Day 55
1 Timothy 6:11-21 NIV
11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.12 Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.13 In the sight of God, who gives life to everything, and of Christ Jesus, who while testifying before Pontius Pilate made the good confession, I charge you14 to keep this command without spot or blame until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ,15 which God will bring about in his own time–God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16 who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honor and might forever. Amen. 17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. 20 Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge,21 which some have professed and in so doing have wandered from the faith.
Grace be with you.
Grace Be With You!
Today we conclude the book of 1 Timothy and prepare to move on to 2 Timothy another letter from Paul to "his son in the faith" Timothy. I decided to begin today with the end of the reading, "grace be with you" what a great statement from a man who truly understood God's grace. Paul had committed enough atrocities against God that he knew the truth of God's grace from experience. The older I get the more I want people to know and understand the grace of God. This great "amazing" grace so completely displays the love of God. No man can accurately describe it but we all can live it. We don't know the heighth, depth, or breadth of this loving grace. At times we think we have seen it all and then God does some other miraculous act on behalf of his undeserving creation and we are once again amazed by this grace. I don't write like this today to discount judgment because judgment will come just as certainly as Jesus came but this amazing grace has made a way for all to escape our deserved judgment simply by calling on a Savior and turning from our wicked ways. When I begin to think this way I just want to praise HIM for His love and grace, in fact even as I write tonight I am overwhelmed with His holy presence and again lost in His love.
Fight the Good Fight!
Now on to our text for today. "Man of God" this is the description Paul uses for Timothy, "man of God". As you know by now Paul doesn't loosely throw out complements he obviously had observed behavior in this young man that provoked him to draw such a conclusion. Paul proceeds "flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith." Pursue, fight, flee, take hold? These are words of action not simply sitting back and enjoying the fact that you have achieved eternal life. Paul reminds us that we are to continue in our pursuits until we no longer have breath to breathe. I was reminded lately that once God pursued me with His love but now I pursue Him by seeking His face and gaining more and more intimate knowledge of Him. We can and should pursue God and righteousness. We can and should flee from unrighteous behaviors. We can and should continue fighting against the lies of the enemy by declaring God's Word and reminding the enemy of his fate. This isn't a relationship we just sit back and relax in after we have turned to God but rather an active faith walk that we should pursue daily. David said "early will I seek thee" and I believe it is vital that we begin every day with the pursuit and praise of a holy God. Paul says that Timothy made his good confession in front of many witnesses and he should keep that confession until Jesus comes again. Are you keeping your confession? Sure you will mess up from time to time but are you quickly going to God when you stumble and keeping that relationship intimate? God desires communion with His people and I am so glad that He does. I love to talk to Him and even more when He talks to me.
Take Action!
Right now, take action. Pursue God and an intimate relationship with Him. You don't have to feel dry and alone God wants to be with you right now. He is constantly reaching out to us and when we listen we hear Him and He takes time to demonstrate His love and care for His most precious creation. Praise God! I challenge you to pursue Him with all your mind, heart and strength and see if He doesn't transform your walk with Him.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Showing posts with label love. Show all posts
Showing posts with label love. Show all posts
Daily Reading March 3 2010 from 1 Timothy 5:1-15 NIV
Day 52
1 Timothy 5:1-15 NIV
1 Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers, 2 older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity. 3 Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need.4 But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God.5 The widow who is really in need and left all alone puts her hope in God and continues night and day to pray and to ask God for help.6 But the widow who lives for pleasure is dead even while she lives.7 Give the people these instructions, too, so that no one may be open to blame. 8 If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. 9 No widow may be put on the list of widows unless she is over sixty, has been faithful to her husband, 10 and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the saints, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds. 11 As for younger widows, do not put them on such a list. For when their sensual desires overcome their dedication to Christ, they want to marry.12 Thus they bring judgment on themselves, because they have broken their first pledge.13 Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also gossips and busybodies, saying things they ought not to.14 So I counsel younger widows to marry, to have children, to manage their homes and to give the enemy no opportunity for slander. 15 Some have in fact already turned away to follow Satan.
Today, Paul gets detailed about relationships within the church focusing a great deal on widows. In the first part of these verses he is clearly calling for respect between brothers and sisters within the church. He tells us to treat older men as fathers, younger me as our brothers, older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters. There are so many things that can be learned from developing relationships and seeking counsel from our elders. Many of these older saints have walked where we are now and therefore are able to empathize with our situation. Treating one another with great respect is a part of the love we have been commanded to demonstrate toward one another. The remainder of today's reading focuses on relationships with widows and caring for their needs. Paul gives strict stipulations on when and how to assist widows. This entire passage deals with family like relationships within our church walls. We have an obligation to treat one another with love and respect. Paul is exhorting us to love one another and be as a family unit. A church united in care for one another with older people acting as fathers, mothers, grandmothers, and grandfathers to the younger men, women and children. Where younger members know to respect and honor the older saints, to treat them with admiration because of the endurance they show us as they continue in their faith, and for all to uphold our peers in prayer weeping when others weep and rejoicing with those who rejoice.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
1 Timothy 5:1-15 NIV
1 Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers, 2 older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity. 3 Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need.4 But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God.5 The widow who is really in need and left all alone puts her hope in God and continues night and day to pray and to ask God for help.6 But the widow who lives for pleasure is dead even while she lives.7 Give the people these instructions, too, so that no one may be open to blame. 8 If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. 9 No widow may be put on the list of widows unless she is over sixty, has been faithful to her husband, 10 and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the saints, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds. 11 As for younger widows, do not put them on such a list. For when their sensual desires overcome their dedication to Christ, they want to marry.12 Thus they bring judgment on themselves, because they have broken their first pledge.13 Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also gossips and busybodies, saying things they ought not to.14 So I counsel younger widows to marry, to have children, to manage their homes and to give the enemy no opportunity for slander. 15 Some have in fact already turned away to follow Satan.
Today, Paul gets detailed about relationships within the church focusing a great deal on widows. In the first part of these verses he is clearly calling for respect between brothers and sisters within the church. He tells us to treat older men as fathers, younger me as our brothers, older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters. There are so many things that can be learned from developing relationships and seeking counsel from our elders. Many of these older saints have walked where we are now and therefore are able to empathize with our situation. Treating one another with great respect is a part of the love we have been commanded to demonstrate toward one another. The remainder of today's reading focuses on relationships with widows and caring for their needs. Paul gives strict stipulations on when and how to assist widows. This entire passage deals with family like relationships within our church walls. We have an obligation to treat one another with love and respect. Paul is exhorting us to love one another and be as a family unit. A church united in care for one another with older people acting as fathers, mothers, grandmothers, and grandfathers to the younger men, women and children. Where younger members know to respect and honor the older saints, to treat them with admiration because of the endurance they show us as they continue in their faith, and for all to uphold our peers in prayer weeping when others weep and rejoicing with those who rejoice.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Daily Reading February 26 2010 from 1 Timothy 1:1-11 NIV
Day 47
1 Timothy 1:1-11 NIV
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope, 2 To Timothy my true son in the faith: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
3 As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach false doctrines any longer 4 nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. These promote controversies rather than God's work–which is by faith.5 The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.6 Some have wandered away from these and turned to meaningless talk. 7 They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently affirm. 8 We know that the law is good if one uses it properly.9 We also know that law is made not for the righteous but for lawbreakers and rebels, the ungodly and sinful, the unholy and irreligious; for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers,10 for adulterers and perverts, for slave traders and liars and perjurers–and for whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine 11 that conforms to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which he entrusted to me.
Today we begin the letter (Epistle) to Timothy. It doesn't take long to see and realize the love that Paul had for Timothy. Paul begins this letter with "to Timothy my true son in the faith". Paul begins his writing to his "son in the faith" with an exhortation to continue striving for teaching the truth of God's Word in love. From the comments here in verse 3 we can see that Timothy was left with the Authority of the Apostle to assure that the Ephesians (church at Ephesus) were receiving proper teaching. From Paul's account it becomes apparent that false teachers were trying to slip in and point people back to the law rather than the grace and freedom purchased by Christ on the Cross. Paul declares that what they are doing and teaching is now contrary to sound doctrinal teaching because God's work is by faith and not works or lists of rules. Paul states that the law "is made not for the righteous but for lawbreakers and rebels" he continues with quite a list but he is saying that the law is for those who have not received forgiveness and turned to God in true repentance. This must have been most difficult for Paul of all people haven been trained by the best of the best, have been a Pharisee. Paul had to have spent a great deal of time and prayer before he became able to understand the true purpose of the law was to show man our hopelessness and our need for a heavenly savior. After Paul's experience on the Damascus road he went into an extended period of training, time alone with God where he was taught the truth of the Word and the message he is now presenting here to Timothy. Paul having been one of the chief persecutors or Christians and chief among law givers certainly knew what it was to be transformed by the love of God. He wanted this same transformation for all believers and he desired to stop those who were preaching contrary or conflicting gospels that were creating much confusion. Timothy became one of his primary students and was quickly trained and put in a leadership role in Ephesus. Now the teacher is writing to his student to encourage him to continue in doing what is right regardless of the opposition he is facing. This message rings just as true for you and I today. If we aren't careful we can grown cold in our walk with God and begin to walk in a more formal way before him. God desires relationship with all of us and when we are walking in communion with Him we can be sure that His Spirit will lead us. No one can create a list of rights and wrongs that would fully encompass what we should and shouldn't do. It is the Holy Spirit that writes the Word on our hearts and when we take a misstep He corrects us. Imagine with me today why a loving God would have dared send His only Son to a people who had rejected Him and His representatives in every way. The only answer to this question is absolute love, a love like we cannot understand. The bible says "God is love" and daily I see this love poured out in my life, don't you? I am so thankful that He came, lived, and died for me. Thankful that He rose from the grave in victory and that I am risen with Him, "seated in heavenly places in Christ Jesus". Thank Him today for this love!
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
1 Timothy 1:1-11 NIV
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope, 2 To Timothy my true son in the faith: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
3 As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach false doctrines any longer 4 nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. These promote controversies rather than God's work–which is by faith.5 The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.6 Some have wandered away from these and turned to meaningless talk. 7 They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently affirm. 8 We know that the law is good if one uses it properly.9 We also know that law is made not for the righteous but for lawbreakers and rebels, the ungodly and sinful, the unholy and irreligious; for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers,10 for adulterers and perverts, for slave traders and liars and perjurers–and for whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine 11 that conforms to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which he entrusted to me.
Today we begin the letter (Epistle) to Timothy. It doesn't take long to see and realize the love that Paul had for Timothy. Paul begins this letter with "to Timothy my true son in the faith". Paul begins his writing to his "son in the faith" with an exhortation to continue striving for teaching the truth of God's Word in love. From the comments here in verse 3 we can see that Timothy was left with the Authority of the Apostle to assure that the Ephesians (church at Ephesus) were receiving proper teaching. From Paul's account it becomes apparent that false teachers were trying to slip in and point people back to the law rather than the grace and freedom purchased by Christ on the Cross. Paul declares that what they are doing and teaching is now contrary to sound doctrinal teaching because God's work is by faith and not works or lists of rules. Paul states that the law "is made not for the righteous but for lawbreakers and rebels" he continues with quite a list but he is saying that the law is for those who have not received forgiveness and turned to God in true repentance. This must have been most difficult for Paul of all people haven been trained by the best of the best, have been a Pharisee. Paul had to have spent a great deal of time and prayer before he became able to understand the true purpose of the law was to show man our hopelessness and our need for a heavenly savior. After Paul's experience on the Damascus road he went into an extended period of training, time alone with God where he was taught the truth of the Word and the message he is now presenting here to Timothy. Paul having been one of the chief persecutors or Christians and chief among law givers certainly knew what it was to be transformed by the love of God. He wanted this same transformation for all believers and he desired to stop those who were preaching contrary or conflicting gospels that were creating much confusion. Timothy became one of his primary students and was quickly trained and put in a leadership role in Ephesus. Now the teacher is writing to his student to encourage him to continue in doing what is right regardless of the opposition he is facing. This message rings just as true for you and I today. If we aren't careful we can grown cold in our walk with God and begin to walk in a more formal way before him. God desires relationship with all of us and when we are walking in communion with Him we can be sure that His Spirit will lead us. No one can create a list of rights and wrongs that would fully encompass what we should and shouldn't do. It is the Holy Spirit that writes the Word on our hearts and when we take a misstep He corrects us. Imagine with me today why a loving God would have dared send His only Son to a people who had rejected Him and His representatives in every way. The only answer to this question is absolute love, a love like we cannot understand. The bible says "God is love" and daily I see this love poured out in my life, don't you? I am so thankful that He came, lived, and died for me. Thankful that He rose from the grave in victory and that I am risen with Him, "seated in heavenly places in Christ Jesus". Thank Him today for this love!
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Friday, February 26, 2010
Daily Reading February 24 2010 from 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17 NIV
Day 45
2 Thessalonians 2:13-17 NIV
13 But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers loved by the Lord, because from the beginning God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth.14 He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. 16 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, 17 encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.
Eternal Encouragement!
I like that phrase "eternal encouragement", Paul was an encourager and it becomes more and more evident as we read passages like these to the Thessalonian church. Not only did the Apostle encourage he constantly mentioned those who brought him encouragement. Individuals such as Onesimus, Epaphras, Barnabas, and then churches also that encouraged him such as this very church at Thessalonica. When Paul was in prison there were times where he indicates that many had forsaken and rejected him so he was always very careful to mention those who had stayed true, they were his brothers and thus his encouragers. Encouragers are motivated by love for others. Those who can look through much of our negative qualities and see what we are inside and what we are destined to be in Christ. They are those who see diamonds rather than lumps of coal. They seem to always be able to find some kind of good in any situation and in just about any person. Why shouldn't we be encouraged? We are all examples of what God can do with a submitted life. If you are like me you seemed hopeless and unworthy. In fact I was unworthy and completely hopeless until I found some encouragers who looked through my past and saw what God could do. I still have many undesirable traits but God has delivered me from much. Along the way He has continued to send encouragment along through committed believers who were willing to share His love with the unlovable. It is for this reason that I have no other option but to find others that I can pour love and hope into and watch what God does in these submitted lives. As Paul says here the ultimate encourager is Christ Himself who alone was able to bring ETERNAL ENCOURAGEMENT to fallen man. Praise God! Find someone you can pour into, someone who even seems hopeless, and share the loving encouragement of Christ.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
2 Thessalonians 2:13-17 NIV
13 But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers loved by the Lord, because from the beginning God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth.14 He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. 16 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, 17 encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.
Eternal Encouragement!
I like that phrase "eternal encouragement", Paul was an encourager and it becomes more and more evident as we read passages like these to the Thessalonian church. Not only did the Apostle encourage he constantly mentioned those who brought him encouragement. Individuals such as Onesimus, Epaphras, Barnabas, and then churches also that encouraged him such as this very church at Thessalonica. When Paul was in prison there were times where he indicates that many had forsaken and rejected him so he was always very careful to mention those who had stayed true, they were his brothers and thus his encouragers. Encouragers are motivated by love for others. Those who can look through much of our negative qualities and see what we are inside and what we are destined to be in Christ. They are those who see diamonds rather than lumps of coal. They seem to always be able to find some kind of good in any situation and in just about any person. Why shouldn't we be encouraged? We are all examples of what God can do with a submitted life. If you are like me you seemed hopeless and unworthy. In fact I was unworthy and completely hopeless until I found some encouragers who looked through my past and saw what God could do. I still have many undesirable traits but God has delivered me from much. Along the way He has continued to send encouragment along through committed believers who were willing to share His love with the unlovable. It is for this reason that I have no other option but to find others that I can pour love and hope into and watch what God does in these submitted lives. As Paul says here the ultimate encourager is Christ Himself who alone was able to bring ETERNAL ENCOURAGEMENT to fallen man. Praise God! Find someone you can pour into, someone who even seems hopeless, and share the loving encouragement of Christ.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Daily Reading February 20 2010 from 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 NIV
Day 41
1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
1 Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you,2 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 4 But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief.5 You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.6 So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self‑controlled.7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night.8 But since we belong to the day, let us be self‑controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.9 For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.10 He died for us so that, whether
we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
Sons of the Light!
Paul begins this section by writing about the timing of the coming of the Lord. We know from other scripture that no man knows the day or the hour though many have tried to predict the exact date. Most recently we have been hearing the date 2012 used as a possible date and time. Years ago it was 1988 when a man named Edgar Whisenant wrote of the 88 reasons why Jesus would return for the church in 1988. Later after his prediction didn't come true he gave 89 reasons why He would return in 1989, needless to say Whisenant found many less eager ears in 1989 after bring proven wrong in 1988. Since just shortly after Jesus ascended to heaven there has been talk of his return with many predictions as to when. While we cannot know the exact date and time we can understand the times. As Paul writes here we shouldn't be surprised by the coming of the Lord, in other words we should have an understanding of the nearness of His coming. We are not in darkness but rather we are children of light, of the day. Paul says in verse 6 "let us be alert and self-controlled" we belong to the day so we should be self-controlled. Paul goes on in verse 8 "let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and hope of salvation as a helmet. Are you living in hope, faith, and love? Are you trusting God? Are you walking in love? Are you renewing your mind on a daily basis? We have this great hope because Jesus came, overcame, died and arose. We can take courage because He lived the perfect life and became the sacrifice for our sins. Our challenge today is to stay in the light. Many circumstances can bring us down and cause us to doubt, lose hope, or waiver in our faith. But when we choose to walk in the love of Christ He will cause us to prevail even in the most difficult of times. Take courage God is in control.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
1 Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you,2 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 4 But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief.5 You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.6 So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self‑controlled.7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night.8 But since we belong to the day, let us be self‑controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.9 For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.10 He died for us so that, whether
we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
Sons of the Light!
Paul begins this section by writing about the timing of the coming of the Lord. We know from other scripture that no man knows the day or the hour though many have tried to predict the exact date. Most recently we have been hearing the date 2012 used as a possible date and time. Years ago it was 1988 when a man named Edgar Whisenant wrote of the 88 reasons why Jesus would return for the church in 1988. Later after his prediction didn't come true he gave 89 reasons why He would return in 1989, needless to say Whisenant found many less eager ears in 1989 after bring proven wrong in 1988. Since just shortly after Jesus ascended to heaven there has been talk of his return with many predictions as to when. While we cannot know the exact date and time we can understand the times. As Paul writes here we shouldn't be surprised by the coming of the Lord, in other words we should have an understanding of the nearness of His coming. We are not in darkness but rather we are children of light, of the day. Paul says in verse 6 "let us be alert and self-controlled" we belong to the day so we should be self-controlled. Paul goes on in verse 8 "let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and hope of salvation as a helmet. Are you living in hope, faith, and love? Are you trusting God? Are you walking in love? Are you renewing your mind on a daily basis? We have this great hope because Jesus came, overcame, died and arose. We can take courage because He lived the perfect life and became the sacrifice for our sins. Our challenge today is to stay in the light. Many circumstances can bring us down and cause us to doubt, lose hope, or waiver in our faith. But when we choose to walk in the love of Christ He will cause us to prevail even in the most difficult of times. Take courage God is in control.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Daily Reading February 16 2010 from 1 Thessalonians 2:13-20 NIV
Day 37
1 Thess. 2:13-20 NIV
13 And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe.14 For you, brothers, became imitators of God's churches in Judea, which are in Christ Jesus: You suffered from your own countrymen the same things those churches suffered from the Jews,15 who killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets and also drove us out. They displease God and are hostile to all men 16 in their effort to keep us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. In this way they always heap up their sins to the limit. The wrath of God has come upon them at last. 17 But, brothers, when we were torn away from you for a short time (in person, not in thought), out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you.18 For we wanted to come to you–certainly I, Paul, did, again and again–but Satan stopped us.19 For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? 20 Indeed, you are our glory and joy.
A True Shepherd!
Though Paul filled the role of Evangelist, Missionary, and Apostle you cannot read his writings without seeing his shepherd's heart. Paul loved these people and wrote to correct but also to encourage these churches that he had helped to establish. He was always careful who he sent to them and constantly expressed his desire to hear of their growth. In our passage today his heart for this church and these people truly shows. True shepherds are not just numbers oriented, they build relationships and care about individuals as well as the church as a whole. Paul demonstrates this kind of love and passion consistently throughout his writings. Paul begins with thanksgiving because these believers had heard and accepted God's Word. He was expressing thanks for the evidence of salvation that he had seen and was hearing about. He mentions how these believers had been persecuted for the cause of Christ yet they had remained faithful to Him. Paul closes this section of scripture in by relaying his desire to see these believers again and renew these old relationships. Paul says "we were torn away from you for a short time" but then Paul continues again expressing his love for these individuals "(in person, not in thought)" this parenthetical statement truly expresses my heart and the heart of all pastors. Even when we are separated from our flock either by time or distance we never lose site of the needs and relationships we have found. People come and go and sometimes geography separates but relationships that are built in Christ are eternal and they are significant. This is why we can call our church a church family. Do you have a church family! Is it truly a group of like minded believers passionate about one another? We can sacrifice great preaching, great music, and many other bells and whistles that seem to exemplify the modern church but you cannot replace the true united love of a church that has bonded as a family in the love of Christ. These churches are favored of God because there is true love for God and one another. I pray that everyone who reads this post can identify with what I am writing. I pray you have a true church family and a shepherd that truly cares for you. Find someone you can pour your life into, someone not as strong in their relationship, someone who needs a mentor, or someone who just needs an accountability partner. We can all shepherd someone! Do you have the heart of a shepherd?
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
1 Thess. 2:13-20 NIV
13 And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe.14 For you, brothers, became imitators of God's churches in Judea, which are in Christ Jesus: You suffered from your own countrymen the same things those churches suffered from the Jews,15 who killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets and also drove us out. They displease God and are hostile to all men 16 in their effort to keep us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. In this way they always heap up their sins to the limit. The wrath of God has come upon them at last. 17 But, brothers, when we were torn away from you for a short time (in person, not in thought), out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you.18 For we wanted to come to you–certainly I, Paul, did, again and again–but Satan stopped us.19 For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? 20 Indeed, you are our glory and joy.
A True Shepherd!
Though Paul filled the role of Evangelist, Missionary, and Apostle you cannot read his writings without seeing his shepherd's heart. Paul loved these people and wrote to correct but also to encourage these churches that he had helped to establish. He was always careful who he sent to them and constantly expressed his desire to hear of their growth. In our passage today his heart for this church and these people truly shows. True shepherds are not just numbers oriented, they build relationships and care about individuals as well as the church as a whole. Paul demonstrates this kind of love and passion consistently throughout his writings. Paul begins with thanksgiving because these believers had heard and accepted God's Word. He was expressing thanks for the evidence of salvation that he had seen and was hearing about. He mentions how these believers had been persecuted for the cause of Christ yet they had remained faithful to Him. Paul closes this section of scripture in by relaying his desire to see these believers again and renew these old relationships. Paul says "we were torn away from you for a short time" but then Paul continues again expressing his love for these individuals "(in person, not in thought)" this parenthetical statement truly expresses my heart and the heart of all pastors. Even when we are separated from our flock either by time or distance we never lose site of the needs and relationships we have found. People come and go and sometimes geography separates but relationships that are built in Christ are eternal and they are significant. This is why we can call our church a church family. Do you have a church family! Is it truly a group of like minded believers passionate about one another? We can sacrifice great preaching, great music, and many other bells and whistles that seem to exemplify the modern church but you cannot replace the true united love of a church that has bonded as a family in the love of Christ. These churches are favored of God because there is true love for God and one another. I pray that everyone who reads this post can identify with what I am writing. I pray you have a true church family and a shepherd that truly cares for you. Find someone you can pour your life into, someone not as strong in their relationship, someone who needs a mentor, or someone who just needs an accountability partner. We can all shepherd someone! Do you have the heart of a shepherd?
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Daily Reading February 10 2010 from Colossians
Day 31
Colossians 3:1-17 NIV
1 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. 5 Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.6 Because of these, the wrath of God is coming.7 You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived.8 But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11 Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. 12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 7 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Raising the Standard!
Jesus raised the standard when He went to the grave and changed everything. Our standard of living immediately rose. The bar was set to a new level because He rose and raised all believers up with Him. Now He is seated at the right hand of the Father making intercession for us all. We are received a better promise according to Hebrews 11. Better than Abraham, better than Isaac, or Jacob, even better than King David or any other great bible character you can name. They had a promise but we have seen the fulfillment of that promise come to pass in Christ when He destroyed the old limitations and raised the standard to new heights. Paul says to "set your minds on things above, not on earthly things" because our standard is not measured in earthly things, our treasure is not of the earth, even our home is not here on this earth. Paul says to raise the standard and follow Christ by raising the standard in our minds, by overcoming the desires of our flesh, in our relationships, in our emotional lives, and in our way of living. Verse 12 "as God's chosen people, holy and dearly beloved, clothe yourselves in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." Paul goes into a discourse on relationships with others about forgiveness and kindness but the emphasis goes to LOVE! "Over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity" without love we cannot be kind, patient, forgiving, considerate, without love our relationships stall and our ministries fail. Without love we live in fear and without hope but with love we can have peace with God and compassion for others. God is love and His greatest gift to man is that love that consumes us when we accept Christ. Paul ends this section of scripture with a word of admonishment for the believer. Live in unity, teach and impart wisdom to one another, sings songs and hymns with gratitude to God. Finally he says "whatever you do, whether in word of deed, do it all in the name of the Lord, giving thanks to the Father through Him". Our standard to see where we are is in Christ. As we look into the Word of God we find a standard of holiness and love that we can attain to only in Christ Jesus. When we compare ourselves to one another we might find ourselves to be better than some but we are told to find the standard of the Word and commit to following the Word and being led of the Holy Spirit. This is February and we often focus on love, just imagine if we could simply raise the standard of love among believers. Imaging if one church became committed to loving one another and others like Christ demonstrated, what a revolution we would see from that one small segment of Christianity. We cannot force others to raise the standard but I wonder if a renewed dedication to our love walk would cause others to also raise the standard? Might be a worthwhile experiment.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Colossians 3:1-17 NIV
1 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. 5 Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.6 Because of these, the wrath of God is coming.7 You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived.8 But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11 Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. 12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 7 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Raising the Standard!
Jesus raised the standard when He went to the grave and changed everything. Our standard of living immediately rose. The bar was set to a new level because He rose and raised all believers up with Him. Now He is seated at the right hand of the Father making intercession for us all. We are received a better promise according to Hebrews 11. Better than Abraham, better than Isaac, or Jacob, even better than King David or any other great bible character you can name. They had a promise but we have seen the fulfillment of that promise come to pass in Christ when He destroyed the old limitations and raised the standard to new heights. Paul says to "set your minds on things above, not on earthly things" because our standard is not measured in earthly things, our treasure is not of the earth, even our home is not here on this earth. Paul says to raise the standard and follow Christ by raising the standard in our minds, by overcoming the desires of our flesh, in our relationships, in our emotional lives, and in our way of living. Verse 12 "as God's chosen people, holy and dearly beloved, clothe yourselves in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." Paul goes into a discourse on relationships with others about forgiveness and kindness but the emphasis goes to LOVE! "Over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity" without love we cannot be kind, patient, forgiving, considerate, without love our relationships stall and our ministries fail. Without love we live in fear and without hope but with love we can have peace with God and compassion for others. God is love and His greatest gift to man is that love that consumes us when we accept Christ. Paul ends this section of scripture with a word of admonishment for the believer. Live in unity, teach and impart wisdom to one another, sings songs and hymns with gratitude to God. Finally he says "whatever you do, whether in word of deed, do it all in the name of the Lord, giving thanks to the Father through Him". Our standard to see where we are is in Christ. As we look into the Word of God we find a standard of holiness and love that we can attain to only in Christ Jesus. When we compare ourselves to one another we might find ourselves to be better than some but we are told to find the standard of the Word and commit to following the Word and being led of the Holy Spirit. This is February and we often focus on love, just imagine if we could simply raise the standard of love among believers. Imaging if one church became committed to loving one another and others like Christ demonstrated, what a revolution we would see from that one small segment of Christianity. We cannot force others to raise the standard but I wonder if a renewed dedication to our love walk would cause others to also raise the standard? Might be a worthwhile experiment.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Daily Reading for January 24 2010 from Ephesians 6:1-9
Day 14
Ephesians 6:1-9 NIV
1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.2 “Honor your father and mother”–which is the first commandment with a promise–3 “that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”
4 Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
5 Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ.6 Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but like slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.7 Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men,
8 because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free.
9 And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with him.
Another section on respect and relationships. We are heading into February and the Valentines season. The Bible is the greatest guide we have for developing and enhancing our relationships. These scriptures today deal with some weighty matters beginning with the Parent/Child relationship. While there is no doubt that kids are much less respectful today it is also true that parents do less to teach and even earn respect in our day and time. After children are exhorted to honor their parents and given a tremendous promise of long life we see an exhortation to Father to train and instruct their children in the ways of the Lord. What would our world look like if the Dads would step up and become the spiritual leaders within their homes? Would this alone solve most of our relationship and crime issues? I for one believe it would. Today is a day without accountability or responsibility. A day when everyone seems to be a victim and no one wants to ever step up and take responsibility for their actions. If you Father a child you should provide for and care for that child, end of story! We live in a world where a relationship with the heavenly Father has been pushed to the back burner. If more young men and women were being taught the truth of God's Word and shown the love of Christ our world wouldn't look as it does. I would be able to watch the nightly news which I now avoid for all its negative and shocking content.
The final section of this passage speaks of servitude. The idea of serving was foreign to Jesus' disciples as it is to many today. They were shocked when He stopped and knelt down to wash their feet. He demonstrated what it meant to serve others and showed us the way. He told the disciples the greatest servant among them would be the most honorable in heaven. What a lesson for us to learn. We have become so busy and filled with our own lives and issues that we seem to have lost the concept of serving others. Servanthood is a command! Are you serving? Do you serve in your local church or just fill a pew? Do you look for opportunities to help others or just look the other way because you are too busy? I realize this is a hard word because it is for me. Jesus taught this with the story of the good Samaritan true love, God's love, leads us to serve! Do you have the love of Christ? Of course you do but are we walking in it?
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Ephesians 6:1-9 NIV
1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.2 “Honor your father and mother”–which is the first commandment with a promise–3 “that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”
4 Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
5 Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ.6 Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but like slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.7 Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men,
8 because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free.
9 And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with him.
Another section on respect and relationships. We are heading into February and the Valentines season. The Bible is the greatest guide we have for developing and enhancing our relationships. These scriptures today deal with some weighty matters beginning with the Parent/Child relationship. While there is no doubt that kids are much less respectful today it is also true that parents do less to teach and even earn respect in our day and time. After children are exhorted to honor their parents and given a tremendous promise of long life we see an exhortation to Father to train and instruct their children in the ways of the Lord. What would our world look like if the Dads would step up and become the spiritual leaders within their homes? Would this alone solve most of our relationship and crime issues? I for one believe it would. Today is a day without accountability or responsibility. A day when everyone seems to be a victim and no one wants to ever step up and take responsibility for their actions. If you Father a child you should provide for and care for that child, end of story! We live in a world where a relationship with the heavenly Father has been pushed to the back burner. If more young men and women were being taught the truth of God's Word and shown the love of Christ our world wouldn't look as it does. I would be able to watch the nightly news which I now avoid for all its negative and shocking content.
The final section of this passage speaks of servitude. The idea of serving was foreign to Jesus' disciples as it is to many today. They were shocked when He stopped and knelt down to wash their feet. He demonstrated what it meant to serve others and showed us the way. He told the disciples the greatest servant among them would be the most honorable in heaven. What a lesson for us to learn. We have become so busy and filled with our own lives and issues that we seem to have lost the concept of serving others. Servanthood is a command! Are you serving? Do you serve in your local church or just fill a pew? Do you look for opportunities to help others or just look the other way because you are too busy? I realize this is a hard word because it is for me. Jesus taught this with the story of the good Samaritan true love, God's love, leads us to serve! Do you have the love of Christ? Of course you do but are we walking in it?
Romans 5:5...because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. NIV
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Monday, January 25, 2010
Daily Reading for January 23 2010 from Ephesians 5:25-32
Day 13
Ephesians 5:25-33
25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her26 to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word,27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless.28 In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.29 After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church–30 for we are members of his body.31 “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.”32 This is a profound mystery–but I am talking about Christ and the church.33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.
This passage speaking of husbands and wives is also a representation of the love that Jesus has for His church. This message has been used wrongly in the past but as we examine it we realize that the passage doesn't speak of a husband dominating his wife but loving, providing for, and serving her. The text demands mutual respect one for another. Just as Christ served and even died for the church (His bride) husbands are meant to do for their wives. It makes you wonder how many marriages and other types of relationships could be saved if we just practiced love and respect as Jesus demonstrated.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
-Pastor Larry
Ephesians 5:25-33
25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her26 to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word,27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless.28 In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.29 After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church–30 for we are members of his body.31 “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.”32 This is a profound mystery–but I am talking about Christ and the church.33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.
This passage speaking of husbands and wives is also a representation of the love that Jesus has for His church. This message has been used wrongly in the past but as we examine it we realize that the passage doesn't speak of a husband dominating his wife but loving, providing for, and serving her. The text demands mutual respect one for another. Just as Christ served and even died for the church (His bride) husbands are meant to do for their wives. It makes you wonder how many marriages and other types of relationships could be saved if we just practiced love and respect as Jesus demonstrated.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
-Pastor Larry
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Daily Reading for January 21 2010 from Ephesians 5:1-14
Day 11
Ephesians 5:1-4 NIV
1 Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people.4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person–such a man is an idolater–has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient.7 Therefore do not be partners with them. 8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth)10 and find out what pleases the Lord.11 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.12 For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret.13 But everything exposed by the light becomes visible,
14 for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said:
“Wake up, O sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you.”
The first 2 verses of Chapter 5 say it all:
Ephesians 5:1-2
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God
Be imitators of God and live a life of love just, just as Christ loves us!
There are many things that follow these words but the point is to be Godly, to be like Christ. The writer goes on to say what not to do but strategically places proper conduct in the passage. In verse 5 after a list of things we should not do we are told to speak words of Thanksgiving. Next we are told in verse 8 to live as children of light. The previous verses tell us not to be deceived or to act out of disobedience but rather we should obey God. Verse 9 in parenthesis tells us how to check to see if we are walking in the light "the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth". So if we are walking in the light of the Love of Christ we should be producing fruit. The passage continues with find out what pleases God! How do we know what pleases God? We know that what the Spirit says we are to do and since the Spirit of God lives within us we can listen to His still small voice. When He convicts we respond in repentance, when He whispers we can quiet ourselves and obey His commands. We can also know what pleases God by reading the Word for it's infallible truth. A truth that sets us free. The passage continues by saying that as we walk in the light darkness is exposed.
Today's scripture reference ends with an exhortation to awaken from our sleep. There are many such passages in the scripture, most of which are speaking to the church to awaken and be strong. I want to take this opportunity to encourage you to pray for an awakening. We live in a nation that needs to be awakened to its' origins, we were founded on Christian principles and it is time that we return to God. As you are praying next pray for your church. Every church needs an awakening from time to time. We need to be awakened to the power of God. We need to once again be out demonstrating God's Word by living it. Living a life of love, believing and demonstrating every Word of the Bible. Healing the sick, raising the dead, preaching the gospel until many come to know Him as their Savior. Finally, pray for a personal awakening. The awakening that is so need in our world, nation, and churches will start with a personal revival. The revival starts with us the individual and when one individual begins to trust God and seek His face others always follow before long a united, passionate church will rise up and begin to believe and declare the totality of the Word of Truth. Pray with me for an awakening.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Ephesians 5:1-4 NIV
1 Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people.4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person–such a man is an idolater–has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient.7 Therefore do not be partners with them. 8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth)10 and find out what pleases the Lord.11 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.12 For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret.13 But everything exposed by the light becomes visible,
14 for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said:
“Wake up, O sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you.”
The first 2 verses of Chapter 5 say it all:
Ephesians 5:1-2
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God
Be imitators of God and live a life of love just, just as Christ loves us!
There are many things that follow these words but the point is to be Godly, to be like Christ. The writer goes on to say what not to do but strategically places proper conduct in the passage. In verse 5 after a list of things we should not do we are told to speak words of Thanksgiving. Next we are told in verse 8 to live as children of light. The previous verses tell us not to be deceived or to act out of disobedience but rather we should obey God. Verse 9 in parenthesis tells us how to check to see if we are walking in the light "the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth". So if we are walking in the light of the Love of Christ we should be producing fruit. The passage continues with find out what pleases God! How do we know what pleases God? We know that what the Spirit says we are to do and since the Spirit of God lives within us we can listen to His still small voice. When He convicts we respond in repentance, when He whispers we can quiet ourselves and obey His commands. We can also know what pleases God by reading the Word for it's infallible truth. A truth that sets us free. The passage continues by saying that as we walk in the light darkness is exposed.
Today's scripture reference ends with an exhortation to awaken from our sleep. There are many such passages in the scripture, most of which are speaking to the church to awaken and be strong. I want to take this opportunity to encourage you to pray for an awakening. We live in a nation that needs to be awakened to its' origins, we were founded on Christian principles and it is time that we return to God. As you are praying next pray for your church. Every church needs an awakening from time to time. We need to be awakened to the power of God. We need to once again be out demonstrating God's Word by living it. Living a life of love, believing and demonstrating every Word of the Bible. Healing the sick, raising the dead, preaching the gospel until many come to know Him as their Savior. Finally, pray for a personal awakening. The awakening that is so need in our world, nation, and churches will start with a personal revival. The revival starts with us the individual and when one individual begins to trust God and seek His face others always follow before long a united, passionate church will rise up and begin to believe and declare the totality of the Word of Truth. Pray with me for an awakening.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Daily Reading January 17 2010 Ephesians 4
Day 7
Sorry, I failed to send this out yesterday. This is Sunday's reading. You should have a calendar in case I fail in the future.
“When he ascended on high,
he led captives in his train
and gave gifts to men.”9 (What does “he ascended” mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions?
As I preached yesterday morning. It is vital for a church to be in unity. The bible talks about the anointing of a united church in Psalm 133. A church that is unified is a church that loves one another and fellowships with one another. People who attend united, loving churches have a zeal for God's house and they linger even after the service ends. Fellowship is good because God is with them in their midst (Matthew 18:20 For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.”). I am thankful that Porter church is experiencing this kind of an outpouring right now. Yesterday we didn't leave the church until after 1:30 PM. What a blessing it is to be able to worship with your family and our church is like a family. No, we aren't related by blood just by Christ's blood. It is important that we solve our differences quickly and love one another.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Sorry, I failed to send this out yesterday. This is Sunday's reading. You should have a calendar in case I fail in the future.
Ephesians 4:1-9
Unity in the Body of Christ
1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.4 There is one body and one Spirit–just as you were called to one hope when you were called–5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism;
6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
7 But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.
8 This is why it says: 7 But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.
“When he ascended on high,
he led captives in his train
and gave gifts to men.”9 (What does “he ascended” mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions?
As I preached yesterday morning. It is vital for a church to be in unity. The bible talks about the anointing of a united church in Psalm 133. A church that is unified is a church that loves one another and fellowships with one another. People who attend united, loving churches have a zeal for God's house and they linger even after the service ends. Fellowship is good because God is with them in their midst (Matthew 18:20 For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.”). I am thankful that Porter church is experiencing this kind of an outpouring right now. Yesterday we didn't leave the church until after 1:30 PM. What a blessing it is to be able to worship with your family and our church is like a family. No, we aren't related by blood just by Christ's blood. It is important that we solve our differences quickly and love one another.
Blessings,
Pastor Larry
Monday, January 18, 2010
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
