James 5:19, 20
"19 My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, 20 remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins."
As we look at the very lst verses of James I am reminded of the importance of sharing the message of Jesus Christ with others. God has given us the mission of saving people from death. the reality of it all is that if people do not know Christ - they will spend eternity apart from Christ. God has left to us - His followers to point people to Christ and to live out our faith so that others can see.
This is a great responsibility but He does not leave us alone in accomplishing this mission. He has entered our life and lives within us. His Spirit lives within us and when we are responsive to His leadings we can be used to save lives. As we live out our faith in front of people - sometimes with warts and all and they can see that God is making a true difference in our lives and we combine that with a simple explanation of what God has done and is doing in our lives - the Spirit is able to take that and begin to lead them to Christ.
This is a our great mission - it is worth giving our lives to because it involves the eternity of people we know - love work with and with who we share this planet. Listen to the Spirit - look for opportunities to share and love and head out on a world changing rescue mission.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
It's About Prayer - August 29
James 5:13-18
"13 Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. 14 Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. 16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. 17 Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. 18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops."
This summer has been about prayer - we studied it on Wednesday nights at Borderland - we have been working with the Prayer Team in preparation for the 40 Days of Community - we have been praying for God to do amazing things in our lives as He makes us more and more like Him.
Powerful and effective prayer is the backbone of a healthy church because it is the path through which we admit that doing anything of lasting importance is beyond us except for the power of God which is released through prayer. When we truly become a people of prayer - we begin to live with expectation that God is at work and that lives will be changed and people will be healed and restored.
I want to ask you join us in prayer as we approach the 40 Days of Community. If you are willing to pray with us during that time - please email me at prayer@bridgeschurch.net. This is an exciting time at Bridges as we look for God to move. Pray - pray today and tomorrow and the next day. Pray with excitement and expectation and anticipation. God is on the move.
"13 Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. 14 Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. 16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. 17 Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. 18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops."
This summer has been about prayer - we studied it on Wednesday nights at Borderland - we have been working with the Prayer Team in preparation for the 40 Days of Community - we have been praying for God to do amazing things in our lives as He makes us more and more like Him.
Powerful and effective prayer is the backbone of a healthy church because it is the path through which we admit that doing anything of lasting importance is beyond us except for the power of God which is released through prayer. When we truly become a people of prayer - we begin to live with expectation that God is at work and that lives will be changed and people will be healed and restored.
I want to ask you join us in prayer as we approach the 40 Days of Community. If you are willing to pray with us during that time - please email me at prayer@bridgeschurch.net. This is an exciting time at Bridges as we look for God to move. Pray - pray today and tomorrow and the next day. Pray with excitement and expectation and anticipation. God is on the move.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Yes & No - August 28
James 5:12
"12 Above all, my brothers, do not swear--not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Let your "Yes" be yes, and your "No," no, or you will be condemned."
"A simple yes will suffice" - James is saying that swearing - promising on anything out of your control - is unnecessary and actually is counter productive. Swearing on your mother's grave - or on heaven or anything else is pointless because those things are beyond our control. If our "yes" or "no" is not enough - if it takes more than that to convince people that ...1. we are telling the truth or 2. we will follow through on what we say ... then there is something wrong with our character and trustworthiness.
We should be able to say "yes" or "no" and be believed. It is as simple as that.
"12 Above all, my brothers, do not swear--not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Let your "Yes" be yes, and your "No," no, or you will be condemned."
"A simple yes will suffice" - James is saying that swearing - promising on anything out of your control - is unnecessary and actually is counter productive. Swearing on your mother's grave - or on heaven or anything else is pointless because those things are beyond our control. If our "yes" or "no" is not enough - if it takes more than that to convince people that ...1. we are telling the truth or 2. we will follow through on what we say ... then there is something wrong with our character and trustworthiness.
We should be able to say "yes" or "no" and be believed. It is as simple as that.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Don't Give Up - August 27
James 5:9-11
"9 Don't grumble against each other, brothers, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door! 10 Brothers, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11 As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy. "
Perseverance - this is a hallmark of a Christ follower. The ability to wait and endure and trust that God will come through in any situation. God is full of mercy and compassion James reminds us - He will not forget you nor abandon you. He will be there for you.
What are you facing today? What is something that you are dealing with that if God does not come through you will not make it? Where are you with your problems today? Don't give up - trust in God! He will come through!
How many people have abandoned hope and trust right before God moves and works? How many people have grown impatient and giving up before giving God time to act? Perseverance is one of those great traits that identifies the Christ follower. We live by faith and not by sight - no matter how dark it might get. The light is coming - don't give up!
"9 Don't grumble against each other, brothers, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door! 10 Brothers, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11 As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy. "
Perseverance - this is a hallmark of a Christ follower. The ability to wait and endure and trust that God will come through in any situation. God is full of mercy and compassion James reminds us - He will not forget you nor abandon you. He will be there for you.
What are you facing today? What is something that you are dealing with that if God does not come through you will not make it? Where are you with your problems today? Don't give up - trust in God! He will come through!
How many people have abandoned hope and trust right before God moves and works? How many people have grown impatient and giving up before giving God time to act? Perseverance is one of those great traits that identifies the Christ follower. We live by faith and not by sight - no matter how dark it might get. The light is coming - don't give up!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Patiently ready - August 26
James 5:7,8
"7 Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. 8 You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near."
Be patient and stand firm - Jesus is coming again. In the beauty of God's planning each generation has wondered - Will Jesus come again in my lifetime? Will I see Him return in the same way He left through the clouds? Will I experience being taken up in the clouds with Him?
Each generation before us has waited - mostly patiently to see Him come back. Perhaps He will come tomorrow - perhaps He will come today.
The Bible tells us to be ready and be patient - two things that don't always seem to go together. Being ready implies that it could be now - being patient means it may take awhile. But for each generation it is essential that we do both - be ready and be patient. God works on His own time and in His own way and it is all about trusting in Him.
"7 Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. 8 You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near."
Be patient and stand firm - Jesus is coming again. In the beauty of God's planning each generation has wondered - Will Jesus come again in my lifetime? Will I see Him return in the same way He left through the clouds? Will I experience being taken up in the clouds with Him?
Each generation before us has waited - mostly patiently to see Him come back. Perhaps He will come tomorrow - perhaps He will come today.
The Bible tells us to be ready and be patient - two things that don't always seem to go together. Being ready implies that it could be now - being patient means it may take awhile. But for each generation it is essential that we do both - be ready and be patient. God works on His own time and in His own way and it is all about trusting in Him.
Monday, August 25, 2008
How Not to Deal with Financial Resources - August 25
James 5:1-6
"1 Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming upon you. 2 Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days. 4 Look! The wages you failed to pay the workmen who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty. 5 You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter. 6 You have condemned and murdered innocent men, who were not opposing you."
This is a tough passage to take in - especially for those of us who live here in America where even the average person is rich compared to most of the world who live on less than $2 per day. Why is James so hard on those with resources? Why such harsh language?
When reading through this passage some things really stand out which point out not so much about wealth but what the rich were doing and not doing with wealth.
In verse 3, James talks about the wealth that was being hoarded. In context with the rest of the book, it becomes clear that people were not using their resources to take care of the widows and orphans, they were not helping those who needed food and clothes. They were keeping their wealth to themselves and not helping others in need. Their wealth was exposing their selfishness. They were living in luxury and self indulgence - it was about them.
In verse 4, he takes on those who were cheating their workers out of their pay. These wealthy people were exploiting those who were working for them and getting rich off those who made money for them. This was not pleasing to God. The manager/boss/owner of the company has the role of taking care of his/her employees, showing them God's love through tangible - real actions.
The last thing he took them to task for was in the way that they were misusing power - condemning those who are innocent and using their influence execute the people who opposed them. It wasn't the wealth itself that James was upset at it was what the people who doing with the authority and influence that affluence brings brought them. They were not living out their faith and their wealth revealed that.
"1 Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming upon you. 2 Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days. 4 Look! The wages you failed to pay the workmen who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty. 5 You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter. 6 You have condemned and murdered innocent men, who were not opposing you."
This is a tough passage to take in - especially for those of us who live here in America where even the average person is rich compared to most of the world who live on less than $2 per day. Why is James so hard on those with resources? Why such harsh language?
When reading through this passage some things really stand out which point out not so much about wealth but what the rich were doing and not doing with wealth.
In verse 3, James talks about the wealth that was being hoarded. In context with the rest of the book, it becomes clear that people were not using their resources to take care of the widows and orphans, they were not helping those who needed food and clothes. They were keeping their wealth to themselves and not helping others in need. Their wealth was exposing their selfishness. They were living in luxury and self indulgence - it was about them.
In verse 4, he takes on those who were cheating their workers out of their pay. These wealthy people were exploiting those who were working for them and getting rich off those who made money for them. This was not pleasing to God. The manager/boss/owner of the company has the role of taking care of his/her employees, showing them God's love through tangible - real actions.
The last thing he took them to task for was in the way that they were misusing power - condemning those who are innocent and using their influence execute the people who opposed them. It wasn't the wealth itself that James was upset at it was what the people who doing with the authority and influence that affluence brings brought them. They were not living out their faith and their wealth revealed that.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Tomorrows & moments - August 23
James 4:13-17
"13 Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15 Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." 16 As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. 17 Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins."
Who knows what tomorrow brings? Some people live in the future - "I will be happy when...I get married...I finish school...I get a new job... I make the following changes..." Living in the future is impossible because we are always in the present. the future is not guaranteed to us.
Our lives are like steam James tells us - steam that is visible for a moment and the is gone. We must live for the moment - live for God every moment of every day we have. Live is precious - the most precious gift we have. our choice is then - how will we use it. What will we do with this gift from God? We have this moment - let's live!
"13 Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15 Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." 16 As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. 17 Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins."
Who knows what tomorrow brings? Some people live in the future - "I will be happy when...I get married...I finish school...I get a new job... I make the following changes..." Living in the future is impossible because we are always in the present. the future is not guaranteed to us.
Our lives are like steam James tells us - steam that is visible for a moment and the is gone. We must live for the moment - live for God every moment of every day we have. Live is precious - the most precious gift we have. our choice is then - how will we use it. What will we do with this gift from God? We have this moment - let's live!
Friday, August 22, 2008
Judging - August 25
Judging
James 4:11-12
"11 Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. 12 There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you--who are you to judge your neighbor?"
Judging our neighbors/friends/family/coworkers is easy to do. Isn't it always easier to spot what someone else is doing and pointing out their shortcomings and failures? Of course it is but it isn't right.
It isn't that God doesn't want us to help one another grow out of those areas where we fall short - but that is held for those who already know Christ and then we do it out of love to help them - not to judge them. It is not our role to fill with those who don't know God.
Here James is pointing out that judging our neighbor(not our spiritual brother/sister) is taking on the role that God plays. Our role is to point them to Christ. They need to know Jesus and have a personal relationship with Him. It is not their daily faults or the things they do wrong that should draw our attention - it is the fact that they need a personal saving relationship with Jesus - so pray for them - reach out to them - invite them over for dinner - but don't judge them.
James 4:11-12
"11 Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. 12 There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you--who are you to judge your neighbor?"
Judging our neighbors/friends/family/coworkers is easy to do. Isn't it always easier to spot what someone else is doing and pointing out their shortcomings and failures? Of course it is but it isn't right.
It isn't that God doesn't want us to help one another grow out of those areas where we fall short - but that is held for those who already know Christ and then we do it out of love to help them - not to judge them. It is not our role to fill with those who don't know God.
Here James is pointing out that judging our neighbor(not our spiritual brother/sister) is taking on the role that God plays. Our role is to point them to Christ. They need to know Jesus and have a personal relationship with Him. It is not their daily faults or the things they do wrong that should draw our attention - it is the fact that they need a personal saving relationship with Jesus - so pray for them - reach out to them - invite them over for dinner - but don't judge them.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
A Lift - August 21
A Lift
James 4:8-10
8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. 9 Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
Did you ever need a lift in life? Ever felt like you hit rock bottom and couldn't find your way back up or out? Have you ever just needed someone there to help you?
That is something God promises in James 4:10 - if we humble ourselves and admit to God that we need Him - that we can't do it on our own - that we need His help because whatever we are facing is above and beyond our capacity to deal with it- it is then that He comes and lifts us up. It is then that He steps in and reveals Himself to us.
Being humble is not recognizing all your faults and beating yourself up - being humble is simply recognizing your limitations and asking God to step in. Don't stay down but let God lift you up today.
James 4:8-10
8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. 9 Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
Did you ever need a lift in life? Ever felt like you hit rock bottom and couldn't find your way back up or out? Have you ever just needed someone there to help you?
That is something God promises in James 4:10 - if we humble ourselves and admit to God that we need Him - that we can't do it on our own - that we need His help because whatever we are facing is above and beyond our capacity to deal with it- it is then that He comes and lifts us up. It is then that He steps in and reveals Himself to us.
Being humble is not recognizing all your faults and beating yourself up - being humble is simply recognizing your limitations and asking God to step in. Don't stay down but let God lift you up today.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Choices
Choices
James 4:6-7 "6 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." 7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
Life is about choices - we make them everyday - multiple times a day - will I get out of bed? - What will I eat for breakfast? How will I speak to my wife - my children - my friends - my co-workers? Will I speak with my God through prayer? What will I do today?
One of the choices James presents us with is this - will I submit to God? Will I follow His word? Will I live the life He has called me to live? Will I give myself fully to Him? This is the biggest daily choice we make.
There will be many choices today in my life today - even though it is only 5:47 am - I have already made several choices that will affect my day (hopefully for the better) including spending time with God- walking the dog and writing some notes on the sermon for Sunday - how I spoke to my son. One of my daily choices is to say, "Today, I say 'yes' ,Lord" - "Here, I am Lord - use me". That is a choice that drives all the rest.
James 4:6-7 "6 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." 7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
Life is about choices - we make them everyday - multiple times a day - will I get out of bed? - What will I eat for breakfast? How will I speak to my wife - my children - my friends - my co-workers? Will I speak with my God through prayer? What will I do today?
One of the choices James presents us with is this - will I submit to God? Will I follow His word? Will I live the life He has called me to live? Will I give myself fully to Him? This is the biggest daily choice we make.
There will be many choices today in my life today - even though it is only 5:47 am - I have already made several choices that will affect my day (hopefully for the better) including spending time with God- walking the dog and writing some notes on the sermon for Sunday - how I spoke to my son. One of my daily choices is to say, "Today, I say 'yes' ,Lord" - "Here, I am Lord - use me". That is a choice that drives all the rest.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
envy - August 19
James 4:4-5
4 You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. 5 Or do you think Scripture says without reason that the spirit he caused to live in us envies intensely?
Do you ever think of God as being envious? He is a jealous God - but not in the way we think of. God desires all of us because He is the only One who satisfies - He is the only One who can fulfill our every need and He is envious of anything we give ourslves to in the way that we are to give ourselves to Him. He want to be our all! Is He that to you?
4 You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. 5 Or do you think Scripture says without reason that the spirit he caused to live in us envies intensely?
Do you ever think of God as being envious? He is a jealous God - but not in the way we think of. God desires all of us because He is the only One who satisfies - He is the only One who can fulfill our every need and He is envious of anything we give ourslves to in the way that we are to give ourselves to Him. He want to be our all! Is He that to you?
Monday, August 18, 2008
Prayer - August 18
August 18
James 4:1-3 "1 What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? 2 You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. 3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures."
You don't have because you don't ask is one of the sadder statements in the Bible because it is here that we discover that perhaps we are missing out on things that God desires for us. We don't have because we don't ask let's us know that God desires to do great things in our life if we will only turn to Him and seek those things.
James also lets us know that there are times when what we ask for is selfish and is something that comes from wrong motives. It is here that we must give ourselves a heart checkup - looking at the things we ask for with God's eyes - being sure that our motives are right and pure.
As a church we want to pursue all that God has for us. asking for all the great things - eternal things that will make a difference in the our lives as well as in the lives of others. Let us ask of God - for changed lives and greater obedience towards him as we pray today.
James 4:1-3 "1 What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? 2 You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. 3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures."
You don't have because you don't ask is one of the sadder statements in the Bible because it is here that we discover that perhaps we are missing out on things that God desires for us. We don't have because we don't ask let's us know that God desires to do great things in our life if we will only turn to Him and seek those things.
James also lets us know that there are times when what we ask for is selfish and is something that comes from wrong motives. It is here that we must give ourselves a heart checkup - looking at the things we ask for with God's eyes - being sure that our motives are right and pure.
As a church we want to pursue all that God has for us. asking for all the great things - eternal things that will make a difference in the our lives as well as in the lives of others. Let us ask of God - for changed lives and greater obedience towards him as we pray today.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Wisdom from Above - August 16
August 16
James 3:14 "But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. 16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. 17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness."
Vs. 17 is one of my favorite verses as it is the definition for wisdom - pure, peace loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. These are the qualities that make a person of wisdom.
When Solomon became king after his father's reign was over, he was asked by God to identify one thing he desired. Solomon answered "Wisdom" for that is what he needed to govern the nation.
Wisdom is essential to following God and to lead others to follow Him as well. Wisdom is what tells us how to apply what God is teaching us. Wisdom show us how to live for Him. Seek wisdom - value wisdom - ask God for wisdom and you will then be identified by others as a person of God.
James 3:14 "But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. 16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. 17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness."
Vs. 17 is one of my favorite verses as it is the definition for wisdom - pure, peace loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. These are the qualities that make a person of wisdom.
When Solomon became king after his father's reign was over, he was asked by God to identify one thing he desired. Solomon answered "Wisdom" for that is what he needed to govern the nation.
Wisdom is essential to following God and to lead others to follow Him as well. Wisdom is what tells us how to apply what God is teaching us. Wisdom show us how to live for Him. Seek wisdom - value wisdom - ask God for wisdom and you will then be identified by others as a person of God.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Wisdom - August 15
August 15
James 3:13
"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom."
The wise prove themselves wise by living a good life - characterized by deeds done in humility. Wisdom does not point fingers or show off - wisdom is part action but mostly attitude. A person with authority is not necessarily a wise person but a wise person is able to take a position of authority and redefine it - by serving others quietly - by being there and being responsible - by demonstrating through actions of all shapes and sizes that they are more concerned about helping others than their own welfare or promotion.
Wisdom is something that is worth chasing after. The world needs more people with wisdom - it starts with building a relationship with God. Chase wisdom with all you have.
James 3:13
"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom."
The wise prove themselves wise by living a good life - characterized by deeds done in humility. Wisdom does not point fingers or show off - wisdom is part action but mostly attitude. A person with authority is not necessarily a wise person but a wise person is able to take a position of authority and redefine it - by serving others quietly - by being there and being responsible - by demonstrating through actions of all shapes and sizes that they are more concerned about helping others than their own welfare or promotion.
Wisdom is something that is worth chasing after. The world needs more people with wisdom - it starts with building a relationship with God. Chase wisdom with all you have.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Tame - August 14
August 14
"7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, 8 but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? 12 My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water."
I'm not sure James was referring to our pet - Jack the Dog when he talked about all kinds of animals are being tamed. That dog is trying to tame us. He has his own form of communication - heavy tail wagging means "Take me out now!" Whimpering means "I'm lonely - take me out now!" Scratching on your leg - 3 times in succession means "I might be hungry - but take me out now!" Jack the dog - wow talk about changing a life.
While we haven't been able to fully train Jack the Dog (he will run away if not on a leash - sometimes I wonder who is on the leash, him or me) - that is a good reminder that I cannot tame my tongue either. I am totally and completely dependent on God for life change including changing the way I speak. I am in need of God to bring about real, lasting life change.
God can change us form the inside out if we will let Him and if we ask Him to. That is a good thing to pray - "God, tame my tongue because I am too much like Jack the Dog."
"7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, 8 but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? 12 My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water."
I'm not sure James was referring to our pet - Jack the Dog when he talked about all kinds of animals are being tamed. That dog is trying to tame us. He has his own form of communication - heavy tail wagging means "Take me out now!" Whimpering means "I'm lonely - take me out now!" Scratching on your leg - 3 times in succession means "I might be hungry - but take me out now!" Jack the dog - wow talk about changing a life.
While we haven't been able to fully train Jack the Dog (he will run away if not on a leash - sometimes I wonder who is on the leash, him or me) - that is a good reminder that I cannot tame my tongue either. I am totally and completely dependent on God for life change including changing the way I speak. I am in need of God to bring about real, lasting life change.
God can change us form the inside out if we will let Him and if we ask Him to. That is a good thing to pray - "God, tame my tongue because I am too much like Jack the Dog."
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Fire
August 13
FIRE
James 3:6
"6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell."
Our family went to Yosemite National Park one year and stayed just outside the park. It is one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited in my life. We hiked and saw many incredible sights especially in Yosemite Valley with the magnificent vistas of Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. To see what God has created in all its splendor is a worship experience - not of the creation but of the Creator.
Near the end of our trip a forest fire started not far from where we were staying. It was along the main road to the park. We spend some time one afternoon watching the helicopters gather water in a bucket there at the river beside the road and then carry the water up to the top of a hill and dump it on the fire. It was an incredible time.
We went back to the valley after that but there was too much smoke to even enjoy it. It was hard to breathe and hard to see anything. We left early. The fire was started they think by some campers and a loose spark from a fire. Because of that one fire, many people had to go to work putting it out and many people had their vacations cut short.
James is saying that our words can be very similar to that. One careless word can turn into a fire of resentment, pain, broken relationships, and more. It also can stop people from seeing what God is doing as all they can focus on is the words that someone said which hurt them or caused disillusionment.
Let us be careful with our words - as careful as a person needs to be with a campfire in the forest during a drought. Each word is important.
FIRE
James 3:6
"6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell."
Our family went to Yosemite National Park one year and stayed just outside the park. It is one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited in my life. We hiked and saw many incredible sights especially in Yosemite Valley with the magnificent vistas of Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. To see what God has created in all its splendor is a worship experience - not of the creation but of the Creator.
Near the end of our trip a forest fire started not far from where we were staying. It was along the main road to the park. We spend some time one afternoon watching the helicopters gather water in a bucket there at the river beside the road and then carry the water up to the top of a hill and dump it on the fire. It was an incredible time.
We went back to the valley after that but there was too much smoke to even enjoy it. It was hard to breathe and hard to see anything. We left early. The fire was started they think by some campers and a loose spark from a fire. Because of that one fire, many people had to go to work putting it out and many people had their vacations cut short.
James is saying that our words can be very similar to that. One careless word can turn into a fire of resentment, pain, broken relationships, and more. It also can stop people from seeing what God is doing as all they can focus on is the words that someone said which hurt them or caused disillusionment.
Let us be careful with our words - as careful as a person needs to be with a campfire in the forest during a drought. Each word is important.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Some Words about Words - August 12
James 3:3-5
3 When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4 Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5 Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.
Today I would like to pass on an article by John Piper which I though was very helpful in understanding our words and their effects.
Talk to People Rather than about Them
John Piper
Desiring God
Recall that in Luke 18:9, Luke introduces the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector like this: "He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt." It may seem minor at first, but notice that it says that Jesus told this parable TO some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous. It does not say he spoke this parable ABOUT them. Jesus was looking the Pharisees in the eye and telling them a parable that implied that they were self-righteous. He was not talking about them but to them.
Though it may seem minor, it contains a lesson that is huge for the health of our church. Let's be like this. Let's not talk to others about people's faults. Let's talk to them about their faults. It is easy - and far too tasty on the tongue of our sinful souls - to talk about people. But it is hard - and often tastes bitter - to talk to them. When you are talking about them, they can't correct you or turn the tables and make you the problem. But if you talk to them about a problem, it can be very painful. So it feels safer to talk about people rather than talking to them.
But Jesus does not call us to make safe choices. He calls us to make loving choices. In the short run, love is often more painful than self-protecting conflict-avoidance. But in the long run, our consciences condemn us for this easy path and we do little good for others. So let's be more like Jesus in this case and not talk about people, but talk to them, both with words of encouragement, because of the evidences of grace we see in their lives, and with words of caution or warning or correction or even rebuke. Paul urged us to use the full range of words for the full range of needs: "Admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all" (1 Thessalonians 5:14).
I don't mean you can't criticize President Bush without calling him on the phone first. And I don't mean you can't discuss my sermon, both negatively and positively, without coming to me. Public figures put themselves on the line and understand that everyone will have an opinion about what they say. That's okay. What I mean is when you know a brother or a sister is in the grip of some sinful attitude or behavior, take the log out of your eye, and then go to them and try to help them with humble biblical counsel.
Perhaps tell them a parable. That's what Jesus did in Luke 18:9-14. And it's what Nathan did for David, after his sin with Bathsheba and toward Uriah (2 Samuel 12:1-4). But you don't have to be that creative. Caring about the person you confront matters more than creativity.
My longing for our church is that we be free from gossip. Let's be forthright and honest and courageous and humble. Jesus was amazingly blunt at times. Love sometimes sounds like that. He could have easily been accused of callousness or lovelessness. But we know he was the most loving person who ever lived. So let's follow him in this matter. He died for us so that all the logs and specks in our eyes may be forgiven. That should give us both courage and care in dealing with others. Especially when we realize that the faults of our brothers and sisters have also been forgiven by Jesus.
What an amazing standing place we have for relationships. A forgiven, justified, Spirit-indwelt community of people who love to grow in grace. Thank you for loving to trust and follow Jesus in the way of talking to each other rather than about each other.
Glad to be back,
Pastor John
By John Piper. © Desiring God. Website: www.desiringGod.org. Email: mail@desiringGod.org. Toll Free: 1.888.346.4700.
Find this article at: http://www.crosswalk.com/spirituallife/11579446/
3 When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4 Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5 Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.
Today I would like to pass on an article by John Piper which I though was very helpful in understanding our words and their effects.
Talk to People Rather than about Them
John Piper
Desiring God
Recall that in Luke 18:9, Luke introduces the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector like this: "He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt." It may seem minor at first, but notice that it says that Jesus told this parable TO some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous. It does not say he spoke this parable ABOUT them. Jesus was looking the Pharisees in the eye and telling them a parable that implied that they were self-righteous. He was not talking about them but to them.
Though it may seem minor, it contains a lesson that is huge for the health of our church. Let's be like this. Let's not talk to others about people's faults. Let's talk to them about their faults. It is easy - and far too tasty on the tongue of our sinful souls - to talk about people. But it is hard - and often tastes bitter - to talk to them. When you are talking about them, they can't correct you or turn the tables and make you the problem. But if you talk to them about a problem, it can be very painful. So it feels safer to talk about people rather than talking to them.
But Jesus does not call us to make safe choices. He calls us to make loving choices. In the short run, love is often more painful than self-protecting conflict-avoidance. But in the long run, our consciences condemn us for this easy path and we do little good for others. So let's be more like Jesus in this case and not talk about people, but talk to them, both with words of encouragement, because of the evidences of grace we see in their lives, and with words of caution or warning or correction or even rebuke. Paul urged us to use the full range of words for the full range of needs: "Admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all" (1 Thessalonians 5:14).
I don't mean you can't criticize President Bush without calling him on the phone first. And I don't mean you can't discuss my sermon, both negatively and positively, without coming to me. Public figures put themselves on the line and understand that everyone will have an opinion about what they say. That's okay. What I mean is when you know a brother or a sister is in the grip of some sinful attitude or behavior, take the log out of your eye, and then go to them and try to help them with humble biblical counsel.
Perhaps tell them a parable. That's what Jesus did in Luke 18:9-14. And it's what Nathan did for David, after his sin with Bathsheba and toward Uriah (2 Samuel 12:1-4). But you don't have to be that creative. Caring about the person you confront matters more than creativity.
My longing for our church is that we be free from gossip. Let's be forthright and honest and courageous and humble. Jesus was amazingly blunt at times. Love sometimes sounds like that. He could have easily been accused of callousness or lovelessness. But we know he was the most loving person who ever lived. So let's follow him in this matter. He died for us so that all the logs and specks in our eyes may be forgiven. That should give us both courage and care in dealing with others. Especially when we realize that the faults of our brothers and sisters have also been forgiven by Jesus.
What an amazing standing place we have for relationships. A forgiven, justified, Spirit-indwelt community of people who love to grow in grace. Thank you for loving to trust and follow Jesus in the way of talking to each other rather than about each other.
Glad to be back,
Pastor John
By John Piper. © Desiring God. Website: www.desiringGod.org. Email: mail@desiringGod.org. Toll Free: 1.888.346.4700.
Find this article at: http://www.crosswalk.com/spirituallife/11579446/
Monday, August 11, 2008
Teachers - August 11
Teachers
James 3:1-2
"1 Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2 We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check."
In the opening passage to chapter 3, James gives a gut check about what we say - the power of what we say - the importance of what we say. He starts off by letting us know that not many should become teachers - Why? Because of the power they have to influence others with their words and the authority of their position. Understanding God's Word and getting it right before teaching is essential. It is far too important to take lightly. The direction of people's lives is at stake.
James is about to go into a discourse on the importance of what we say and how we say it. This is a great time to turn over everything we say to God. If this is an area in which you struggle, it would be a good idea to commit some of these verses to heart. It is possible to change the way we speak with God's help and power. Start a new direction today by asking God to step in and direct your words - He is ready and more than able to do this.
James 3:1-2
"1 Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2 We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check."
In the opening passage to chapter 3, James gives a gut check about what we say - the power of what we say - the importance of what we say. He starts off by letting us know that not many should become teachers - Why? Because of the power they have to influence others with their words and the authority of their position. Understanding God's Word and getting it right before teaching is essential. It is far too important to take lightly. The direction of people's lives is at stake.
James is about to go into a discourse on the importance of what we say and how we say it. This is a great time to turn over everything we say to God. If this is an area in which you struggle, it would be a good idea to commit some of these verses to heart. It is possible to change the way we speak with God's help and power. Start a new direction today by asking God to step in and direct your words - He is ready and more than able to do this.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Life Changing Faith - August 9
August 9
James 2:24-26
"24 You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone. 25 In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? 26 As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead."
I love the Bible because God includes some great stories of people that we wouldn't expect including a prostitute. Rahab was a woman living in Jericho when 2 Jewish spies arrived to scout out the city's defenses before attacking. Rahab hid the spies, protecting them from capture and asking only that they didn't forget her when they came back.
She placed her faith in God based on what she had heard of His victories as the Jews invaded the lands around her city. She had a life changing faith - a faith that involved a perceived risk - the risk of her life.
Rahab is in the Bible because she had a saving faith - a faith that changed her life. That is what God asks of us today - a willingness to place our eternal destinies in the hands of Jesus Christ who died for us and took everything wrong we have ever done or ever will do. His death we live by faith. The inspiring thing about Rahab is that it didn't matter who she was - what mattered was her faith. That is what matters to God. Have you trusted your life to Christ?
James 2:24-26
"24 You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone. 25 In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? 26 As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead."
I love the Bible because God includes some great stories of people that we wouldn't expect including a prostitute. Rahab was a woman living in Jericho when 2 Jewish spies arrived to scout out the city's defenses before attacking. Rahab hid the spies, protecting them from capture and asking only that they didn't forget her when they came back.
She placed her faith in God based on what she had heard of His victories as the Jews invaded the lands around her city. She had a life changing faith - a faith that involved a perceived risk - the risk of her life.
Rahab is in the Bible because she had a saving faith - a faith that changed her life. That is what God asks of us today - a willingness to place our eternal destinies in the hands of Jesus Christ who died for us and took everything wrong we have ever done or ever will do. His death we live by faith. The inspiring thing about Rahab is that it didn't matter who she was - what mattered was her faith. That is what matters to God. Have you trusted your life to Christ?
Friday, August 8, 2008
God's Friend - August 8
August 8
James 2:20-23
"20 You foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless? 21 Was not our ancestor Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. 23 And the scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness," and he was called God's friend."
One of my favorite songs is "I Am A Friend of God's." It is a great affirmation of the fact that God does call us friends - that we can have that kind of relationship with Him that will define us and shape us. The God of the universe is our friend.
In today's passage we learn that Abraham was called God's friend. Why? Because Abraham was a man who put his faith on the line. He offered his best to God - his only son- trusting in God to do what was right and to keep His promises. God honored Abraham's total surrender of faith in Him by calling Abraham His friend.
That kind of faith is what it takes to be God's friend. It is the kind of trust that says "Okay, God - I will trust in you no matter what I see or experience that may cause me to think otherwise. I will surrender my all to You because You are faithful."
This is the kind of faith I desire. To move ahead despite what I see and live solely by faith. I want that - I want to be God's friend and to trust Him in all things. I want Him to call me friend.
James 2:20-23
"20 You foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless? 21 Was not our ancestor Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. 23 And the scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness," and he was called God's friend."
One of my favorite songs is "I Am A Friend of God's." It is a great affirmation of the fact that God does call us friends - that we can have that kind of relationship with Him that will define us and shape us. The God of the universe is our friend.
In today's passage we learn that Abraham was called God's friend. Why? Because Abraham was a man who put his faith on the line. He offered his best to God - his only son- trusting in God to do what was right and to keep His promises. God honored Abraham's total surrender of faith in Him by calling Abraham His friend.
That kind of faith is what it takes to be God's friend. It is the kind of trust that says "Okay, God - I will trust in you no matter what I see or experience that may cause me to think otherwise. I will surrender my all to You because You are faithful."
This is the kind of faith I desire. To move ahead despite what I see and live solely by faith. I want that - I want to be God's friend and to trust Him in all things. I want Him to call me friend.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Faith Trust Belief - August 7
James 2:18-19
18 But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds." Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do. 19 You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that--and shudder.
What is belief? What is faith? The Bible says that even the demons believe and they shudder. What they have is an understanding and knowledge of the fact that there is one God – they have actually seen Him. What they do not have is a life committed to that one God. They have never trusted in that one God nor have they given their lives to Him.
Jesus Christ came to die for all mankind but people still ignore His sacrifice and still refuse to give their life to Him. They may understand what Jesus did or at least they can repeat what they have heard but a person who truly believes – trusts in God with all they have – they give their life to Him.
I have heard that the greatest distance in all of human kind is the distance from the head to the heart – many understand but few commit their lives to God. What do you believe?
18 But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds." Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do. 19 You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that--and shudder.
What is belief? What is faith? The Bible says that even the demons believe and they shudder. What they have is an understanding and knowledge of the fact that there is one God – they have actually seen Him. What they do not have is a life committed to that one God. They have never trusted in that one God nor have they given their lives to Him.
Jesus Christ came to die for all mankind but people still ignore His sacrifice and still refuse to give their life to Him. They may understand what Jesus did or at least they can repeat what they have heard but a person who truly believes – trusts in God with all they have – they give their life to Him.
I have heard that the greatest distance in all of human kind is the distance from the head to the heart – many understand but few commit their lives to God. What do you believe?
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Dead or Alive - August 6
August 6
James 2:14-17
“What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.“
Dead or Alive? How do we know if our faith is dead or alive? How will those who don’t follow Christ expect us to act? How will our lives be transformed?
It is at the crossroads of faith and action that real things happen – lives are changed – people come to know Christ – communities are transformed. Faith in action is what authenticity is all about. Living out what we believe in front of everyone – being transparent and dependant on God is where it all takes place.
Can you imagine what it would look like to have a church full of people living out a radical faith – prepared to act on God’s calling at any and every second? Prepared to help those who are needy? Prepared to say to God – if you ask – I will say “yes”. At the heart of every person who makes a difference for God is a life transforming faith that is acted upon. People of faith change lives.
For a vivid description of such a place look at the book of Acts in the Bible – Chapter 2 and see what this looks like lived out.
James 2:14-17
“What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.“
Dead or Alive? How do we know if our faith is dead or alive? How will those who don’t follow Christ expect us to act? How will our lives be transformed?
It is at the crossroads of faith and action that real things happen – lives are changed – people come to know Christ – communities are transformed. Faith in action is what authenticity is all about. Living out what we believe in front of everyone – being transparent and dependant on God is where it all takes place.
Can you imagine what it would look like to have a church full of people living out a radical faith – prepared to act on God’s calling at any and every second? Prepared to help those who are needy? Prepared to say to God – if you ask – I will say “yes”. At the heart of every person who makes a difference for God is a life transforming faith that is acted upon. People of faith change lives.
For a vivid description of such a place look at the book of Acts in the Bible – Chapter 2 and see what this looks like lived out.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Mercy and Judgment - August 5
James 2:8-13
8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself," you are doing right. 9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. 10 For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. 11 For he who said, "Do not commit adultery," also said, "Do not murder." If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker. 12 Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, 13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!
Mercy triumphs over judgment. That is a huge statement. We deserve judgment – we receive mercy. Whenever I am faced with a choice between mercy and judgment I need to choose mercy whenever possible. That is acting like God. It doesn’t mean giving in to evil – but it does mean that at times we will have to suffer the consequences of someone letting us down or not coming through for us. It’s easy to sit in judgment of others – it doesn’t require anything of us except to accept the idea that we are right and they are wrong. ( I am not talking here about those in authority such as teachers or law enforcement))
What mercy is about is this – where there are opportunities to offer mercy we should – because that is what God does. Let us be authentic before others as we demonstrate mercy – that way they can see God in us.
8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself," you are doing right. 9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. 10 For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. 11 For he who said, "Do not commit adultery," also said, "Do not murder." If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker. 12 Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, 13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!
Mercy triumphs over judgment. That is a huge statement. We deserve judgment – we receive mercy. Whenever I am faced with a choice between mercy and judgment I need to choose mercy whenever possible. That is acting like God. It doesn’t mean giving in to evil – but it does mean that at times we will have to suffer the consequences of someone letting us down or not coming through for us. It’s easy to sit in judgment of others – it doesn’t require anything of us except to accept the idea that we are right and they are wrong. ( I am not talking here about those in authority such as teachers or law enforcement))
What mercy is about is this – where there are opportunities to offer mercy we should – because that is what God does. Let us be authentic before others as we demonstrate mercy – that way they can see God in us.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Playing Favorites
Playing Favorites
James 2:1-7
"1 My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism. 2 Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. 3 If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, "Here's a good seat for you," but say to the poor man, "You stand there" or "Sit on the floor by my feet," 4 have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? 5 Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? 6 But you have insulted the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? 7 Are they not the ones who are slandering the noble name of him to whom you belong?"
There is a story that has been passed down – I heard that it was true – not sure of that but it is a good story none the less.
It takes place back in the beginning of the Jesus Movement during the 70’s out In California. There was a church there – a pretty healthy, vibrant and prosperous church which sat in the midst of a cultural change. It was the time of the hippies and counter cultural shock waves where everything was being redefined – everything that is accept for the churches.
One Sunday morning the church was packed – everyone dressed in their typical Sunday best. (It was the 70’s so you try to picture Sears clothes in a 70’s style.) Almost every seat was taken when in walked a young man who seemed to have missed the dress code for church going in those days. He had long hair – 70’s casual clothes (think extreme) and generally looked out of place.
He walked down the center aisle and everyone assumed he saw what they did – that there were no empty seats. He kept walking. Eventually he found himself in front of the first pew where he promptly sat down on the floor in front of the podium.
Of course everyone was a bit shocked at his behavior but being too polite to do anything about they argued with him in their thoughts – giving him quite a number of reasons why he shouldn't’t do that but mind reading wasn’t one of his gifts.
Nothing happened for a while until one elderly gentleman – dressed appropriately for church got up and began to walk toward this young mind. Hundreds of silent cheers filled the hearts of all the people – finally someone had the courage to do something about this.
The elderly man walked up to the front and grew nearer and nearer to our young hippie friend. Everyone wondered what would happen when the confrontation unfolded.
Finally, he got there and to the surprise of everyone there, he sat down beside the young guy and both listened to the service from there on the floor.
The Jesus Movement in the 70’s supposedly grew out of this one act of refusing to give in to what everyone else feels was important.
Favoritism – lack of acceptance – close mindedness – lack of love – these are all things which should not characterize the church.
The Bible tells us that God so loved the world - the whole world that He gave His Son for the whole world. Let us love others as our Father loves - without favorites.
James 2:1-7
"1 My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism. 2 Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. 3 If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, "Here's a good seat for you," but say to the poor man, "You stand there" or "Sit on the floor by my feet," 4 have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? 5 Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? 6 But you have insulted the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? 7 Are they not the ones who are slandering the noble name of him to whom you belong?"
There is a story that has been passed down – I heard that it was true – not sure of that but it is a good story none the less.
It takes place back in the beginning of the Jesus Movement during the 70’s out In California. There was a church there – a pretty healthy, vibrant and prosperous church which sat in the midst of a cultural change. It was the time of the hippies and counter cultural shock waves where everything was being redefined – everything that is accept for the churches.
One Sunday morning the church was packed – everyone dressed in their typical Sunday best. (It was the 70’s so you try to picture Sears clothes in a 70’s style.) Almost every seat was taken when in walked a young man who seemed to have missed the dress code for church going in those days. He had long hair – 70’s casual clothes (think extreme) and generally looked out of place.
He walked down the center aisle and everyone assumed he saw what they did – that there were no empty seats. He kept walking. Eventually he found himself in front of the first pew where he promptly sat down on the floor in front of the podium.
Of course everyone was a bit shocked at his behavior but being too polite to do anything about they argued with him in their thoughts – giving him quite a number of reasons why he shouldn't’t do that but mind reading wasn’t one of his gifts.
Nothing happened for a while until one elderly gentleman – dressed appropriately for church got up and began to walk toward this young mind. Hundreds of silent cheers filled the hearts of all the people – finally someone had the courage to do something about this.
The elderly man walked up to the front and grew nearer and nearer to our young hippie friend. Everyone wondered what would happen when the confrontation unfolded.
Finally, he got there and to the surprise of everyone there, he sat down beside the young guy and both listened to the service from there on the floor.
The Jesus Movement in the 70’s supposedly grew out of this one act of refusing to give in to what everyone else feels was important.
Favoritism – lack of acceptance – close mindedness – lack of love – these are all things which should not characterize the church.
The Bible tells us that God so loved the world - the whole world that He gave His Son for the whole world. Let us love others as our Father loves - without favorites.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Authentic religion
August 2 James 1:26-27
26 If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless. 27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
This is what I am preaching on over the next couple of weeks so you can listen to the podcasts or join us on Sunday mornings at the Carmike 10.
But until then I have some questions to consider. Please post your comments and let me know what you think.
What do you think of when you hear the word “religion?”
What images come to mind when you hear “polluted by the world?”
What have you found to be helpful in keeping a tight rein on your tongue?
What is authentic religion?
26 If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless. 27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
This is what I am preaching on over the next couple of weeks so you can listen to the podcasts or join us on Sunday mornings at the Carmike 10.
But until then I have some questions to consider. Please post your comments and let me know what you think.
What do you think of when you hear the word “religion?”
What images come to mind when you hear “polluted by the world?”
What have you found to be helpful in keeping a tight rein on your tongue?
What is authentic religion?
Friday, August 1, 2008
Listening
James 1:19-25
“19 My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. 21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. 22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it--he will be blessed in what he does.”
Do not merely listen to the word… do want it says. Everyone should be quick to listen…. Anyone who listens to the word ….
Listening is a key skill to learn as a Christ follower. To hear is one thing – to actually listen is something else entirely. I hear all kinds of things right now – the clicking of the keys while I type (slowly I might add) – the sound of the air conditioning keeping me from sweltering in this southern humidity – the sounds of other people in the offices – a car on the road going way too fast – all kinds of activity al over. But I am not really listening to any of it. I had to stop and even think about it. It was just background noise.
I don’t want to relegate God to background noise. To take what He says in His Word and store there with all the other things I read throughout a day. I want to really hear Him – to really listen to Him.
How can I tell that I am really listening? I do what it says. I live it out through the relationships I have with others.
I want to know Him better and better. I want to know Him Word. I want to live for Him. It all starts with listening to Him.
“19 My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. 21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. 22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it--he will be blessed in what he does.”
Do not merely listen to the word… do want it says. Everyone should be quick to listen…. Anyone who listens to the word ….
Listening is a key skill to learn as a Christ follower. To hear is one thing – to actually listen is something else entirely. I hear all kinds of things right now – the clicking of the keys while I type (slowly I might add) – the sound of the air conditioning keeping me from sweltering in this southern humidity – the sounds of other people in the offices – a car on the road going way too fast – all kinds of activity al over. But I am not really listening to any of it. I had to stop and even think about it. It was just background noise.
I don’t want to relegate God to background noise. To take what He says in His Word and store there with all the other things I read throughout a day. I want to really hear Him – to really listen to Him.
How can I tell that I am really listening? I do what it says. I live it out through the relationships I have with others.
I want to know Him better and better. I want to know Him Word. I want to live for Him. It all starts with listening to Him.
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