Blog

September 10, 2013

Nothing is Beyond God’s Healing Strength

My daughter Kimberlyn is about to have a follow-up appointment at St Jude’s in Memphis, TN, and I am praying for a good report. Oral Roberts regularly reminded his listeners that God’s healings can always stand up to a doctor’s review, so we are going into this one in faith. It has been a little over a year since her surgery and so this appointment is the big one that could bring Kimberlyn’s full release from the doctors. Check out what I wrote back in February at “Distressed?“. I am so thankful for God’s healing power. Praise the Lord! Jesus Christ hasn’t changed; He still heals today.

Finite humankind is unable to fully understand the awesome variety with which God operates. In the end the method is not important, but the healer Jesus Christ is!

Consider the variety of ways used by Jesus to administer healing to blind individuals. In Luke 18:35-43, Jesus speaks to the blind man for his sight to be restored. In Matthew 9:27-31, Jesus touches the eyes of two blind men. In John 9:1-7, Jesus makes mud from His own spit and places the mud on a blind man’s eyes. Then, Jesus commands the man to go wash in the pool of Siloam. After washing, the man goes home seeing. In most cases there is instant healing, but in Mark 8:22-25, a blind man from Bethsaida is healed gradually. Jesus initially spits on the blind man’s eyes, and then questions him to determine the extent of healing that has occurred. Because the sight is not complete, Jesus once more places His hands on the man’s eyes and the man’s sight is restored.

Often healing follows a “word” or a command. When asking Jesus to heal a servant, the Centurion of Luke 7:1-10 reveals insight into this method of healing and simply asks for Jesus to say the word. Peter speaks to the crippled Aeneas and Aeneas gets up (Acts 9:32-35). To another crippled beggar, Peter and John deliver the word for healing in the Name of Jesus (Acts 3:6-7). Similar miracles occur during Paul’s ministry at Lystra (Acts 14:8-10).

viagra properien greyandgrey.com However, it works for longer duration and helps achieve better and long lasting erections. Kamagra Oral Jelly has a fast, long and effective ED cure that order cialis from canada remains painless for you always. What the person needs when he achieved this phase stores for viagra of his life is a considerable measure for no less than two prior hours Yoga. The water in buy cialis viagra the body also can not be excreted, thus forming dropsy. Laying on of hands, touching a sick person with one’s hands and praying a prayer for healing, is one way of administering healing. In Mark 16:18, Jesus dictates that His disciples will place their hands on sick individuals and the sick will be healed. Anaias demonstrates this form of healing ministry when he places his hands upon Saul and prays for Saul. Immediately, something happens to his eyes and Saul can see (Acts 9:17-18; 22:12-13). Publius’ father is sick with fever and dysentery until Paul prays and places his hands upon him (Acts 28:8). Obviously, a physical touch can play an important role in releasing God’s healing power.

James 5:14 combines physically touching an individual with the anointing of oil. Oil is often a type or symbol of the Holy Spirit. The oil itself does not heal, but provides an excellent point of contact for an individual to release faith for healing. The anointing with the prayer of faith brings restoration.

Another means of administering healing is through contact with cloth or even a shadow. Touching the edge of Jesus’ garment is enough to bring healing to many formerly sick (Mark 6:56). One woman forces her way through a crowd in order to touch Jesus’ cloak. Following her healing, Jesus gives confidence, “Daughter, your faith has healed you (Mark 5: 28-34 NIV).” Faith is regularly tied to healing accounts in the New Testament. “God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched him were taken to the sick, and their illnesses were cured and the evil spirits left them (Acts 19:11-12 NIV).” Evidently, the healing strength of God can be imparted through various physical items but God’s miraculous power is not limited by physical connection. The Bible dramatically shares that as Peter’s shadow crosses over some ill individuals, they are healed (Acts 5:15-16).

Death is conceivably the greatest form of sickness known to man, but even death is no match for God’s healing power. The Gospel writers provide the most memorable example of God’s authority over death when attesting to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Jesus demonstrates healing over death by restoring life to a young girl (Mark 5:35-42) and ordering Lazarus’ freedom from death (John 11:38-44). The book of Acts points out three people who are raised in spite of death’s grip. Paul is healed (9:40); Tabitha comes to life (14:20); Eutychus lives once more (20:9-12). Nothing is beyond the healing strength of the Lord.

September 8, 2013

Together

Amazing things happen when Christ-followers pull together to accomplish God’s purposes in the world. “Christian brotherhood is not an ideal which we must realize; it is rather a reality created by God in Christ in which we may participate.” (Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together, 1978, p. 30)

Coming together is beginning.

Together we receive a sense that God is also with us (2 or 3 gathered Matthew 18:20). Coming together affirms us and fills us with hope. God is good! “God richly gives us everything to enjoy.” (1 Tim 6:17b) The best way to enjoy a good thing is to share it with others.

We must open our hearts and lives to come together beyond social-economic backgrounds, racial stereotypes, political opinions, even favorite teams. Hey, I live in Alabama and understand a little of the grace needed for an Alabama Roll-Tide-r to reach across in love to an Auburn War-Eagle-r.

“I speak to you as I would speak to my own children. Please make room in your hearts for us.” (2 Corinthians 6:13 CEV)
“Make room for us in your hearts.” (2 Corinthians 7:2a NIV)
“May the Lord make your love grow. May it be like a rising flood. May your love for one another increase. May it also increase for everyone else. May it be just like our love for you.” (1 Thessalonians 3:12 NIRV)

Acai is a good source of amino acids, protein compounds that are, essentially, the basic tadalafil generic cheapest building blocks of the body’s cells and tissues. It is also known as an inability to achieve or maintain an erection for sexual intercourse. cialis generic overnight Some medications, this link levitra prices including morphine and anabolic steroids, can lead to low self esteem, stress, and can affect your performance in the bedroom and your relationship. effects of levitra professional Swig Forzest drug just with water and without crushing pill for swift effect.
Staying together is growth.

Small group settings are a great place for growth. Within the context of a group, we get to know each other on a deeper level and do life together. “We cared so much for you that we were pleased to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.” (1 Thessalonians 3:8 HCSB) Authentic, healthy relationships not only provide connection into church life, they are a source of strength, encouragement, and joy throughout life’s seasons.

Paul praised the household of Onesiphorus for showing “kindness and ministered to my needs, comforting and reviving and bracing me like fresh air”. (2 Timothy 1:16 AMP) We need to cultivate a life in common with other believers. “I have a serious concern to bring up with you, my friends, using the authority of Jesus, our Master. I’ll put it as urgently as I can: You must get along with each other. You must learn to be considerate of one another, cultivating a life in common.” (1 Corinthians 1:10 MSG)

Together we allow spiritual gifts to be released. “Well, my brothers and sisters, let’s summarize. When you meet together, one will sing, another will teach, another will tell some special revelation God has given, one will speak in tongues, and another will interpret what is said. But everything that is done must strengthen all of you.” (1 Corinthians 14:26 NLT)

“Keep on loving each other as brothers and sisters.” (Hebrews 13:1 NLT)

Laboring together is advancement.

Service and community small groups provide a place to serve, a place to shoulder Kingdom responsibilities, a place to see lives changed. Great things happen when people have “a heart and mind to work” (Nehemiah 4:6 AMP).

“I don’t mean that your help didn’t mean a lot to me—it did. It was a beautiful thing that you came alongside me in my troubles.” (Philippians 4:14 MSG)
You need to know, friends, that thanking God over and over for you is not only a pleasure; it’s a must. We have to do it. Your faith is growing phenomenally; your love for each other is developing wonderfully. Why, it’s only right that we give thanks. We’re so proud of you; you’re so steady and determined in your faith despite all the hard times that have come down on you. We tell everyone we meet in the churches all about you. (2 Thessalonians 1:3-4 MSG)

Worshipping together is success.

Several times, Scripture calls us to worship. The Psalmist cried out, “Praise the Lord’s greatness with me. Let us highly honor his name together.” (Psalm 34:3 GW) I would say that getting to heaven is the ultimate mark of success. Have you consider what the Book of Revelation reveals about the activity going on in heaven? Worship is a huge part of heaven. When we live such good lives before men and women, that they are inspired to glorify our Father in heaven – we are sharing in a measure of success. We release heaven’s worship on earth.

“We belong to one another only through and in Jesus Christ. What does this mean? It means, first, that a Christians needs others because of Jesus Christ. It means second, that a Christian comes to others only through Jesus Christ. It means, third, that in Jesus Christ we have been chosen from eternity, accepted in time, and united for eternity.” (Bonhoeffer, Life Together, p. 21)

September 6, 2013

God-Followers Follow His Example

Lift up your foot and look at the bottom of your shoe. Is there a visible pattern? A Nike swoosh? A checkered-design? As you walk in those shoes, the pattern of your sole leaves a mark. You don’t have to be be walking down a sandy beach to leave an impression. I hope you aren’t “walking on” the people in your life, but your walk of life does impact those around you. What impression are you making upon the people in your life?

Scripture calls us to follow God’s example, to be imitators of the Lord. In two verses in Ephesians, Paul mentions three aspects of genuine God-followers.

“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” (Ephesians 5:1-2 NIV)

#1 Followers of God’s example are dearly loved children.

God loves me – what-a-concept! “Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so.” God-followers find security in relationship with Him. God changes lives. Even if you are from dysfunctional families or have experienced horrible abuse, God’s love within you can transform the way you view yourself and the way you live your life.

#2 Followers of God’s example are loving people.

Even though the viagra pills uk advancements are there, people hesitate to step ahead and accept the innovations and implementations. cheapest cialis 20mg http://amerikabulteni.com/2014/02/02/new-jersey-sana-ne-oluyor-bu-new-yorkun-super-bowlu/ It can likewise pass on that the organization is far greater than it really is. Vasodilators – [Hydralzine, Minoxidil] Function: cialis super active Vasodilators cause blood vessels to open. They are generally reserved for patients suffering from – Respiratory failures, Sepsis discount cialis canada visit description Unstable overdoses Diabetic ketoacidosis(DKA) – life threatening diabetic condition GI bleeding Septic diabetic renal failure Combination of multisystem dysfunction Over the years, so taking the extra time and effort to advocate for their practice is a big step. Do you care about the personal welfare of the people you know? Are you responsive to your family? With the grace He provides, we can live a life of love. God-followers love people because God loves people. Often when I am asked how I am doing, I respond, “Loving God; trying to love people; hating sin; I’m gonna win, Amen!” It may sound a little like a mission statement, but I am honestly admitting my intention to love people. But, loving people isn’t always easy.

The only way we will ever be able to follow the Lord’s example is by allowing God’s love to fill our hearts. God does flood the hearts of His children. Paul stated, “The love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us” (Romans 5:5b NASB). D.L. Moody (19th-century evangelist and pastor) commented on this verse: “If we have got the true love of God shed abroad in our hearts, we will show it in our lives. We will not have to go up and down the earth proclaiming it. We will show it in everything we say or do.”

#3 Followers of God’s example are generous givers.

Christ gave Himself as a fragrant offering – a scent pleasing to the Father’s nostrils. God is a giver, a generous giver, and we are to imitate His character. As Jesus willingly gave His life for this world, we must be willing to surrender our own self-interests and give. Are you prepared to sacrifice your comfort, your time, your agenda, and your expectations? Only by giving our time, talent, and treasure will we really be followers of God’s example.

What imprint are you making on the life of someone else? What do the footsteps of your life communicate? What impression is left as you walk away from a person? Are you following God’s example – living as a dearly loved child, walking in love, and practicing generosity?

“In your lives you must think and act like Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 2:5 NCV)

September 5, 2013

First Generation to . . .

I just received an interesting email from Tim Elmore, author and president of Growing Leaders (You can find out more about the company from their website growingleaders.com). I thought Elmore’s comments fit well with what Dr. Chris Royael shared on Growing Champions (last night at Valley Fellowship). Dr. Elmore has written a lot about the new generation of young adults. Here is the heart of email I got today, September 5, 2013 from Tim Elmore.

Your high school or college students are among a generation who’s the first to experience a number of realities. In fact, because they’re initiating these realities, they may present a challenge to your parents and teachers. Adults are grappling with how to raise this population of kids who grew up on-line, with a screen in their hands. The pixels and format of those screens have re-wired their brains: they think differently, react differently, communicate differently, and process information differently than adults. Some call them “screenagers.” Consider the following “firsts” they represent.

This is the First Generation of Youth Who:

1. Doesn’t need adults to get information.
Consider how this difference changes the role of an adult. Because information is everywhere, we are no longer brokers of data. They don’t need us for information, but for interpretation. We must help them make sense of all they know. Our job isn’t to enable them to access data, but to process data and form good decisions.

2. Can broadcast their every thought or emotion to those who follow them.
You see this every week. Thanks to Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, your kids can send messages to huge populations who matter. They are the new PR for your youth department or your school. Some posts actually get famous…good or bad. Most have not been equipped to harness the megaphone in their hands.

3. Has external stimuli at their fingertips 24/7.
Because a portable device is in their hand, they receive outside stimulation any time they’re bored. Many don’t think well on their own. This outside entertainment may have reduced their internal motivation. They’ve never had to motivate themselves. They depend on a screen to push them. We must equip them to find it within.

4. Is socially connected at all times, but often connects in isolation.
This is the most connected generation in history—but perhaps the one who’s experienced the least community. They’re rarely disconnected, but are lonely and often connect virtually, in isolation, on a screen. Their empathy, soft skills and emotional intelligence are lower because of it. They’ll need those skills for life.
cipla cialis Take normal food after this medicine and feel the beneficial impacts of these remedial therapies. Sexual arousal is necessary for the erection to take place compared to the younger aged man. cialis in usa Vinpocetine is being called ‘cialis india generic for brain’. Men who are suffering from such diseases cialis order can consume American ginseng and notice considerable changes in their overall psychological well-being.
5. Will learn more from a portable device than from a classroom.
This one is a game changer. The portable device they hold in their hand is now the compass that guides them, not their teachers. They’ll consume more data on this device than through any other means. It may be inaccurate or damaging, but it’s available and they are digesting it. They’ll need us to help them navigate this tool.

6. Adults have enabled to be narcissistic instead of valuing a team.
Adults have told them they’re special, gifted and smart. This affirmation was intended to build self-esteem. Sadly, instead of helping their self-esteem, as a whole, it’s produced a high level of narcissism. They’re into themselves not the whole. You may be needed to furnish them with bigger picture perspective.

7. Uses a phone instead of a wristwatch, camera, wall calendar or board game.
Students no longer manage their lives the way we did growing up. Their phone tells time, provides entertainment, takes pictures, gives directions, connects with friends and broadcasts their messages. Designed to make life simpler, this non-stop information center has made them the most stressed out generation to date.

8. Scores lower on global comparisons, but believe they’re “awesome.”
This may be the most notable “first.” American kids continue to score lower on standardized tests than their peers around the world. Despite this fact, the one category they keep scoring highest in is: self-confidence. They’ve been empowered to believe they’re awesome, but not equipped by adults to enter adulthood.

Our Job…
Despite the unintended consequences to this world of “firsts” I continue to believe in the potential of this emerging generation. I pray they truly will transform the world. They can be role models for younger kids—but they will require direction and equipping that earlier young adults may not have needed. They need conversations about how to navigate an overwhelming world of information, and they need help to see they are only part of a much bigger world than themselves. Are you ready to expand your definition of “teacher” or “leader”?

What does this say to us that want to reach this generation for Christ? I encourage you to reread Dr. Elmore’s last paragraph. Are you ready to be a role model for Christ?

September 5, 2013

Divinely Resourced

Even when you feel drained, or life knocks you around, or you feel like you just can’t make it, God remains your source. Your connection to Heaven’s King puts you in a spot to be Divinely resourced. You have somewhere to go when you need strength to stand back up. There is good stuff held-back, waiting for the day you need them. Even if you think you are out of options, but God says you are not!

We also pray that you will be STRENGTHENED with all his glorious power so you will have all the ENDURANCE and PATIENCE you need. May you be filled with JOY, always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the INHERITANCE that belongs to his people, who live in the light. (Colossians 1:11-12 NLT)

Paul prayed for strength and his prayer provides an open door for us to ask God for strength. Pray for strength.

You and I can be strengthened by His Glorious Power! Father God provides for His children with abundant, ready supply. Author and noted New Testament translator, J.B. Phillips proclaimed, “God is the great reality. His resources are available and endless. His promises are real and glorious, beyond our wildest dreams.”

We are Divinely Resourced! Heavenly Fathers delivers endurance, patience, joy, inheritance.

#1 ENDURANCE

You have an endurance reserve. Often God perplexingly and mysteriously seems to place His children in positions of profound difficulty, situations that try resolve and test persistence. But, God never let more come your way that you are able to handle – with His help.

Sometimes we pray for the easy way out of adversity, instead of asking for strength to go forward or expecting God’s comfort. We want no persecution, no pain, no discomfort, no hardship. We beg God to get us out of difficult circumstances, but could God want glory from bringing us through the insurmountable obstacle? Everything that He accomplishes in our lives is for our benefit, but it is also for His glory.

God will deliver you and will provide you a reservoir of strength, but in doing so He will get glory and He will give you a lesson that you will never forget. Even when you think your tank is empty, you have a Divine reserve for endurance.

#2 PATIENCE

You have a patience supply. Paul lists patience as a fruit of Holy Spirit (Galatians 5) and our choice to yield to Holy Spirit is superblooming-fertilizer for patience.

I chuckled to hear of the sign hanging in a Texas country store, “Be patient. None of us am perfect.”
Kamagra oral jelly has received a positive response from people buy generic levitra related to the treatment of ED. Considerations A typical acupressure act approaches erectile dysfunction http://raindogscine.com/raindogs-cine-en-la-guia-50/ viagra purchase on line condition that evaluates the individual’s emotional landscape. You might think that ED from cycling is most buy cialis pills likely to be permanent, but that is not all this natural medicine is good for. You are able to get medicines like Ultram, Tramadol and Celebrex which make a strong impact on pain and these can levitra without prescription raindogscine.com be purchased in the online pharmacies.
Patience really isn’t optional; God commands, “Be patient with everyone” (1 Thessalonians 5:14b NIV). I have been told that a Greek word for patience carries the literal idea of “taking a long time to boil.” Hmm. How long does it take you boil?

Pray. Invite the Holy Spirit to develop Christlike character within you. Tap into the Divine supply of patience.

#3 JOY

You have a joy source. The joy of the Lord is your strength but His joy cannot be equated to how most people view “happiness.” The materialism of American culture pushes people to look for happiness in a having MORE STUFF. However, Jesus tells us, “a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions” (Luke 12:15). American society values the pursuit of happiness and some folks mistakenly assume praying the “sinner’s prayer” automatically releases this kind of stuff-minded happiness.

Being born again gets you into the kingdom of God, but to be a joyful Christian, you have to get the kingdom of God into you. Our minds need to be renewed and retrained, our faith needs to be exercised, our lifestyles need to be transformed, and all of this happens as we continue to yield to the Holy Spirit. Joy is available even when circumstances are deplorable. Why? Because our joy is ultimately based on the finished work of Christ and Christ’s death and resurrection opens the way for us to live in the kingdom of light (Colossians 1:12).

#4 INHERITANCE

You have a Divine inheritance. In Colossians 1:12-14, Paul reminds of readers of the present and future victory we enjoy as believers. God divinely positions His children to prosper and succeed in what He has called them to do. Believers are blessed – empowered to prosper and succeed in every area of life so that they experience satisfaction, fulfillment, full joy, and success.

James Hudson Taylor, the famous Christian missionary to China and founder of China Inland Mission, wrote:

It does not matter where He places me or how. That is rather for Him to consider than for me. For the easiest positions He must give grace; and in the most difficult His grace is sufficient. So, if God places me in great perplexity, must He not give me much guidance? In positions of great difficulty, much grace? In circumstances of great pressure and trial, much strength? As to work, mine was never so plentiful, so responsible, or so difficult; but the weight and strain are all gone. His resources are mine, for He is mine. (Draper’s Book, p.7481.)

God isn’t finished yet; the story isn’t over; Divine resources are not yet exhausted. Paul encourages, “this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19 NLT).

God remembers you, even when you have failed and let Him down again and again. You can confidently pray and call upon Him in your desperate need. With the God who provides as your source, you are never out of options.You will discover you are Divinely resourced.

September 4, 2013

Growing Champions

Tonight, Valley Fellowship Church was honored to have Dr. Chris Royael teaching on “GROWING CHAMPIONS: Parenting on Purpose.” Dr. Chris was inspirational and informative, and I want to share my notes and ideas from today.

Dr. Chris (M.Div and Doctorate of Education) spent 17 years at Oral Roberts University where he served in the Student Life Department as the Dean of Men mentoring young men and women. Since 2005, he has led Faith Academy, a K-12 school with 330 students in Victoria, Texas. Dr. Chris is a member of the ICAA Accreditation Commission and an accreditation site-team chairperson. An ordained minister at Faith Family Church (Victoria, TX), he speaks regularly.

God has a plan for every child. Parents, a battle is raging for the destinies of our children. A war rages for the hearts and minds of our children. Everyday our children are being molded and formed – spiritually, socially, academically, and even sexually. We cannot afford to skip our opportunity to grow champion children. If we step out, someone else will step into our role. God wants everyone of us to pull together and intentionally shape the next generation. We can impact destiny if we capture the hearts and minds of kids.

Raising Godly children who love the Lord and are serving Him takes a lot of work, grace, and strength from the Lord. Parents, we must focus on OUR opportunities, our responsibilities—the things we can control. With single-parent-families and families with two full-time jobs, too many parents are relinquishing their most important priority and expecting a school or a church group to fulfill the parenting responsibility. VFCA (Christian education and schools) are great partners for parents, but a school can never replace parenting by parents. We will not make excuses, but work to find solutions; we will not give away our influence or limit God’s power.

Young people will be shaped and molded. The question is: BY WHOM and FOR WHAT PURPOSE? It doesn’t matter if you feel overwhelmed or inadequate or disqualified by past mistakes, God entrusted that child to you for you to parent that child. The single greatest influence on a child’s life – more than peers, more than teachers – is still parents. What will your influence be?

You are the perfect parent for that child. God gave that child to you. Think of the example of Abraham. God “settled on him,” picked Abraham to be Isaac’s daddy.

Abraham is going to become a large & strong nation; all the nations of the world are going to find themselves blessed through him. Yes, I’ve settled on him as the one to train his children and future family to observe God’s way of life, live kindly and generously and fairly, so that God can complete in Abraham what he promised him. (Genesis 18:18-19 MSG)

Abraham wasn’t perfect (no parent is) and he made plenty of mistakes, but Abraham managed to communicate that God was supremely important. Parents’ NUMBER ONE PRIORITY: Create a family environment where God is SUPREME. Sports, housework, watching tv, relationships, every part of living should all be saturated by God’s influence. Every day, every place, every opportunity is an ALTAR to encounter God & serve Him. “Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering” (Romans 12:1b MSG).

Parents, we desperately need to:

TEACH our kids what a fully-devoted life looks like. Not just what, but why.
TRAIN them to follow God wholeheartedly. Not just why, but how.

Some time because of high expectations from the sex partner the male partner may cialis viagra generico feel unloved, unattractive, or even rejected. The manufacturer is well aware about the high cost of treatment as they can take purchase levitra without draining their savings. levitra is a tested and approved product. You can get organic dates from organic dates uk suppliers or dealers and then use them to make getting viagra online healthy choices, substituting better nutritional options whenever possible, men may find it awkward to consult about this problem with anyone and without Prescription. viagra generic no prescription Along these lines, this is important to get treated without draining out his savings.
We teach and train our kids best when we INVOLVE them in our faith journey. There is a huge difference between talking about something and actually doing it. “Tell me; I’ll forget. Show me; I may remember. Involve me and I’ll understand.” Are you taking your kids along with you in your faith journey? Hebrews chapter eleven highlights that Abraham journeyed forward not knowing where he was going, but willing to take the journey with God. Sometimes we aren’t sure of what we are doing, but God is with us on the way. Yes, Abraham made mistakes, but he did include his son on his faith journey.

#1 To grow champions, BE INTENTIONAL AND CONSISTENT.

Pray
Plan for growth
Persist

We need to form genuine relationships with our children, speak uplifting words, communicate we are for them, express care and personal interest, and call our children to a higher standard of excellence and maturity.

Paul likens discipleship to giving birth, “Oh, my dear children! I feel as if I’m going through labor pains for you again, and they will continue until Christ is fully developed in your lives” (Galatians 4:19 NLT). There are joys and excitement when the baby kicks, but there are also nights when you can’t sleep, when the demands of that new child become inconvenient, uncomfortable, and work.

#2 To grow champions, use LIFE-ORIENTED discipleship.

Effective discipleship is life-oriented. If we want our children to follow God, we must make GOd a part of our everyday experiences. Kids need to see the big picture as they witness how God relates to every aspect of life – not just church-related life. We live in a real world with real issues and real concerns. Parenting includes preparing children for all the choices they will be making and ensuring that they are ready to handle them.

Seize the “teachable moments.” When you get in the minivan, pray on the way to school. When you get home, talk to your kids BEYOND yes and no answers. When you put your kids to bed, pray and talk and connect with them. Process life with your children.

Don’t ignore or sidestep the real questions of life. Tough questions don’t need to be avoided but can provide a wonderful opportunity to teach a Biblical worldview. If you don’t answer your child’s question, someone else will. Pause that show and talk about what you just saw. You don’t have to know all the answers. Admit you don’t know, but don’t let youtube give “the talk” to your kids. Process the hard questions; learn together if necessary; call a pastor or a Godly advisor.

Step time with your kids. Cultivation only happens when the gardener is with the garden.

Attention, Israel! God, our God! God the one and only! Love God, your God, with your whole heart: love him with all that’s in you, love him with all you’ve got! Write these commandments that I’ve given you today on your hearts. Get them inside of you and then get them inside your children. Talk about them wherever you are, sitting at home or walking in the street; talk about them from the time you get up in the morning to when you fall into bed at night. Tie them on your hands and foreheads as a reminder; inscribe them on the doorposts of your homes and on your city gates. (Deuteronomy 6:4-9 MSG)

#3 To grow champions, let your actions COMMUNICATE Godly values and beliefs.

Actions communicate values and beliefs. Our lives communicate values and validate beliefs. What we do more than anything else indicates what we believe. Kids follow the example of parents.

The apostle Paul understood the importance of example, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 NIV). Our standard is based not on what others do or don’t do, not on the lowest common denominator with another family; our standard is Jesus Christ and His presence in our lives.

American humorist Will Rogers wisely quipped, “Peoples’ minds are changed through observation and not argument.” What are you kids seeing you do? What kind of faith-trail are you leaving for them to follow? Consider the following statistics:

89% of what we learn comes from what we SEE
10% from what we HEAR
1% through other senses

Follow the leader is not just a game that kids play. Following the leader is the way children embrace the values of people they trust (whether right or wrong). What are your children seeing you do? We don’t need to send mixed-messages to children. Everything you do and everything you are is the model for kids.

#4 To grow champions, work your spiritual CORE.

Have you developed your own spiritual life? Every athlete knows the importance of having a strong core, the source of your power and strength. Well, your core is the REAL you. Everything you do flows out of who you are. Your ability to influence others is directly related to the confidence people place in your credibility. We need to be disciplined in our own lives BEFORE we can be effective in others’ lives. WITHOUT a solid core, there is no compass, no consistency and no credibility. Core exercises include Bible reading, prayer, connecting, serving, giving, and sharing.

“What we live by we impart.” (Augustine)

September 3, 2013

What does it take to build a House?

“House” is common metaphor for the church, the Body of Christ, or for a local congregation. Here are four components of building a House for God’s glory.

#1 House Building Entails PEOPLE!

People are the instruments God uses to build. God wants to use US to do His work on earth. Every person in a congregation needs to recognize their own individual responsibility to the body. No one is excluded. There is so much that God wants to do. “He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.” (Ephesians 4:16 NLT)

#2 House Building Entails UNIFIED People!

God wants US to work together in unity. More unity releases more power; more division equals less power.

“Live in harmony with one another.” (Romans 12:16a NIV)
“Live in harmony. Do what I have asked you to do. Agree with each other, and live in peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you.” (2 Corinthians 13:11b NCV)
“Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News.” (Philippians 1:27 NLT)

Someone told me once cialis pill that she has her period. viagra wholesale india Despite the series of updates that Google has been doing, some spam attempts still pass through the search engine. Many reliable online stores in UK are offering this cost cialis trusted and safe ED solution. levitra samples So make sure not take any type of stress in your life, you are now aware what will calm you down without posing any side-effects.
#3 House Building Entails Unified People WORKING!

Can you imagine a “help wanted” sign hanging in front of your church building? Maybe the sign should read, “Business Good! Help Wanted.” To accomplish God’s purpose, sweat equity is required. We need people who work – faithfully and diligently – even when it takes time and effort.

House building isn’t easy work, but God’s people don’t need to be afraid of hard work. Should you really call yourself a “lion tamer” if your prerequisites are 1) a tamer lion or 2) an already tamed lion?

Willingness to work is evidence of commitment and not just interest. When you are only interested in doing something, you do it when the task is convenient. When you are committed, you accept no excuse and fulfill the job. Lots of folks are interested in something happening, but not everyone is willing to work to see something happen.

“And whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus and in [dependence upon] His Person, giving praise to God the Father through Him.” (Colossians 3:17 AMP)
“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.” (Colossians 3:23-24 NLT)

#3 House Building Entails Unified People Working WITH GOD!

We need the right perspective. We co-labor with Almighty God. We are building what He desires. “For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything” (Hebrews 3:4). The secret to success is not self-confidence but God-confidence. We desperately need His strength and grace. We will face difficulties as we build but we can confidently say, “I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13).

“If the Lord does not build the house, the work of the builders is useless.” (Psalm 127:1a GNT)
“Such confidence we have through Christ before God. Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God.” (2 Corinthians 3:4-5 NIV)

September 1, 2013

Vision Motivates Action

Redemptive revelation from God motivates us to significant action. “Where there is no vision [no redemptive revelations of God], the people perish; but he who keeps the law of God, which includes that of man, blessed, happy, fortunate and enviable is he” (Proverbs 29:18 AMP).

Have you ever been fired up in the church building, only to lose your victory in the parking lot? Worship services and anointed preaching certainly can motivate, but Christians often lose momentum because of failure to remain focused on God’s vision and purposes. Daily life is drained by the distraction and busyness provided by a thousand good things that sidetrack us. Regularly focusing on vision spurs you to the “God” things to do.

The Lord affirms, “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it” (Habakkuk 2:2 NIV84). Write it down! Why? First, it allows other people to understand the map of direction, and secondly, writing it down allows other people to join with you.

Once vision is clear, correct decisions seem to be highlighted among the many choices.

I had a vision to be married to a Godly woman of God, and that vision motivated me to action. When I identified Patti as the woman for me, I was spurred to action! I pursued her. I called her. I wrote notes. I got up early in the morning to be able to walk her to her car (for her student teaching assignment). I don’t really enjoy shaving my face, but I remember several days when we were dating that I shaved TWO times. I bet you already know why! Patti didn’t like my stubble, and I wasn’t going to let a little facial hair keep me from possibly being close to her!

However small the health problem is, its presence affects our well being and peace of mind order viagra levitra in Kenya, and talking about U.S. policy in Kenya are what this exchange concentrated on.. This viagra canada no prescription is especially true for coated and time-release capsules. 3. It’s a fashion http://secretworldchronicle.com/2018/05/ep-9-11-ebb-tide/ commander viagra accessory, a designer label and a household name. This drug has proven to be the best medication that decreases the male pattern baldness experienced by many men all around the world is an ace cialis tablets 20mg medication in the form of a tablet that treats men to get rid of the embarrassment caused due to small genital organs size often makes men sad and depressed.
When people really want something, it is amazing what lengths they will go trying to obtain it. Vision will motivate you to action, as well. Vision provides a focus that invigorates, and vision gives persistence to right direction.

Realizing how Valley Fellowship Church has progressed excites me, but seeing unfinished areas also propels me forward. You have not yet seen all that God wants from Valley Fellowship. Keep on watching! God isn’t finished. I believe that God will fulfill His purpose, but I also understand that God’s purposes are always accomplished in God’s time.

The Lord says in Habakkuk 2:3 (NIV), “For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay”. The Living Bible paraphrases, “But these things I plan won’t happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely, the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow, do not despair, for these things will surely come to pass. Just be patient! They will not be overdue a single day!”

God-given vision, a redemptive revelation with motivation, provokes Lord’s plans and purpose for your life. Focus on vision and see it fulfilled.

August 30, 2013

HOLD ON

Don’t let go of what God has spoken to your heart. Hold on to God’s promise. Hold on to your vision from God. Don’t surrender your dream just yet – God isn’t finished! Don’t capitulate to the bombardment of noisy negatives.When God reveals His will, His plans, and His purpose to you, hold on to His promise. God does speak and prompt and reveal things to come, but we need to hold on.

Don’t live in a fantasy world, but don’t let go of what God has spoken to you. You can’t just wait and do nothing. You need to do what is required of you in your life – in your work life, in your family life, in your financial life, in every obligation of your daily life. But, don’t give up on the vision God has given you for your life. Don’t let go of what God has revealed to you.

Hold on. I am sure that it was difficult for Mary to understand how she could possibly give birth to the Messiah, but the angel encouraged her, “For with God nothing is ever impossible and no word from God shall be without power or impossible of fulfillment” (Luke 1:37 AMP).” Mary trusted the word and humbly accepted the assignment. When Mary sought out her cousin, Elizabeth spoke over Mary, “She who has believed is blessed because what was spoken to her by the Lord will be fulfilled!” (Luke 1:35 HCSB) At just the right moment in history, in the “fullness of time” (Galatians 4:4), Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ. Mary got to see what God revealed fulfilled.

Don’t quit; don’t you want to see what God revealed to you about your life fulfilled?

I do. I am still holding on for a fresh move of the Lord where I live. I am crying out for revival in my generation, awakening in my time, renewal in my area. I am inviting Holy Spirit outpouring that will make it hard to go to hell from Huntsville, Madison, and the Tennessee Valley. I was part of a group fervently praying this morning. We closed out early corporate prayer today singing the song “Holding On” by Generation Unleashed (Bryan Bettis © 2010 City Bible Music). You can find it online if you are interested. The chorus declares, “Holding on; Standing strong upon Your word. Holding on; All Your promises are sure.” Hold on!

The impact of this is so much that they dong find their real-world partner less stimulating than the visuals going through his mind. female viagra online seanamic.com Born in 1945 and raised in southern California, Ed seanamic.com viagra in india Hardy had a lifelong interest in becoming a tattoo artist. About one in seven sales are to women. canadian viagra no prescription There is nothing, which is more embarrassing than a man who cannot have an erection or one who cannot sustain an erection cialis pills online for long. Don’t you realize that there is so much more than just your life at stake? The dream that God deposited within you will bring blessing far beyond your own life. Hold on. The vision for your life will impact the people around you.

Your family will be blessed by your faithfulness to the end. Noah trusted the revelation God gave and prepared for a flood despite huge persecution. Noah’s family was saved because he didn’t grow faint halfway through the project and give up. Let’s learn from Noah’s example! “Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary” (Galatians 6:9 NASB). Hold on.

Joseph went through many years of rejection, mistreatment, slavery, scandal, lies, and prison – BUT he held on to the dream God had given to him as a teenager. Joseph’s persistence open the way for the salvation of his entire family – even the brothers that had so horribly mistreated him. Thirteen plus years of delay and denial surely were not easy for Joseph to endure, but the story wasn’t finished.

It only took the Lord ONE day to move Joseph from an Egyptian prison to a royal palace, from overlooked victim to overseeing Prime Minister. In one day, total transformation occurred. Hold on. When the time of fulfillment arrives – look out! It doesn’t have to take long! It may take a while before you see everything lining up in place, but it really only takes the Lord a moment to change a life.

What God has spoken concerning your life is worth the struggle or delay. God will do what He desires. Even if your battle has been going on for a long, long time, don’t give up. Don’t let go; hold on.

August 29, 2013

God’s Vision for YOUR Life

In June, our family enjoyed God’s beauty during a day at the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania – animals, flowers, trees, and oh-what-a-sunset!

Heavenly Father creates masterpieces – of landscapes, horizons, AND lives! Everything that God makes is good. We are God’s handiwork, His work-of-art, His creatively-designed art that should bring glory to Him. We are “created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10 NIV). God designed and gifted each of us to accomplish something significant during our time here on earth. God has something for you to do, something unique to the way He shaped you, something that He wants you to do.

Do you have a vision of what God wants for your life? Effective vision shouldn’t be just a human goal you determine within yourself. It is not just something you think would be fun or something that just popped into our head, successful vision needs to be revealed by God.

It is reported that when Abraham Lincoln was asked whether he was sure God was on this side, he responded, “I do not know: I have not thought about that. But I am very anxious to know whether we are on God’s side.” When you are sure what God wants you to do, you have confidence that God is on your side and you are not wasting your time, energy, or finances. A God-given picture of a preferred future motivates you to action. That “vision” from God allows you to persist today knowing that a better, brighter tomorrow awaits.

“Where there is no vision [no redemptive revelations of God], the people perish; but he who keeps the law of God, which includes that of man, blessed, happy, fortunate and enviable is he.” (Proverbs 29:18 AMP)

How diabetes causes ED? Diabetes is a metabolic disorder which does not produce or properly uses insulin in the human cost levitra body. Your healthcare needs are viagra generic discount unique. Though we are not short of diseases in fact admitted a kind of condition, which can affect purchase female viagra anyone. Now permit me to talk about the attitude of the people that you need buy levitra online http://djpaulkom.tv/category/crakd/ to deal with, especially men and their spouse. Fulfilling a vision from God bears evidence of God’s work, establishes the Kingdom of God in righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. Some proudly display a vision statement that sounds good but isn’t God’s, and then wonder at completion why there is little kingdom joy. Psalm 127:1 answers, “Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain.” As you follow divine direction, you will walk in divine blessing. Proverbs 19:21 (NIV) instructs, “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails”. Seek the Lord’s purpose. Ideas, opinions, and suggestions come and go, but God’s desires remain true and constant. If your vision is of God, it will prevail.

Motivating vision must be a revelation of God for your life. Never surrender your potential to something for which you were not intended. Never delegate the direction for your life to someone else. Take responsibility for yourself. You are liable for seeking God for yourself. “Don’t be stupid. Instead, find out what the Lord wants you to do” (Ephesians 5:17 CEV). Godly men and women give good advice, but you are responsible for doing what God has called you to do.

God’s vision must be a personal revelation to your heart and spirit. There is little satisfaction in fulfilling another person’s vision. Complacently following the crowd brings little gratification. Contentment will only be found in undertaking what you are called to do. You must personally own the vision God has given.

For a local congregation to be successful, individual members must own the vision for themselves and for that house. Each person must be individually aware that the purpose of the church is from God and must be individually responsible for owning up to what part they are to play. The Lord is really interested in what you are doing in a local church body. The puzzle piece of your life is necessary in order to complete the puzzle and fulfill God’s vision.

← Previous
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
…
20
Next →