Genesis 2:21-23
Most people go through life wanting someone to have their back. Think back to your childhood fights, you probably always had a group of friends that said, don’t worry we got your back. These were people, for the most part who are on your side. They agree with you. But how do you really know they are on your side?
In this portion of scripture Adam was put into a deep sleep so that God could make [from Adam’s rib] a help mate, one suitable for him. Adam was no ordinary man so it was going to take and extraordinary woman to suit him. God recognized that the woman would have to come from the man in order for it to be a match. This woman would stand by her man. She would help him in times of need or in times of trouble. She would defend his honor. She would bear his children; and she would boast of his achievements (sounds a lot like the Proverbs 31 woman).. Adam knew instinctively that the woman was for him. He knew that she would complete him. Men, do you want to know if the woman is the “one” for you? Trust your instincts. Think about it, Adam was sleep so how did he know that Eve was “bone of my bones”? The Bible lets us know that God caused the man to go into a deep sleep. Now think about that for a minute. When you are sleep I am sure you would feel if someone cut you open and removed your rib and I am certain that if you felt the pinch in your side you would wake up. So I believe that Adam was placed in a coma in order for God to perform the surgery (but that’s a whole other message). Either way, Adam did not know what had happened to him so it had to be his instinct that told him that Eve was, “flesh of my flesh”.
Adam knew that Eve was on his side. They worked together to tend to the garden and it was not until the serpent was overtaken by satan that Eve changed. Yes I said it. The serpent got a raw deal in the fall story. Remember that satan is crafty and he will use anything to bring division in the family. He knows the value of the woman to the man therefore he will do whatever he can to break their bond. What we have to remember is that God gave Adam dominion over the garden and since Eve came from Adam she too had dominion. We must never lose our power and/or our right (again, a message for another time). We cannot walk away when things get a little rough, we must stand by our man. And that even includes our male children. Eve was able to recognize her mistake, made amends and continued to support her husband. Even after the fall Eve stayed by Adam’s side. When they were homeless and their children were running wild and killing each other, she was by his side. Through it all, and they went through a lot, Eve was on Adam’s side. Tammy Wynette had a song back in 1968 called, Stand by Your Man. The lyrics to the song would probably be a message that Eve would say to her friends who were telling her to walk away.
Sometimes its hard to be a woman! Giving all your love to just one man; you'll have bad times and he'll have good times doing things that you don't understand. But if you love him you'll forgive him, even though he's hard to understand. And if you love him, oh be proud of him, because after all he's just a man. Stand by your man! Give him two arms to cling to and something warm to come to when nights are cold and lonely, stand by your man. And tell the world you love him. Keep giving all the love you can, stand by your man. Stand by your man! And show the world you love him. Keep giving all the love you can, stand by your man
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
What’s your foundation made of?
1 Peter 2: 6-8
As the Scriptures express it, "See I am sending Christ to be the carefully chosen, precious Cornerstone of my church, and I will never disappoint those who trust in him."
Yes, he is very precious to you who believe; and to those who reject him, well-- "The same Stone that was rejected by the builders has become the Cornerstone, the most honored and important part of the building." And the Scriptures also say, "He is the Stone that some will stumble over, and the Rock that will make them fall." to God's Word, nor obey it, and so this punishment must follow--that they will fall.
Reflections from Natalie:
Picture if you will a building being built but what is needed to keep the building standing is missing. This building while it may look pretty will not stand long because it is not built on strong foundation. One key piece is missing and that can cause a disaster. When we think about today's scripture along these lines it's meaning has great depth. Jesus was sent to be our foundation. To hold us up and keep us from falling. He can only be that foundation, Cornerstone if we believe in him. He was chosen carefully by God to be that Cornerstone. This text also says to me that we are chosen by God to build up his house here on Earth. In God's eyes we are precious, and for those who believe in Him he chooses to bless you with strength.
Let's clearly understand this Scripture. This scripture is part of a letter from Peter. Peter who was also known as Simon received his name from Jesus. In his letter he was expressing what the Scriptures are telling us about what God expects and wants for our lives. He was sending this letter to the Jewish Christians who were driven out of Jerusalem and were scattered about in the surrounding counties. He was telling them that God desires them. That while they were still in their mother's womb he had a plan for their lives. He was telling them that he was cleansing their hearts so that they would receive him. He was telling them no matter where you are in your life I am there and I knew you before you were. God desires for us to listen to his Word. That is why there was Simon which means Hearkening or Listening. He wanted us to listen and hear what sayeth the Lord so that once Jesus changed Simon's name to Peter (which means Rock) we would stand on the solid Rock. Simon told us about God and Peter prepared us for God. If we are still and listen what we will hear is as strong as a rock. It is solid and firm, and that is just how God's Word is.
Now let's look at what happens when you do not believe. Donny Mc Curklin say, "We fall down, but we get up." And how this is so true as it relates to the scripture. When we don't believe or when we backslide, we have to fall in order for God to pick us back up. Oh there will be times when you will fall because you are not in line with God's word. There will be times when you will not always believe, lack of faith, but the good thing is that you can and will get back up. You see long ago God knew you were going to be one of his children. So he began molding and shaping you to be the Cornerstone that he needs you to be. We are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood as the Bible tells us, and in us there is greatness. We are strong enough to hold up buildings if we believe. Have you ever heard the saying, I think I can, I think I can, I think I can. Well that is not faith. When you rely on faith you say, I know I can, I know I can, I know I can. That person will be the main stone in the building.
In the 8th verse it says, "He is the Stone that some will stumble over and the rock that will make them fall." Have you noticed that there are so many who do not believe in what they are doing and that is why they fail at it. Have you started something but because within your heart you don't believe in it fails. Look at the stock market, When a business does not do what is expected the shareholders move somewhere else and therefore the stock market closes down. When we do not believe God will bring us down. He does his best work when we are down because that is when we are most vulnerable. I rejoice in the fact that I believe and because of that I can be a Cornerstone in someone's building. I once was lost but now I am found and because I believe God is bringing to pass his plan for my life. Do you believe in what God has called you to do or are you falling? There is someone that will receive this message that does not believe, that does not have a right relationship with God, who keeps on stumbling over what God has for them. If you want to be save, ask God to come into your life, tell him that you believe. That you are tired of falling and want him to pick you up. Tell him that you believe in Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit and that you believe that Christ died, and that he rose three days later and now sits at the right hand of the Father. And watch God build you up to be strong, a solid rock.
Be Blessed and Encouraged
As the Scriptures express it, "See I am sending Christ to be the carefully chosen, precious Cornerstone of my church, and I will never disappoint those who trust in him."
Yes, he is very precious to you who believe; and to those who reject him, well-- "The same Stone that was rejected by the builders has become the Cornerstone, the most honored and important part of the building." And the Scriptures also say, "He is the Stone that some will stumble over, and the Rock that will make them fall." to God's Word, nor obey it, and so this punishment must follow--that they will fall.
Reflections from Natalie:
Picture if you will a building being built but what is needed to keep the building standing is missing. This building while it may look pretty will not stand long because it is not built on strong foundation. One key piece is missing and that can cause a disaster. When we think about today's scripture along these lines it's meaning has great depth. Jesus was sent to be our foundation. To hold us up and keep us from falling. He can only be that foundation, Cornerstone if we believe in him. He was chosen carefully by God to be that Cornerstone. This text also says to me that we are chosen by God to build up his house here on Earth. In God's eyes we are precious, and for those who believe in Him he chooses to bless you with strength.
Let's clearly understand this Scripture. This scripture is part of a letter from Peter. Peter who was also known as Simon received his name from Jesus. In his letter he was expressing what the Scriptures are telling us about what God expects and wants for our lives. He was sending this letter to the Jewish Christians who were driven out of Jerusalem and were scattered about in the surrounding counties. He was telling them that God desires them. That while they were still in their mother's womb he had a plan for their lives. He was telling them that he was cleansing their hearts so that they would receive him. He was telling them no matter where you are in your life I am there and I knew you before you were. God desires for us to listen to his Word. That is why there was Simon which means Hearkening or Listening. He wanted us to listen and hear what sayeth the Lord so that once Jesus changed Simon's name to Peter (which means Rock) we would stand on the solid Rock. Simon told us about God and Peter prepared us for God. If we are still and listen what we will hear is as strong as a rock. It is solid and firm, and that is just how God's Word is.
Now let's look at what happens when you do not believe. Donny Mc Curklin say, "We fall down, but we get up." And how this is so true as it relates to the scripture. When we don't believe or when we backslide, we have to fall in order for God to pick us back up. Oh there will be times when you will fall because you are not in line with God's word. There will be times when you will not always believe, lack of faith, but the good thing is that you can and will get back up. You see long ago God knew you were going to be one of his children. So he began molding and shaping you to be the Cornerstone that he needs you to be. We are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood as the Bible tells us, and in us there is greatness. We are strong enough to hold up buildings if we believe. Have you ever heard the saying, I think I can, I think I can, I think I can. Well that is not faith. When you rely on faith you say, I know I can, I know I can, I know I can. That person will be the main stone in the building.
In the 8th verse it says, "He is the Stone that some will stumble over and the rock that will make them fall." Have you noticed that there are so many who do not believe in what they are doing and that is why they fail at it. Have you started something but because within your heart you don't believe in it fails. Look at the stock market, When a business does not do what is expected the shareholders move somewhere else and therefore the stock market closes down. When we do not believe God will bring us down. He does his best work when we are down because that is when we are most vulnerable. I rejoice in the fact that I believe and because of that I can be a Cornerstone in someone's building. I once was lost but now I am found and because I believe God is bringing to pass his plan for my life. Do you believe in what God has called you to do or are you falling? There is someone that will receive this message that does not believe, that does not have a right relationship with God, who keeps on stumbling over what God has for them. If you want to be save, ask God to come into your life, tell him that you believe. That you are tired of falling and want him to pick you up. Tell him that you believe in Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit and that you believe that Christ died, and that he rose three days later and now sits at the right hand of the Father. And watch God build you up to be strong, a solid rock.
Be Blessed and Encouraged
Monday, December 13, 2010
Just a Touch
Luke 8:40-48, Now when Jesus returned, a crowd welcomed him, for they were all expecting him. Then a man named Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, came and fell at Jesus' feet, pleading with him to come to his house because his only daughter, a girl of about twelve, was dying. As Jesus was on his way, the crowds almost crushed him. And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years, but no one could heal her. She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped. "Who touched me?" Jesus asked. When they all denied it, Peter said, "Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you." But Jesus said, "Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me." Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at his feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed. Then he said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace."
This scripture has been preached many times, by many different pastors, in many different churches, of many different demoninations however the overall message is the same. This passage of Scripture reflects a dying situation and restoration by faith. As Jesus prepared to go to the home of Jarius to help his daughter this woman who many tried to help knew that all she needed was a touch. Now unlike many who were in the crowd she was not looking for a touch from him because that seemed like an impossible task given the magnitude of the crowd so she purposed in her mind that if only I could put my finger on something of his I will be healed. Have you ever felt like you were in a hopeless situation and the only thing you could do to get helped seemed like an impossible task? The woman in this scripture did not know the outcome of the action she just knew she needed to take the action. Have you ever read this scripture and wondered how she knew she was healed? I mean did the bleeding instantly stop when she touched the hem, or at that moment was she not instantly looking for a manifestation but just the hope? A lot of times we as believers want instant gratification and/or an instant manifestation that God has heard our cries. Yes that would be great and also soothing but that is not always the case. We don't know whether her bleeding stopped right away but what we do know that as soon as she touched Jesus' cloak power left Him. There was a transfer of power and it was that power that healed her. Whether she stopped bleeding instantly is not the case but rather that she knew that she had nothing to lose and took steps to help herself. There is a scripture (1Samuel 30:6) that says sometimes you have to encourage yourself and this woman’s faith in Jesus caused her to encourage herself enough to push through for just a touch of His garment.
For some of you, your situation seems hopeless. You may feel like you are dying in your stuff or that the way things are going in your life there is nothing you can do to change it. The Lord dropped this scripture in my spirit for someone who like this woman is bleeding. You may or may not have had this issue for as many years as the woman did but your issue seems bigger than you and/or anyone who can help. But I came today to let you know that the crowd is passing by you and Jesus is in the middle, push through the hurt, push through the heartache, push through what seems impossible and touch His garment. Purpose in your mind that you may not know the outcome but no matter what it looks like, even when the task seems impossible, just a touch will heal me. Purpose in your heart that a touch of His Garment will change your situation. This woman was healed by faith and the power that comes from faith. Now I don't want to leave you hanging as to what happened to Jarius' daughter. Remember when the woman touched His cloak, Jesus was on His way to Jarius' house for his dying daughter. When Jesus got there the daughter was dead however Jesus, even having had some power removed from him by the woman with the blood issue still had the power to bring the dead to life. God has heard your cries, He knows what you are facing, He knows that to you the situation is dead-hopeless but for Him and through Him all things are possible if you just believe. Just a touch of faith can calm the storms, stop the bleeding and raise the dead. The Bible tells us that faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains. Our power is greater when we are connected to Jesus' power through faith. Be Blessed and Encouraged.
This scripture has been preached many times, by many different pastors, in many different churches, of many different demoninations however the overall message is the same. This passage of Scripture reflects a dying situation and restoration by faith. As Jesus prepared to go to the home of Jarius to help his daughter this woman who many tried to help knew that all she needed was a touch. Now unlike many who were in the crowd she was not looking for a touch from him because that seemed like an impossible task given the magnitude of the crowd so she purposed in her mind that if only I could put my finger on something of his I will be healed. Have you ever felt like you were in a hopeless situation and the only thing you could do to get helped seemed like an impossible task? The woman in this scripture did not know the outcome of the action she just knew she needed to take the action. Have you ever read this scripture and wondered how she knew she was healed? I mean did the bleeding instantly stop when she touched the hem, or at that moment was she not instantly looking for a manifestation but just the hope? A lot of times we as believers want instant gratification and/or an instant manifestation that God has heard our cries. Yes that would be great and also soothing but that is not always the case. We don't know whether her bleeding stopped right away but what we do know that as soon as she touched Jesus' cloak power left Him. There was a transfer of power and it was that power that healed her. Whether she stopped bleeding instantly is not the case but rather that she knew that she had nothing to lose and took steps to help herself. There is a scripture (1Samuel 30:6) that says sometimes you have to encourage yourself and this woman’s faith in Jesus caused her to encourage herself enough to push through for just a touch of His garment.
For some of you, your situation seems hopeless. You may feel like you are dying in your stuff or that the way things are going in your life there is nothing you can do to change it. The Lord dropped this scripture in my spirit for someone who like this woman is bleeding. You may or may not have had this issue for as many years as the woman did but your issue seems bigger than you and/or anyone who can help. But I came today to let you know that the crowd is passing by you and Jesus is in the middle, push through the hurt, push through the heartache, push through what seems impossible and touch His garment. Purpose in your mind that you may not know the outcome but no matter what it looks like, even when the task seems impossible, just a touch will heal me. Purpose in your heart that a touch of His Garment will change your situation. This woman was healed by faith and the power that comes from faith. Now I don't want to leave you hanging as to what happened to Jarius' daughter. Remember when the woman touched His cloak, Jesus was on His way to Jarius' house for his dying daughter. When Jesus got there the daughter was dead however Jesus, even having had some power removed from him by the woman with the blood issue still had the power to bring the dead to life. God has heard your cries, He knows what you are facing, He knows that to you the situation is dead-hopeless but for Him and through Him all things are possible if you just believe. Just a touch of faith can calm the storms, stop the bleeding and raise the dead. The Bible tells us that faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains. Our power is greater when we are connected to Jesus' power through faith. Be Blessed and Encouraged.
Calling the Twelve to Himself-Mark 6:4-12
Jesus calling the twelve to Him, He sought them out which was not customary at that time*. His primary purpose in calling them was to send them out. When God calls us, it is not for us to keep His message to ourselves. Many who have been called act as Jonah did (Jonah 1 & 2), they run from the calling. And in running, they live a stressful life, always wondering why. When Jonah could not run anymore he had to finally accept his call, what is God calling you to?
In this portion of scripture (verse 4-11) Jesus has just been rejected by his own people yet continued to do the work of His father despite the rejection. He also recognized the need to have others, ordinary people, work with Him, you can't do it alone. So He called them, gave them instructions then sent them out in pairs, again not alone. So what am I saying? I am suggesting that the Lord did not intend for those He called to work alone. He Himself knew rejection but He also knew commitment. As He did with Jonah and the twelve, so He will do for us. He has equipped us with the Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth so that we may fulfill that which He has called us to.
The twelve followed the instructions given to them and were powerful in their calling. His instructions also tell the twelve how to handle rejection and they utilized these instructions and were able to heal the sick and drive out demons. Our calling is to reach the unreachable and share what was given to us, salvation. The only thing keeping us from doing this is us. It is important that we have no hidden agenda when sharing the Good news. God's instruction to the twelve was to take nothing with them. That means no preconceived notions, no impure motives, and no hidden agendas. If you are not accepted, Jesus does not say, carry a grudge, He simple says leave. Remember that it is not our responsibility what people do with what we share with them, it is our responsibility only to share it. God is calling us to now do as He instructed us to do. He has given us all we need to fulfill the calling. There is no time like the present (which is a gift from Him).
*During the time of Jesus it was not customary for the Rabbi to seek out his followers but instead those who wanted to follow the Rabbi sought them (the Rabbi) out. This scripture in Mark and throughout the Gospels Jesus (who has been called Rabbi) seeks out His followers. God can not be put in an ordinary box cause He is not an ordinary God.
In this portion of scripture (verse 4-11) Jesus has just been rejected by his own people yet continued to do the work of His father despite the rejection. He also recognized the need to have others, ordinary people, work with Him, you can't do it alone. So He called them, gave them instructions then sent them out in pairs, again not alone. So what am I saying? I am suggesting that the Lord did not intend for those He called to work alone. He Himself knew rejection but He also knew commitment. As He did with Jonah and the twelve, so He will do for us. He has equipped us with the Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth so that we may fulfill that which He has called us to.
The twelve followed the instructions given to them and were powerful in their calling. His instructions also tell the twelve how to handle rejection and they utilized these instructions and were able to heal the sick and drive out demons. Our calling is to reach the unreachable and share what was given to us, salvation. The only thing keeping us from doing this is us. It is important that we have no hidden agenda when sharing the Good news. God's instruction to the twelve was to take nothing with them. That means no preconceived notions, no impure motives, and no hidden agendas. If you are not accepted, Jesus does not say, carry a grudge, He simple says leave. Remember that it is not our responsibility what people do with what we share with them, it is our responsibility only to share it. God is calling us to now do as He instructed us to do. He has given us all we need to fulfill the calling. There is no time like the present (which is a gift from Him).
*During the time of Jesus it was not customary for the Rabbi to seek out his followers but instead those who wanted to follow the Rabbi sought them (the Rabbi) out. This scripture in Mark and throughout the Gospels Jesus (who has been called Rabbi) seeks out His followers. God can not be put in an ordinary box cause He is not an ordinary God.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
It’s Getting Hot in Here
Daniel 3:19-26
Then Nebuchadnezzar was furious with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, and his attitude toward them changed. He ordered the furnace heated seven times hotter than usual and commanded some of the strongest soldiers in his army to tie up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego and throw them into the blazing furnace. So these men, wearing their robes, trousers, turbans and other clothes, were bound and thrown into the blazing furnace. The king’s command was so urgent and the furnace so hot that the flames of the fire killed the soldiers who took up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, and these three men, firmly tied, fell into the blazing furnace. Then King Nebuchadnezzar leaped to his feet in amazement and asked his advisers, “Weren’t there three men that we tied up and threw into the fire?” They replied, “Certainly, Your Majesty.” He said, “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods.” Nebuchadnezzar then approached the opening of the blazing furnace and shouted, “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!” So Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego came out of the fire.
Reflections:
If ever we needed proof on just how awesome God is this is a good example. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego worshipped only one God. They did this with pride and Nebuchadnezzar was angry because they would not worship his god. You have to understand that his god was not our God. When music played he expected everyone to bow down before an idol god. Nebuchadnezzar knew of God but did not worship him. He built an idol that he worshipped. In our scripture we see how OUR GOD works. When you are dedicated to God he protects you from all harm. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego loved the Lord our God and wanted nothing to do with Nebuchadnezzar's god. Because of that they were sentenced to death by fire. Wasn't it a burning bush that spoke to Moses giving the Ten Commandments? When we are at our lowest point and call upon the Lord He steps in and proves himself. Shadrach which means "Command of Aku" Aku is the name of the Babylonian god of the moon, Meshach means "Who is what Aku is?", and Abednego means Servant of Nebo (Nebo being the Babylonian god of wisdom. So let's see the command of god, god himself and the god of wisdom is thrown in a fiery furnace and you think they are going to be destroyed? Nebuchadnezzar must have lost his mind if he thought he would be able to harm these men of God.
Our life can present itself as a blazing furnace. We go through bad times but never get burnt, we have hardship but our hair is never burnt. We get to our lowest point and God picks us up. Did you notice in our text that the men who were ordered to put them in the furnace were killed in the process? Interesting isn't it that those who try to destroy us are the ones who end up being destroyed themselves? God had better things in store for Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. He wanted to make them rulers but in order for them to get there they had to be tested, they had to overcome some stuff in their lives, they had to go through the furnace. When things around you get really hot, call upon the Lord to bring you out of it. When Satan has you bound, call upon the Lord to take the shackles off your feet so you can praise him. When Nebuchadnezzar saw how great God was he began to bless Our God. When the army of the Lord stands up Satan has to bow down. The Devil is already defeated and when we stand as one body in Christ we are putting him further and further in his place, Hell. God wants to place the evil people in your life to be your footstool so you can grow higher in Him. God has much in store for you but you have to go into the furnace and allow him to bring you out. I don't know about you but "IT"S GETTING HOT IN HERE!!"
Be Blessed and Encouraged
Then Nebuchadnezzar was furious with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, and his attitude toward them changed. He ordered the furnace heated seven times hotter than usual and commanded some of the strongest soldiers in his army to tie up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego and throw them into the blazing furnace. So these men, wearing their robes, trousers, turbans and other clothes, were bound and thrown into the blazing furnace. The king’s command was so urgent and the furnace so hot that the flames of the fire killed the soldiers who took up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, and these three men, firmly tied, fell into the blazing furnace. Then King Nebuchadnezzar leaped to his feet in amazement and asked his advisers, “Weren’t there three men that we tied up and threw into the fire?” They replied, “Certainly, Your Majesty.” He said, “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods.” Nebuchadnezzar then approached the opening of the blazing furnace and shouted, “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!” So Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego came out of the fire.
Reflections:
If ever we needed proof on just how awesome God is this is a good example. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego worshipped only one God. They did this with pride and Nebuchadnezzar was angry because they would not worship his god. You have to understand that his god was not our God. When music played he expected everyone to bow down before an idol god. Nebuchadnezzar knew of God but did not worship him. He built an idol that he worshipped. In our scripture we see how OUR GOD works. When you are dedicated to God he protects you from all harm. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego loved the Lord our God and wanted nothing to do with Nebuchadnezzar's god. Because of that they were sentenced to death by fire. Wasn't it a burning bush that spoke to Moses giving the Ten Commandments? When we are at our lowest point and call upon the Lord He steps in and proves himself. Shadrach which means "Command of Aku" Aku is the name of the Babylonian god of the moon, Meshach means "Who is what Aku is?", and Abednego means Servant of Nebo (Nebo being the Babylonian god of wisdom. So let's see the command of god, god himself and the god of wisdom is thrown in a fiery furnace and you think they are going to be destroyed? Nebuchadnezzar must have lost his mind if he thought he would be able to harm these men of God.
Our life can present itself as a blazing furnace. We go through bad times but never get burnt, we have hardship but our hair is never burnt. We get to our lowest point and God picks us up. Did you notice in our text that the men who were ordered to put them in the furnace were killed in the process? Interesting isn't it that those who try to destroy us are the ones who end up being destroyed themselves? God had better things in store for Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. He wanted to make them rulers but in order for them to get there they had to be tested, they had to overcome some stuff in their lives, they had to go through the furnace. When things around you get really hot, call upon the Lord to bring you out of it. When Satan has you bound, call upon the Lord to take the shackles off your feet so you can praise him. When Nebuchadnezzar saw how great God was he began to bless Our God. When the army of the Lord stands up Satan has to bow down. The Devil is already defeated and when we stand as one body in Christ we are putting him further and further in his place, Hell. God wants to place the evil people in your life to be your footstool so you can grow higher in Him. God has much in store for you but you have to go into the furnace and allow him to bring you out. I don't know about you but "IT"S GETTING HOT IN HERE!!"
Be Blessed and Encouraged
Monday, December 6, 2010
A Means To An End
Revelations 1:8
"I am the A and the Z, the beginning and the ending of all things, says God, who is the Lord, the all powerful one who is, and was, and is coming again."
Prayer:
Father in Jesus name give me your direction Lord that I may speak to someone who needs to hear a special word from you. O Lord I ask right now that you will allow the Holy Spirit to guide me. Hide me behind your Word so that my words will not come forth but that your words will reign power in someone's life. Touch someone's heart so that they get a closer walk with you. For this is the time in which we need you the most Lord. Bless all that will read this and receive the message. Lord speak healing to someone who is sick, give direction to someone who is lost and we will continue to give your name Glory, Honor and Praise. In Jesus name we pray,
Amen
Reflection:
Early philosopher Immanuel Kant believed that it was morally wrong to use someone merely as a means to an end. He based that on the fact that if we used people to satisfy our own desires that it was morally wrong. He further felt that people are priceless and by using someone you are placing a value on their person. Further philosophers Socrates and Plato felt that living a decent life is the only way to get the inner contentment; freedom and self-control that we need to feel good about life. Is moral virtue then the ultimate way to achieve happiness? So what would the Lord say? He would agree that inner contentment freedom and self-control are needed to have a good life and that these things can be obtained by having a relationship with Him. God is the means to our end. He is, as our scripture tells us, the A and the Z, the beginning and the End. If, in order to get His goodness I need to be used then I will gladly be used as a means to an end. Because I believe that if I walk with the Lord He is able to make my enemies my footstool then I will be used to praise His name.
In Ephesians 6:11 it says "Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil." If we do this then the end result will be God's Grace on our lives. Based on both scriptures it sounds like the Lord wants us to use His goodness, His Grace, His Mercy and His power as a means to achieve the end result of eternal life with Him. There is a saying that says God made people to love and things to use and it should never be reversed. If my sharing God's word helps someone else than God please use me to help others. If my words are comforting then Lord use me to continue comforting those in need. Although we Humans should never use other people God has the ability and the authority to use people to serve His purpose. Your pastor is used by God to share the good news. God uses His chosen people to build a kingdom here on earth to bring Glory to His Father. Are you using someone or are you being used as a means to an end for another human? Or are you allowing God to use you as a means to an end for His sake? Are you living your life with the joy of knowing that God will give you inner contentment, freedom and self-control you need? If not then the time has come, in this 12th month to get a relationship with someone who can provide you with the joy, comfort, peace and inner contentment that is necessary to be happy. That person is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Remember it only take 30days to develop a habit, so I would encourage everyone to develop the habit of praising God and allow Him to use you.
Be Blessed and encouraged
"I am the A and the Z, the beginning and the ending of all things, says God, who is the Lord, the all powerful one who is, and was, and is coming again."
Prayer:
Father in Jesus name give me your direction Lord that I may speak to someone who needs to hear a special word from you. O Lord I ask right now that you will allow the Holy Spirit to guide me. Hide me behind your Word so that my words will not come forth but that your words will reign power in someone's life. Touch someone's heart so that they get a closer walk with you. For this is the time in which we need you the most Lord. Bless all that will read this and receive the message. Lord speak healing to someone who is sick, give direction to someone who is lost and we will continue to give your name Glory, Honor and Praise. In Jesus name we pray,
Amen
Reflection:
Early philosopher Immanuel Kant believed that it was morally wrong to use someone merely as a means to an end. He based that on the fact that if we used people to satisfy our own desires that it was morally wrong. He further felt that people are priceless and by using someone you are placing a value on their person. Further philosophers Socrates and Plato felt that living a decent life is the only way to get the inner contentment; freedom and self-control that we need to feel good about life. Is moral virtue then the ultimate way to achieve happiness? So what would the Lord say? He would agree that inner contentment freedom and self-control are needed to have a good life and that these things can be obtained by having a relationship with Him. God is the means to our end. He is, as our scripture tells us, the A and the Z, the beginning and the End. If, in order to get His goodness I need to be used then I will gladly be used as a means to an end. Because I believe that if I walk with the Lord He is able to make my enemies my footstool then I will be used to praise His name.
In Ephesians 6:11 it says "Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil." If we do this then the end result will be God's Grace on our lives. Based on both scriptures it sounds like the Lord wants us to use His goodness, His Grace, His Mercy and His power as a means to achieve the end result of eternal life with Him. There is a saying that says God made people to love and things to use and it should never be reversed. If my sharing God's word helps someone else than God please use me to help others. If my words are comforting then Lord use me to continue comforting those in need. Although we Humans should never use other people God has the ability and the authority to use people to serve His purpose. Your pastor is used by God to share the good news. God uses His chosen people to build a kingdom here on earth to bring Glory to His Father. Are you using someone or are you being used as a means to an end for another human? Or are you allowing God to use you as a means to an end for His sake? Are you living your life with the joy of knowing that God will give you inner contentment, freedom and self-control you need? If not then the time has come, in this 12th month to get a relationship with someone who can provide you with the joy, comfort, peace and inner contentment that is necessary to be happy. That person is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Remember it only take 30days to develop a habit, so I would encourage everyone to develop the habit of praising God and allow Him to use you.
Be Blessed and encouraged
Thursday, December 2, 2010
The Unwanted Guest
Job 1:1-12
Where have you come from? (ver 7) This is the question God asked satan when the Heavenly court was open. Satan, the master of disquise slipped in where there was a crack, a breech if you will. Let's do a little history.
The name satan is derived from the Hebrew and means to obstruct or oppose. satan was an angel who became self-centered, selfish and wanted control; he was envious and jealous of God's power and set up plans to bring the other angels out of alignment with God and to follow him. In his plan, satan began recruiting the other angels and invited them to turn from God's plan and jump on his train. Some of the angel liked what satan was talking about and turned from God, these are satan's imps. Be careful who you let speak into your life.
Now let's look at satans attempts to turn us humans from God's plan for our life. If you remember in Genesis 2 Adam had lived with God for some time before Eve came along and satan knew that Adam would not disobey God so he sought Eve. While the story of the fall shows us satans craftiness and the use of his limited power in opposition to God, God still provided for Adam and Eve after the fall. Yes there were consequences to pay for disobedience but God still provided for their needs, they just had to work. (nothing can separate us from the love of God-Romans 8:38-39)
There were many more accounts where satan tried to turn man from God, but now here we are, at Job's story and again we see satan trying his hand at obstruction. Satan's ability to come in front of God along with the heavenly council (the angels) was not by chance. Remember God knows all and sees all; He gives and He takes away. And while He asked satan the question, where have you come from, He already knew. (Nothing you will go through will get passed God). We know from Job 1 that Job was an upright man who had everything going for him (riches, social standing and strong family ties). However, nothing that he had could keep him from the test (without a test there is no testimony). We have to be careful that the things we have do not stand in the way of the Lord's place in our lives. Job, even after losing it all, did not throw in the towel, he praised God. Satan's job is to tempt and by the mere definition of his name he tries to obstruct us from what God has for us. he is the opposing party.
Have you ever had someone stop by your house without an invitation? You know, the person who does not think that they need to let you know they are coming and just shows up. Most often those people come at inconvienent times and interrupts our plans. That is how satan is. He comes just when we are making the most progress; when we are closer and closer to the Lord; when our path seems clear and without our knowledge he plants a negative reminder of our past to keep us from moving any closer to God. When someone comes unannounced you have the ability to tell them that its not a good time and not let them in and the same is true with satan. He has no power unless you give it to him. You can stop any attacks he sends your way by using the word of God and the power of the Holy Spirit living in you.
Remember when satan tempted Jesus? Satan tried to turn Jesus from His Divine plan and he (satan) even tried to use the Word of God, but we know that Jesus did not fall. Instead, Jesus used the tools His Father had given him, the truth in the Word. Satan will confront you with your past but you can confront him with the truth, stand on the Word and he will leave (James 4:7). He's an unwanted guest and it's his time to leave!
Where have you come from? (ver 7) This is the question God asked satan when the Heavenly court was open. Satan, the master of disquise slipped in where there was a crack, a breech if you will. Let's do a little history.
The name satan is derived from the Hebrew and means to obstruct or oppose. satan was an angel who became self-centered, selfish and wanted control; he was envious and jealous of God's power and set up plans to bring the other angels out of alignment with God and to follow him. In his plan, satan began recruiting the other angels and invited them to turn from God's plan and jump on his train. Some of the angel liked what satan was talking about and turned from God, these are satan's imps. Be careful who you let speak into your life.
Now let's look at satans attempts to turn us humans from God's plan for our life. If you remember in Genesis 2 Adam had lived with God for some time before Eve came along and satan knew that Adam would not disobey God so he sought Eve. While the story of the fall shows us satans craftiness and the use of his limited power in opposition to God, God still provided for Adam and Eve after the fall. Yes there were consequences to pay for disobedience but God still provided for their needs, they just had to work. (nothing can separate us from the love of God-Romans 8:38-39)
There were many more accounts where satan tried to turn man from God, but now here we are, at Job's story and again we see satan trying his hand at obstruction. Satan's ability to come in front of God along with the heavenly council (the angels) was not by chance. Remember God knows all and sees all; He gives and He takes away. And while He asked satan the question, where have you come from, He already knew. (Nothing you will go through will get passed God). We know from Job 1 that Job was an upright man who had everything going for him (riches, social standing and strong family ties). However, nothing that he had could keep him from the test (without a test there is no testimony). We have to be careful that the things we have do not stand in the way of the Lord's place in our lives. Job, even after losing it all, did not throw in the towel, he praised God. Satan's job is to tempt and by the mere definition of his name he tries to obstruct us from what God has for us. he is the opposing party.
Have you ever had someone stop by your house without an invitation? You know, the person who does not think that they need to let you know they are coming and just shows up. Most often those people come at inconvienent times and interrupts our plans. That is how satan is. He comes just when we are making the most progress; when we are closer and closer to the Lord; when our path seems clear and without our knowledge he plants a negative reminder of our past to keep us from moving any closer to God. When someone comes unannounced you have the ability to tell them that its not a good time and not let them in and the same is true with satan. He has no power unless you give it to him. You can stop any attacks he sends your way by using the word of God and the power of the Holy Spirit living in you.
Remember when satan tempted Jesus? Satan tried to turn Jesus from His Divine plan and he (satan) even tried to use the Word of God, but we know that Jesus did not fall. Instead, Jesus used the tools His Father had given him, the truth in the Word. Satan will confront you with your past but you can confront him with the truth, stand on the Word and he will leave (James 4:7). He's an unwanted guest and it's his time to leave!
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