Romans 12:13
“distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.” NKJV
According to the NKJV grammar structure, this and the previous verses were all referring to the phrase in verse 10, “Be kindly affectionate with brotherly love,” and these are just two more steps to doing that sincerely.
Give to those in need in the church and be hospitable. To be hospitable is to “offer a pleasant or sustaining environment.”
So all that I do should be to cater to the needs of my fellow Christians, but beyond that, to work in such a way that does not hinder a brother’s joy, but instead breeds joy.
This is love and devotion.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Staying Focused and Praying
Romans 12:12
“rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer,” NKJV
I often lose sight of the great joy we should have always because of what our future with Jesus will be, and how insignificant He made our past mistakes. It is easy for me to get caught up in the world and the fact that Jesus (Who is God!) died for us became just that--a fact. The fact that I’m going to heaven does the same. It’s like God gave me a passport, and like my real passport I know it will get me somewhere someday. Like my real passport, it’s tucked away in some crevice. Not quite forgotten but not on my mind either.
As far as patient in tribulation and continuing steadfastly in prayer goes, I’m patient up ‘til the point when I utter a quick prayer, then I’m too busy worrying about whether I think God will answer to be waiting patiently.
But what can man change in his own heart?
I am going to schedule out a time in my day to pray alone about the state of my heart.
“rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer,” NKJV
I often lose sight of the great joy we should have always because of what our future with Jesus will be, and how insignificant He made our past mistakes. It is easy for me to get caught up in the world and the fact that Jesus (Who is God!) died for us became just that--a fact. The fact that I’m going to heaven does the same. It’s like God gave me a passport, and like my real passport I know it will get me somewhere someday. Like my real passport, it’s tucked away in some crevice. Not quite forgotten but not on my mind either.
As far as patient in tribulation and continuing steadfastly in prayer goes, I’m patient up ‘til the point when I utter a quick prayer, then I’m too busy worrying about whether I think God will answer to be waiting patiently.
But what can man change in his own heart?
I am going to schedule out a time in my day to pray alone about the state of my heart.
Spirtitual Zeal and Cold Places. Update: Falling Away
Romans 12:11
“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” NIV
I’ve been to places perfectly contradicting this verse. Having been raised a Christian, I’ve always believed in God and there were very few times I’ve actually doubted His existence or reality. But there have certainly been down times in my relationship with God.
You may have heard me describe my past spiritual life as an energetic horse tethered to a fence--all frisked up, but nowhere to go. At times, I was on fire for God, but looking around I had no idea what to do with that zeal. I couldn’t see any way to untie myself, much less jump the fence. And even if I had managed to get to the other side, I wouldn’t have known where to go. I just knew I had to.
I wish I could say honestly that those were the feelings I had my whole life until coming here, but it is the other times that frighten me the most.
It was at those times that I would burry myself in things of this world. Schoolwork, writing, videogames, you name it, all these things I tried to use to fill myself up, but I only succeeded in digging a deeper grave for my soul. I grew so bored of being tethered there, that I contented myself with the brown and earthly grass that I could reach from where I was. In my own strength, that is all I could manage.
At those times, though I was as busy and superficially happy as ever, I was rotting inside and I could feel it. Hopelessness and dread would set in and I would entertain thoughts that I was morally and logically repulsed by normally.
Luckily God broke my chains when he finally showed me what He was discontenting me for these past several years. But even now I still remember those times of darkness and my greatest fear is that I will slip back into one of those ruts.
My application then is this:
If I ever feel myself dying spiritually, I need to fast and pray for a clear direction in my life.
------
Update:
Okay, I’m going to step out on a ledge here and be really open up with this one. As you probably realize, we write these during the week but we normally only get a chance to update them on weekends. The evening after the time I wrote this--the very same day--I fell into one of those ruts. It was as if Satan was listening and said, “Okay, let’s put that conviction to the test, shall we?”
Needless to say, I failed that test. I gave in and broke an oath to my Lord. The worst part about it was that by the end of the night I was steeped in a deep pool of apathy. By morning I was still in sin. I had been putting off praying, and I had been putting off doing IBS because I knew I had to pray before beginning that as well. I finally had to get my IBS done, so I had to pray, but it felt wrong to ask for forgiveness. It felt wrong because I didn’t even care that I had sinned. How could I ask the God of creation for forgiveness when I didn’t even regret what I did wrong? Well I had to before doing IBS so I finally did. I also asked Him to make me regret that sin, and to break my heart for it because I felt nothing. I felt like I did when I would drown myself in the world. The only redeeming thing I could say about myself at that time is that I knew and had faith that the Lord would bring me again to my knees--when and how was up to Him.
Of course, the God we serve is gracious and merciful beyond words. I can’t believe the revival he put into my heart that day. I wept and I prayed nearly the whole time. God answers prayer in amazing ways. At the end of the day I had the opportunity to ask Pastor Mike how he keeps from falling away. The answer he gave was this: Write down what causes you to sin. Then draw a line (figuratively he demonstrated this on the carpet). Then walk ten feet away, and don’t cross that line.
That’s really great for the practical physical sins that are plaguing me, and I’m glad I got the chance to ask him, though I was afraid.
Then, later that day in bible study, just three verses after our study verse, I read Galatians 5:16. “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.” NKJV. I don’t even know why I read down there, but I felt I needed to… in the middle of discussion. God is merciful. I didn’t even ask Him to show me how to avoid the sin in my mind, which is what caused me to stumble.
So my new application is this. Each time I feel that temptation, I need to pray. When I feel it again, I need to close my eyes, bow my head, and pray again for the Lord to fill me with His Spirit. I find myself often repeating the prayer, “Lead me not into temptation, but deliver me from the evil one.” (The Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6)
And for the things that cause me to fall away that are not in my head, I need to do as Pastor Mike suggested. I’ve already started my list, now I need to write it out and make it official and draw those lines.
“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” NIV
I’ve been to places perfectly contradicting this verse. Having been raised a Christian, I’ve always believed in God and there were very few times I’ve actually doubted His existence or reality. But there have certainly been down times in my relationship with God.
You may have heard me describe my past spiritual life as an energetic horse tethered to a fence--all frisked up, but nowhere to go. At times, I was on fire for God, but looking around I had no idea what to do with that zeal. I couldn’t see any way to untie myself, much less jump the fence. And even if I had managed to get to the other side, I wouldn’t have known where to go. I just knew I had to.
I wish I could say honestly that those were the feelings I had my whole life until coming here, but it is the other times that frighten me the most.
It was at those times that I would burry myself in things of this world. Schoolwork, writing, videogames, you name it, all these things I tried to use to fill myself up, but I only succeeded in digging a deeper grave for my soul. I grew so bored of being tethered there, that I contented myself with the brown and earthly grass that I could reach from where I was. In my own strength, that is all I could manage.
At those times, though I was as busy and superficially happy as ever, I was rotting inside and I could feel it. Hopelessness and dread would set in and I would entertain thoughts that I was morally and logically repulsed by normally.
Luckily God broke my chains when he finally showed me what He was discontenting me for these past several years. But even now I still remember those times of darkness and my greatest fear is that I will slip back into one of those ruts.
My application then is this:
If I ever feel myself dying spiritually, I need to fast and pray for a clear direction in my life.
------
Update:
Okay, I’m going to step out on a ledge here and be really open up with this one. As you probably realize, we write these during the week but we normally only get a chance to update them on weekends. The evening after the time I wrote this--the very same day--I fell into one of those ruts. It was as if Satan was listening and said, “Okay, let’s put that conviction to the test, shall we?”
Needless to say, I failed that test. I gave in and broke an oath to my Lord. The worst part about it was that by the end of the night I was steeped in a deep pool of apathy. By morning I was still in sin. I had been putting off praying, and I had been putting off doing IBS because I knew I had to pray before beginning that as well. I finally had to get my IBS done, so I had to pray, but it felt wrong to ask for forgiveness. It felt wrong because I didn’t even care that I had sinned. How could I ask the God of creation for forgiveness when I didn’t even regret what I did wrong? Well I had to before doing IBS so I finally did. I also asked Him to make me regret that sin, and to break my heart for it because I felt nothing. I felt like I did when I would drown myself in the world. The only redeeming thing I could say about myself at that time is that I knew and had faith that the Lord would bring me again to my knees--when and how was up to Him.
Of course, the God we serve is gracious and merciful beyond words. I can’t believe the revival he put into my heart that day. I wept and I prayed nearly the whole time. God answers prayer in amazing ways. At the end of the day I had the opportunity to ask Pastor Mike how he keeps from falling away. The answer he gave was this: Write down what causes you to sin. Then draw a line (figuratively he demonstrated this on the carpet). Then walk ten feet away, and don’t cross that line.
That’s really great for the practical physical sins that are plaguing me, and I’m glad I got the chance to ask him, though I was afraid.
Then, later that day in bible study, just three verses after our study verse, I read Galatians 5:16. “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.” NKJV. I don’t even know why I read down there, but I felt I needed to… in the middle of discussion. God is merciful. I didn’t even ask Him to show me how to avoid the sin in my mind, which is what caused me to stumble.
So my new application is this. Each time I feel that temptation, I need to pray. When I feel it again, I need to close my eyes, bow my head, and pray again for the Lord to fill me with His Spirit. I find myself often repeating the prayer, “Lead me not into temptation, but deliver me from the evil one.” (The Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6)
And for the things that cause me to fall away that are not in my head, I need to do as Pastor Mike suggested. I’ve already started my list, now I need to write it out and make it official and draw those lines.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Putting yourself Last
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.” NIV
Paul calls us to be loyal and to respect our brothers in love.
How do we show loyalty or devotion to our brothers in Christ?
First by not doing anything that could hurt them like gossip or ridicule. Then, perhaps, by serving their needs when they arise. I even need to be loyal in something as simple as prayer. If a brother needs prayer, then I need to be loyal in that regard to set aside time to pray earnestly for him.
And, I need to serve them because I love them sincerely, not for any recognition from God or from men.
The last command is this: Honor them above myself.
I’m not really sure what honoring a person looks like so I looked up the definition of the synonym “To respect”.
The definition was this: an act of giving particular attention to.
So, in other words, I am to give greater attention to my brothers than to myself.
In summary, I need to serve my brothers loyally and in love, and I need to give them my full attention and support when it is needed throughout the day. And I need to do this all sincerely, as I said yesterday, and especially here at Potter’s Field where my brothers and sisters are easy to love, so I’ll know how to serve people who aren’t.
“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.” NIV
Paul calls us to be loyal and to respect our brothers in love.
How do we show loyalty or devotion to our brothers in Christ?
First by not doing anything that could hurt them like gossip or ridicule. Then, perhaps, by serving their needs when they arise. I even need to be loyal in something as simple as prayer. If a brother needs prayer, then I need to be loyal in that regard to set aside time to pray earnestly for him.
And, I need to serve them because I love them sincerely, not for any recognition from God or from men.
The last command is this: Honor them above myself.
I’m not really sure what honoring a person looks like so I looked up the definition of the synonym “To respect”.
The definition was this: an act of giving particular attention to.
So, in other words, I am to give greater attention to my brothers than to myself.
In summary, I need to serve my brothers loyally and in love, and I need to give them my full attention and support when it is needed throughout the day. And I need to do this all sincerely, as I said yesterday, and especially here at Potter’s Field where my brothers and sisters are easy to love, so I’ll know how to serve people who aren’t.
Hypocrisy, Culture, and Finding a way out.
Romans 12:9
“[Let] love [be] without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.” NKJV
Love Without Hypocrisy:
Hypocrisy: the false assumption of an appearance of virtue or religion.
Playing at being a nice and happy and sweet person is something I’m very practiced at.
Once a good friend of mine, a pastor, told me how he showed up to work one day and for whatever reason was having a bad day. Some of his non-believing co-workers walked up to him and asked him about it. Instead of shrugging it off he told them plainly, “You know what, guys, I’m just not having a good day today.” And of course they responded, “Woah, a pastor is having a bad day?!” But they appreciated his sincerity.
I’m not that sincere. If I’m having a bad day or struggling I won’t tell anyone unless forced to. This is something I need to change, and since I don’t really know how to I’m going to start praying about it.
Abhor What is Evil:
I don’t normally have trouble hating sin, unless it is in media. Movies, videogames, books--in our culture heroic demons and free sex are to be expected and accepted. These things used to disgust me. Playing a videogame where the goal is to cut up demons and the graphics leave you covered with blood used to make me cringe.
But in a game culture where the most common game mechanic is killing, it was either give up games or get used to it.
So I got used to it.
I should never compromise my purity for the sake of entertainment.
Cling to What is Good:
In a world full of corruption and loneliness, I sometimes find it hard to remember why I try. Paul tells us to cling to what is good, and we have to cling because there is not much good aside from God.
I’m so blessed to be here at Potter’s Field where we are constantly surrounded by God’s goodness shown through the people here.
But when I leave this place and venture out into a lost world, I need to remember the goodness He has shown me.
I should be diligent in recording the events here at Potter’s field so that the goodness of God can be clear in my mind when I face trials in my life.
“[Let] love [be] without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.” NKJV
Love Without Hypocrisy:
Hypocrisy: the false assumption of an appearance of virtue or religion.
Playing at being a nice and happy and sweet person is something I’m very practiced at.
Once a good friend of mine, a pastor, told me how he showed up to work one day and for whatever reason was having a bad day. Some of his non-believing co-workers walked up to him and asked him about it. Instead of shrugging it off he told them plainly, “You know what, guys, I’m just not having a good day today.” And of course they responded, “Woah, a pastor is having a bad day?!” But they appreciated his sincerity.
I’m not that sincere. If I’m having a bad day or struggling I won’t tell anyone unless forced to. This is something I need to change, and since I don’t really know how to I’m going to start praying about it.
Abhor What is Evil:
I don’t normally have trouble hating sin, unless it is in media. Movies, videogames, books--in our culture heroic demons and free sex are to be expected and accepted. These things used to disgust me. Playing a videogame where the goal is to cut up demons and the graphics leave you covered with blood used to make me cringe.
But in a game culture where the most common game mechanic is killing, it was either give up games or get used to it.
So I got used to it.
I should never compromise my purity for the sake of entertainment.
Cling to What is Good:
In a world full of corruption and loneliness, I sometimes find it hard to remember why I try. Paul tells us to cling to what is good, and we have to cling because there is not much good aside from God.
I’m so blessed to be here at Potter’s Field where we are constantly surrounded by God’s goodness shown through the people here.
But when I leave this place and venture out into a lost world, I need to remember the goodness He has shown me.
I should be diligent in recording the events here at Potter’s field so that the goodness of God can be clear in my mind when I face trials in my life.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Current Field Assignment: El Salvador!
Hey everyone!
If you haven't heard we just learned our field assignments and I'm going to El Salvador. I'm so excited! And so glad to know ahead of time so that I will have an opportunity to research the culture and language as much as I can before heading out. =D
If you haven't heard we just learned our field assignments and I'm going to El Salvador. I'm so excited! And so glad to know ahead of time so that I will have an opportunity to research the culture and language as much as I can before heading out. =D
Willfully Unashamed
Mark 8:38
“For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him the Son of Man also will be ashamed when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” NKJV
Like many other times, Jesus tells us that what we do with His name here on Earth, He will do to us during judgment. This time he talks about being ashamed. To me, this verse appears to be anti-parallel to “Also I say to you, whoever confesses Me before men, him the Son of Man also will confess before the angels of God.” (Luke 12:8)
At first it is hard for me to remember a time that I’ve been ashamed of Jesus. But I remember a time when I failed to confess Christ.
I wasn’t asked directly or anything but I sat at a table whose conversation strayed to the racism against gays and how persecuted they had been because of republicans and whatnot.
I wanted to add that the bible says it is a sin, but was afraid to because I was obviously the only Christian there and one of them was actually gay himself. How do you tell someone they are committing sin by the very nature they identify themselves?
That would have been like someone walking up to me and telling me I’m in sin because I call myself a writer. Even though there is truth to that, I would not have taken it well.
I’m actually glad that I didn’t speak up just then because my opinion on that subject has since changed, as well as my opinions on how to approach it, so what I had to say probably wouldn’t have cast Jesus in a good light. My point, however, is that I wasn’t willing to confess Christ in that situation. I was ashamed. I need to be willing in all situations to confess Christ if He calls me to do so, especially if I’m the only Christian there.
“For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him the Son of Man also will be ashamed when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” NKJV
Like many other times, Jesus tells us that what we do with His name here on Earth, He will do to us during judgment. This time he talks about being ashamed. To me, this verse appears to be anti-parallel to “Also I say to you, whoever confesses Me before men, him the Son of Man also will confess before the angels of God.” (Luke 12:8)
At first it is hard for me to remember a time that I’ve been ashamed of Jesus. But I remember a time when I failed to confess Christ.
I wasn’t asked directly or anything but I sat at a table whose conversation strayed to the racism against gays and how persecuted they had been because of republicans and whatnot.
I wanted to add that the bible says it is a sin, but was afraid to because I was obviously the only Christian there and one of them was actually gay himself. How do you tell someone they are committing sin by the very nature they identify themselves?
That would have been like someone walking up to me and telling me I’m in sin because I call myself a writer. Even though there is truth to that, I would not have taken it well.
I’m actually glad that I didn’t speak up just then because my opinion on that subject has since changed, as well as my opinions on how to approach it, so what I had to say probably wouldn’t have cast Jesus in a good light. My point, however, is that I wasn’t willing to confess Christ in that situation. I was ashamed. I need to be willing in all situations to confess Christ if He calls me to do so, especially if I’m the only Christian there.
To Price a Soul
Mark 8:37
“Or what will [or “can” NIV] a man give in exchange for his soul?”
I think what Jesus was trying to impress with this rhetorical question is that our souls are priceless. There is nothing this world can offer that is more precious to us. And there is nothing more vital to our salvation than the purity and wholeness of our souls.
“If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.” Matthew 5:29 (NIV)
I want to conquer each day, living for the Kingdom of God. The most selfish thing I could do as a Christian is be sure of my salvation and let those around me remain lost forever.
I need to be concerned for unsaved souls and be willing to sacrifice my time in order to proclaim the good word to them.
“Or what will [or “can” NIV] a man give in exchange for his soul?”
I think what Jesus was trying to impress with this rhetorical question is that our souls are priceless. There is nothing this world can offer that is more precious to us. And there is nothing more vital to our salvation than the purity and wholeness of our souls.
“If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.” Matthew 5:29 (NIV)
I want to conquer each day, living for the Kingdom of God. The most selfish thing I could do as a Christian is be sure of my salvation and let those around me remain lost forever.
I need to be concerned for unsaved souls and be willing to sacrifice my time in order to proclaim the good word to them.
Fulfillment in Worship
Mark 8:36
“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?”
Jesus’ logic here is undeniable, and yet it is often easy for me to overlook this fact. I, like many others I’m sure, often have dreams about my future. Things like publishing a novel, creating a 3D animated movie, or owning a house out in the woods with lots of dogs and foster children.
I think, if I just get/accomplish these things, I will be fulfilled. But How many times have I gotten what I dreamed for and felt more empty than ever?
A good example of this is during school. I would get so frustrated with my lack of free time that I would say things like, “If I just had more free time I would finish my book, work our more, and make some headway on my 3D animation.”
Then break rolls around. Maybe I even do start doing those things with zeal. For a day. Maybe two. Then I slip back into that summer break fever of spending all my time getting nothing done. Suddenly the thing I’ve waited for and thought would make me happy left me feeling empty.
I think even if I gained the whole world I would still feel that emptiness. I think it is part of human nature to feel empty, then fail to recognize the only One who can fulfill.
Even being emperor of the world with all power, all money, what would we have gained if we sold our souls to get there?
We only have a hundred years on this Earth (if we are lucky), but our decisions here will determine the fates of our souls in eternity. I can’t even imagine what it would be like to live a thousand years, much less forever.
How can I, in good conscience, not even give over to the Lord the short time I am here?
Even though I’m confident in my salvation, how will I be able to stand before the Lord and try to explain away all the times I refused to obey? Nothing I do here will give me fulfillment anyway, so why would I refuse the one thing that can?
I need to follow God’s will for me, for He alone knows what can fulfill my restless heart.
“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?”
Jesus’ logic here is undeniable, and yet it is often easy for me to overlook this fact. I, like many others I’m sure, often have dreams about my future. Things like publishing a novel, creating a 3D animated movie, or owning a house out in the woods with lots of dogs and foster children.
I think, if I just get/accomplish these things, I will be fulfilled. But How many times have I gotten what I dreamed for and felt more empty than ever?
A good example of this is during school. I would get so frustrated with my lack of free time that I would say things like, “If I just had more free time I would finish my book, work our more, and make some headway on my 3D animation.”
Then break rolls around. Maybe I even do start doing those things with zeal. For a day. Maybe two. Then I slip back into that summer break fever of spending all my time getting nothing done. Suddenly the thing I’ve waited for and thought would make me happy left me feeling empty.
I think even if I gained the whole world I would still feel that emptiness. I think it is part of human nature to feel empty, then fail to recognize the only One who can fulfill.
Even being emperor of the world with all power, all money, what would we have gained if we sold our souls to get there?
We only have a hundred years on this Earth (if we are lucky), but our decisions here will determine the fates of our souls in eternity. I can’t even imagine what it would be like to live a thousand years, much less forever.
How can I, in good conscience, not even give over to the Lord the short time I am here?
Even though I’m confident in my salvation, how will I be able to stand before the Lord and try to explain away all the times I refused to obey? Nothing I do here will give me fulfillment anyway, so why would I refuse the one thing that can?
I need to follow God’s will for me, for He alone knows what can fulfill my restless heart.
Godly vs Worldly desires
Mark 8:35
“For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.” NKJV
Jesus told this to a crowd after telling them how to live a life for Christ.
Whoever desire to save his life will lose it:
Those who live for themselves work and sweat for their own gain will not inherit eternal life. Working for riches, fame, health, or a long and happy life will not bring happiness or life after death. Often times it will not even bring happiness in this life (or I could even argue that it never does). We will never be whole in the world emotionally unless we are broken for Him.
Whoever loses his life for my sake (and the gospel’s) will save it:
Whoever gives his life to Christ will have joy and life after death. We die to ourselves, our desires, every day as we live for Christ.
Does that mean we should or will never be happy?
No. We were built to worship and serve. It is only there that we can find true joy and peace. Only in serving Christ do we find fulfillment.
Jesus doesn’t say this because He doesn’t want us to be happy. He tells us this because he wants what is best for us, as well as what is best for His kingdom.
Application:
I need to sacrifice my desire and the things I think will make me happy for the One who will give true joy and peace.
“For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.” NKJV
Jesus told this to a crowd after telling them how to live a life for Christ.
Whoever desire to save his life will lose it:
Those who live for themselves work and sweat for their own gain will not inherit eternal life. Working for riches, fame, health, or a long and happy life will not bring happiness or life after death. Often times it will not even bring happiness in this life (or I could even argue that it never does). We will never be whole in the world emotionally unless we are broken for Him.
Whoever loses his life for my sake (and the gospel’s) will save it:
Whoever gives his life to Christ will have joy and life after death. We die to ourselves, our desires, every day as we live for Christ.
Does that mean we should or will never be happy?
No. We were built to worship and serve. It is only there that we can find true joy and peace. Only in serving Christ do we find fulfillment.
Jesus doesn’t say this because He doesn’t want us to be happy. He tells us this because he wants what is best for us, as well as what is best for His kingdom.
Application:
I need to sacrifice my desire and the things I think will make me happy for the One who will give true joy and peace.
Take up your Cross
Mark 8: 34
“When He had called the people to himself, with His disciples also, He said to them, ‘Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.’” NKJV
After telling His disciples about His death, Jesus instructs the crowd on how to live a life for Him.
In this first verse He gives three commands: deny yourself, take you your cross, and follow Him.
Deny Yourself:
The first of these instruction is not an easy one for us, especially not as Americans. I say that because of the story of the young rich man who wanted to follow Jesus. Jesus told him to sell all his possessions, but the man did not, for he was very wealthy.
To give away his wealth would have been to deny his own earthly desires for the sake of following Christ. I say that it is hard for Americans for we are very rich. Even our poor are rich compared to other countries, and we live in a country where materialism is the nation’s dream.
On the other hand, to deny yourself also means to put yourself last. To put the needs of a random person on the street above your own. To comfort those who are hurting, even when you have other things to do.
Take up your cross:
What does the cross represent? Nowadays, the Christian faith, and the suffering and sacrifice of the Messiah.
We all know that Jesus suffered and died on His cross. After being beaten and mocked they brought Him to Golgotha, nailed Him to the cross, and mocked Him still until His death.
For us this means pain and ridicule from men--until death. This plays into denying ourselves. If we serve ourselves, why would we let ourselves come to harm if we could avoid it? Why would we allow men to mock us? We wouldn’t. But if we serve Jesus with everything we have, we should not fear persecution. In fact, if our suffering preaches to the unbelievers, then we should be glad in it, for He values the return of one lost sheep over a hundred who are saved. So should we.
The other part to this, which I believe is relevant, is that the cross is the symbol of Christianity. Of course, it wasn’t at the time He said this--the crowed was probably confused when He said this for he had not yet died on one--but for us that cross means Jesus. By taking up a cross, we are taking up the name of Jesus for all to see.
We are to first preach Jesus through actions and the way we live our lives so that all strangeness points to the cross.
Then also we should recognize that our very lives, our thoughts, our actions are what the world will see of Jesus. If our lives reflect those of the non-believer, how then will the world see Jesus?
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:35
Follow Him:
This one is easy to miss because that is the topic being discussed.
Jesus said that if we are to follow Him we should… follow Him. You’re probably thinking “Well, that’s helpful.”
Well, yeah, it is. If we want to live a life for Christ then we have to submit to Christ’s authority. We have to follow His commands. We have to follow His example.
We have to follow Him willingly if we are to be Christians. It’s not just something where you can say a prayer and your Christian life will be laid out for you. You still have to choose daily to do things according to His will and not our own.
Application:
I need to deny my earthly desires for things like videogames, chocolate, and writing. I need to sacrifice my own wants and use myself to serve others. I need to be willing to endure hardships and suffering, and the ridicules of this world. I need to live by every moment, giving glory to Christ, realizing I that I bear the name Christian and I do not want His name to be put to shame on my behalf. And I need to follow not only the Lord’s example but His will for me personally.
“When He had called the people to himself, with His disciples also, He said to them, ‘Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.’” NKJV
After telling His disciples about His death, Jesus instructs the crowd on how to live a life for Him.
In this first verse He gives three commands: deny yourself, take you your cross, and follow Him.
Deny Yourself:
The first of these instruction is not an easy one for us, especially not as Americans. I say that because of the story of the young rich man who wanted to follow Jesus. Jesus told him to sell all his possessions, but the man did not, for he was very wealthy.
To give away his wealth would have been to deny his own earthly desires for the sake of following Christ. I say that it is hard for Americans for we are very rich. Even our poor are rich compared to other countries, and we live in a country where materialism is the nation’s dream.
On the other hand, to deny yourself also means to put yourself last. To put the needs of a random person on the street above your own. To comfort those who are hurting, even when you have other things to do.
Take up your cross:
What does the cross represent? Nowadays, the Christian faith, and the suffering and sacrifice of the Messiah.
We all know that Jesus suffered and died on His cross. After being beaten and mocked they brought Him to Golgotha, nailed Him to the cross, and mocked Him still until His death.
For us this means pain and ridicule from men--until death. This plays into denying ourselves. If we serve ourselves, why would we let ourselves come to harm if we could avoid it? Why would we allow men to mock us? We wouldn’t. But if we serve Jesus with everything we have, we should not fear persecution. In fact, if our suffering preaches to the unbelievers, then we should be glad in it, for He values the return of one lost sheep over a hundred who are saved. So should we.
The other part to this, which I believe is relevant, is that the cross is the symbol of Christianity. Of course, it wasn’t at the time He said this--the crowed was probably confused when He said this for he had not yet died on one--but for us that cross means Jesus. By taking up a cross, we are taking up the name of Jesus for all to see.
We are to first preach Jesus through actions and the way we live our lives so that all strangeness points to the cross.
Then also we should recognize that our very lives, our thoughts, our actions are what the world will see of Jesus. If our lives reflect those of the non-believer, how then will the world see Jesus?
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:35
Follow Him:
This one is easy to miss because that is the topic being discussed.
Jesus said that if we are to follow Him we should… follow Him. You’re probably thinking “Well, that’s helpful.”
Well, yeah, it is. If we want to live a life for Christ then we have to submit to Christ’s authority. We have to follow His commands. We have to follow His example.
We have to follow Him willingly if we are to be Christians. It’s not just something where you can say a prayer and your Christian life will be laid out for you. You still have to choose daily to do things according to His will and not our own.
Application:
I need to deny my earthly desires for things like videogames, chocolate, and writing. I need to sacrifice my own wants and use myself to serve others. I need to be willing to endure hardships and suffering, and the ridicules of this world. I need to live by every moment, giving glory to Christ, realizing I that I bear the name Christian and I do not want His name to be put to shame on my behalf. And I need to follow not only the Lord’s example but His will for me personally.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
An Answer to prayer
So here goes my first non-IBS blog. I would have written more, honestly, but every spare moment here is normally taken up with a boatload of homework.
I don’t really want to post all of this because the first part, the journal is pretty bad. But it was during my journaling time that God told me to post this, and I promised to, so here goes.
Below will be a somewhat revised but true to the point journal entry from yesterday. The assignment was basically to make a list of the hardest times in your life and pray and ask the Lord why those times happened and how He plans to use them to strengthen us. And also to check and make sure we have no hard or hurt feelings towards the memories or people in them.
Oh, and I’ll be fictionalizing some of the names because there is no need for me to cast some of those people in a bad light. On that note, bear in mind that these struggles are completely inside of me, and nothing anyone else has done really has an effect on it. In essence the world is not cruel to me, I am cruel to me.
So here’s the journal entry, I changed as little of it as possible, so just beware. And if you read it, read the update too. It’s four pages long on the processor so if you do decide to read it, and then you decide halfway though the journal you just can’t, skip the rest of the journal and read the conclusion. Because that’s the cool part.
*******
Day 28 (Tues)
Lord, I have been asked to bring my most painful memories before you today. Please give to me remembrance and strength as I attempt to do this.
The first one that came to mind in class was Sarah and how that friendship ended. We took a class together when Sarah and her best friend were at odds. They were at odds for most of the semester, and I encouraged them to forgive each other repeatedly. But in the mean-time Sarah and I got to know each other quite well.
Well Sarah and her best friend finally did forgive each other, and when that happened, it was like I didn’t exist to either of them anymore. For a few days I tried to join them and hang out with them, but it was very clear to me that I wasn’t wanted anymore.
I don’t think I was angry at all, and I continued to be nice to them, but it was just one more example of how undesirable I am as a friend or a person or whatever. And it hurt, though I tried to avoid thinking about it by burying myself in my writing.
This is my pain, Lord.
Another time I was at the lunch table with Steven and watching Dave from my class stuff as many marshmallows in his mouth as possible. I was cheering him on and being obnoxious and having a good time when some friend of Steven’s (someone I’ve never met) walks up to him and asks who I am.
Steven’s response “Oh, just some weird girl.” It was like he said it with disgust.
At that point I think we had talked to each other every morning on the bus for over a year--maybe two.
He didn’t even say it like we knew each other.
I hate it when people talk about me, Lord.
Even here at Potter’s Field I have felt it. I think there’s been at least three major times that I’ve just seen the evidence that I am undesirable as a person. And the people here are wonderful. They are so loving and kind and it is by no means their fault. In fact, it wasn’t even Sarah’s or Steven’s fault either.
On a side note, the Lord is telling me I need to post this in my blog, so I’m writing this note to keep me accountable.
It just adds to my weakness to realize that my greatest pains and my greatest trials might as well have been imagined. How pathetic is that.
But back on topic. It wasn’t just those two instances from high school that I shared. Those were just two very low points in a life where I felt that happen every day. Just one small thing piling on top of another pointing to the fact that there is nothing desirable about my personality. Nothing that would make someone want to talk to me, much less be my friend.
I hate it when people tell me I need to come out of my shell because for one, if I knew how to make people like me more, or if I knew how to have deep conversations about my life, I would. Believe me, I would.
Besides I know if I do open up and show emotion I’m going to get burned for it. So it’s best for me to just remain quiet.
“It is better for people to think you a fool, than for you to open your mouth and prove them right.” (And no, that’s definitely not scripture, I think some dead president supposedly said this.) That quote is basically what I lived by.
Back to the struggles I’m still having today, though. Again, no one has tried to hurt me. I just want to make that clear. In fact, several people here seem to be going out of their way to help me--God only knows the reason. But even in that encouragement Satan tries to tell me it is just because they see how much of a loser you are.
The other times are just stupid things like me always walking past people having deep conversations, but never actually being a part of that kind of fellowship.
I always feel like I have to invite myself into a conversation, and people tolerate it, of course, but they really don’t want me there.
And then when I am invited to things by my peers I feel like I’m an afterthought and they really don’t care if I’m there at all.
Heh, maybe if this is long enough, Lord, no one will read it. And right now I feel convicted for not wanting to do your will. Sorry.
Other times I start to say something, I see that no one is listening and that no one cares, so I just stop. So I’ll randomly give stupid half-sentence comments. A few times I was actually asked what I was trying to say, but by that time I was too embarrassed to give a real answer so I try to play it off or just make up something different.
Just one more small sign that people just really don’t give a damn about me, and all that other stuff is just superficial politeness--or at least that’s what the Devil tries to tell me. For most of my life I’ve believed that in every setting I’m in except for my family.
I love my family so much it hurts to read about when Jesus said “Whoever does not forsake his family and follow me is not worthy of me.” But it’s true.
And if you read this, and I kind of hope you didn’t, just don’t leave this thinking “Man, I need to include her in more things and encourage or whatever so she doesn’t feel this way,” please don’t. I don’t want sympathy or any more superficially nice actions. Talk to me only if you want to, not because you feel obligated.
And if you want to help me just be aware of my weakness. I get extremely discouraged when I hear people talk about me. Even if I don’t hear the whole conversation or if it’s just neutral or even nice stuff about me, the Devil uses those moments to fill my head with the worst kind of thoughts. Nothing bad about the people talking, but things about myself. It hurts me a lot, so just gossip about me only when you know I’m a million miles away, por favor.
******
So basically I really didn’t want to write this but when Pastor Don assigned it I first felt God telling me I definitely should devote a good amount of time to it. Well I did it in my On the Mount time and I basically cried to whole time. I know, I’m that pathetic. I can’t even tell Jesus my troubles without breaking down, and He already knows all about it. He was there. And the whole time I just felt so stressed and I got a headache. Which turned into a migraine.
It was truly my first migraine since coming here, which is a miracle in and of itself. And I was really discouraged by it because I was like “Okay, God, I’m doing what you want me to, and I spent all this time earnestly praying and talking and following your will for me, and I get to feel like crap because of this?” I wasn’t mad at Him or anything. I already know the reason for my headaches. Every time I get them I have to seclude myself in a dark place, without laying down usually or I’ll puke. On top of that, the best way I’ve found to keep from puking (sorry, if that word makes you uncomfortable, there’s just no easier way to say it) is to sing. The scientific justifier in me says that’s because I’m sitting up right, and using my voice my stomach is actually settled (I’d go into more detail to prove that that’s actually true, but it’s kinda gross, so I’ll skip it). But sometimes, I know when God saves me from suffering too badly. I actually kind of enjoy the fact that in those times, the only thing I can rely upon is Him. And, I don’t know, it’s just good to have times to stop everything and be with God, even if I’m forced there, =)
But back to the story, I was kind of frustrated because I just spent a bunch of time with Him, quality time, and now I had to be in class. How could God not want me to be focused in a class about Him? But I gritted my teeth and said, okay, you’re doing this for a reason.
Well--and this is the cool part--it turns out He did. I didn’t get the reason until I was laying in bed. But basically I tried not to be obvious in IBS class after suffering through the class before it. Then I went up into our closet (which is huge at the moment) and tried to wait it off in the darkness instead of going to dinner. I was hoping I’d be feeling better by the time Chapel started, but it was really hard for me because someone else in my room stayed behind, so I couldn’t sing or anything except in my head. Which kind of made me frustrated because I knew God brought me there for a reason, but I couldn’t even fellowship with Him in the typical way when that happens. So I just prayed instead for the most part, and drank a whole bunch of water.
A bunch of people kept like coming in and apologizing and then asking if I needed anything and offering sympathy, which kind of made me feel bad because I know it’s not that big of a deal. Yeah it hurts, but 99.9% of the time it’s gone by morning. And then after dinner Courtney, a staff member who I respect because she’s kind of the leader of the women’s dorm, came in and offered me some water, asked if I needed anything, and said that they were praying for me. At this I was like “Woah, people are really making a big deal out of this. Maybe I should have just suffered though it, and not have told anyone.” But I really really hate puking where people can hear me, so I decided that would have been a bad plan.
Then when everyone was in chapel I sat against the door and sang like I normally did, and not much longer after that I was feeling like I knew I wouldn’t puke. So I prayed a little more and tried to sneak in the back entrance of Chapel hoping people wouldn’t notice me. Well, I was noticed, by Courtney of all people and other people who I think knew and I tried to do the awkward silent gesture “yeah, I’m fine” thing.
Then a long while afterwards Pastor Steve came up to me and asked quietly if I was feeling better. At this I was definitely shocked. It was like everyone knew, and it kind of hit me that they might have actually been praying for me.
Of course, me being me, I felt bad. I thought that I should have informed them that headaches really aren’t that big of a deal with me. Yeah they hurt, sometimes so bad that I’m crying for hours hoping God will save me, but by morning they’re gone. By morning I feel closer to God because of them.
It wasn’t until I lay in bed last night that it struck me. I was just about to sleep when God basically said, “Kayla, I let you have that headache today so that you would know that my children do love you.” Even though my mentality was “suck it up and deal with it” the people here cared. Cared more than I did for myself. Cared more than my family back home would have.
I still think that concern was a little misguided, but it really spoke to me. Especially after spending so much of my life just saying “yeah, no one cares, suck it up and stop being so selfish” and then resurfacing that earlier that day.
The Lord is truly amazing. As I was speaking to Him about the troubles in my heart, He was already laying the path to proving my doubts about people and my doubts about myself wrong.
Oh, and this whole event, I just realized, is an answer to another prayer that God would give me a testimony I could use. I hope it encourages someone, =)
-----
…and this is Jaymi, praising God that I hurt my ankle. Because of it, He brought to me an amazing friend like Kayla. When I say she’s beautiful and amazing and wonderful, they’re not just empty words. She really is. Thank you Jesus (:
I don’t really want to post all of this because the first part, the journal is pretty bad. But it was during my journaling time that God told me to post this, and I promised to, so here goes.
Below will be a somewhat revised but true to the point journal entry from yesterday. The assignment was basically to make a list of the hardest times in your life and pray and ask the Lord why those times happened and how He plans to use them to strengthen us. And also to check and make sure we have no hard or hurt feelings towards the memories or people in them.
Oh, and I’ll be fictionalizing some of the names because there is no need for me to cast some of those people in a bad light. On that note, bear in mind that these struggles are completely inside of me, and nothing anyone else has done really has an effect on it. In essence the world is not cruel to me, I am cruel to me.
So here’s the journal entry, I changed as little of it as possible, so just beware. And if you read it, read the update too. It’s four pages long on the processor so if you do decide to read it, and then you decide halfway though the journal you just can’t, skip the rest of the journal and read the conclusion. Because that’s the cool part.
*******
Day 28 (Tues)
Lord, I have been asked to bring my most painful memories before you today. Please give to me remembrance and strength as I attempt to do this.
The first one that came to mind in class was Sarah and how that friendship ended. We took a class together when Sarah and her best friend were at odds. They were at odds for most of the semester, and I encouraged them to forgive each other repeatedly. But in the mean-time Sarah and I got to know each other quite well.
Well Sarah and her best friend finally did forgive each other, and when that happened, it was like I didn’t exist to either of them anymore. For a few days I tried to join them and hang out with them, but it was very clear to me that I wasn’t wanted anymore.
I don’t think I was angry at all, and I continued to be nice to them, but it was just one more example of how undesirable I am as a friend or a person or whatever. And it hurt, though I tried to avoid thinking about it by burying myself in my writing.
This is my pain, Lord.
Another time I was at the lunch table with Steven and watching Dave from my class stuff as many marshmallows in his mouth as possible. I was cheering him on and being obnoxious and having a good time when some friend of Steven’s (someone I’ve never met) walks up to him and asks who I am.
Steven’s response “Oh, just some weird girl.” It was like he said it with disgust.
At that point I think we had talked to each other every morning on the bus for over a year--maybe two.
He didn’t even say it like we knew each other.
I hate it when people talk about me, Lord.
Even here at Potter’s Field I have felt it. I think there’s been at least three major times that I’ve just seen the evidence that I am undesirable as a person. And the people here are wonderful. They are so loving and kind and it is by no means their fault. In fact, it wasn’t even Sarah’s or Steven’s fault either.
On a side note, the Lord is telling me I need to post this in my blog, so I’m writing this note to keep me accountable.
It just adds to my weakness to realize that my greatest pains and my greatest trials might as well have been imagined. How pathetic is that.
But back on topic. It wasn’t just those two instances from high school that I shared. Those were just two very low points in a life where I felt that happen every day. Just one small thing piling on top of another pointing to the fact that there is nothing desirable about my personality. Nothing that would make someone want to talk to me, much less be my friend.
I hate it when people tell me I need to come out of my shell because for one, if I knew how to make people like me more, or if I knew how to have deep conversations about my life, I would. Believe me, I would.
Besides I know if I do open up and show emotion I’m going to get burned for it. So it’s best for me to just remain quiet.
“It is better for people to think you a fool, than for you to open your mouth and prove them right.” (And no, that’s definitely not scripture, I think some dead president supposedly said this.) That quote is basically what I lived by.
Back to the struggles I’m still having today, though. Again, no one has tried to hurt me. I just want to make that clear. In fact, several people here seem to be going out of their way to help me--God only knows the reason. But even in that encouragement Satan tries to tell me it is just because they see how much of a loser you are.
The other times are just stupid things like me always walking past people having deep conversations, but never actually being a part of that kind of fellowship.
I always feel like I have to invite myself into a conversation, and people tolerate it, of course, but they really don’t want me there.
And then when I am invited to things by my peers I feel like I’m an afterthought and they really don’t care if I’m there at all.
Heh, maybe if this is long enough, Lord, no one will read it. And right now I feel convicted for not wanting to do your will. Sorry.
Other times I start to say something, I see that no one is listening and that no one cares, so I just stop. So I’ll randomly give stupid half-sentence comments. A few times I was actually asked what I was trying to say, but by that time I was too embarrassed to give a real answer so I try to play it off or just make up something different.
Just one more small sign that people just really don’t give a damn about me, and all that other stuff is just superficial politeness--or at least that’s what the Devil tries to tell me. For most of my life I’ve believed that in every setting I’m in except for my family.
I love my family so much it hurts to read about when Jesus said “Whoever does not forsake his family and follow me is not worthy of me.” But it’s true.
And if you read this, and I kind of hope you didn’t, just don’t leave this thinking “Man, I need to include her in more things and encourage or whatever so she doesn’t feel this way,” please don’t. I don’t want sympathy or any more superficially nice actions. Talk to me only if you want to, not because you feel obligated.
And if you want to help me just be aware of my weakness. I get extremely discouraged when I hear people talk about me. Even if I don’t hear the whole conversation or if it’s just neutral or even nice stuff about me, the Devil uses those moments to fill my head with the worst kind of thoughts. Nothing bad about the people talking, but things about myself. It hurts me a lot, so just gossip about me only when you know I’m a million miles away, por favor.
******
So basically I really didn’t want to write this but when Pastor Don assigned it I first felt God telling me I definitely should devote a good amount of time to it. Well I did it in my On the Mount time and I basically cried to whole time. I know, I’m that pathetic. I can’t even tell Jesus my troubles without breaking down, and He already knows all about it. He was there. And the whole time I just felt so stressed and I got a headache. Which turned into a migraine.
It was truly my first migraine since coming here, which is a miracle in and of itself. And I was really discouraged by it because I was like “Okay, God, I’m doing what you want me to, and I spent all this time earnestly praying and talking and following your will for me, and I get to feel like crap because of this?” I wasn’t mad at Him or anything. I already know the reason for my headaches. Every time I get them I have to seclude myself in a dark place, without laying down usually or I’ll puke. On top of that, the best way I’ve found to keep from puking (sorry, if that word makes you uncomfortable, there’s just no easier way to say it) is to sing. The scientific justifier in me says that’s because I’m sitting up right, and using my voice my stomach is actually settled (I’d go into more detail to prove that that’s actually true, but it’s kinda gross, so I’ll skip it). But sometimes, I know when God saves me from suffering too badly. I actually kind of enjoy the fact that in those times, the only thing I can rely upon is Him. And, I don’t know, it’s just good to have times to stop everything and be with God, even if I’m forced there, =)
But back to the story, I was kind of frustrated because I just spent a bunch of time with Him, quality time, and now I had to be in class. How could God not want me to be focused in a class about Him? But I gritted my teeth and said, okay, you’re doing this for a reason.
Well--and this is the cool part--it turns out He did. I didn’t get the reason until I was laying in bed. But basically I tried not to be obvious in IBS class after suffering through the class before it. Then I went up into our closet (which is huge at the moment) and tried to wait it off in the darkness instead of going to dinner. I was hoping I’d be feeling better by the time Chapel started, but it was really hard for me because someone else in my room stayed behind, so I couldn’t sing or anything except in my head. Which kind of made me frustrated because I knew God brought me there for a reason, but I couldn’t even fellowship with Him in the typical way when that happens. So I just prayed instead for the most part, and drank a whole bunch of water.
A bunch of people kept like coming in and apologizing and then asking if I needed anything and offering sympathy, which kind of made me feel bad because I know it’s not that big of a deal. Yeah it hurts, but 99.9% of the time it’s gone by morning. And then after dinner Courtney, a staff member who I respect because she’s kind of the leader of the women’s dorm, came in and offered me some water, asked if I needed anything, and said that they were praying for me. At this I was like “Woah, people are really making a big deal out of this. Maybe I should have just suffered though it, and not have told anyone.” But I really really hate puking where people can hear me, so I decided that would have been a bad plan.
Then when everyone was in chapel I sat against the door and sang like I normally did, and not much longer after that I was feeling like I knew I wouldn’t puke. So I prayed a little more and tried to sneak in the back entrance of Chapel hoping people wouldn’t notice me. Well, I was noticed, by Courtney of all people and other people who I think knew and I tried to do the awkward silent gesture “yeah, I’m fine” thing.
Then a long while afterwards Pastor Steve came up to me and asked quietly if I was feeling better. At this I was definitely shocked. It was like everyone knew, and it kind of hit me that they might have actually been praying for me.
Of course, me being me, I felt bad. I thought that I should have informed them that headaches really aren’t that big of a deal with me. Yeah they hurt, sometimes so bad that I’m crying for hours hoping God will save me, but by morning they’re gone. By morning I feel closer to God because of them.
It wasn’t until I lay in bed last night that it struck me. I was just about to sleep when God basically said, “Kayla, I let you have that headache today so that you would know that my children do love you.” Even though my mentality was “suck it up and deal with it” the people here cared. Cared more than I did for myself. Cared more than my family back home would have.
I still think that concern was a little misguided, but it really spoke to me. Especially after spending so much of my life just saying “yeah, no one cares, suck it up and stop being so selfish” and then resurfacing that earlier that day.
The Lord is truly amazing. As I was speaking to Him about the troubles in my heart, He was already laying the path to proving my doubts about people and my doubts about myself wrong.
Oh, and this whole event, I just realized, is an answer to another prayer that God would give me a testimony I could use. I hope it encourages someone, =)
-----
…and this is Jaymi, praising God that I hurt my ankle. Because of it, He brought to me an amazing friend like Kayla. When I say she’s beautiful and amazing and wonderful, they’re not just empty words. She really is. Thank you Jesus (:
Forgiveness
Matthew 18:21-35
The Parable of the Unfaithful Servant. (Read it first, then read my comments!)
“This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from you heart.” NIV
Jesus made it clear to Peter that this parable applies to us and God. And that even if we do not forgive someone in our hearts, that will be our fate.
Often times we think that it won’t matter if we don’t forgive someone who has wronged us. We think, “They don’t deserve forgiveness, not yet.” Or, “I’ll forgive them when they admit their mistake.”
We know in theory that we should forgive, but we often take it as a suggestion.
It this passage Jesus makes it very clear to his disciples that they should always forgive. No matter how many times they may be wronged. No matter how great the sin against them.
That may seem harsh, but how many times has God forgiven us for our sins? How many times have we gone to Him pleading for forgiveness? Our transgressions against God are much greater than any mortal man could do to us.
A passage that comes to mind is the Lord’s prayer, (Matthew 6:5-18).
“Forgive us our debts, for we have also forgive our debtors.”
That’s a conditional statement as well. How could we ask forgiveness from the Father, unless we have shown mercy to our own brothers?
The Parable of the Unfaithful Servant. (Read it first, then read my comments!)
“This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from you heart.” NIV
Jesus made it clear to Peter that this parable applies to us and God. And that even if we do not forgive someone in our hearts, that will be our fate.
Often times we think that it won’t matter if we don’t forgive someone who has wronged us. We think, “They don’t deserve forgiveness, not yet.” Or, “I’ll forgive them when they admit their mistake.”
We know in theory that we should forgive, but we often take it as a suggestion.
It this passage Jesus makes it very clear to his disciples that they should always forgive. No matter how many times they may be wronged. No matter how great the sin against them.
That may seem harsh, but how many times has God forgiven us for our sins? How many times have we gone to Him pleading for forgiveness? Our transgressions against God are much greater than any mortal man could do to us.
A passage that comes to mind is the Lord’s prayer, (Matthew 6:5-18).
“Forgive us our debts, for we have also forgive our debtors.”
That’s a conditional statement as well. How could we ask forgiveness from the Father, unless we have shown mercy to our own brothers?
Rejoice in Weakness
Acts 12:9
“So he went out and followed him, and did not know that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision.” NKJV
At first I wondered why Peter would assume this was a vision. He had seen Jesus in the flesh and seen all the supernatural things He did while He was here. If he knew the strength of God’s power, why wouldn’t he believed that what was happening was real?
Look back to Acts 10:9-23. Here, only two chapters before, Peter did have a vision. In it, being Peter, he argued with God three times before waking up. It is interesting to see his immediate obedience in this “vision.”
If we look back to Matthew 16 we see a little more of Peter’s personality. He was the first to recognize Jesus as the Messiah and proclaim it, but then a few minutes later her rebuked the King of Kings for saying He was going to die.
John 21:18-19 Jesus tells Peter (or Simon) that he will lead Peter where he does not want to go and indicated the kind of death Peter would have. Peter understood this, and probably remembered it the day he was arrested. Having made up his mind already that Jesus would lead him to a terrible death and being alright with it, I can see why he might assume it was another vision and not the saving power of God.
So why did God save him after warning him that he would die that way anyway?
Because Peter wasn’t done yet founding the church. Again in Matthew 16, Jesus told Simon Peter that he was “Peter” which means rock, and that He would build His church on that rock. He then goes on to say that not even the gates of hell would stop the church--how much less the gates of a Roman prison? In verse 10 we are told those gates opened of their own accord.
God will provide a way for His will to be done. He will free us from what binds us, and will open any gate that stands in the way.
Peter was just a person who loved Jesus. He had faults. In fact, he was the one who got rebuked the most, more often than even Judas Iscariot. And yet God used him to build His church.
One of Peter’s greatest weaknesses was how often he voiced his opinions. He wasn’t afraid to tell even the Christ when he thought Jesus had it wrong. What a great gift that would be when Peter actually knew what he was talking about!
Our Lord has a plan for us, and if we are willing to follow Him, he will open the doors for us to further His Kingdom.
I need to remember that God gave me weaknesses because He is strength. If I allow Him to, He will take those weaknesses and use them to His glory.
I need to think as Paul did. When I am overwhelmed by the thoughts of my own shortcomings, I should rejoice for it is though that weakness that He is made strong. (2 Corinthians 12:10)
“So he went out and followed him, and did not know that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision.” NKJV
At first I wondered why Peter would assume this was a vision. He had seen Jesus in the flesh and seen all the supernatural things He did while He was here. If he knew the strength of God’s power, why wouldn’t he believed that what was happening was real?
Look back to Acts 10:9-23. Here, only two chapters before, Peter did have a vision. In it, being Peter, he argued with God three times before waking up. It is interesting to see his immediate obedience in this “vision.”
If we look back to Matthew 16 we see a little more of Peter’s personality. He was the first to recognize Jesus as the Messiah and proclaim it, but then a few minutes later her rebuked the King of Kings for saying He was going to die.
John 21:18-19 Jesus tells Peter (or Simon) that he will lead Peter where he does not want to go and indicated the kind of death Peter would have. Peter understood this, and probably remembered it the day he was arrested. Having made up his mind already that Jesus would lead him to a terrible death and being alright with it, I can see why he might assume it was another vision and not the saving power of God.
So why did God save him after warning him that he would die that way anyway?
Because Peter wasn’t done yet founding the church. Again in Matthew 16, Jesus told Simon Peter that he was “Peter” which means rock, and that He would build His church on that rock. He then goes on to say that not even the gates of hell would stop the church--how much less the gates of a Roman prison? In verse 10 we are told those gates opened of their own accord.
God will provide a way for His will to be done. He will free us from what binds us, and will open any gate that stands in the way.
Peter was just a person who loved Jesus. He had faults. In fact, he was the one who got rebuked the most, more often than even Judas Iscariot. And yet God used him to build His church.
One of Peter’s greatest weaknesses was how often he voiced his opinions. He wasn’t afraid to tell even the Christ when he thought Jesus had it wrong. What a great gift that would be when Peter actually knew what he was talking about!
Our Lord has a plan for us, and if we are willing to follow Him, he will open the doors for us to further His Kingdom.
I need to remember that God gave me weaknesses because He is strength. If I allow Him to, He will take those weaknesses and use them to His glory.
I need to think as Paul did. When I am overwhelmed by the thoughts of my own shortcomings, I should rejoice for it is though that weakness that He is made strong. (2 Corinthians 12:10)
Following
Acts 12:8
“Then the angel said to him, ‘Gird yourself and tie on your sandals,’ and so he did. And he said to him, ‘Put on your garment and follow me.’”
I love Peter’s obedience here. The angel woke him up, freed him from his chains and told him to get dressed.
So peter god dressed. No questions asked.
This was a man who had experience following the Lord’s orders in the flesh. Even now that the Lord was in heaven and the Spirit was in him, he obeyed simply as if Jesus Himself commanded it.
Of course, he thought it wasn’t real at the time, but I doubt he would have done much different even if he had.
Blind obedience is not the same as blind faith. In fact, often God calls people to follow without explanation. Peter probably knew this better than most and so didn’t even stop to question.
I need to trust as Peter did. Without question. Without hesitation.
“Then the angel said to him, ‘Gird yourself and tie on your sandals,’ and so he did. And he said to him, ‘Put on your garment and follow me.’”
I love Peter’s obedience here. The angel woke him up, freed him from his chains and told him to get dressed.
So peter god dressed. No questions asked.
This was a man who had experience following the Lord’s orders in the flesh. Even now that the Lord was in heaven and the Spirit was in him, he obeyed simply as if Jesus Himself commanded it.
Of course, he thought it wasn’t real at the time, but I doubt he would have done much different even if he had.
Blind obedience is not the same as blind faith. In fact, often God calls people to follow without explanation. Peter probably knew this better than most and so didn’t even stop to question.
I need to trust as Peter did. Without question. Without hesitation.
The Power of God
Acts 12:7
“Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up, saying, ‘Arise quickly!’ And his chains fell of his hands.”
This is the first of several miracles performed by God in this passage.
An angel came and woke Peter up, then God undid the chains on his wrists.
I love this example of God’s power. Normally we see God working though faith and through the people. The classic “Get up and walk,” scene that we see so often is sometimes seen to mean that God only works though people. I’ve seven heard some people say that God cannot work without people or faith.
This is an example of God working primarily without either. Peter did not demand that his chains open, and he didn’t even believe that he was being rescued until the angel disappeared. And yet God was able and did perform a great miracle.
I’ve always wondered about the times when Jesus had said, “Your faith has healed you.” What did He mean by that? Does He mean that our faith gives God the power to heal?
Otherwise, why can’t the man of no faith be healed so that he might believe?
I think the answer is that God can heal, but he chooses not to in those instances.
Many have said “God show me a miracle, and I will believe.” But God replies, “Believe and I will show you miracles.”
The wonders of God are all around us, no amount of miracles will convince people who don’t want to believe.
But to those who have faith are rewarded for it.
I need to remember that God is with me always and have faith that He will either deliver me or bring me home.
“Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up, saying, ‘Arise quickly!’ And his chains fell of his hands.”
This is the first of several miracles performed by God in this passage.
An angel came and woke Peter up, then God undid the chains on his wrists.
I love this example of God’s power. Normally we see God working though faith and through the people. The classic “Get up and walk,” scene that we see so often is sometimes seen to mean that God only works though people. I’ve seven heard some people say that God cannot work without people or faith.
This is an example of God working primarily without either. Peter did not demand that his chains open, and he didn’t even believe that he was being rescued until the angel disappeared. And yet God was able and did perform a great miracle.
I’ve always wondered about the times when Jesus had said, “Your faith has healed you.” What did He mean by that? Does He mean that our faith gives God the power to heal?
Otherwise, why can’t the man of no faith be healed so that he might believe?
I think the answer is that God can heal, but he chooses not to in those instances.
Many have said “God show me a miracle, and I will believe.” But God replies, “Believe and I will show you miracles.”
The wonders of God are all around us, no amount of miracles will convince people who don’t want to believe.
But to those who have faith are rewarded for it.
I need to remember that God is with me always and have faith that He will either deliver me or bring me home.
God Will Overcome
Acts 12:6
“And when Herod was about to bring him out, that night Peter was sleeping, bound with two chains between two soldiers; and the guards before the door were keeping the prison.” NKJV
It is interesting to me that Peter was so heavily guarded. It sounds as if there were sixteen guards between him and the exit--at the very least two of them devoted to guarding him alone. Why did they perceive him as such a great threat? Did Peter look threatening? Had they heard stories of Christians escaping and expected some sort of resistance?
Whatever it was, God again proved Himself more powerful. Perhaps God set this up to happen so that believers and non believers would be amazed when he overcame.
When nightfall hits me and I think that God has abandoned me, I need to recall this passage.
God didn’t save Peter from being arrested. If it had been his time, God wouldn’t have saved him from persecution and death. But did God abandon Peter?
Certainly not. There might have been times that Peter felt like he had been abandoned, but the reality of it is that God is with us always.
I should rejoice in my struggles because someday they may bring glory to God, as Peter’s did.
“And when Herod was about to bring him out, that night Peter was sleeping, bound with two chains between two soldiers; and the guards before the door were keeping the prison.” NKJV
It is interesting to me that Peter was so heavily guarded. It sounds as if there were sixteen guards between him and the exit--at the very least two of them devoted to guarding him alone. Why did they perceive him as such a great threat? Did Peter look threatening? Had they heard stories of Christians escaping and expected some sort of resistance?
Whatever it was, God again proved Himself more powerful. Perhaps God set this up to happen so that believers and non believers would be amazed when he overcame.
When nightfall hits me and I think that God has abandoned me, I need to recall this passage.
God didn’t save Peter from being arrested. If it had been his time, God wouldn’t have saved him from persecution and death. But did God abandon Peter?
Certainly not. There might have been times that Peter felt like he had been abandoned, but the reality of it is that God is with us always.
I should rejoice in my struggles because someday they may bring glory to God, as Peter’s did.
Prayer
Acts 12:5
“Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church.” NKJV
When a leader of the church was arrested, probably going to be put to death after Passover, the church responded by praying constantly for him.
I remember a story I once heard. A little girl was playing by a window and accidentally fell out of it, hitting the hard ground below. Her parents ran to her, afraid for her life, and knelt down to pray--then they called the ambulance. I don’t remember what happened to the girl or even where I heard the story from, but I remember thinking, “Wow, they really understand it.”
The God of the universe is so much more powerful than modern medicine and even the best doctors.
And yet, how often do we look to science first, and then to God?
I wonder if the church then fully grasped the power of prayer. They knew to do it, and did pray earnestly. But then, were they surprised when they learned that their prayers had been listened too and answered to the fullest extent? (Look at verses 15 and 16)
To be honest, I probably wouldn’t have believed it myself.
“Peter, you’re back! How did you escape?”
“Well, Kayla, an angel smacked me awake, my chains fell off, and all the doors unlocked and opened themselves as I followed the angel out.”
“Oh… wow… but really though, what happened? Why’d they let you go?”
At this point in the story I probably would have been smitten for my horrid lack of faith.
But seriously though. How often do I pray and yet never expect it to be answered because I have deemed it impossible?
I need to realize God’s strength and sovereignty and go to Him first with prayer, knowing that for Him nothing is impossible.
“Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church.” NKJV
When a leader of the church was arrested, probably going to be put to death after Passover, the church responded by praying constantly for him.
I remember a story I once heard. A little girl was playing by a window and accidentally fell out of it, hitting the hard ground below. Her parents ran to her, afraid for her life, and knelt down to pray--then they called the ambulance. I don’t remember what happened to the girl or even where I heard the story from, but I remember thinking, “Wow, they really understand it.”
The God of the universe is so much more powerful than modern medicine and even the best doctors.
And yet, how often do we look to science first, and then to God?
I wonder if the church then fully grasped the power of prayer. They knew to do it, and did pray earnestly. But then, were they surprised when they learned that their prayers had been listened too and answered to the fullest extent? (Look at verses 15 and 16)
To be honest, I probably wouldn’t have believed it myself.
“Peter, you’re back! How did you escape?”
“Well, Kayla, an angel smacked me awake, my chains fell off, and all the doors unlocked and opened themselves as I followed the angel out.”
“Oh… wow… but really though, what happened? Why’d they let you go?”
At this point in the story I probably would have been smitten for my horrid lack of faith.
But seriously though. How often do I pray and yet never expect it to be answered because I have deemed it impossible?
I need to realize God’s strength and sovereignty and go to Him first with prayer, knowing that for Him nothing is impossible.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Rely Upon the Spirit
Acts 8:35
“Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning at this scripture, preached Jesus to him.”
NKJV
Philip answered the question truthfully. He didn’t have to fight the topic so he could maneuver his way into speaking about Jesus. God had already provided that, so all he had to do was be honest.
I highly doubt he had his Jesus-is-Christ speech already outlined in his head. He didn’t even know he’d be evangelizing when he left home that day. He simply trusted the Spirit to guide him though life.
Do I have that kind of trust?
Would I get up and leave my home with no explanation?
Would I leap past the bounds of my comfort zone and run up to some random car?
And, most importantly, after going that far, would I trust the Holy Spirit to guide the conversation for His glory?
Too often when I try to explain biblical things to people, I let my mind race with arguments distracting me from what the other person is saying.
I need to learn to listen unbiasedly and trust on the Lord to give me the words to say.
“Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning at this scripture, preached Jesus to him.”
NKJV
Philip answered the question truthfully. He didn’t have to fight the topic so he could maneuver his way into speaking about Jesus. God had already provided that, so all he had to do was be honest.
I highly doubt he had his Jesus-is-Christ speech already outlined in his head. He didn’t even know he’d be evangelizing when he left home that day. He simply trusted the Spirit to guide him though life.
Do I have that kind of trust?
Would I get up and leave my home with no explanation?
Would I leap past the bounds of my comfort zone and run up to some random car?
And, most importantly, after going that far, would I trust the Holy Spirit to guide the conversation for His glory?
Too often when I try to explain biblical things to people, I let my mind race with arguments distracting me from what the other person is saying.
I need to learn to listen unbiasedly and trust on the Lord to give me the words to say.
Deus ex machina
Acts 8:34
“So the eunuch answered Philip and said ‘I ask you, of whom does the prophet say this, of himself or of some other man?” NKJV
The Ethiopian asked a direct question about the text he was reading. A direct question whose answer was Jesus.
With a quick read over, it is easy to miss how perfectly planned this whole event was. We know that God used Philip and directed him where and when to go. That part is easy to understand. Philip was a believer and a man of God.
But it is easy to miss that God also directed this moment for the Ethiopian. We can only guess at how He did this. Maybe God put it into the Ethiopian’s heart to read from Isaiah that day. Or maybe God waited and knew the moment the Ethiopian would reach that part of scripture but however he did it He planned it so Philip would arrive at the perfect time.
To me, that is beautiful. God saw at what time the Ethiopian would need help. God knew how long it would take Philip to get to the chariot from where he was. So He chose the perfect time to send his angel and start Philip on his way. Then everything fell into place because Philip was obedient.
I need to remember that God sees all, present past and future. And that sometimes what appears to be happenstance is too coincidental to be coincidence.
About the Title:
Deus ex machina comes from Greek plays. It was a technique where the gods would come in and set things right at the last moment. In modern writing lingo, it is known as a cliche and something to avoid unless you go satire or comedy.
I love this passage because you can truly see the hand of God fixing the plot.
“So the eunuch answered Philip and said ‘I ask you, of whom does the prophet say this, of himself or of some other man?” NKJV
The Ethiopian asked a direct question about the text he was reading. A direct question whose answer was Jesus.
With a quick read over, it is easy to miss how perfectly planned this whole event was. We know that God used Philip and directed him where and when to go. That part is easy to understand. Philip was a believer and a man of God.
But it is easy to miss that God also directed this moment for the Ethiopian. We can only guess at how He did this. Maybe God put it into the Ethiopian’s heart to read from Isaiah that day. Or maybe God waited and knew the moment the Ethiopian would reach that part of scripture but however he did it He planned it so Philip would arrive at the perfect time.
To me, that is beautiful. God saw at what time the Ethiopian would need help. God knew how long it would take Philip to get to the chariot from where he was. So He chose the perfect time to send his angel and start Philip on his way. Then everything fell into place because Philip was obedient.
I need to remember that God sees all, present past and future. And that sometimes what appears to be happenstance is too coincidental to be coincidence.
About the Title:
Deus ex machina comes from Greek plays. It was a technique where the gods would come in and set things right at the last moment. In modern writing lingo, it is known as a cliche and something to avoid unless you go satire or comedy.
I love this passage because you can truly see the hand of God fixing the plot.
Reactions in Strange Situations
Acts 8:31
“And he said, ‘How can I unless someone guides me?’ And he asked Philip to come up and sit with him.” NKJV
After being asked if he understood the passage he was reading, the Ethiopian replied that he needed guidance to understand.
That action in and of itself is pretty humble for a man in such a position. He openly admitted to some random person who decided to run next to him, that he did not understand.
I would think that the natural tendency would be to make your first impression to look smart and educated. He could have very easily rambled on the subject without really saying that he didn’t know, or at the very least given a preamble to that statement to make himself seem even a little smarter.
In all honesty, I probably would have. If I was frustrated, I might have been more frank, but to some random guy who just dashed next to my chariot for no apparent reason? Probably not.
He admitted that he needed guidance. I can say from experience that he’s not the only one who struggles to interpret that book. The first time I read this enormous book, that was my most common thought, “Man, I wish someone would explain this to me.”
Unfortunately for the Ethiopian he lacked two important tools of interpretation that we have today: Knowledge of Jesus Christ, and help from the Holy Spirit.
Luckily, he got both of those things in the next verses. The Holy Spirit sent help through Philip who told him about Jesus.
But as followers of Christ today, we can be confident of the Holy Spirit’s presence within us to help us understand these things if we ask it of Him. In other words we don’t need a random Christian trotting up out of nowhere to help us out--though that could still happen. It is more likely, however, that He will speak to us directly, assuming we are ready to listen.
The application for this part:
First, I need to admit what I don’t know. This is often difficult for me because I like to pretend that I’m smart and I like to answer academic questions--or at least try to.
Second, I have to be willing to hear other people’s thoughts and insights on matters.
Third, I need to spend my study time asking the Spirit to give me wisdom on the subject. When I first read through the bible all the way, I did it very mechanically. Yeah, I enjoyed it, but I wasn’t really seeking God’s wisdom. I merely relied upon my own ability.
Now to address the second part of the verse.
“… And he asked Philip to come and sit with him.”
The Ethiopian offered a seat to some random person only seconds after their first encounter.
So lets try to imagine this. I’m driving home in my nice green Subaru. My windows are down and I’m stuck at a stoplight, mulling over some scripture in Isaiah--reading aloud because it helps me focus.
Out of nowhere this chick (I say female simply because I’m female) jogs up to me. We’re practically in the desert, so right away I think she’s nuts, but I continue reading regardless.
“Do you understand that passage?” she asks me conversationally.
Say I have the humility to admit that I have no idea. That alone is impressive. But, uh, would my next action be to invite her into my car?
Truly my heart would be set on God and not on the world for me to do that. A random person. In my car. I don’t even hesitate because I think she can teach me.
That is pretty amazing.
I want to have that kind of all-for-God vision in my life, not just in this thought experiment. I want to be so focused on His word that weird people and strange situations don’t even phase me, because my home is in heaven, and all that I am should be working towards that home.
“And he said, ‘How can I unless someone guides me?’ And he asked Philip to come up and sit with him.” NKJV
After being asked if he understood the passage he was reading, the Ethiopian replied that he needed guidance to understand.
That action in and of itself is pretty humble for a man in such a position. He openly admitted to some random person who decided to run next to him, that he did not understand.
I would think that the natural tendency would be to make your first impression to look smart and educated. He could have very easily rambled on the subject without really saying that he didn’t know, or at the very least given a preamble to that statement to make himself seem even a little smarter.
In all honesty, I probably would have. If I was frustrated, I might have been more frank, but to some random guy who just dashed next to my chariot for no apparent reason? Probably not.
He admitted that he needed guidance. I can say from experience that he’s not the only one who struggles to interpret that book. The first time I read this enormous book, that was my most common thought, “Man, I wish someone would explain this to me.”
Unfortunately for the Ethiopian he lacked two important tools of interpretation that we have today: Knowledge of Jesus Christ, and help from the Holy Spirit.
Luckily, he got both of those things in the next verses. The Holy Spirit sent help through Philip who told him about Jesus.
But as followers of Christ today, we can be confident of the Holy Spirit’s presence within us to help us understand these things if we ask it of Him. In other words we don’t need a random Christian trotting up out of nowhere to help us out--though that could still happen. It is more likely, however, that He will speak to us directly, assuming we are ready to listen.
The application for this part:
First, I need to admit what I don’t know. This is often difficult for me because I like to pretend that I’m smart and I like to answer academic questions--or at least try to.
Second, I have to be willing to hear other people’s thoughts and insights on matters.
Third, I need to spend my study time asking the Spirit to give me wisdom on the subject. When I first read through the bible all the way, I did it very mechanically. Yeah, I enjoyed it, but I wasn’t really seeking God’s wisdom. I merely relied upon my own ability.
Now to address the second part of the verse.
“… And he asked Philip to come and sit with him.”
The Ethiopian offered a seat to some random person only seconds after their first encounter.
So lets try to imagine this. I’m driving home in my nice green Subaru. My windows are down and I’m stuck at a stoplight, mulling over some scripture in Isaiah--reading aloud because it helps me focus.
Out of nowhere this chick (I say female simply because I’m female) jogs up to me. We’re practically in the desert, so right away I think she’s nuts, but I continue reading regardless.
“Do you understand that passage?” she asks me conversationally.
Say I have the humility to admit that I have no idea. That alone is impressive. But, uh, would my next action be to invite her into my car?
Truly my heart would be set on God and not on the world for me to do that. A random person. In my car. I don’t even hesitate because I think she can teach me.
That is pretty amazing.
I want to have that kind of all-for-God vision in my life, not just in this thought experiment. I want to be so focused on His word that weird people and strange situations don’t even phase me, because my home is in heaven, and all that I am should be working towards that home.
Opening a Conversation
Acts 8:30
“So Philip ran to him, and heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and said ‘do you understand what you are reading?’’ NKJV
So Philip obeyed God’s word immediately and caught up with the chariot. When he heard the man reading from Isaiah, he opened up a conversation about it, asking if the man understood what he was reading.
Philip not only did what the Holy Spirit told him directly, but also acted in a way he knew from experience that God would approve of. No doubt, Philip had practice looking for opportunities to preach Jesus, and a man just happening to be reading a prophecy about Him must have been determined by God.
Notice, too, that Philip begins the conversation with a question. He doesn’t just go off on a rant that that scripture is about Jesus, and he should repent. He brought the other person into a discussion. Obviously, the man was curious about the subject, or else he would not have been reading the scriptures.
Asking a non-rhetorical question means two things. First, Philip would have to listen to his response, and the man would have to engage enough to give a response.
He talked to the man, not at him, especially in the beginning.
There are a few things that I can learn from this.
First, I need to keep my eyes open when going where God tells me. Especially if I don’t know the reason yet, I need to pay attention and be open to the opportunities that arise.
Also, when sharing the gospel I need to open a conversation before simply trying to force my beliefs off onto them.
“So Philip ran to him, and heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and said ‘do you understand what you are reading?’’ NKJV
So Philip obeyed God’s word immediately and caught up with the chariot. When he heard the man reading from Isaiah, he opened up a conversation about it, asking if the man understood what he was reading.
Philip not only did what the Holy Spirit told him directly, but also acted in a way he knew from experience that God would approve of. No doubt, Philip had practice looking for opportunities to preach Jesus, and a man just happening to be reading a prophecy about Him must have been determined by God.
Notice, too, that Philip begins the conversation with a question. He doesn’t just go off on a rant that that scripture is about Jesus, and he should repent. He brought the other person into a discussion. Obviously, the man was curious about the subject, or else he would not have been reading the scriptures.
Asking a non-rhetorical question means two things. First, Philip would have to listen to his response, and the man would have to engage enough to give a response.
He talked to the man, not at him, especially in the beginning.
There are a few things that I can learn from this.
First, I need to keep my eyes open when going where God tells me. Especially if I don’t know the reason yet, I need to pay attention and be open to the opportunities that arise.
Also, when sharing the gospel I need to open a conversation before simply trying to force my beliefs off onto them.
Obedience
Acts 8:29
“Then the Spirit said to Philip, ‘Go near and overtake this chariot.’”
NKJV
As Philip was following the Lord’s command to travel down this road, the Spirit spoke to him again, this time He told him to go near to a specific chariot.
This command, and the one before it, is very simple. He basically said, “Go here.” Then he added, “Now go here.”
Neither the angel or the Spirit gave any reason for the command. They only told him what he needed to do.
I need to realize and remember that God often does not tell us why He wants something done.
The cool thing about this story is how simple the command was. Philip didn’t need a hundred bucks and a knowledge of rocket science to obey. The only things he needed was a willingness to hear and a willingness to obey.
Often times I try to overcomplicate or put logic to the commands that He gives to me.
Usually this stems from a fear of if the idea was from the Spirit or from the flesh. This is a legitimate test for me, I think, because sometimes I truly don’t know. I don’t want to do something thinking its God, when its not, and then being disappointed when God doesn’t back me up on it. But often I use my logic and knowledge as an excuse, even when I know in my heart that it is His will.
I need to be a more obedient servant, so that God can use me as He wishes, instead of me dragging my feet the whole way. And I need to be more willing to take a risk that God is speaking to me than sitting in a hole waiting for a sign from God the rest of my life.
“Then the Spirit said to Philip, ‘Go near and overtake this chariot.’”
NKJV
As Philip was following the Lord’s command to travel down this road, the Spirit spoke to him again, this time He told him to go near to a specific chariot.
This command, and the one before it, is very simple. He basically said, “Go here.” Then he added, “Now go here.”
Neither the angel or the Spirit gave any reason for the command. They only told him what he needed to do.
I need to realize and remember that God often does not tell us why He wants something done.
The cool thing about this story is how simple the command was. Philip didn’t need a hundred bucks and a knowledge of rocket science to obey. The only things he needed was a willingness to hear and a willingness to obey.
Often times I try to overcomplicate or put logic to the commands that He gives to me.
Usually this stems from a fear of if the idea was from the Spirit or from the flesh. This is a legitimate test for me, I think, because sometimes I truly don’t know. I don’t want to do something thinking its God, when its not, and then being disappointed when God doesn’t back me up on it. But often I use my logic and knowledge as an excuse, even when I know in my heart that it is His will.
I need to be a more obedient servant, so that God can use me as He wishes, instead of me dragging my feet the whole way. And I need to be more willing to take a risk that God is speaking to me than sitting in a hole waiting for a sign from God the rest of my life.
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