Greetings Internet Campus,
2 Chronicles 7:14 Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.
The last step in simplifying our spiritual lives is perhaps the most difficult. It involves a complete change of course...a shift in thinking...a 180 degree turn in the status quo...it's called repentance. And repentance can be tough.
In this passage, God calls us to turn from our "wicked ways". Now I know it's easy to dismiss that remark...after all...what we do each day isn't really "wicked"...it's just a white lie...or just a little bit of gossip...or a little lack of grace... But remember, in God's eyes, sin separates us from Him. Without Jesus, we have no hope....no redemption...no chance. I'd like to tell you today that God ranks sins according to their severity...that some are REALLY wicked and some are kinda wicked and some are sorta wicked and even others are barely wicked. I can't tell you that. The Bible says that the wages of sin is death. All sin is wicked. Equally. In God's eyes...we all have wicked and sinful ways to turn from. But there's hope.
If you are a Christ-follower, you have already had all of that wickedness paid for by Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. God sees you as unblemished and His Son as the sacrifice. That's why He came. In today's passage...God is telling us that if we are to be forgiven and restored....we have to turn from our wicked ways and find Christ. Have you done that? Our spiritual lives can't be made simpler if one doesn't even exist! If you don't know Christ as Lord and Savior...I'd love to talk with you about that...(954)434-1500 X234 or brian.vasil@flamingoroad.org.
If you have committed your life to Him...and really want to simpify your spiritual life...look back again at today's passage...
1) Humble yourself - Recognize the fact that you aren't God. You don't have to be.
2) Pray - Talk to God....daily. Don't ever forget that you can and should connect directly to Him.
3) Seek His face - Keep looking for Christ! He may not appear physically to you...but you can still see Him in others.
4) Repent - Make a decided effort to be more like Christ. Give up those things that the Holy Spirit is nudging you to turn away from. And never go back to them...
Remember, every step that you and I make toward Christ...is one step away from the enemy.
Let's walk together.
Write it Down: In your journal today, list the 3 things that you need to turn from. This needs to be gut-level honest if you are going to grow! Write them in code if you have to...then pray that God will help you overcome their pull on your life. Repentance isn't necessarily a one-time thing...there might be things in your life that you have to turn from daily! It's worth it!
See you tomorrow!
Pastor Brian
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Wednesday 1-30-08 "Seeking God"
Greetings Internet Campus,
2 Chronicles 7:14 Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.
This week we are looking at ways to simplify our spiritual lives. If you missed the last 2 devotionals, it's worth it to go back and grab those because I think they will help you as you de-clutter what might be getting in the way from a deeper relationship with God.
Today we are chatting about seeking God. I mean really looking for Him. The passage talks about looking for God's face....coming eye to eye with our creator....have you ever tried looking for God? How do you know what God looks like?
The Bible tells us what God looks like. He came to Earth a couple thousand years ago with skin-on...He came as a little baby in Bethlehem. He is Jesus. Jesus is God. They are one. If you want to know what God looks like...go looking for Jesus' face....you'll find it. I don't mean jump on Wikipedia and look up an interpretation of Jesus' appearance....I'm talking about what this passage is referring to...getting to know Jesus as a person...as a real-life human being. That's why He came...that's why He left Heaven....so that He could be seen and understood by our finite minds. Jesus, the God/man, is a real person. I'm not downplaying His holiness or overlooking His deity...far from it. I am simply confirming that God was seen in a physical body by thousands of people on the Earth.
Notice what the verse says...we need to SEEK God's face...it doesn't say see it. We may not see Jesus personally until we get to Heaven. However, by seeking Jesus with our lives, the face of Christ will appear.... in the friend extending undeserved grace, in a spouse showing unconditional love, in a child innocently trusting...that's where Jesus is.
He is a real person...a real God...in Heaven. You'll see Him there...but keep looking for Him here...
Write it Down: In your journal today, list 3 people you see Jesus in. What traits do they exhibit that make you think that? In your prayer time...commit to seeking Jesus' face with your life.
See you tomorrow as we wrap up this 4 part look at simplifying our spiritual lives!
Pastor Brian
2 Chronicles 7:14 Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.
This week we are looking at ways to simplify our spiritual lives. If you missed the last 2 devotionals, it's worth it to go back and grab those because I think they will help you as you de-clutter what might be getting in the way from a deeper relationship with God.
Today we are chatting about seeking God. I mean really looking for Him. The passage talks about looking for God's face....coming eye to eye with our creator....have you ever tried looking for God? How do you know what God looks like?
The Bible tells us what God looks like. He came to Earth a couple thousand years ago with skin-on...He came as a little baby in Bethlehem. He is Jesus. Jesus is God. They are one. If you want to know what God looks like...go looking for Jesus' face....you'll find it. I don't mean jump on Wikipedia and look up an interpretation of Jesus' appearance....I'm talking about what this passage is referring to...getting to know Jesus as a person...as a real-life human being. That's why He came...that's why He left Heaven....so that He could be seen and understood by our finite minds. Jesus, the God/man, is a real person. I'm not downplaying His holiness or overlooking His deity...far from it. I am simply confirming that God was seen in a physical body by thousands of people on the Earth.
Notice what the verse says...we need to SEEK God's face...it doesn't say see it. We may not see Jesus personally until we get to Heaven. However, by seeking Jesus with our lives, the face of Christ will appear.... in the friend extending undeserved grace, in a spouse showing unconditional love, in a child innocently trusting...that's where Jesus is.
He is a real person...a real God...in Heaven. You'll see Him there...but keep looking for Him here...
Write it Down: In your journal today, list 3 people you see Jesus in. What traits do they exhibit that make you think that? In your prayer time...commit to seeking Jesus' face with your life.
See you tomorrow as we wrap up this 4 part look at simplifying our spiritual lives!
Pastor Brian
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Tuesday 1-29-08 "Prayer"
Greetings Internet Campus,
2 Chronicles 7:14 Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.
We continue our look this week at simplifying our spiritual life. Yesterday we looked at knowing out position...today we are focusing on the power....God's power...in our lives.
As a pastor, I meet with a lot of people. Probably many of you that are reading this right now. Some by email...and some face to face. Inevitably, somebody every weekend will come up to me and ask me to pray for them. I love that....truly I do. It's interesting to note, however, that some people tell me "Pastor, I've tried everything else...will you pray for me?"
Tried everything else?
What exactly does that mean? Oh, I know! We've tried to pretend we're God...worried about it...made phone calls...read books...talked to friends... and so on.... And when that didn't help...we turned to prayer. Can I make your spiritual life simpler? Pray first.
Seriously. Pray before doing ANYTHING else! The power that you have from the ability to talk directly to God is supernaturally more than anything else that you can do to solve your problems and challenges. Prayer is such a gift from God! He wants us to talk directly to Him. We aren't worthy...we haven't earned it.... God loves us so much that He makes a point to listen to every request from every open heart that is calling out to Him.
So if we just humble ourselves...let God be God...and pray first when we need His power...our spiritual lives will get more and more effective...and less cluttered.
Write it Down: Answer this question in your journal...Who do you turn to first in times of crisis? A) God B) Your own abilities C) A close friend Why is this?
See you in the morning! I'm praying for you!
Pastor Brian
2 Chronicles 7:14 Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.
We continue our look this week at simplifying our spiritual life. Yesterday we looked at knowing out position...today we are focusing on the power....God's power...in our lives.
As a pastor, I meet with a lot of people. Probably many of you that are reading this right now. Some by email...and some face to face. Inevitably, somebody every weekend will come up to me and ask me to pray for them. I love that....truly I do. It's interesting to note, however, that some people tell me "Pastor, I've tried everything else...will you pray for me?"
Tried everything else?
What exactly does that mean? Oh, I know! We've tried to pretend we're God...worried about it...made phone calls...read books...talked to friends... and so on.... And when that didn't help...we turned to prayer. Can I make your spiritual life simpler? Pray first.
Seriously. Pray before doing ANYTHING else! The power that you have from the ability to talk directly to God is supernaturally more than anything else that you can do to solve your problems and challenges. Prayer is such a gift from God! He wants us to talk directly to Him. We aren't worthy...we haven't earned it.... God loves us so much that He makes a point to listen to every request from every open heart that is calling out to Him.
So if we just humble ourselves...let God be God...and pray first when we need His power...our spiritual lives will get more and more effective...and less cluttered.
Write it Down: Answer this question in your journal...Who do you turn to first in times of crisis? A) God B) Your own abilities C) A close friend Why is this?
See you in the morning! I'm praying for you!
Pastor Brian
Monday, January 28, 2008
Monday 1-28-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
This week we are looking at the first part in our Garage Sale series...Simplify your Spiritual Life...
The first step is to know God...to understand His position...
2 Chronicles 7:14 Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.
If we're going to simplify our spiritual lives...we have to understand what position we hold in the universe. While we are God's masterpiece...we aren't God. Sometimes I forget that. I can't control the weather... I can't be everywhere at once...I can't change a single thing in my life by worrying about it...am I the only one that has tried to do these things?
Have you ever tried to be God?
In this verse from 2 Chronicles, we start by humbling ourselves. Realizing that God is God. He doesn't need our approval or permission to do what He wants. He doesn't need to explain Himself or His actions. He is God. And we are not. We are not His assistant...He is not our co-pilot. He is our creator and we are His creation.
If we really want to clean out what is stifling our spiritual growth...we have to start with understanding our role in all of this....we are to be loved on, forgiven, protected, healed, cared for, guided, favored, restored, disciplined, and redeemed by God. Humble yourself...understand your role...and give thanks for it. God is in control.
Write it Down: In your journal...write a prayer to God. In your prayer, ask God's forgiveness if you have ever tried to assume His role. Commit to humbling yourself daily and seeking His will for your life.
See you in the morning!
Pastor Brian
This week we are looking at the first part in our Garage Sale series...Simplify your Spiritual Life...
The first step is to know God...to understand His position...
2 Chronicles 7:14 Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.
If we're going to simplify our spiritual lives...we have to understand what position we hold in the universe. While we are God's masterpiece...we aren't God. Sometimes I forget that. I can't control the weather... I can't be everywhere at once...I can't change a single thing in my life by worrying about it...am I the only one that has tried to do these things?
Have you ever tried to be God?
In this verse from 2 Chronicles, we start by humbling ourselves. Realizing that God is God. He doesn't need our approval or permission to do what He wants. He doesn't need to explain Himself or His actions. He is God. And we are not. We are not His assistant...He is not our co-pilot. He is our creator and we are His creation.
If we really want to clean out what is stifling our spiritual growth...we have to start with understanding our role in all of this....we are to be loved on, forgiven, protected, healed, cared for, guided, favored, restored, disciplined, and redeemed by God. Humble yourself...understand your role...and give thanks for it. God is in control.
Write it Down: In your journal...write a prayer to God. In your prayer, ask God's forgiveness if you have ever tried to assume His role. Commit to humbling yourself daily and seeking His will for your life.
See you in the morning!
Pastor Brian
Friday, January 25, 2008
Friday 1-25-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
Today we wrap up the series, Shepherd and Sheep with our Friday verse to remember and some questions to pray over in your journal...
Think About These:
1) Do you feel important to God?
2) If you do, why? If not, what would it take from God to prove it to you?
3) Why is it so hard to accept God's forgiveness?
4) Who do you connect with more...The Prodigal Son or his father?
5) If you are a Christ-follower, how did you know it was time to follow the Shepherd?
6) What was the one challenging event in your life that taught you the biggest lesson?
Thanks for staying with me this week. I hope that this look at finding the lost has helped you in your walk with Christ. Don't forget, this weekend we kick off the new series "Garage Sale"...you won't want to miss it. See you on campus!
Pastor Brian
Today we wrap up the series, Shepherd and Sheep with our Friday verse to remember and some questions to pray over in your journal...
Romans 5:8 (New Living Translation)
8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.
Think About These:
1) Do you feel important to God?
2) If you do, why? If not, what would it take from God to prove it to you?
3) Why is it so hard to accept God's forgiveness?
4) Who do you connect with more...The Prodigal Son or his father?
5) If you are a Christ-follower, how did you know it was time to follow the Shepherd?
6) What was the one challenging event in your life that taught you the biggest lesson?
Thanks for staying with me this week. I hope that this look at finding the lost has helped you in your walk with Christ. Don't forget, this weekend we kick off the new series "Garage Sale"...you won't want to miss it. See you on campus!
Pastor Brian
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Thursday 1-24-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
We round out our look at God's guidance with this study from Charles Swindoll. It reminds us of just how close God, our Shepherd, is when we need Him.
Write it Down: Pray over this question... How has God, our Shepherd, used trials and challenges to reveal His path for your life? Could He have used any other way?
We round out our look at God's guidance with this study from Charles Swindoll. It reminds us of just how close God, our Shepherd, is when we need Him.
TENDER MERCIES
by Charles R. Swindoll
Read Genesis 41:41-46
Pharaoh swept his hand out wide, so as to include all that vast land of Egypt, and said, "It's all yours, Joseph." Then he took off his signet ring and put it on Joseph's hand.
You know what that ring signified, don't you? It was the platinum charge card of that day. It was the way the king stamped the invoices, the laws, or anything else he wanted to verify or validate with his seal. Now Joseph had that ring on his finger, placed there by the Pharaoh himself. Joseph wore the authority of the king's imprint.
Joseph's Cinderella-like promotion was incredible. But when God determines the time is right, that's the way He operates.
When the reward comes, thank God without pride. Only God can bring you through and out of the dungeon. Only God can reward you for your faithfulness. If He has, be grateful, not proud. Remember, with humility, that it is God who has put you there.
Some of you are on the verge of promotion and you don't even know it, because God doesn't announce His appointments in advance. What you have to do, while you wait, is to believe His promises. While in the darkness of your dungeon, by faith, trust him to bring the light of a new dawn. In the winter of your discontent, believe there'll be a spring.
The God of Joseph will stay beside us during the dungeon days; He will not forsake or forget us. He will be there during the blast of the winter storm, holding out the promise of springtime. He will be there through the darkest night, quietly reminding us of the promise of morning light.
Joseph learned that a broken and contrite heart is not the end, but the beginning. Bruised and crushed by the blows of disappointment and unrealized dreams, he discovered that God had never left his side. When the affliction ended, he had been refined, and he came forth as gold. He had become a person of greater stability, of deeper quality, of stronger character. God's promises are just as much for us as they were for Joseph. His grace is still at work. His tender mercies accompany us from the pit to the pinnacle.
Write it Down: Pray over this question... How has God, our Shepherd, used trials and challenges to reveal His path for your life? Could He have used any other way?
See you in the morning,
Pastor Brian
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Wednesday 1-23-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
Luke 15:3 Then Jesus told them this parable: 4"Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.'
In this third of three parables in Luke 15, Jesus describes a Shepherd losing a sheep. Notice what the Shepherd's immediate reaction is...He leaves all of the others and goes after the 1 stray. This thought leads me to one question:
Do you feel important?
Do you? If you are a Christ follower, do you realize that you were once that stray sheep. Jesus came to get you... He moved your heart... He put people in your path that shared the Gospel with you....He never stopped hoping for you to stop running away....your repentance means so much to Him.
He left Heaven for you. He came for all of us. Every sinner. Every stained life.
Isn't it awesome to know that we serve a God who is dedicated to redemption and grace?
Write it down: In your journal today...answer this question: How did God find you when you were lost? How did you know it was Him?
See you in the morning,
Pastor Brian
Luke 15:3 Then Jesus told them this parable: 4"Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.'
In this third of three parables in Luke 15, Jesus describes a Shepherd losing a sheep. Notice what the Shepherd's immediate reaction is...He leaves all of the others and goes after the 1 stray. This thought leads me to one question:
Do you feel important?
Do you? If you are a Christ follower, do you realize that you were once that stray sheep. Jesus came to get you... He moved your heart... He put people in your path that shared the Gospel with you....He never stopped hoping for you to stop running away....your repentance means so much to Him.
He left Heaven for you. He came for all of us. Every sinner. Every stained life.
Isn't it awesome to know that we serve a God who is dedicated to redemption and grace?
Write it down: In your journal today...answer this question: How did God find you when you were lost? How did you know it was Him?
See you in the morning,
Pastor Brian
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Tuesday 1-22-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
This week we are looking at what the Bible says about God looking for us like a Shepherd looks for a lost sheep...
Here's today's verse:
Luke 15: 20“So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. 21 His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son.’ 22 “But his father said to the servants, ‘Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him.
I absolutely love this verse. Why? Because it is the perfect description of God and His grace.
Let's remember the story...boy wants his inheritance...father hands it over...boy spends it all and feels unforgivable...father waits at home for boy to return...
The story unfolds... Standing at the edge of his driveway is the father. For months he's turned around dejected...heartbroken. He's been there each day...for months...everyday he's there hoping that his son repents and comes back home. And then it happens.
The father instantly grabs the finest robe for his son and has a feast in his honor! His son has returned in spite of his past failures!
That's the way God is...so many people are living their own way...feeling like they can never return home.... feeling like God could never love or forgive them. But thankfully, that's not the way God, the father...the Shepherd...operates. He, too, is waiting. Everyday He is waiting for you...or for your friend...or your classmate...or your boss....to come home. And when that happens, just like in yesterday's parable, the Heavens celebrate. God NEVER gives up on the lost.
Challenge Question: Have you ever felt unforgivable? Today in your journal, write a prayer of thanks to God that He never gave up on you. Allow Him to forgive you...and then forgive yourself.
This week we are looking at what the Bible says about God looking for us like a Shepherd looks for a lost sheep...
Here's today's verse:
Luke 15: 20
I absolutely love this verse. Why? Because it is the perfect description of God and His grace.
Let's remember the story...boy wants his inheritance...father hands it over...boy spends it all and feels unforgivable...father waits at home for boy to return...
The story unfolds... Standing at the edge of his driveway is the father. For months he's turned around dejected...heartbroken. He's been there each day...for months...everyday he's there hoping that his son repents and comes back home. And then it happens.
The father instantly grabs the finest robe for his son and has a feast in his honor! His son has returned in spite of his past failures!
That's the way God is...so many people are living their own way...feeling like they can never return home.... feeling like God could never love or forgive them. But thankfully, that's not the way God, the father...the Shepherd...operates. He, too, is waiting. Everyday He is waiting for you...or for your friend...or your classmate...or your boss....to come home. And when that happens, just like in yesterday's parable, the Heavens celebrate. God NEVER gives up on the lost.
Challenge Question: Have you ever felt unforgivable? Today in your journal, write a prayer of thanks to God that He never gave up on you. Allow Him to forgive you...and then forgive yourself.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Monday 1-21-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
This week we are going to take a look at last weekend's message: A sheep without a Shepherd. Each day we're going to take a look at different Biblical examples of how God, our Shepherd, looks for those that might consider themselves "lost"
The Parable of the Lost Coin
Luke 15: 8 "Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Does she not light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? 9And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.' 10In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."
If you're anything like me...if I have a lot of something and drop one....I really don't think much of it. If I'm counting change and drop a penny, I usually let it roll under the couch to be found later by the vaccuum...it's only a penny.
That's what today's parable is all about...Jesus tells us about a woman who loses a coin and searches until she finds it. Not only does she find it...she has a PARTY about it! Wow! That is one important coin!
You are one important person, too.
Isn't it awesome to know that we serve a God who will turn the entire house upside-down to find that one lost coin? Or that lost soul? He never writes off a life that has fallen...never gives up on those who seem to have no hope. And guess what happens when that life turns around....
He, too, celebrates. God loves and values you so much. Feel lost? Know somebody who does? Share this parable with them...let them know that God has His flashlight out and is ready to turn everything over to find those that appear to be lost forever.
Challenge Question: In your journal today, write down the name of someone that God is actively looking for...someone who doesn't know Him yet. Pray for them. Then pray again, with more intensity. Someday you will celebrate with the angels when they are found.
See you tomorrow!
Pastor Brian
This week we are going to take a look at last weekend's message: A sheep without a Shepherd. Each day we're going to take a look at different Biblical examples of how God, our Shepherd, looks for those that might consider themselves "lost"
The Parable of the Lost Coin
Luke 15: 8 "Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Does she not light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? 9And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.' 10In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."
If you're anything like me...if I have a lot of something and drop one....I really don't think much of it. If I'm counting change and drop a penny, I usually let it roll under the couch to be found later by the vaccuum...it's only a penny.
That's what today's parable is all about...Jesus tells us about a woman who loses a coin and searches until she finds it. Not only does she find it...she has a PARTY about it! Wow! That is one important coin!
You are one important person, too.
Isn't it awesome to know that we serve a God who will turn the entire house upside-down to find that one lost coin? Or that lost soul? He never writes off a life that has fallen...never gives up on those who seem to have no hope. And guess what happens when that life turns around....
He, too, celebrates. God loves and values you so much. Feel lost? Know somebody who does? Share this parable with them...let them know that God has His flashlight out and is ready to turn everything over to find those that appear to be lost forever.
Challenge Question: In your journal today, write down the name of someone that God is actively looking for...someone who doesn't know Him yet. Pray for them. Then pray again, with more intensity. Someday you will celebrate with the angels when they are found.
See you tomorrow!
Pastor Brian
Friday, January 18, 2008
Friday 1-18-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
Today is our last day looking at the fears of the follower...us...the sheep. From now on, for our last post of the week, I will be giving you a verse to memorize and pray over for the weekend as well as some follow up questions to answer in your journal.
Here's the verse:
Matt 9:36 “Jesus had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”
Ask yourself these questions for growth:
FEAR
1) Why do I get scared about things I can't control?
2) What can I remember about God to help me deal with my fear?
FRUSTRATION
3) Do I get frustrated waiting on God? Why?
FAMINE
4) Has there ever been a time in my life when I didn't have what I needed?
5) Which list in my life is longer: wants or needs?
FIGHTING
6) Is there something inside of me that hurts?
7) Am I hurting others as a result of my own inner pain?
I hope this week has been a growing one for you...remember, take on one growth change at a time...pray over it...put it into practice...teach others.
Please share your comments with me about how things are going! I'd love to hear from you!
See you on campus this weekend...don't forget that we are streaming the FUEL class at 8:30 on Saturday morning!
Pastor Brian
Today is our last day looking at the fears of the follower...us...the sheep. From now on, for our last post of the week, I will be giving you a verse to memorize and pray over for the weekend as well as some follow up questions to answer in your journal.
Here's the verse:
Matt 9:36 “Jesus had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”
Ask yourself these questions for growth:
FEAR
1) Why do I get scared about things I can't control?
2) What can I remember about God to help me deal with my fear?
FRUSTRATION
3) Do I get frustrated waiting on God? Why?
FAMINE
4) Has there ever been a time in my life when I didn't have what I needed?
5) Which list in my life is longer: wants or needs?
FIGHTING
6) Is there something inside of me that hurts?
7) Am I hurting others as a result of my own inner pain?
I hope this week has been a growing one for you...remember, take on one growth change at a time...pray over it...put it into practice...teach others.
Please share your comments with me about how things are going! I'd love to hear from you!
See you on campus this weekend...don't forget that we are streaming the FUEL class at 8:30 on Saturday morning!
Pastor Brian
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Thursday 1-17-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
Today we continue our look at being a "sheep." One more thing that we don't need to fear as a follower of God is friction...fighting.
James 4:1 "What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you?"
Do you know someone who is prone to fighting? Enjoys uneasiness? Happy when they are combative? I do. Why are people like that?
Today's verse explains exactly why...it's inside them. Something inside is hurting...something within their soul is in pain. The problem comes when that internal pain surfaces to hurt others: both verbally and/or physically. How do we as sheep control this "inner turmoil?"
Easy.
We need to look to the Shepherd's example and trust in His ability to heal. If we are the one struggling with fighting and anger, the first plan of action is to do anything we can to be more like Jesus. Handle situations like Him...treat others like Him...use words like Him... I'm going to warn you, this isn't always easy. Most of us use excuses like "I was just born that way" or "I can't help it...my parents were like that" You can help it. If you are a grown adult, you get to choose your reaction to what goes on all around you. Want to be less angry? Actively seek the Shepherd's behaviors for your life...go after what may seem impossible right now...and keep at it. Pretty soon, your natural reaction to things will be the Godly one.
Also, we have to trust that God can heal that inner pain. What makes us prone to anger CAN be reversed...it can be changed...we can be different than our parents...it just takes a day-by-day commitment to follow the Shepherd's example and course for our lives.
When we find ourselves fearing friction...either as the cause of it...or hurt by its effects...we need to remember that the Shepherd is still in charge...and we, the sheep, aren't finished yet.
Pastor Brian
Today we continue our look at being a "sheep." One more thing that we don't need to fear as a follower of God is friction...fighting.
James 4:1 "What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you?"
Do you know someone who is prone to fighting? Enjoys uneasiness? Happy when they are combative? I do. Why are people like that?
Today's verse explains exactly why...it's inside them. Something inside is hurting...something within their soul is in pain. The problem comes when that internal pain surfaces to hurt others: both verbally and/or physically. How do we as sheep control this "inner turmoil?"
Easy.
We need to look to the Shepherd's example and trust in His ability to heal. If we are the one struggling with fighting and anger, the first plan of action is to do anything we can to be more like Jesus. Handle situations like Him...treat others like Him...use words like Him... I'm going to warn you, this isn't always easy. Most of us use excuses like "I was just born that way" or "I can't help it...my parents were like that" You can help it. If you are a grown adult, you get to choose your reaction to what goes on all around you. Want to be less angry? Actively seek the Shepherd's behaviors for your life...go after what may seem impossible right now...and keep at it. Pretty soon, your natural reaction to things will be the Godly one.
Also, we have to trust that God can heal that inner pain. What makes us prone to anger CAN be reversed...it can be changed...we can be different than our parents...it just takes a day-by-day commitment to follow the Shepherd's example and course for our lives.
When we find ourselves fearing friction...either as the cause of it...or hurt by its effects...we need to remember that the Shepherd is still in charge...and we, the sheep, aren't finished yet.
Pastor Brian
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Wednesday 1-16-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
Matthew 6:33 “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.”
Today we're going to look at yet another thing we don't have to fear as sheep following God, our Shepherd: famine....not having enough.
Let's take apart today's verse...it gives us two conditions:
1) Seek God's First - Every decision, every spoken word, every relationship, every reaction, every thought we have is supposed to be intentional. Have a purpose. What purpose? To bring us closer to God....closer to His character, His perfect will for our lives, and His protection...in other words...to live righteously. Pastor Troy once told me that if I want to be blessed...I have to live a life that is blessable. I believe that a blessable life seeks God's heart first over anything else. What would God want me to do, say, or buy? Did Jesus give His life for me to think those thoughts? Does this relationship that I'm in demonstrate that I sought God's approval first? When we make moves in any other direction, we put ourselves in a position to worry. If we, as sheep, don't want to be concerned that we won't make it or have enough....we need to shift our focus to the Shepherd's direction...and believe that God alone is the centerpiece of our lives.
2) God's Provision - If you are a Christ-follower, God will provide for your needs. He cares more about you than anything... He loves you. He made you. He cries with you. Just imagine with me today what life would be like if our every thought was angled in the direction of God. If we lived lives that were totally subjected to God's desires for us instead of our own...if we followed the Shepherd with a single purpose and determination...what then? I'll tell you. You will find your life's purpose...you will end up where God leads you...and you will receive all of the blessings that God has in store for your life...His provision.
Daily Challenge: In your journal, answer these questions:
1) Is there an area in your life that God is NOT providing for you (be honest!)
2) Is that the result of God's lack of provision or your lack of focus on His plan over yours.
I know this is tough...pray right now that the Holy Spirit will remind you that seeking the Shepherd's path always leads us to the greener fields.
Matthew 6:33 “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.”
Today we're going to look at yet another thing we don't have to fear as sheep following God, our Shepherd: famine....not having enough.
Let's take apart today's verse...it gives us two conditions:
1) Seek God's First - Every decision, every spoken word, every relationship, every reaction, every thought we have is supposed to be intentional. Have a purpose. What purpose? To bring us closer to God....closer to His character, His perfect will for our lives, and His protection...in other words...to live righteously. Pastor Troy once told me that if I want to be blessed...I have to live a life that is blessable. I believe that a blessable life seeks God's heart first over anything else. What would God want me to do, say, or buy? Did Jesus give His life for me to think those thoughts? Does this relationship that I'm in demonstrate that I sought God's approval first? When we make moves in any other direction, we put ourselves in a position to worry. If we, as sheep, don't want to be concerned that we won't make it or have enough....we need to shift our focus to the Shepherd's direction...and believe that God alone is the centerpiece of our lives.
2) God's Provision - If you are a Christ-follower, God will provide for your needs. He cares more about you than anything... He loves you. He made you. He cries with you. Just imagine with me today what life would be like if our every thought was angled in the direction of God. If we lived lives that were totally subjected to God's desires for us instead of our own...if we followed the Shepherd with a single purpose and determination...what then? I'll tell you. You will find your life's purpose...you will end up where God leads you...and you will receive all of the blessings that God has in store for your life...His provision.
Daily Challenge: In your journal, answer these questions:
1) Is there an area in your life that God is NOT providing for you (be honest!)
2) Is that the result of God's lack of provision or your lack of focus on His plan over yours.
I know this is tough...pray right now that the Holy Spirit will remind you that seeking the Shepherd's path always leads us to the greener fields.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Tuesday 1-15-08
Greetings Internet Campus...
Today we are going to talk about frustration...
Blessings,
Pastor Brian
Monday, January 14, 2008
Monday 1-14-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
This week we are going to look at sheep. Us. The followers of the Shepherd.
As Pastor Matt stated, there are 4 things that sheep sometimes fear...but we don't have to because we follow the ultimate Shepherd. Let's look at the first: fear.
Psalm 23:4 “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.”
Have you ever been totally afraid? I don't mean like "scary movie" afraid. I mean that type of fear where you genuinely don't know if your ever going to feel right again. You know that level of scared...disease, divorce, financial ruin...the usual suspects. You may think "Why is God letting me go through this?" or "Why do I feel totally alone?" Have you ever thought those things to yourself? I have. It's a natural reaction to gut-level scared...we've got to know that there is going to be a way out.
There is.
In today's passage, King David reassures us that no matter where we find ourselves...the Shepherd is there. He's brought the tools of the trade as well...the Bible calls them a rod and a staff...we, as sheep, may see them as peace and comfort...or grace and reassurance...or love and protection. In any case, we need to remember that every situation is only temporary. The Shepherd moves us on at His pace and in His plan. The sheep don't know the destination...they don't control the route or the method of travel...but they do have power over their disposition during the trip. So do we. How we see God is critical to our success over fear in our lives.
God never leaves us. Read that again. God NEVER leaves us. He's with you during chemotherapy, the court proceedings, and the crying into your pillow. He has the tools to take out your attackers, dry your tears with a passage of hope, and, at the same time, lead us to peaceful places where our thankfulness should never stop. No need to fear, sheep. The Shepherd knows the way.
Daily Challenge: In your journal, write down 3 things that you are afraid of right now. I don't mean spiders or snakes...I'm talking life fears... Then, next to each one, write "Psalm 23:4 - ...I will not be afraid" Whenever you begin to get scared this week....claim that verse for yourself.
See you in the morning,
Pastor Brian
This week we are going to look at sheep. Us. The followers of the Shepherd.
As Pastor Matt stated, there are 4 things that sheep sometimes fear...but we don't have to because we follow the ultimate Shepherd. Let's look at the first: fear.
Psalm 23:4 “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.”
Have you ever been totally afraid? I don't mean like "scary movie" afraid. I mean that type of fear where you genuinely don't know if your ever going to feel right again. You know that level of scared...disease, divorce, financial ruin...the usual suspects. You may think "Why is God letting me go through this?" or "Why do I feel totally alone?" Have you ever thought those things to yourself? I have. It's a natural reaction to gut-level scared...we've got to know that there is going to be a way out.
There is.
In today's passage, King David reassures us that no matter where we find ourselves...the Shepherd is there. He's brought the tools of the trade as well...the Bible calls them a rod and a staff...we, as sheep, may see them as peace and comfort...or grace and reassurance...or love and protection. In any case, we need to remember that every situation is only temporary. The Shepherd moves us on at His pace and in His plan. The sheep don't know the destination...they don't control the route or the method of travel...but they do have power over their disposition during the trip. So do we. How we see God is critical to our success over fear in our lives.
God never leaves us. Read that again. God NEVER leaves us. He's with you during chemotherapy, the court proceedings, and the crying into your pillow. He has the tools to take out your attackers, dry your tears with a passage of hope, and, at the same time, lead us to peaceful places where our thankfulness should never stop. No need to fear, sheep. The Shepherd knows the way.
Daily Challenge: In your journal, write down 3 things that you are afraid of right now. I don't mean spiders or snakes...I'm talking life fears... Then, next to each one, write "Psalm 23:4 - ...I will not be afraid" Whenever you begin to get scared this week....claim that verse for yourself.
See you in the morning,
Pastor Brian
Friday, January 11, 2008
Friday 1-11-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
Today we wrap up our week-long study of "The Shepherd" from last weekend's message.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.
Seek his will in all you do,
and he will show you which path to take.
This verse summarizes everything we've studied together this week....
If we are going to follow the Shepherd we have to wholly trust, listen, and follow. God wants us to trust Him completely. He wants us to lean on Him with our whole weight....leave nothing behind. The Shepherd is asking for our entire heart...all that we hold dear...all that we worry about...all that we care for...all that we ARE. I don't know about you, but sometimes I want to hold some of that in. Can I really hand everything over? Can I really trust God to handle ALL of my life? Yes. That's what the Shepherd is for. God wants us to know that He will lead us to the greener pastures...we don't need to hold anything from Him.
We've also got to listen to the Shepherd. We all feel the nudges. We all know what the right thing to do is...are we listening to it? Has God been talking in quiet whispers...and we just drown Him out with our loud cries? The Shepherd speaks in movements as well as words. He is putting people in your life right now that are there to help you. He is ironing out the financial wrinkles that you are worried about in 2008. He is laying out the next challenge for your life...with the purpose of growing your character and dependence on Him....
All we need to do is listen.
Lastly, we need to follow. His will for us is findable, it is perfect, and it is clear. Once we trust Him and listen to Him, following Him will be our natural response.
Jesus came to Earth to Shepherd. He came to lead, direct, and love. Are you following?
Daily Challenge: In your journal today, write a prayer to God. In it...tell Him how you are going to trust Him more....listen for His voice....and follow His perfect direction.
Thanks for being here this week...if you are enjoying the new format, please let me know in the comment section. I'd love to know how God is working in your life!
Pastor Brian
Today we wrap up our week-long study of "The Shepherd" from last weekend's message.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.
Seek his will in all you do,
and he will show you which path to take.
This verse summarizes everything we've studied together this week....
If we are going to follow the Shepherd we have to wholly trust, listen, and follow. God wants us to trust Him completely. He wants us to lean on Him with our whole weight....leave nothing behind. The Shepherd is asking for our entire heart...all that we hold dear...all that we worry about...all that we care for...all that we ARE. I don't know about you, but sometimes I want to hold some of that in. Can I really hand everything over? Can I really trust God to handle ALL of my life? Yes. That's what the Shepherd is for. God wants us to know that He will lead us to the greener pastures...we don't need to hold anything from Him.
We've also got to listen to the Shepherd. We all feel the nudges. We all know what the right thing to do is...are we listening to it? Has God been talking in quiet whispers...and we just drown Him out with our loud cries? The Shepherd speaks in movements as well as words. He is putting people in your life right now that are there to help you. He is ironing out the financial wrinkles that you are worried about in 2008. He is laying out the next challenge for your life...with the purpose of growing your character and dependence on Him....
All we need to do is listen.
Lastly, we need to follow. His will for us is findable, it is perfect, and it is clear. Once we trust Him and listen to Him, following Him will be our natural response.
Jesus came to Earth to Shepherd. He came to lead, direct, and love. Are you following?
Daily Challenge: In your journal today, write a prayer to God. In it...tell Him how you are going to trust Him more....listen for His voice....and follow His perfect direction.
Thanks for being here this week...if you are enjoying the new format, please let me know in the comment section. I'd love to know how God is working in your life!
Pastor Brian
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Thursday 1-10-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
The second step in finding God's will for our lives is to pursue it.
I Timothy 6:18-19(NIV),
“18Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.”
Ephesians 2:10(NLT),
“10 For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
Like we talked about yesterday morning...the key to following our Shepherd is to pursue HIS direction for our lives. As is stated in 1 Timothy, God wants us to have full and complete lives. What is the difference between living and REALLY living? I think it's simple. You have to have direction and fulfillment. God, our Shepherd, is desperately trying to give us nudges and guidance so that we discover His direction for our life. In addition, God provides us opportunities to serve and love others...if we're doing that we will find true fulfillment.
The passage in Ephesians reminds us that we are truly God's best work. Sometimes (I must confess)...I feel like a fingerpainting more than a Picasso. Do you? Have you ever felt out of God's loop for your life? If so, it's OK. Everybody does. It's what you do after that feeling that matters. Sheep fall...people struggle....but we have to get up and keep going. We have to remember that God made us for a purpose. He knew every single mistake that we were ever going to make and made us anyway. He loves us that much. You know...now that I think about it...maybe a fingerpainting is a masterpiece...if the hand that painted it is God's...
Daily Challenge: Let's really go after this concept today....pursuit of His will.
1) Seek God's direction and abandon your own
2) Love and serve others for fulfillment
3) Remember that we are God's best work.
Write in your journal twice today....once when you do this devotional in the morning...and the other at the end of the day....were you able to get a little closer to the Shepherd? If so, GREAT!
If not...never stop pursuing Him. You will gain ground...
The second step in finding God's will for our lives is to pursue it.
I Timothy 6:18-19(NIV),
“18Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.”
Ephesians 2:10(NLT),
“10 For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
Like we talked about yesterday morning...the key to following our Shepherd is to pursue HIS direction for our lives. As is stated in 1 Timothy, God wants us to have full and complete lives. What is the difference between living and REALLY living? I think it's simple. You have to have direction and fulfillment. God, our Shepherd, is desperately trying to give us nudges and guidance so that we discover His direction for our life. In addition, God provides us opportunities to serve and love others...if we're doing that we will find true fulfillment.
The passage in Ephesians reminds us that we are truly God's best work. Sometimes (I must confess)...I feel like a fingerpainting more than a Picasso. Do you? Have you ever felt out of God's loop for your life? If so, it's OK. Everybody does. It's what you do after that feeling that matters. Sheep fall...people struggle....but we have to get up and keep going. We have to remember that God made us for a purpose. He knew every single mistake that we were ever going to make and made us anyway. He loves us that much. You know...now that I think about it...maybe a fingerpainting is a masterpiece...if the hand that painted it is God's...
Daily Challenge: Let's really go after this concept today....pursuit of His will.
1) Seek God's direction and abandon your own
2) Love and serve others for fulfillment
3) Remember that we are God's best work.
Write in your journal twice today....once when you do this devotional in the morning...and the other at the end of the day....were you able to get a little closer to the Shepherd? If so, GREAT!
If not...never stop pursuing Him. You will gain ground...
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Wednesday 1-9-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
Today we continue our look at the Shepherd. God wants us to follow Him as the master Shepherd....He knows where we are going and how to get there...
But how are we supposed to know His direction for our lives? For the last three days of this week we are going to look at how to discover God's will.
"It's impossible to please God apart from faith. And why? Because anyone who wants to approach God must believe both that he exists and that he cares enough to respond to those who seek him." Hebrews 11:6
Our first step in uncovering God's will is to seek it. Sounds simple, right? Only if you know how to look for it. In today's passage God gives us two steps: belief and faith. This verse in Hebrews says that you must believe that He exists...that He really is who He claims to be. Why is that so hard sometimes? Why do we worry and fear? Have questions and doubt? The answer is simple...we're humans. The world lends itself to those emotions...it can be hard sometimes... However, if we're ever going to find God's will for our lives...we've got to believe that He is the source of salvation...the conqueror of all that causes us to stress out.
The other step today is to know that God cares about you and WANTS you to discover His will. It isn't a secret. It's not a puzzle or a trick. God has something special for you to do with your life. The Shepherd always knows where he is leading...we just need to seek it out with the faith that God cares enough about us to reveal it.
When will that happen? Only God knows...but we've got to keep seeking Him. He IS God and He wants us to find our purpose.
Pastor Brian
Today we continue our look at the Shepherd. God wants us to follow Him as the master Shepherd....He knows where we are going and how to get there...
But how are we supposed to know His direction for our lives? For the last three days of this week we are going to look at how to discover God's will.
"It's impossible to please God apart from faith. And why? Because anyone who wants to approach God must believe both that he exists and that he cares enough to respond to those who seek him." Hebrews 11:6
Our first step in uncovering God's will is to seek it. Sounds simple, right? Only if you know how to look for it. In today's passage God gives us two steps: belief and faith. This verse in Hebrews says that you must believe that He exists...that He really is who He claims to be. Why is that so hard sometimes? Why do we worry and fear? Have questions and doubt? The answer is simple...we're humans. The world lends itself to those emotions...it can be hard sometimes... However, if we're ever going to find God's will for our lives...we've got to believe that He is the source of salvation...the conqueror of all that causes us to stress out.
The other step today is to know that God cares about you and WANTS you to discover His will. It isn't a secret. It's not a puzzle or a trick. God has something special for you to do with your life. The Shepherd always knows where he is leading...we just need to seek it out with the faith that God cares enough about us to reveal it.
When will that happen? Only God knows...but we've got to keep seeking Him. He IS God and He wants us to find our purpose.
Pastor Brian
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Tuesday 1-8-07
Greetings Internet Campus,
Well based on the feedback that I received from yesterday's post...you like the new format. I forgot to mention that I am labeling these devotionals with tags. You can see them alphabetically listed to the side of this post. If you ever need to reference anything topically...just click the word and it will take you to all of the posts related to that topic....
Today we are continuing our look at the Shepherd.
John 10:14
Do you know Him?
What do you know about God? Did you know that He IS love. Do you know about His grace for our mistakes? How about the peace that He wants us to feel when we are stressed? God knows us...do we know Him?
Did you know that if you commit your life to Him, He will guide your path? He wants to be your Shepherd!
God knows you...He made you. Let's make every effort to get to know Him better each day!
Daily Challenge: In your journal, write down 5 words that describe God's character....spend some time praying that God will reveal those elements of His character to you vividly.
See you in the morning....
Pastor Brian
Well based on the feedback that I received from yesterday's post...you like the new format. I forgot to mention that I am labeling these devotionals with tags. You can see them alphabetically listed to the side of this post. If you ever need to reference anything topically...just click the word and it will take you to all of the posts related to that topic....
Today we are continuing our look at the Shepherd.
John 10:14
14
Today's thought....
God really does know who you are. Really. Every pore on your skin...every thought that you have...He knows you. He's been to every one of your birthday parties...watched you graduate...and sits with you when you cry. He knows you.Do you know Him?
What do you know about God? Did you know that He IS love. Do you know about His grace for our mistakes? How about the peace that He wants us to feel when we are stressed? God knows us...do we know Him?
Did you know that if you commit your life to Him, He will guide your path? He wants to be your Shepherd!
God knows you...He made you. Let's make every effort to get to know Him better each day!
Daily Challenge: In your journal, write down 5 words that describe God's character....spend some time praying that God will reveal those elements of His character to you vividly.
See you in the morning....
Pastor Brian
Monday, January 7, 2008
Monday 1-7-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
Welcome to Monday! We are going to make a little change here on the devotional blog. From now on, the daily devotionals will tie in directly to last weekend's message. For example, yesterday, Pastor Garland spoke on the Shepherd in our new series...thus, this week we will be talking about Shepherding and how to follow Christ...
I hope you like the new format and pray that it will help us as we try to live out the lessons from the weekend.
Today we're going to look at what a Shepherd is.
John 10:11-13“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. 12 A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. 13 The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep.
Pastor Brian
Welcome to Monday! We are going to make a little change here on the devotional blog. From now on, the daily devotionals will tie in directly to last weekend's message. For example, yesterday, Pastor Garland spoke on the Shepherd in our new series...thus, this week we will be talking about Shepherding and how to follow Christ...
I hope you like the new format and pray that it will help us as we try to live out the lessons from the weekend.
Today we're going to look at what a Shepherd is.
John 10:11-13
Shepherds are willing to lay down their lives to protect those that are under their care. Today, as you start this week...reflect on that. You serve a Savior who was willing to lay down His life so that you don't have to spend eternity paying off the debt that sin causes....separation from Him and death. Isn't that amazing? It is the cornerstone of our faith...
Sometimes we might be tempted to believe that Jesus takes care of us like the hired hand in this passage. We might falsely think that He protects us because of what we do for Him....what we provide for Him. We might think...if I read my Bible...go to church...etc....Jesus will love me more. That simply isn't true. Jesus loves us, protects us, and laid down His life for us because of His love for us. His love and care is unconditional and complete. He is the only Shepherd we will ever need.
Pastor Brian
Friday, January 4, 2008
Friday 1-4-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
Today, we're going to look at Dr. Charles Stanley's devotional about giving. Now I know...that's not a popular topic...but it is necessary if we are going to be more like Christ.
January 3, 2008 – Giving Out of Need – 2 Corinthians 8:1-5
My challenge this weekend....pray for an answer to those questions....
Pastor Brian
Today, we're going to look at Dr. Charles Stanley's devotional about giving. Now I know...that's not a popular topic...but it is necessary if we are going to be more like Christ.
January 3, 2008 – Giving Out of Need – 2 Corinthians 8:1-5
In elementary school, we learned how to subtract: take away, and you have less than when you started. Contrary to the laws of mathematics, God tells us that when we give, we will receive even more in return. “Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return” (Luke 6:38).
God’s design for giving requires that we depend on His revelation rather than our reason. Logic would check the bank account before deciding how much is available to tithe. The Bible, however, states that all wealth belongs to the Lord and we are to give back to Him the first fruits of our labor (Deuteronomy 10:14; 18:4-5). When we obey, we trust Him to take care of us—which sometimes means choosing to ignore what makes sense, humanly speaking. God doesn’t always provide in the manner we expect or hope. Instead, He satisfies our needs and blesses in the way He knows will truly be best for us.
When facing hard financial circumstances, we can be tempted to justify hoarding our resources. But God, who understands the situation perfectly, requires that we give not simply out of our surplus, but out of our need. The Macedonian church, for example, gave generously even while experiencing affliction (2 Corinthians 8:2). This pleased the Lord because they were giving in faith.
Ask God what He would like you to give. Pray for the courage to obey. Then eagerly await His blessings.
As we start our new year together...we've got to take some inventory...are we giving for the right reasons? Are we giving at all?My challenge this weekend....pray for an answer to those questions....
Pastor Brian
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Thursday 1-3-08
Greetings Internet Campus family,
Each morning as I sit down and prepare this devotional I think of each one of you. I may not know your name...but I still think about how this devotional will affect your life. I pray for you...talk to God about you...
Now you know.
But did you know that God is also thinking about you? All the time. Seriously. Today's devotional by Greg Laurie talks about just that...
The next time you are feeling lonely or that nobody cares....remember that God is ALWAYS thinking of you...He truly cares...and loves you dearly.
See you this weekend,
Pastor Brian
Each morning as I sit down and prepare this devotional I think of each one of you. I may not know your name...but I still think about how this devotional will affect your life. I pray for you...talk to God about you...
Now you know.
But did you know that God is also thinking about you? All the time. Seriously. Today's devotional by Greg Laurie talks about just that...
Who Can Be Against Us?
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
Have you ever had someone forget an important occasion? Maybe your spouse forgot your anniversary or your birthday. Or maybe your children forgot you at Christmas. Even when people forget you, you need to know that God never forgets you. You are always on His mind. Romans 8:31 says, “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”
God is thinking about you right now. He is not thinking about you merely as a member of the human race or as a part of your church. He is thinking about you as an individual. The psalmist wrote, “Your thoughts toward us cannot be recounted to You in order; if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered” (Psalm 40:5).
God’s thoughts toward you are continual and uncountable. God Almighty, the one who holds the heavens in the span of His hand, the one who spoke creation into being, is thinking about you right now.
Not only is God the Father thinking about you, but God the Son is interceding for you. Hebrews 7:25 says, “Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.”
God the Father is thinking about you, God the Son is praying for and interceding for you, and God the Holy Spirit is helping you as well: “Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God” (Romans 8:27).
God is for you. God is thinking about you. God is on your side!The next time you are feeling lonely or that nobody cares....remember that God is ALWAYS thinking of you...He truly cares...and loves you dearly.
See you this weekend,
Pastor Brian
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Wednesday 1-2-08
Greetings Internet Campus,
Found this devotional from Phil Ware and wanted to share it with you...I love the verse from Isaiah here..
Isaiah 43:16 and 18-19
This is what the Lord says, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland."
1) Pray for someone you don't usually pray for...
2) Pray that today brings you closer to displaying Christ's character than yesterday did.
Repeat every day.
A great 2008 is just ahead!
Pastor Brian
Found this devotional from Phil Ware and wanted to share it with you...I love the verse from Isaiah here..
The year is gone, finished, past. We cannot reclaim it or undo it. We cannot rest on the things it has brought us. If tomorrow dawns, it will be another day, a new opportunity, and the time to show our faith in Jesus as Lord. Let's journey forward, knowing that God already inhabits the future and promises to provide us refreshment.
Well here it is...the 2nd day of January...how's it going so far? I want to challenge you to do two things today:Lord of all eternity, please help me to learn from my mistakes but not dwell on them. Please help me not rest on my accomplishments in this past year, but use them to further your work in me and through me. Please help me not quarrel with those who injured me yesterday, or last month. Instead, O Father, lead me in your paths and help me see your mighty works this next year. In Jesus name and by his power I ask it. Amen.
1) Pray for someone you don't usually pray for...
2) Pray that today brings you closer to displaying Christ's character than yesterday did.
Repeat every day.
A great 2008 is just ahead!
Pastor Brian
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Tuesday 1-1-08
Greetings Internet Campus family,
Happy New Year! As you begin the new year...meditate on this verse:
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” 2 Cor. 5:17
Christ is all about NEW...if we follow Him and commit our lives to Him, we are a NEW creation. When we blow it and need another chance...He gives us a NEW start.
As you have your quiet time this morning..focus on that word NEW. Be sure to write in your journal all of the ways Christ has given you newness...freshness...a new start.
As we begin 2008 together, never forget that Christ came so that we can all live NEW lives. It doesn't matter what the past held...we are NEW creations! Praise God!
Pastor Brian
Happy New Year! As you begin the new year...meditate on this verse:
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” 2 Cor. 5:17
Christ is all about NEW...if we follow Him and commit our lives to Him, we are a NEW creation. When we blow it and need another chance...He gives us a NEW start.
As you have your quiet time this morning..focus on that word NEW. Be sure to write in your journal all of the ways Christ has given you newness...freshness...a new start.
As we begin 2008 together, never forget that Christ came so that we can all live NEW lives. It doesn't matter what the past held...we are NEW creations! Praise God!
Pastor Brian
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