistic definition. Prosperity refers to a total, whole body/person prosperity, from health, wealth, emotions, relationships, etc...
There's a lot to chew on here. I'll leave it at that for now. I welcome your comments.
Be blessed!
You'll find it in Joshua 1:8, and it reads, "This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success."
Interesting, eh!?
When I looked up the Hebrew word used here, it was sakal, pronounced saw-kal'. It's Biblical uses range as follows:
1. To be prudent, be circumspect, wisely understand, prosper
a) (active verb) to be prudent, be circumspect
b) (passive verb)
i) to look at or upon, have insight
ii) to give attention to, consider, ponder, be prudent
iii) to have insight, have comprehension
- insight, comprehension (subst)
iv) to cause to consider, give insight, teach
- the teachers, the wise
v) to act circumspectly, act prudently, act wisely
vi) to prosper, have success
vii) to cause to prosper
2. (intensive active verb) to lay crosswise, cross (hands)
Interesting, eh!?
The Amplified translation adds this to the verse: "This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success. [This is the only place in the early English versions where the word "success" is found. The secret of success is given in verses 5 through 9. Joshua accepted Moses' place of leadership without misgivings. God's will for him was his will, and he did not hesitate. To go "all out" for God was already habitual with him; it is the unfailing prerequisite of eternal success (Deut. 6:3-5; Ps. 1:1-3; Luke 10:25-28).]"
Interesting, eh!?
There's no mention of success being a destination... Or even having anything to do with money, wealth, power or possessions. Hmmm? The word prosper only shows up three times in that definition above. And even that word has been twisted in its meaning. We often equate prosperity with financial prosperity, but it actually has a more holistic definition. Prosperity refers to a total, whole body/person prosperity, from health, wealth, emotions, relationships, etc...
There's a lot to chew on here. I'll leave it at that for now. I welcome your comments.
Be blessed!
Thursday, December 16, 2004
Success... What Is It?
If I were to throw out the question, "What do you think success is?" I am sure I would get as many different answers as people have different hair colour. Weird analogy, but I think you get my point.
Nevertheless, I think the majority of people do view it as a destination; as a goal to get to; as a "place" you are not at yet, but hope to be someday; or something to that effect. The typical mentality would be something like, "I'm not quite there... Yet." And I suppose, many Christian view "ultimate" success as "getting" to heaven. (Why all the " "? Well, I'm not sure how each person really sees these things. We all have a different view or understanding of what "ultimate" means and even what "getting" to heaven means... But I am not a fan of arguing semantics, though I know that it IS important to get our definitions in order... But I digress)
Can I throw out four areas that most people would define as symbols or markers of success (sure I can... It is my blog :):
Well, the Scriptures definitely have a different view of what success is. And that's what I'm looking at. Will you now allow me to throw out a hypothesis? And will you join me as I seek out an answer to what success is?
Now, I read this definition from the book "Your Road Map For Success," by John C. Maxwell, so it's not necessarily my original idea. But, it did spark something in my mind. And since John Maxwell is a Christian and a pastor, I wanted to see if this definition was founded in Scripture. Here is the definition:
That's where my search begins. And I'll share with you what I've found so far in my next post.
Disclaimer: By no means do I profess myself to be an expert. I am just one who does not accept things at face value, and nor should you. I don't just absorb things from "pastors" and accept them as truth, without asking questions and seeking God for my own answers. Often, I come to the same conclusions... But, often enough, I have not, and have had to disagree with the "teacher". Ultimately, I stand before God, and God alone, to judge my heart and my actions... So He's the only one I am trying to please. So feel free to comment (I will not engage in a debate or argument though) and glean anything that may be of worth to you. BE BLESSED!
Nevertheless, I think the majority of people do view it as a destination; as a goal to get to; as a "place" you are not at yet, but hope to be someday; or something to that effect. The typical mentality would be something like, "I'm not quite there... Yet." And I suppose, many Christian view "ultimate" success as "getting" to heaven. (Why all the " "? Well, I'm not sure how each person really sees these things. We all have a different view or understanding of what "ultimate" means and even what "getting" to heaven means... But I am not a fan of arguing semantics, though I know that it IS important to get our definitions in order... But I digress)
Can I throw out four areas that most people would define as symbols or markers of success (sure I can... It is my blog :):
1. WealthCan we agree that for every person, each of these could--and probably does--mean something different, when you consider specifics in a person's life? And, can we also agree that your own definition of success probably has some element of one or more of these?
2. Specific & Worthwhile Possessions
3. Power
4. Achievement
Well, the Scriptures definitely have a different view of what success is. And that's what I'm looking at. Will you now allow me to throw out a hypothesis? And will you join me as I seek out an answer to what success is?
Now, I read this definition from the book "Your Road Map For Success," by John C. Maxwell, so it's not necessarily my original idea. But, it did spark something in my mind. And since John Maxwell is a Christian and a pastor, I wanted to see if this definition was founded in Scripture. Here is the definition:
Success is...It certainly sounds Christian... Well, it mentions sowing seeds... And serving :) Ultimately, John Maxwell describes success as a journey and not a destination. Hmmm... Sounds interesting. But, again, is it Scriptural?
knowing your purpose in life,
growing to reach your maximum potential, and
sowing seeds that benefit others.
That's where my search begins. And I'll share with you what I've found so far in my next post.
Disclaimer: By no means do I profess myself to be an expert. I am just one who does not accept things at face value, and nor should you. I don't just absorb things from "pastors" and accept them as truth, without asking questions and seeking God for my own answers. Often, I come to the same conclusions... But, often enough, I have not, and have had to disagree with the "teacher". Ultimately, I stand before God, and God alone, to judge my heart and my actions... So He's the only one I am trying to please. So feel free to comment (I will not engage in a debate or argument though) and glean anything that may be of worth to you. BE BLESSED!
Correction to December 6th Post
OK... So it wasn't an outline for the next week... :)
Hey, there's some meaty stuff here, and when I don't fully get it, how can I write about it, eh?!
Besides... I sometimes have trouble getting my priorities straight :)
Merry Christmas! Happy Birthday Jesus!
Hey, there's some meaty stuff here, and when I don't fully get it, how can I write about it, eh?!
Besides... I sometimes have trouble getting my priorities straight :)
Merry Christmas! Happy Birthday Jesus!
Monday, December 06, 2004
Outline for this Week
Well, God is doing a number on me... like He hasn't been all this time... but I think I'm starting to see where it's all going. There's a bunch of stuff I want to write about... for one, I want to finish the "10 Emerging Prophetic Shifts", but I'm still meditating on Day 4... I will write more on that.
Anyway, here's what I will be looking at and writing about thyis week:
1. Definition of Success from Scripture.
2. How to get people to catch your vision... from a Scriptural point of view.
3. Some thoughts on the 4th commandment: "Honour your father and mother..."
4. I want to share my vision for a 24/7 prayer & worship centre.
I guess that's it right now, but I'm sure there will be more... God is always talking... but are we always listening?
Anyway, here's what I will be looking at and writing about thyis week:
1. Definition of Success from Scripture.
2. How to get people to catch your vision... from a Scriptural point of view.
3. Some thoughts on the 4th commandment: "Honour your father and mother..."
4. I want to share my vision for a 24/7 prayer & worship centre.
I guess that's it right now, but I'm sure there will be more... God is always talking... but are we always listening?
Tuesday, November 23, 2004
10 Emerging Prophetic Shifts - Day 4
I'm stuck on day 4... I haven't even gone through what Chuck Pierce says in his word. Let me first share Chuck's words, and then I'll explain a little.
4. New Warfare strategies of recovery and reversal of fortune.
Chuck first mentions that we need to sit before the LORD and ask Him to give us the mind for recovery. Then he says to read 1 Samual 30:6-8. We need to encourage ourselves in the LORD, and not just look at our "bad" situation!
Read Jeremiah 30. LORD, give us an understanding of the power if restoration. LORD, we pray through Haggai 1-2. LORD, we decree that ALL disinterest, disillusionment, and discouragement will break from us! Father, we pray for every building project that You have placeed before us--which includes our ministries, our church, and even actually physical buildings. LORD, unlock that silver and gold these projects will need.
I have not been able to get past this. When I read each one of those passages above, it stirred something in me. We just came off of a week long conference. During that conference, many things were declared and taught and said, and God stirred up some dreams I thought were dead. BUT, I want to make sure that it is God and that it is His right timing before I say or do anything. That's why I am spending some time on this. I know there are projects He wants started... and if it is from the God of Heaven and Earth, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the "silver and gold" will be released. Amen.
Be blessed.
4. New Warfare strategies of recovery and reversal of fortune.
Chuck first mentions that we need to sit before the LORD and ask Him to give us the mind for recovery. Then he says to read 1 Samual 30:6-8. We need to encourage ourselves in the LORD, and not just look at our "bad" situation!
Read Jeremiah 30. LORD, give us an understanding of the power if restoration. LORD, we pray through Haggai 1-2. LORD, we decree that ALL disinterest, disillusionment, and discouragement will break from us! Father, we pray for every building project that You have placeed before us--which includes our ministries, our church, and even actually physical buildings. LORD, unlock that silver and gold these projects will need.
I have not been able to get past this. When I read each one of those passages above, it stirred something in me. We just came off of a week long conference. During that conference, many things were declared and taught and said, and God stirred up some dreams I thought were dead. BUT, I want to make sure that it is God and that it is His right timing before I say or do anything. That's why I am spending some time on this. I know there are projects He wants started... and if it is from the God of Heaven and Earth, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the "silver and gold" will be released. Amen.
Be blessed.
Wednesday, November 17, 2004
10 Emerging Prophetic Shifts - Day 3
3. New strategies concerning supply and the transference of wealth.
Today I read 1 Kings 17, 2 Kings 4, and Mark 12:41-44. All of these passages have to do with God's provision, God's "financial" or material blessing, and giving from our need or our lack, not form our surplus.
These are not new or novel ideas. Anyone who reads his Bible with an open heart knows that God is a God of blessing. He wants to bless us, even in this world. It is NOT some higher form of Christianity to be poor or to voluntarily want to be poor or just have the "basic" needs. I am not saying that Christians will not be poor or in trouble financially sometimes. Occasionally, we make very bad decisions (I'm still living with a lot of bad decision I had made from about ages 18-28). There is wisdom we need to use and obey to see financial prosperity. BUT if you believe the lie that money is evil or that it is prideful to be well-off, you in essence close the door to God's blessings.
Look at the stories in 1 Kings 17 and 2 Kings 4. If those people in the stories did not believe that they deserved to be blessed, or wanted to stay in their poverty, they would not have obeyed the "men of God" and they would not have been blessed by God.
We need to believe that God wants to bless. We need to believe that God CAN bless. We need to believe that He WILL bless us.
We have to break out of our pragmatic and physical-world thinking. God can bring us our provisions in whatever way HE wants to... Through Ravens, through oil being poured into other jars, by simply having a man of God declare something over you... Whatever way HE wants!
O LORD, I decree over my life that the spirit of poverty will not speak and deceive me this year. LORD show me how I may multiply my resources. LORD, I ask You to give me favour with your creditors. And Father, teach me and show me how to give according to Your ways. Break the spirit of greed and/or covetousness in my bloodline. I reject this curse over my family... and from this day forward, me and my house will serve the LORD!
Be blessed.
Today I read 1 Kings 17, 2 Kings 4, and Mark 12:41-44. All of these passages have to do with God's provision, God's "financial" or material blessing, and giving from our need or our lack, not form our surplus.
These are not new or novel ideas. Anyone who reads his Bible with an open heart knows that God is a God of blessing. He wants to bless us, even in this world. It is NOT some higher form of Christianity to be poor or to voluntarily want to be poor or just have the "basic" needs. I am not saying that Christians will not be poor or in trouble financially sometimes. Occasionally, we make very bad decisions (I'm still living with a lot of bad decision I had made from about ages 18-28). There is wisdom we need to use and obey to see financial prosperity. BUT if you believe the lie that money is evil or that it is prideful to be well-off, you in essence close the door to God's blessings.
Look at the stories in 1 Kings 17 and 2 Kings 4. If those people in the stories did not believe that they deserved to be blessed, or wanted to stay in their poverty, they would not have obeyed the "men of God" and they would not have been blessed by God.
We need to believe that God wants to bless. We need to believe that God CAN bless. We need to believe that He WILL bless us.
We have to break out of our pragmatic and physical-world thinking. God can bring us our provisions in whatever way HE wants to... Through Ravens, through oil being poured into other jars, by simply having a man of God declare something over you... Whatever way HE wants!
O LORD, I decree over my life that the spirit of poverty will not speak and deceive me this year. LORD show me how I may multiply my resources. LORD, I ask You to give me favour with your creditors. And Father, teach me and show me how to give according to Your ways. Break the spirit of greed and/or covetousness in my bloodline. I reject this curse over my family... and from this day forward, me and my house will serve the LORD!
Be blessed.
Forgiveness -- a Hard Thing to Do
Forgiveness is very hard to do sometimes. But it is a command!
Today I read an article on the Elijah List, entitled "Forgiveness of Former Wounds." Read it. It's really good. I could not do it justice here... Especially since this is an area I am struggling with right now.
The question I keep asking is, "How can you keep forgiving someone, who seems to be clueless to the hurt they are causing you and are sometimes unwilling to change that even when you confront them?"
What makes all this the more difficult is that I am a very introverted person... I am also a peacemaker... So for me to rock the boat is difficult. I'll often rather take the offense or hurt or, even, abuse, than to confront and cause "more" trouble. I'll keep everything bottled up inside, in the hopes that I won't exasperate the situation. It is a coping mechanism from my childhood. When my parents would fight, I would keep everything bottled up so as not to cause more trouble... I saw my brother speak out and that would just cause the fighting to escalate.
Now, to borrow a phrase from Dr. Phil, "How's that working for ya?!" It's not! But I don't know what else to do.
Without getting into specifics, there is a person in my life that continues to hurt me, disrespect me, and in their actions and words, devalue me. This person is some one very close to me, and someone I wish I could have a healthy and good relationship with. BUT, when I do mention this to them, they shrug it off as my problem, like they don't have this problem... Or they flatly deny any such wrong doing and promptly 2 seconds later put me down again.
I have forgive this person many times before, but where is the limit? Where is the point where I am "allowed" to end this? I know God is my justice and He'll take care of the wrongs towards me... But how long do I have to endure the repeated pain?
I guess all I can do is pray as Robert Ricciardelli prayed in his article, "Holy Spirit, I pray that you will bring remembrance to past wounds only to check our hearts for true and full forgiveness to those who have afflicted us. Father, we realize that it is a command and we also realize that if we do not, then even our sins will not be forgiven. Father, of myself, I can do nothing, and in no way have the strength, courage, and obedience to forgive. But, Father, in you and through the power of the Holy Spirit, who lives in me, I choose to forgive all of them that you have brought to my remembrance, in Jesus' name. I even go further and ask you to bless them that did this to me and make yourself known to them Father, in Jesus' mighty name, Amen!"
Today I read an article on the Elijah List, entitled "Forgiveness of Former Wounds." Read it. It's really good. I could not do it justice here... Especially since this is an area I am struggling with right now.
The question I keep asking is, "How can you keep forgiving someone, who seems to be clueless to the hurt they are causing you and are sometimes unwilling to change that even when you confront them?"
What makes all this the more difficult is that I am a very introverted person... I am also a peacemaker... So for me to rock the boat is difficult. I'll often rather take the offense or hurt or, even, abuse, than to confront and cause "more" trouble. I'll keep everything bottled up inside, in the hopes that I won't exasperate the situation. It is a coping mechanism from my childhood. When my parents would fight, I would keep everything bottled up so as not to cause more trouble... I saw my brother speak out and that would just cause the fighting to escalate.
Now, to borrow a phrase from Dr. Phil, "How's that working for ya?!" It's not! But I don't know what else to do.
Without getting into specifics, there is a person in my life that continues to hurt me, disrespect me, and in their actions and words, devalue me. This person is some one very close to me, and someone I wish I could have a healthy and good relationship with. BUT, when I do mention this to them, they shrug it off as my problem, like they don't have this problem... Or they flatly deny any such wrong doing and promptly 2 seconds later put me down again.
I have forgive this person many times before, but where is the limit? Where is the point where I am "allowed" to end this? I know God is my justice and He'll take care of the wrongs towards me... But how long do I have to endure the repeated pain?
I guess all I can do is pray as Robert Ricciardelli prayed in his article, "Holy Spirit, I pray that you will bring remembrance to past wounds only to check our hearts for true and full forgiveness to those who have afflicted us. Father, we realize that it is a command and we also realize that if we do not, then even our sins will not be forgiven. Father, of myself, I can do nothing, and in no way have the strength, courage, and obedience to forgive. But, Father, in you and through the power of the Holy Spirit, who lives in me, I choose to forgive all of them that you have brought to my remembrance, in Jesus' name. I even go further and ask you to bless them that did this to me and make yourself known to them Father, in Jesus' mighty name, Amen!"
Tuesday, November 16, 2004
10 Emerging Prophetic Shifts - Day 2
2. New emerging strategies that will cause us to have the right word to change legal structures.
Chuck wrote, "This is where the real war over our nation lies."
I read Acts 3-5. In a nutshell, Peter and John heal a lame beggar, begin to teach about Jesus, get arrested by the religious leaders, are freed by an angel, preach the Gospel some more, are arrested again, but this time they are flogged and then released based on the idea that if it is not from GOD, their movement would fizzle out. And the famous words are uttered: "It's necessary to obey God rather than men." (see acts 5:29) Please don't take that verse out of context. They were being ordered not to preach the Gospel. The disciples were not breaking any "legal" laws... The religious leaders simply did not like their preaching.
There is more that happens, but, I believe, the point is made. The early Church had a boldness we often lack today. And that boldness led then to confront many legal structures and legalistic-religious structures of their time.
LORD, I pray give us a new boldness in our spirit. Let Your boldness rest on us. Holy Spirit deal with all our infirmities through Jesus Christ our Lord. All we need is Jesus, and we can walk in full boldness and strength. Father, I also ask that you show each one of us, Your children, our place of involvement concerning the legal structures around us. Give us Your way to deal with the injustices, unrighteousness, and ungodliness in our world.
Read Colossians 2. This passage is all about legalism and a religious spirit. It is so easy to be deceived and to believe that what we think and believe is absolutely the truth and Scripturally sound, when often it is not. Often, our believes are based on some kind of tradition or opinion or personal taste. The Gospel has nothing to do with personal taste. The Gospel is Truth for ALL people. Lord show us and remove any areas in our lives that might be operating under any religious legalism. We are free in Christ of all man-made rules, and we are free to worship and serve God based on His Word.
Be blessed
Chuck wrote, "This is where the real war over our nation lies."
I read Acts 3-5. In a nutshell, Peter and John heal a lame beggar, begin to teach about Jesus, get arrested by the religious leaders, are freed by an angel, preach the Gospel some more, are arrested again, but this time they are flogged and then released based on the idea that if it is not from GOD, their movement would fizzle out. And the famous words are uttered: "It's necessary to obey God rather than men." (see acts 5:29) Please don't take that verse out of context. They were being ordered not to preach the Gospel. The disciples were not breaking any "legal" laws... The religious leaders simply did not like their preaching.
There is more that happens, but, I believe, the point is made. The early Church had a boldness we often lack today. And that boldness led then to confront many legal structures and legalistic-religious structures of their time.
LORD, I pray give us a new boldness in our spirit. Let Your boldness rest on us. Holy Spirit deal with all our infirmities through Jesus Christ our Lord. All we need is Jesus, and we can walk in full boldness and strength. Father, I also ask that you show each one of us, Your children, our place of involvement concerning the legal structures around us. Give us Your way to deal with the injustices, unrighteousness, and ungodliness in our world.
Read Colossians 2. This passage is all about legalism and a religious spirit. It is so easy to be deceived and to believe that what we think and believe is absolutely the truth and Scripturally sound, when often it is not. Often, our believes are based on some kind of tradition or opinion or personal taste. The Gospel has nothing to do with personal taste. The Gospel is Truth for ALL people. Lord show us and remove any areas in our lives that might be operating under any religious legalism. We are free in Christ of all man-made rules, and we are free to worship and serve God based on His Word.
Be blessed
Monday, November 15, 2004
Are you light and salt?
I've just been thinking a lot about the church and Christians in general... Especially, from a North American viewpoint... And even more so, from a Quebecois viewpoint, where we have possibly the smallest population of Christian in the west.
Some of my frustrations with other Christians is how we do NOT portray the love of Christ, and GOD's values and virtues to our world and communities. I'm sorry if I offend you, but we do such a crappy job of showing our world how awesome it is to be a child of GOD and to be Christian... In general... I know there are some really awesome examples in our world.
We're often viewed as dimwitted (George W. Bush?), close-minded, right-leaning, conservative, gun-toting psychos. Or, depressed, unhappy, "poverty"-stricken, boring rejects.
I don't know about you, but the Scriptures do not paint this kind of picture for our lives.
I'm reading a book entitled, "Being the Body," by Chuck Colson, founder and chairman of Breakpoint online and founder of Prison Fellowship Ministries, and Ellen Vaughn. I'm not here to review it or recommend it or anything like that. BUT, Chuck does make some powerful observations and comments about Christianity. In the chapters that I am reading presently, he is writing about being salt and light to this world. Most of us understand that being light in this world means bringing the light of Jesus to the world, for He is the light of all men. But do we really understand what it means to be salt?
Well, what is salt? What is it used for? There are two traditional purposes of salt... And probably the two purposes Jesus was speaking about when He first mentioned it to His disciples. One is that salt is used to bring out the taste of food, but it needs to penetrate into the food. That's why it needs to be cooked with the food. Often, if the salt is just on the surface, you haven't really done anything to the food. The second is that salt was (and often still is) used as a preservative. With no fridges and freezers, people used to preserve their meats with salt.
Think about that. Think about what that means for you for where you are. It is NOT good for us to keep our Christianity in the four walls of our churches, and then forget about Christ the rest of the week. Wherever we are, in school as students, teachers, administrators, at work as employees or managers or board members, even as ministers, we should be penetrating into our world and bringing it taste and preserving that which is good.
That brings a couple ideas to mind. First, this world is good!!!! Whoa! That breaks some mindsets, eh! GOD made this world good, but it takes "salty" Christians to bring out the goodness. Secondly, our world is decaying, and it needs salty Christians to preserve that which is good.
I can't tell you what that means for you. I can't tell you what you have to do to be a salty Christian. But we must be! We must be a presence in this world and not as outsiders and outcasts, but as active and useful members of society.
That's why it's important to vote (not necessarily for the "Christian" candidate, but because it's the right thing to do). That's why it's SO important to get involved in your community. That's why it's important to be a good neighbour. That's why you should be one of the best employees your boss has. That's why our churches should be filled with every Christian working their butts off to make their church the most attractive thing to non-believers!
Let's wake up people. We need each and every part of the body working on all cylinders!
Be blessed.
Some of my frustrations with other Christians is how we do NOT portray the love of Christ, and GOD's values and virtues to our world and communities. I'm sorry if I offend you, but we do such a crappy job of showing our world how awesome it is to be a child of GOD and to be Christian... In general... I know there are some really awesome examples in our world.
We're often viewed as dimwitted (George W. Bush?), close-minded, right-leaning, conservative, gun-toting psychos. Or, depressed, unhappy, "poverty"-stricken, boring rejects.
I don't know about you, but the Scriptures do not paint this kind of picture for our lives.
I'm reading a book entitled, "Being the Body," by Chuck Colson, founder and chairman of Breakpoint online and founder of Prison Fellowship Ministries, and Ellen Vaughn. I'm not here to review it or recommend it or anything like that. BUT, Chuck does make some powerful observations and comments about Christianity. In the chapters that I am reading presently, he is writing about being salt and light to this world. Most of us understand that being light in this world means bringing the light of Jesus to the world, for He is the light of all men. But do we really understand what it means to be salt?
Well, what is salt? What is it used for? There are two traditional purposes of salt... And probably the two purposes Jesus was speaking about when He first mentioned it to His disciples. One is that salt is used to bring out the taste of food, but it needs to penetrate into the food. That's why it needs to be cooked with the food. Often, if the salt is just on the surface, you haven't really done anything to the food. The second is that salt was (and often still is) used as a preservative. With no fridges and freezers, people used to preserve their meats with salt.
Think about that. Think about what that means for you for where you are. It is NOT good for us to keep our Christianity in the four walls of our churches, and then forget about Christ the rest of the week. Wherever we are, in school as students, teachers, administrators, at work as employees or managers or board members, even as ministers, we should be penetrating into our world and bringing it taste and preserving that which is good.
That brings a couple ideas to mind. First, this world is good!!!! Whoa! That breaks some mindsets, eh! GOD made this world good, but it takes "salty" Christians to bring out the goodness. Secondly, our world is decaying, and it needs salty Christians to preserve that which is good.
I can't tell you what that means for you. I can't tell you what you have to do to be a salty Christian. But we must be! We must be a presence in this world and not as outsiders and outcasts, but as active and useful members of society.
That's why it's important to vote (not necessarily for the "Christian" candidate, but because it's the right thing to do). That's why it's SO important to get involved in your community. That's why it's important to be a good neighbour. That's why you should be one of the best employees your boss has. That's why our churches should be filled with every Christian working their butts off to make their church the most attractive thing to non-believers!
Let's wake up people. We need each and every part of the body working on all cylinders!
Be blessed.
Friday, November 12, 2004
10 Emerging Prophetic Shifts - Day 1 (continued)
I know it's now spilling over to day 3, but there is so much here that I wanted to really think about it and meditate on it. I still didn't do all that much meditating (it's been a very busy "work" week).
In Day 1, Chuck Pierce also mentions to meditate on Joshua 1-3. A real brief synopsis of it is Moses is dead, Joshua is made the new leader, and the people of Israel are about to enter into their promised land. The LORD gives them (and us!) a number of instructions and promises.
Some of the main ideas (at least from my perspective) were:
1. Joshua 1:2-5 - GOD is giving the promised land, and will never leave us!
2. Joshua 1:6-9 - keep and obey God's commands
3. Joshua 1:11 - we must TAKE the land GOD is giving us
4. Joshua 2 - GOD has gone ahead and already prepared the victory for us!
5. Joshua 2 - there may well be covenant relationships with people we would not expect
6. Joshua 3:5 - we must sanctify ourselves
There is a LOT more there than just that. But ultimately, what God is saying is that we must prepare ourselves for victory! Victory is ours, just as it was the Israelites. In fact, had they walked in faith 40 years ago, they would have entered the promised land then. They instead listened to the negative report of the 10 spies, and spent forty years in the desert... as well as, ever person who had complained and grumbled, died in the desert.
Listen, now is not a time to grumble or murmur. Now is not a time to turn our backs to GOD. Now is not the time to be slack and apathetic and have a "wait-and-see" attitude. We must jump on the wave, and move through our Jordan into our promised land. Ready to "fight" for the land God has promised us. Ready to reclaim our cities and nations back to God. Be prepared for victory. Sanctify yourself.
Listen closely to what God would have you do. The smallest things ARE important. You never know how big of an impact your little act will have. Look at Rahab. She was a traitor to her nation and city. She risked her life on two sides... turning against her own king and trusting two spies she did not know. Ultimately, she trusting in GOD. And she became the grandmother of King David, and a descendant of the Messiah!
Be blessed
In Day 1, Chuck Pierce also mentions to meditate on Joshua 1-3. A real brief synopsis of it is Moses is dead, Joshua is made the new leader, and the people of Israel are about to enter into their promised land. The LORD gives them (and us!) a number of instructions and promises.
Some of the main ideas (at least from my perspective) were:
1. Joshua 1:2-5 - GOD is giving the promised land, and will never leave us!
2. Joshua 1:6-9 - keep and obey God's commands
3. Joshua 1:11 - we must TAKE the land GOD is giving us
4. Joshua 2 - GOD has gone ahead and already prepared the victory for us!
5. Joshua 2 - there may well be covenant relationships with people we would not expect
6. Joshua 3:5 - we must sanctify ourselves
There is a LOT more there than just that. But ultimately, what God is saying is that we must prepare ourselves for victory! Victory is ours, just as it was the Israelites. In fact, had they walked in faith 40 years ago, they would have entered the promised land then. They instead listened to the negative report of the 10 spies, and spent forty years in the desert... as well as, ever person who had complained and grumbled, died in the desert.
Listen, now is not a time to grumble or murmur. Now is not a time to turn our backs to GOD. Now is not the time to be slack and apathetic and have a "wait-and-see" attitude. We must jump on the wave, and move through our Jordan into our promised land. Ready to "fight" for the land God has promised us. Ready to reclaim our cities and nations back to God. Be prepared for victory. Sanctify yourself.
Listen closely to what God would have you do. The smallest things ARE important. You never know how big of an impact your little act will have. Look at Rahab. She was a traitor to her nation and city. She risked her life on two sides... turning against her own king and trusting two spies she did not know. Ultimately, she trusting in GOD. And she became the grandmother of King David, and a descendant of the Messiah!
Be blessed
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
10 Emerging Prophetic Shifts - Day 1
This is based on Chuck Pierce's 10-Day Prayer Focus to Decree & Emerge into your Promises Ahead!
1. A New Passion in God's prophetic people to be holy and separated out of and unto His purposes.
This has been my heart's desire for a while, because I feel like I haven't been doing anything... That I am not walking and serving in my calling, but rather JUST serving--wherever and doing whatever that may lead to. That does not make me happy. I long to be in the place God has prepared for me. I long for the work God has prepared for me. I know all this is preparation, but it is NOT my final destination in this lifetime.
Colossians 1 was the passage Chuck mentions for this first day along with this thought: "Ask God to reveal any unholy, besetting sin within you that could affect your conscience and allow Satan's seducing, condemning voice to speak subtly in your ear."
We often don't even realize how easily we veer off the path. It's not usually done on purpose, but it's often little compromises and little side-steps off God's path.
But the great thing is that we have Christ in us (see verse 27)! The Gospel, which is in us, bears fruit and gets larger and stronger. Notice, that's an automatic. We don't really do anything, except for hoping, believing and keeping faith. God does the growing!
Paul's prayer touched me again... Just like yesterday! He writes in verses 9-12, "Be assured that from the first day we heard of you, we haven't stopped praying for you, asking God to give you wise minds and spirits attuned to his will, and so acquire a thorough understanding of the ways in which God works. We pray that you'll live well for the Master, making him proud of you as you work hard in his orchard. As you learn more and more how God works, you will learn how to do your work. We pray that you'll have the strength to stick it out over the long haul--not the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives. It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into joy, thanking the Father who makes us strong enough to take part in everything bright and beautiful that he has for us."
I pray that God gives me a wise mind and a spirit attuned to His will, and so to acquire a thorough understanding of the ways in which GOD works! I want to learn more and more how GOD works, so that I can learn to do my work!!!! Lord give me the strength that will endure and spill over into joy, regardless of the circumstances! AMEN! AMEN! I find my purpose in You and You alone, O LORD! Grow me in maturity. Grow me in a basic faith in You! Christ alone! No more, no less! Thank you, Father!
1. A New Passion in God's prophetic people to be holy and separated out of and unto His purposes.
This has been my heart's desire for a while, because I feel like I haven't been doing anything... That I am not walking and serving in my calling, but rather JUST serving--wherever and doing whatever that may lead to. That does not make me happy. I long to be in the place God has prepared for me. I long for the work God has prepared for me. I know all this is preparation, but it is NOT my final destination in this lifetime.
Colossians 1 was the passage Chuck mentions for this first day along with this thought: "Ask God to reveal any unholy, besetting sin within you that could affect your conscience and allow Satan's seducing, condemning voice to speak subtly in your ear."
We often don't even realize how easily we veer off the path. It's not usually done on purpose, but it's often little compromises and little side-steps off God's path.
But the great thing is that we have Christ in us (see verse 27)! The Gospel, which is in us, bears fruit and gets larger and stronger. Notice, that's an automatic. We don't really do anything, except for hoping, believing and keeping faith. God does the growing!
Paul's prayer touched me again... Just like yesterday! He writes in verses 9-12, "Be assured that from the first day we heard of you, we haven't stopped praying for you, asking God to give you wise minds and spirits attuned to his will, and so acquire a thorough understanding of the ways in which God works. We pray that you'll live well for the Master, making him proud of you as you work hard in his orchard. As you learn more and more how God works, you will learn how to do your work. We pray that you'll have the strength to stick it out over the long haul--not the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives. It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into joy, thanking the Father who makes us strong enough to take part in everything bright and beautiful that he has for us."
I pray that God gives me a wise mind and a spirit attuned to His will, and so to acquire a thorough understanding of the ways in which GOD works! I want to learn more and more how GOD works, so that I can learn to do my work!!!! Lord give me the strength that will endure and spill over into joy, regardless of the circumstances! AMEN! AMEN! I find my purpose in You and You alone, O LORD! Grow me in maturity. Grow me in a basic faith in You! Christ alone! No more, no less! Thank you, Father!
Tuesday, November 09, 2004
This is my Prayer
I'm coming out of this "tunnel". I'm targetting the thing that bugs and frustrates me the most... the secular routines and rituals that have made their way into the church... in other words, the sacred cows we hold as irrefutable doctine... as sacred as Scripture. From another point of view, that also includes the adoption of non-Scriptural but seemily good secular ideas and structues... I'm sure some may have validity in the context of the Church as an organization, but I know we are more than that.
Anyway, I was reading Philippians yesterday, and I didn't get very far before something touched my heart.
This is what I want to strive for... not titles... not positions... not money... not fame... not "success" (not in the secular sense)... not even approval (at least not man's)... I want to strive that my love (and yours!) will flourish! That I will not only love much but WELL! LORD, teach me to love appropriately. Help me to use my head and test my feelings, so that my love will be intelligent and sincere, and not just sentimental gush! Teach me, O LORD, to live a lover's life, one that You are proud of. So that, Jesus may be attractive to all, and getting everyone involved in Your glory and praises, O my LORD!
Be blessed!
Anyway, I was reading Philippians yesterday, and I didn't get very far before something touched my heart.
“So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well. Learn to love appropriately. You need to use your head and test your feelings so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. Live a lover's life, circumspect and exemplary, a life Jesus will be proud
of: bountiful in fruits from the soul, making Jesus Christ attractive to all, getting everyone involved in the glory and praise of God.” - Philippians 1:9-11
This is what I want to strive for... not titles... not positions... not money... not fame... not "success" (not in the secular sense)... not even approval (at least not man's)... I want to strive that my love (and yours!) will flourish! That I will not only love much but WELL! LORD, teach me to love appropriately. Help me to use my head and test my feelings, so that my love will be intelligent and sincere, and not just sentimental gush! Teach me, O LORD, to live a lover's life, one that You are proud of. So that, Jesus may be attractive to all, and getting everyone involved in Your glory and praises, O my LORD!
Be blessed!
Tuesday, November 02, 2004
What's going on?
A friend of mine recently shared with me that they have been having very strong feelings or urges to kill themself... or at least to die. They thought they were going crazy and that it was weird or strange, especially since they are a Christian, and a pretty hardcore, fired-up Christian at that. BUt, I do not find that weird or strange. I went through a 13+ year depression, and about 5 of those years was as a hardcore, fired-up Christian. At its worse, and right before the LORD healed me of it, I was praying, hoping, begging that God would take my life, either by being hit by a bus or speeding car or that a group of thugs would beat me to death... basically because I knew I could never take my own life.
Is that weird?! Is that shocking!?
WHAT!? A Christian feels that way!
I say, "Get off your self-righteous high-chair!"
Sorry about that, but there is so much going on out there, both in the visible and in the invisible realms, that we cannot know everything. All I know is THAT is the way I have felt in the past, and lately, that is how I feel. Is it non-Scriptural? No, of course not! There are examples of people, GREAT men and women of God, who were depressed, and, yes, some wanted to die!
Job is maybe the best example! Then there is David, where he reveals in his Psalms the great sorrow and pain he felt at times. There is Abraham sulking in his tent.
Sometimes circumstances out of our control heep heavy burdens on our hearts. Sometimes it is purely a spiritual attack. Though I don't give the devil that much credit. He's only able to do what God allows him, and so if it is a spiritual attack, it probably is something God is trying to teach you, train you, discipline you and/or grow you in.
So what am I talking about. I don't know. All I know is that I am sick and tired of where I am in my life. But I don't know what the next step is. And God seems VERY silent in that regard right now. I'm tired of being abused... verbally and relationally... that's a weird one, eh. Relational abuse!
What do I mean by that? Well, we all know what a relationship is. And we all have different definitions and levels of relationships in our lives. Well, when certain expectations or standards in a particular relationship are not met by one of the parties... then I guess that can be considered abuse... especially if it affects your emotions and health and the relationship with that other party.
WOW... that's as unspecific as someone can be without being totally in the clouds, eh!
This is far from over... but that's it for today!
Tune back in... same BAT-time, same BAT-channel.
Is that weird?! Is that shocking!?
WHAT!? A Christian feels that way!
I say, "Get off your self-righteous high-chair!"
Sorry about that, but there is so much going on out there, both in the visible and in the invisible realms, that we cannot know everything. All I know is THAT is the way I have felt in the past, and lately, that is how I feel. Is it non-Scriptural? No, of course not! There are examples of people, GREAT men and women of God, who were depressed, and, yes, some wanted to die!
Job is maybe the best example! Then there is David, where he reveals in his Psalms the great sorrow and pain he felt at times. There is Abraham sulking in his tent.
Sometimes circumstances out of our control heep heavy burdens on our hearts. Sometimes it is purely a spiritual attack. Though I don't give the devil that much credit. He's only able to do what God allows him, and so if it is a spiritual attack, it probably is something God is trying to teach you, train you, discipline you and/or grow you in.
So what am I talking about. I don't know. All I know is that I am sick and tired of where I am in my life. But I don't know what the next step is. And God seems VERY silent in that regard right now. I'm tired of being abused... verbally and relationally... that's a weird one, eh. Relational abuse!
What do I mean by that? Well, we all know what a relationship is. And we all have different definitions and levels of relationships in our lives. Well, when certain expectations or standards in a particular relationship are not met by one of the parties... then I guess that can be considered abuse... especially if it affects your emotions and health and the relationship with that other party.
WOW... that's as unspecific as someone can be without being totally in the clouds, eh!
This is far from over... but that's it for today!
Tune back in... same BAT-time, same BAT-channel.
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