YOU REPRESENTIN????

Daily Thoughts and Encouragement for January 7, 2015

 

ARE YOU REPRESENTING?

 

Daily Thought: Does my private life reflect Christ?

Daily Readings: Matthew 6:1-3, 5-7, 16-17

 

Have you ever met the all-to forward "super Christian"? The one this spits talk of Gods love; telling you about your need of saving? The one who has all the scriptures memorized and pulls them out of a hat for every occasion? We are talking about the ones that just can't wait to tell you about the child they sponsor from Haiti but have never invited you over for dinner. We all have. Then some time later you learn the couple is up for divorce after a long-standing affair, or that they lost everything to a gambling addiction, or someone got arrested for drinking and driving or domestic violence. The amount of detriment this causes the faith is unparalleled. Think about it- we are still apologizing for the crusades!

 

Today I would like to encourage reflection. As "good of a person" as we think we are- do we reflect the love of Christ in the deepest and most personal aspects of our lives? Do we live humbly, pray in private and give anonymously? Where can we enact new spiritual disciplines that will help us to focus where it matters most?

 

You will find in todays readings that Jesus spoke about this specifically. If we want to bring people to God we must fully represent what he does. And this starts in the hidden corners and closets of our lives.

 

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for the infinite teachings found in your word. Help me today to start to life my faith from the inside out, so that my life will shine as an example of your endless love and grace. Amen.

P.S.- It makes no sense to wear this much jewelry while working out (gym in background)

ARE YOU LISTENING?!

 

Daily Thoughts and Encouragement for January 6, 2015

 

ARE YOU LISTENING!?

Does God hear and answer prayers?

 

Daily Reading: Luke 7:21

Daily Thought: God answers every prayer

 

It's easy to ask this question, especially for the new Christians, when the going gets tough.  Wait- I'm putting it lightly. It can be easy to ask this question after a job loss, or after your relationship falls apart, or when the lights are shut off, while your sitting in a jail cell or in recovery, or when someone close to you DIES. I will admit that I have not only felt this way- but questioned my ENTIRE BELIEF in God during some of my difficult and early trials as a Christian.

 

First, know that you are not alone. Nearly every Christian has battled this question at some point in their faith. And the ones that haven't probably either will at some point or are delusional (but that's another topic). Second, I want to assure you that he has heard you.

 

Not enough? - Stay with me.

 

Let me start by saying that God clearly cares about us. Demonstrated in our reading from Luke 7:21, Jesus spent a ton of time- you could say most of it- curing and healing individuals from ailments of every kind, including death. As amazing as it is in itself, it sends a message. God DOES care. In fact, throughout the ENTIRE BIBLE are references and examples of God saving, helping or somehow delivering people in everything from famine to war. God loves us enough that he took away the finality of death. I say that's a pretty good God.

 

Next is coming to terms with the answer God is giving you to your prayer. We, as a society, have turned prayer into some kind of old school episode of I dream of Jeannie.

 

Remember this phrase: God answers every prayer with a YES, a NO, or a NOT YET. Repeat it a thousand times if you have to. Truly understanding this phrase may have literally saved my life- and it can save yours. As simple as that phrase is, there is much depth and truth to it.

 

You can begin to understand this phrase if you start a prayer journal- which is (you guessed it) a journal of the prayers that you have offered to God. Do it regularly and for a long time. Then sit down and read your prayers of the past. God's purpose for you during your toughest times can suddenly become clear and evident. This practice holds tremendous value. Not only can you experience healing and gain understanding of God's plan for your life, but you will start to see him in a very clear and real way- trusting and leaning on God in a way that you have never experienced before. After all, hindsight is 20/20. Remember, God has already dealt with it on your behalf (there are no surprises for God).

 

Believe that you can and will make it through your situation, one way or another. Luckily- we serve a God that cares for and loves us. God conquered even the grave for us so that we may live in Him. Keep praying, and strive to learn and develop in your faith so that when testing comes- you will choose to cling tighter to God instead of letting go. This is an important step to experiencing the love and healing power of God that few have. God Bless.

 

 

 



 



Bringing Power Back to Prayer

Daily Thoughts and Encouragement for January 5, 2015 

Bringing Power Back to Prayer

Daily Thought: Prayer is Powerful!

Daily Reading: Matthew 6:5-14

Lets start with using a little bit of imagination. Picture yourself as a person brand-new to church. You don't come from a Christian background. You don't know the Christian lingo or the ways that services are conducted. You don't see God in a personal or even real context. You are "going in blind". As you enter through the doors, what you know is what you have seen on television or heard through the media (and it is not typically the good side of it). You have basically already counted the whole thing out. But your there. 

A handshake is extended at the door. Then you take a seat. You can't figure out why an older couple just coming in is now scowling at you. The services start. A few announcements of programs and desperate urging for assistance and commitment emits from a few tired looking and clearly overly extended individuals. Now its time for joys and concerns. The first woman stands up and asks for something called "travel mercies". You think to yourself- is she really asking for people to pray for her two hour trip to see her family?! Another stands to brag about her children making honor roll yet again and hopes that they will get into an expensive college. Then a third man stands to condemn the "government liberals wrecking the nation". You shut down. "Are these people serious?" You ask yourself, suddenly unsure if you said it aloud. Someone then speaks on behalf of a woman who just lost her husband of fifty years. You are touched and expect someone else to say something. Then the Pastor ushers the people into prayer, saying something like this: "Lord God, thank you for the blessings we have in our lives, please be with those who are hurting, and those in leadership, and bring people to you. Amen."

That's it?! You ask yourself. You now spend the rest of the service justifying why the media is right about church. 

You don't need a M-Div to recognize that there are a lot of problems in the example above, but to keep it short and simple, I would like to tackle prayer. Or the lack of true, meaningful prayer 

in so many of our churches. Forgive me for being bold- and then let me tell you that I was once guilty of the same thing. Then I changed how and for what I prayed for- with life-altering success. 

There are countless studies on "how to pray". I can't possibly cover it here. But what I want to cover is this: we should know to make it count.  As a whole, the Christian community has devalued prayer. So much in fact, that saying the words "I'll pray for you" is used condescendingly by some. If we are "doing our jobs" right as Christians, those that prayers are offered for should feel uplifted and loved by it. Even knowing that you are in prayer can bring healing, hope and peace!

Make a commitment to bring power to your prayer. Try this for even thirty days: Only pray and ask for prayers on things that are significant and have a profound impact on your heart and attitude. Likewise- do not offer prayer without the same. Do not tell a single person that you will "pray for them" unless you are going to be on your knees crying out to God on their behalf. Next, if your bold enough or can muster the courage to be, when prayers are asked for, offer them up on the spot. That person will, in turn, know that they were/are indeed prayed for, which helps to feel validated and loved. 

As you can imagine, there are countless scriptural references on prayer, the purpose, and how to do it. Today's reading discusses what is referred to as the Lords Prayer, and is a guide on some of the how-to. But read and reflect on the words. Do so especially if you have recited these words for a long time. Take a time out to rediscover what it means. 

We can do this! We can bring value and power back to prayer. The Bible tells us that prayer is so powerful that it can change our hearts and minds towards even our greatest enemies. We owe it to God, to HIS people, and to ourselves to make prayer count! 

"Why Won't They Just Listen?"

Daily Thoughts and Encouragement for December 23, 2014.

 

Why Won't They Listen?

The Art of Evangelism

Daily Thought: My words must match my example

Daily Reading: Romans 2:21-23

 

I used to live near a busy intersection that was what I'll call a "hotspot of judgment".  From my apartment window I routinely listened to the spewing hate of Christians to the community. I will never forget a particular gentleman who used to shout that everyone is damned and going to hell. Oh yeah and especially the gays. And everyone who has had an abortion. I think you get the picture of what I am talking about here. The Westboro kind of folks. Do these people read the same book I do?

 

There are very few Christians that are this extreme. But there are many Christians that can come on strong to the unbeliever. Good hearted Christians believing that they are doing the right thing can easily overstep boundaries- doing the very opposite of what they intend. As an unbeliever- I can tell you that countless times I've left a conversation thinking a Christian was a whack job instead of being inspired to come to Christ.

 

Romans chapter two nails it. The heart of the problem is often in hypocrisy. If we are quoting scriptures one minute then being a jerk the next- we can bet that we are doing more harm for the kingdom than good. The good news is- we don't have to be perfect. We are a work in progress, and this is how we should present ourselves. Follow Gods call to reach out! Just be loving and considerate when you are doing it. :)

 

 Evangelism is a delicate art. Here are some straight forward tips to help keep us on the right track:

 

1. Understanding that we are no better: Kill the façade. Your better off seeming that you are alike with the person that you are if your trying to pull out the "I was like you but now I'm better" card. We all fall short. Simple as that. Being real with a person is the first step to knocking down barriers. The best case scenario is to walk away feeling like you connected rather than feeling like you got your message across.

 

2. Speak from your own experiences: I have done a lot- and I mean a lot-  of bible studies, reflections, learning, etc. But I NEVER claim to have all the answers. Instead, I share what has worked for me so that others may try it. Besides- it's hard for someone to argue your own experiences with you.

 

3. Keep it simple: Take it from the former unbeliever- if your throwing tons of religious jargon and terminology at them, you might as well stop talking altogether. The second part of this is doing to much at once. Tell a story, share an experience. Plant a seed. Then let it set in and offer an invitation.

 

4. Make a connection. If you are really looking to change hearts for Christ- make a connection. Help out. Be there when no one else will be. Build the person up. Walk with them and be a catalyst for change. Many would say that it is the most effective and powerful way to change hearts.

 

As always- strive to learn and grow in your walk. There are lots of great resources available on this topic out there. Spread the love, and be a blessing. God Bless!

 



Where is God in my pain?

This stained glass window adorns the sanctuary at the

Homer Avenue United Methodist Church

in Cortland, NY

 

Daily Thoughts and encouragement for December 22, 2014

 

Enduring Pain

 

Daily Thought: "I can endure this season of pain"

Daily Reading: Hebrews 10:32-39

 

Have you ever thought- What do I do when I need God and do not feel his presence? What if we feel alone? What do we do when the "tingly sensations' we have as Christians are no more?

 

First, understand that your not alone. Most Christians will have this experience at some point in their walk of faith. You, me, your pastor, even the original apostles have had periods in which we have felt unheard- or even abandoned by God. I understand those times when faith is drawn thin. When you don't even feel like going to church. When you question everything and ask yourself "what is the point?" If you looked hard enough, you would find a previous blog I wrote entitled "Confessions of a Hypocrite" that discussed this very thing.

 

In Hebrews 10, the author addresses this dilemma. He states to address this matter in three distinct ways:

1. Do not run away from God to temporary pleasures. Keep in mind that although they may even "feel good"- they are temporary. Focus on the eternal and Gods promise.

2. Have patient endurance: Indeed difficult I agree. Choose to honor God and be patient. If you stay focused on God even in the tough times, you will come through the other side with a much deeper and matured relationship with Him.

3. Remember the good old days: I personally do this by going through an old binder I put together after a spiritual retreat. Its the perfect thing to help stay focused when you feel like you could just throw in the towel.

 

Remember- all things are possible with God. You can and will pull through to the other side of these difficult times. Just keep looking up!

 

Prayer: Lord God, in my times of darkness and despair, I ask for your healing touch in my life. I ask for peace, mercy and the strength to carry on until I can see your face again. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

 

P.S. For tips on making it through the holiday season- check out my post "Surviving Christmas in Pain"

 







Part 3: What's your gift?

Daily Thoughts and Encouragement for December 19, 2014.

 

Part 3: What's your gift?

 

Daily Thought: "Every believer has at least one spiritual gift"

Daily Reading: Romans 12:6-8

 

So you've gotten connected. You have started reading the bible and are into a small group or a study. Surely by now you have been asked to take up some kind of responsibility. Churches have a notorious tendency to stretch themselves too thin and then become desperate for volunteers. Its a sad truth. If you gain anything from todays message- I hope that it is the courage to say NO.

It can be hard to say no. Many times you are new to church, so a part of you feels bad for turning down a much needed hand. But know that in doing this- you are actually aiding the church in a much needed lesson: if no one in the church is putting into the program, it probably needs to go. Ask yourself- is it better to strain to pull off a halfway done program or to let it go and put your focus, time and energy into the things that you can do well? Taking the time to discover your gift, no matter what it may be, will not only be good for God and your church- but for you as well.

Find opportunities to serve. It is the next step in your growing faith process and extremely important to the mission of the church. The best thing to do is to start small- pitching in on a variety of small, single day projects and activities. Then you can allow yourself the chance to discover where your ministry talents are. Then, follow the nudge. Pray about your interests and the amount of time you are going to dedicate to your project, committee or program. Make sure to plan ahead and ensure that you are giving yourself enough time and not going overboard. Burnout is one of the top reasons that people leave church.

Take the time to discover and develop your spiritual gifts. You will be glad you did. It is one of the most important steps that you can take to deepen your journey with God. It is often in serving that we see Him tangibly working in our lives and in the lives of the people around us.

Prayer: Lord God, I pray for the opportunity to learn and experience the joy of serving others and my church. I pray for discernment in learning where my ministry gifts are- so that I can use them for your glory. Amen.

 



 



Part 2:Taking My First Steps

Daily Thoughts and Encouragement for December 18, 2014

 

Part 2: Taking My First Steps

 

Daily Thought: "Its up to me to prioritize my faith"

Daily Reading: Colossians 1:9-11

 

For New or Returning Believers:

Congratulations! Your in the club. You officially accepted Jesus into your life. Or maybe you once followed and now you have come back. Now what?

 

Like much in life- your faith will be a lot of what you put into it. If you don't put in the effort to get to know God or the plan he has for your life- you are unlikely to discover it. But here are some simple and straight-forward tips to growing and thriving in faith:

1.) Get connected: If you haven't done so already- get connected into a faith community. You simply will not flourish if you fail to do this. On top of just attending a regular worship, it is doubly important to get connected into a small group. The people you connect with will become your partners in your spiritual development.

      Side note on finding a church: Every church has a distinct personality. Whether you are a farmer 

      to a biker to a "city slicker"- there exists a church for you. When visiting a church, look to see if

      they are teaching solid biblical truth, if the people who go there are growing in faith, and if the

      leaders model godliness in character. If the pastor is driving a Bently- back away slowly and get

      out of there!

2.) Learn: There is a lot to learn. Start by obtaining a decent study bible in a language you can understand. Then get started in a relevant bible study and get into the swing of digging into God's word. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Keep in mind that your pastor likely has a masters degree or higher in this stuff. That means that it can be a little complicated.

3.) Learn to pray, and often: Praying can seem really weird to someone who has never done it before. In fact I know Christians who still struggle with it. But there are specific reasons for it and I can promise you that it is a practice you don't want to skip. It doesn't need to be eloquent, fancy and include a bunch of religious jargon. It just needs to come from the heart. 

 

Focus on these three steps, and your on the way to your new life. Have patience, and watch for the incremental changes. Once you discover how God is moving in your life- it will inspire and motivate you to continue your adventure.

 

Prayer: God, thank you for moving me and for providing me a new life through your son. I pray for learning and understanding as I discover the unique path that you have laid out for me. Amen.

 

FOR THE LONG TERM BELIEVER:

Have you ever heard a testimony in which the person came to God and grew in God all on their own? Without a godly influence, or someone to teach them the basics of faith and to hold them accountable? Even in the bible, the disciples went out two-by-two. Often an elder believer would take a younger "believer in training" when planting the early churches.

 

The believer has a great responsibility and purpose entrusted to him/her by God. The responsibility to invite individuals to a life in Christ is part of it, but the second is the responsibility to nurture those still developing in the faith. To take these individuals under your wing, to love them and to model godliness in your actions. It is a tall order, and although there is often training in evangelizing, there is often little training in how to do this. Here are some simple tips for "bringing up" new believers:

 

1.) Modeling: You don't need to be Pope Francis to model godliness to a new believer, but you do need to be genuine. The greatest lessons will likely be told by your actions, not your words- so if your falling short in a specific area of your life, demonstrate an "active willingness" to overcome it.

 

2.) Avoid "Shoulding" the Person to death. When I first came to Christ- People were gracious in informing me of all the things I was doing wrong. Notice struggle in the marriage? Share with the person information on an upcoming marriage seminar or retreat that you would just LOVE for them to join you on.

 

3.) Be available and hold accountable- Share more of your life than an hour on Sunday. This person will learn countless more from you at the dinner table or backyard gathering than he/she will on Sunday alone. Love this person. Make them part of the family. Then if they bail on coming to church they aren't offended when they hear the age old comment "We missed you on Sunday" but are instead motivated to not miss next week because they knew that they were legitimately missed.  

 

Prayer: Lord God, I thank you that I was encouraged in faith and have assurance in your promise. I pray that I am provided opportunities to share this promise and my faith with a new believer this coming year and pray for your hand on that relationship so that I may do it well. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.