On Tuesday night our church's Leadership Team met to work on the budget. Like almost every ministry in America today, we are looking at the effects of high energy costs and the impact of an economy in recession on our church's financial resources. We took time, as we planned, to look back over several years and remember the times when God has done the 'impossible' for us. We are charged to be prudent, wise managers but that mandate is paired with the command to be full of faith, ready to go where the Lord leads! God has never provided for our ministries by sending us a benefactor with $millions, nor has He chosen to fill our accounts to overflowing, but He has made it possible for us to do what we believe He wants us to do. I am learning to look at things differently. Where some might see lack, I see provision!
The Bible says that Faith is {Hebrews 11:1 ASV} the assurance of things hoped for, a conviction of things not seen. I do not read that line as requiring us to pretend nor do I see any requirement for denial of reality. However, I do see a need for a different kind of vision. As Believers, we need to ask God to give us 'eyes of faith!' I pray daily, "Lord, do not let me only see the obvious; let me see the possible; the potential; Your Hand working through situations of my life." Some people look for evidence of God's absence. I want to be a faithful man who looks for evidence of His Presence. Some people complain about what God does not do.I want to be a faithful man who thanks Him for the myriad blessings: seen and unseen, that He pours on me day to day.
You will find what you seek! If you seek for Him, you WILL find Him! The exiles of Judah, far from home in Babylon, received this promise from the Lord through his spokesman - Jeremiah. It still holds for Believers today. Read it with faith to receive it. "For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you," says the Lord. "I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and will bring you home again to your own land." (Jeremiah 29:11-14, NLT)
In 1948, George DeMestral was out hunting in the mountains in France with his dog. The dog disappeared into the brush and George went after him. When he returned home, he noticed burrs tangled in the dog's fur and locked onto his wool pants. 99.999% of us would have been aggravated by the burrs and the 'stupid' dog whose venture into the brush caused us to have extra work. George was fascinated by the holding power of the tiny burrs. He took them to his microscope and examined them carefully. His observation led him to invent "locking tape" with the trademark name of Velcro. Today Velcro is found everywhere as a quick and easy fastener. George DeMestral was always curious, an inventor/engineer who 'saw' beyond the obvious because he looked.
Maybe you've concluded that your problem has no solution or that God has forgotten your name. I urge you to look again. Your impossibility is God's opportunity. Today, instead of crying before God for what you think you lack, present your life need to Him with the request for new 'eyes' to see the answers tangled in those situations. Instead of telling God to get rid of the burrs that bug you, ask Him what answers are hiding in them. Instead of looking for a new job, a new church, a new _________________ . . .ask God to make a new YOU!
"Come and see what God has done,
how awesome his works in man's behalf! ...
Come and listen, all you who fear God; let me tell you what he has done for me. I cried out to him with my mouth; his praise was on my tongue. If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened; but God has surely listened and heard my voice in prayer."
(Psalm 66:5, 16-19, NIV)
_______________________
Awesome power, boundless grace;
None can fathom all Your ways.
Truth and love are found
In Your heart alone;
Righteousness surrounds Your throne.
Holy, holy
Holy Lord most high.
Holy, holy
Holy Lord most high.
Awesome Power
John Elliott© 1990 BMG Songs, Inc. (Admin. by BMG Music Publishing)CCLI License No. 810055
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Should I read my horoscope?
Monday, while on a trip to a tourist town full of little shops, Bev and I wandered into one that was very different. As soon as we stepped through the door, I 'felt' the spiritual atmosphere change. An oppressive darkness, a chill even, settled over me. We stepped into a shop selling various occult items, books of incantations, and alternative religious artifacts. This wasn't just a store peddling Halloween stuff, which is what it looked like from the street. It was a serious outpost of spiritual darkness and occult practices. My spirit reacted to the darkness there with strong revulsion. When we walked back onto the street, I remarked to Bev, "Thank God for Jesus Christ and His power over the darkness!"
Many people would smile at that opening paragraph, thinking that I am just a superstitious man who needs to outgrow his fears. "Come on, Jerry," you might even be thinking, "this is the 21st century. It's time to get over the idea that witches and pagans have real power. It's all just fun." I beg to differ. Dabbling in occult practices from astrology, to consulting mediums, to outright witchcraft is a forbidden practice for those who are followers of Jesus Christ. In the Old Testament, the Lord told His people, "I will set my face against the person who turns to mediums and spiritists to prostitute himself by following them, and I will cut him off from his people." (Leviticus 20:6, NIV) In the New Testament, Paul warned that "The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons." (1 Timothy 4:1, NIV)
There is nothing to be gained from dabbling in alternative spirituality! As Believers, we are given the Holy Spirit who promised to guide us, to be with us, to empower us, and to keep us secure in the love of God. Occult practices may appear to offer many of the same benefits, but those who dabble in them find themselves enslaved. It's not all just fantasy, fun, and games. The Bible treats the issue of evil as real, presents Satan and his dark forces as real and powerful, and directs us to 'walk in the Light.' That being true, we also know this: we need not fear Satan or powers of darkness. Those who live 'in Christ' and who walk intimately with the Spirit have 'overcome the world' and all the powers of darkness.
Don't dabble! Instead, walk with God, exclusively devoted to Him. Let the Spirit own your love. Trust Him with the future. And I hope He will develop your spiritual sensitivity so that when Evil is present, you will know it for what it is, and turn to the safe embrace of Jesus Christ who loves you completely.
Here's a word from the Word. Let it guide you today.
"The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.
Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.
Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature." (Romans 13:12-14, NIV)
Many people would smile at that opening paragraph, thinking that I am just a superstitious man who needs to outgrow his fears. "Come on, Jerry," you might even be thinking, "this is the 21st century. It's time to get over the idea that witches and pagans have real power. It's all just fun." I beg to differ. Dabbling in occult practices from astrology, to consulting mediums, to outright witchcraft is a forbidden practice for those who are followers of Jesus Christ. In the Old Testament, the Lord told His people, "I will set my face against the person who turns to mediums and spiritists to prostitute himself by following them, and I will cut him off from his people." (Leviticus 20:6, NIV) In the New Testament, Paul warned that "The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons." (1 Timothy 4:1, NIV)
There is nothing to be gained from dabbling in alternative spirituality! As Believers, we are given the Holy Spirit who promised to guide us, to be with us, to empower us, and to keep us secure in the love of God. Occult practices may appear to offer many of the same benefits, but those who dabble in them find themselves enslaved. It's not all just fantasy, fun, and games. The Bible treats the issue of evil as real, presents Satan and his dark forces as real and powerful, and directs us to 'walk in the Light.' That being true, we also know this: we need not fear Satan or powers of darkness. Those who live 'in Christ' and who walk intimately with the Spirit have 'overcome the world' and all the powers of darkness.
Don't dabble! Instead, walk with God, exclusively devoted to Him. Let the Spirit own your love. Trust Him with the future. And I hope He will develop your spiritual sensitivity so that when Evil is present, you will know it for what it is, and turn to the safe embrace of Jesus Christ who loves you completely.
Here's a word from the Word. Let it guide you today.
"The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.
Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.
Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature." (Romans 13:12-14, NIV)
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
A poor way-farin' stranger!
Yesterday would have been a bad day to listen to the blues! My soul ached with a kind of weariness that defies description. A combination of things: leadership challenges that resist solutions, my Dad's critical illness, concern for various members of the congregation, disappointment with things and people, the ongoing battle with sin in myself and in the world of which I am a part, merged into a large weight on my weary soul! I was tempted to gripe! I was edgy and tempted to be angry with everyone in general and nobody in particular! My sinful nature kicked and screamed for attention. Such a state is 'natural' given what we understand about the Curse of sin as explained in Genesis. The choice of man made the creation subject to sin and God said "Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat of it all the days of your life. It will produce thorns and thistles for you." (Genesis 3:17-18, NIV)
However, as a Believer, a follower of the Second Adam, Jesus Christ, there is a new power at work in me that overcomes the Curse! The 'normal' Christian life will include struggle and from time to time, great weariness. After all we are living as 'aliens and strangers in this world.' The Word tells us to "endure hardship like a good soldier." We will be wearied by the battle from time to time. Jesus grew tired in His ministry and withdrew to find renewal. Paul spoke of his weariness saying that his work led him to places where he was "in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often." (2 Corinthians 11:27, NKJV)
But, we are no longer defeated by evil, nor are we slaves to sin, condemned to merely whistle bravely in the dark, hoping for the morning light. The Word reminds us that "By faith we have been made acceptable to God. And now, because of our Lord Jesus Christ, we live at peace with God. Christ has also introduced us to God’s undeserved kindness on which we take our stand. So we are happy, as we look forward to sharing in the glory of God. But that’s not all! We gladly suffer, because we know that suffering helps us to endure. And endurance builds character, which gives us a hope." (Romans 5:1-4, CEV)
In my weariness I made some choices yesterday that helped me to find renewal.
First, I knew I needed to unplug from life for a while. Bev and I got into my little Miata and drove into the hills of Pennsylvania. We talked and walked the streets of a quaint little town called Jim Thorpe. Changing the scenery, if only for a few hours, helped to recharge my batteries.
Second, I needed to worship my God for as St. Augustine said, "Thou movest us to delight in praising Thee; for Thou hast formed us for Thyself, and our hearts are restless till they find rest in Thee." If we offer up a sacrifice of praise - which I did - thanking God for what He has done, for Who He is, for the promises He's made - our hearts are lifted up on the praises, our weary souls restored by the entry of the Spirit.
Third, I knew that I must raise my guard because temptation was present! A weary Believer is vulnerable. "Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master." (Genesis 4:7, NLT) Weariness can easily lead to unbelief, fear, and seeking relief in sins of the flesh.
Are you weary today? Take a break, if only for a few moments, and unplug. Turn your attention to the Lord. Don't let temptation take over.
"Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (Isaiah 40:30-31, NIV)
________________________________
Under His wings I am safely abiding,
Tho the night deepens and tempest are wild;
Still I can trust Him, I know He will keep me,
He has redeemed me and I am His child.
Under His wings, under His wings
Who from His love can sever?
Under His wings my soul shall abide,
Safely abide forever.
Under His wings, what a refuge in sorrow!
How the heart yearningly turns to His rest!
Often when earth has no balm for my healing,
There I find comfort and there I am blest.
Under His wings, O what precious enjoyment!
There will I hide 'til life's trials are o'er!
Sheltered, protected, no evil can harm me,
Resting in Jesus, I'm safe evermore.
Under His Wings
Ira Sankey © Public Domain
However, as a Believer, a follower of the Second Adam, Jesus Christ, there is a new power at work in me that overcomes the Curse! The 'normal' Christian life will include struggle and from time to time, great weariness. After all we are living as 'aliens and strangers in this world.' The Word tells us to "endure hardship like a good soldier." We will be wearied by the battle from time to time. Jesus grew tired in His ministry and withdrew to find renewal. Paul spoke of his weariness saying that his work led him to places where he was "in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often." (2 Corinthians 11:27, NKJV)
But, we are no longer defeated by evil, nor are we slaves to sin, condemned to merely whistle bravely in the dark, hoping for the morning light. The Word reminds us that "By faith we have been made acceptable to God. And now, because of our Lord Jesus Christ, we live at peace with God. Christ has also introduced us to God’s undeserved kindness on which we take our stand. So we are happy, as we look forward to sharing in the glory of God. But that’s not all! We gladly suffer, because we know that suffering helps us to endure. And endurance builds character, which gives us a hope." (Romans 5:1-4, CEV)
In my weariness I made some choices yesterday that helped me to find renewal.
First, I knew I needed to unplug from life for a while. Bev and I got into my little Miata and drove into the hills of Pennsylvania. We talked and walked the streets of a quaint little town called Jim Thorpe. Changing the scenery, if only for a few hours, helped to recharge my batteries.
Second, I needed to worship my God for as St. Augustine said, "Thou movest us to delight in praising Thee; for Thou hast formed us for Thyself, and our hearts are restless till they find rest in Thee." If we offer up a sacrifice of praise - which I did - thanking God for what He has done, for Who He is, for the promises He's made - our hearts are lifted up on the praises, our weary souls restored by the entry of the Spirit.
Third, I knew that I must raise my guard because temptation was present! A weary Believer is vulnerable. "Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master." (Genesis 4:7, NLT) Weariness can easily lead to unbelief, fear, and seeking relief in sins of the flesh.
Are you weary today? Take a break, if only for a few moments, and unplug. Turn your attention to the Lord. Don't let temptation take over.
"Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (Isaiah 40:30-31, NIV)
________________________________
Under His wings I am safely abiding,
Tho the night deepens and tempest are wild;
Still I can trust Him, I know He will keep me,
He has redeemed me and I am His child.
Under His wings, under His wings
Who from His love can sever?
Under His wings my soul shall abide,
Safely abide forever.
Under His wings, what a refuge in sorrow!
How the heart yearningly turns to His rest!
Often when earth has no balm for my healing,
There I find comfort and there I am blest.
Under His wings, O what precious enjoyment!
There will I hide 'til life's trials are o'er!
Sheltered, protected, no evil can harm me,
Resting in Jesus, I'm safe evermore.
Under His Wings
Ira Sankey © Public Domain
Monday, August 11, 2008
Instant Decision Moment
Yesterday, I was just ready to start a 2 PM service at a nursing home. I had the hymns picked out, a message prepared. Then, in walked a man carrying a guitar and a Bible! I introduced myself, "Hi, I'm Pastor Jerry Scott and who might you be?" "I'm Pastor Bill Noll." Somebody on the staff made a mistake and double-booked pastors for the service. It was an Instant Decision Moment - IDM, for short! Should I tell him I'm always scheduled for the 2nd Sunday of the month? Should I just pick up my stuff and go home, making polite sounds about wanting him to do the service? Or, should I ... yes, in that moment the Holy Spirit whispered, "Share the ministry opportunity here!"
"Bill, since we're both here, let's do it together." So, we did. I played the piano and led in hymns and he brought the message, bringing a word that made my heart glad. Responding to the Spirit in that IDM, made possible a fun few moments of collaboration with another pastor from my town. What a contrast to the last time the same kind of situation arose a few months ago. That Sunday, as I was setting up for the service in walked a couple of ladies from a local church. When they appeared not to notice that I was already there and getting ready for the service, I just slipped out the side door - and let irritation at my being inconvenienced burn up the rest of the Sunday afternoon! What a difference a quick choice to obey the Spirit's voice made yesterday.
IDM's are an everyday part of my life and yours.
"Bill, since we're both here, let's do it together." So, we did. I played the piano and led in hymns and he brought the message, bringing a word that made my heart glad. Responding to the Spirit in that IDM, made possible a fun few moments of collaboration with another pastor from my town. What a contrast to the last time the same kind of situation arose a few months ago. That Sunday, as I was setting up for the service in walked a couple of ladies from a local church. When they appeared not to notice that I was already there and getting ready for the service, I just slipped out the side door - and let irritation at my being inconvenienced burn up the rest of the Sunday afternoon! What a difference a quick choice to obey the Spirit's voice made yesterday.
IDM's are an everyday part of my life and yours.
- When your husband comes in the door with anger etched into his face, there is an Instant Decision Moment: confront him or comfort him.
- When someone who works for you misses the mark by a mile, there is an Instant Decision Moment: work for positive change or end the relationship.
- When temptation comes offering temporary pleasure, there is an IDM: yield and sin or tell the Devil or his messenger to leave in the Name of Jesus.
This week you're going to make hundreds of decisions, some of little consequence, some with the potential for major effect on your life and/or the life of another. A current conversation with the Spirit, an ear tuned to His voice, and a mind full of the Wisdom of the Scripture will help you to choose the best especially when a decision is required in the instant. One of the ways I prepare for the IDM moments in my life is to talk with the Lord - first thing in the morning. When I awaken, as I'm getting myself dressed for the day, I ask Him to keep me in a place where I am ready to respond to His leadership. I ask Him to fill me with the insight I need to see the story behind the story. I don't want to be trying to get into the right frame of mind to when an IDM is right in front of me.
In the book of Proverbs, the writer personifies Wisdom. She is said to be calling out, offering to lead the way. Are you listening?May the words of Wisdom go deep into your heart and mind today, so that you will walk as a wise one, revealing wisdom - even in your IDM's!
"I called you so often, but you wouldn’t come. I reached out to you, but you paid no attention. You ignored my advice and rejected the correction I offered. So I will laugh when you are in trouble! I will mock you when disaster overtakes you— when calamity overtakes you like a storm, when disaster engulfs you like a cyclone, and anguish and distress overwhelm you. "When they cry for help, I will not answer.
Though they anxiously search for me, they will not find me. For they hated knowledge and chose not to fear the Lord. They rejected my advice and paid no attention when I corrected them. Therefore, they must eat the bitter fruit of living their own way, choking on their own schemes. For simpletons turn away from me—to death. Fools are destroyed by their own complacency.
But all who listen to me will live in peace, untroubled by fear of harm."
My child, listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God." (Proverbs 1:24-2:5, NLT)
________________________
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)