Figuring it Out

I want to be a "Those" instead of a "They"

2009-08-17T16:35:00.001-07:00

Are you counted in the "those" camp, or are you a "they"?

I just finished studing Matthew 1-4 and have been really blessed by how Jesus was on mission from His conception onward, (to save His People from their sins) and the lessons we can learn about keeping the mission alive through the examples of Joseph, Mary and Jesus.

Now I am into HAPPINESS, the beatituds in Matthew 5. :0)

and HAPPY are THOSE...(uh, yeah, these are the ones I want to be like)

Who are poor in spirit. You know people like this. They aren't puffed up, but humble, lowly, opposite of those who need to "make themselves big/heard/known". All they have is not their own, but God's. They are God-dependent and claim nothing to themselves. These lucky duckies receive the Kingdom!
Who mourn: These lovelies sorrow over sin, the grieve over it. And not just their own sin, but sin in the world. They walk in true repentance and are compassionate. Their reward? They will themselves be comforted!
Who are meek: These happy darlings are forgiving - they turn the other cheek when smited. They think more highly of others than of themselves, and they shall inherit the earth. No retribution or vengance in this camp!
Who hunger/thirst for righteousness: Christ's righteousness satisfies them, and they shall be filled! They recognize that their own self-righteousness is rags, a blanket to short to cover them. They eat "heavenly manna", bread from heaven, and don't live by man's declarations. They keep looking Up.
Who are merciful: These happy ones spread the joy when they give others a second chance, extending grace and favor to others. They look for the best in people, forgive wrongs, seek to help. In return? They will receive mercy.
Who are pure in heart: "to the pure all things are pure". They believe the best and live in right/clear conscience before God and men, all to please Him - and they will see Him! Their motives are Godly.
Who are peacemakers: These beautiful people create peace instead of stirring up strife, and they are called sons of God. They unite instead of divide.
Who are persecuted for righteousness sake: chew on this! They are persecuted a) for taking a righteous/godly stand, or b) by the self-righteous indignation of others, or c) for Christ's righteousness - their faith. Theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

and lastly, when "they" revile, persecute, say all kinds of evil against you falsely for His sake, REJOICE and be exceedingly glad!

I want to be a THOSE, a happy one who helps to create that truth in others. I don't want to be a THEY who acts against "those" . Let's be happy and spread it around to others!

Letting God Talk

2009-08-05T11:14:00.000-07:00

Stop.

Just stop, right now.

Stop moving, stop talking, stop trying to figure it out.

Stop.

And listen.

Do you hear Him?

Wait and listen for His voice.

Let it cut through the striving frenzy of human emotion and the opinion of man.

Let it brush away the confusion.

What is He saying?

What does He want?

In YOUR life?

I am intrigued and baffled by the insistence we have at gazing at everyone else's navel when we haven't cleaned our own out yet. God speaks to us, and our job is to follow Him.

I recently did something that I knew I needed to do. It was the right thing to do. I did it, and it turned out well for all involved, and I was glad. Mission accomplished. And yet.

Days later God whispered in my heart, and He wasn't impressed. Although it was the "right" thing to do, and it turned out well, I had missed what God wanted. See, I was happy to do what I knew was right, and I had my eyes on myself. But God had really been interested in my motivation. He didn't want me to do it for me or to be satisfied with the result I received. It hadn't been about me. I needed to hear what He wanted me to hear in the situation.

It can be hard to understand clearly what God is doing, but if we'll stop and listen, we'll hear Him.

I read this recently:

"...'and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of Man will be accomplished'...But they understood none of these things...." (Luke 18:31,34)

God was working out His purpose, and the disciples weren't understanding it. From their vantage point, it didn't make sense.

"God called jesus Christ to what seemed absolute disaster. And Jesus Christ called His disciples to see Him put to death, leading every one of them to the place where their hearts were broken. His life was an absolute failure from every standpoint except God's. But what seemed to be failure from man's standpoint was a triumph from God's standpoint, because God's purpose is never the same as man's purpose.

This bewildering call of God comes into our lives as well. The call of God can never be understood absolutely or explained externally; it is a call that can only be perceived and understood internally by our true inner-nature. The call of God is like the call of the sea--no one hears it except the person who has the nature of the sea in him. What God calls us to cannot be definitely stated, because His call is simply to be His friend to accomplish His own purposes. Our real test is in truly believing that God knows what he desires. The things that happen do not happen by chance--they happen entirely by the decree of God. God is sovereignly working out His own purposes.....If we have a purpose of our own, it destroys the simplicity and the calm, relaxed pace which should be characteristic of the children of God." Oswald Chambers.

Things can look wrong but be right.

Things can look one way and be another.

Let's hear God. Give Him the room to speak into our hearts. Let Him direct and re-direct us.

When's the last time you heard God redirect you the way you were thinking about something?

Getting into God's Boat and Enjoying the Journey

2009-07-29T09:06:00.000-07:00

Mark 6:45, Jesus “made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side…”.

I have the pleasure of living a life chock full of mistakes, trials-and-error to learn from, and the questionable yet compelling desire to share from those experiences. Case in point. Have you ever had one of those times when you are doing something right, maybe even something nice to bless someone else, yet the process of getting it done saps all the joy out of it, not just for yourself, but for those involved. I can give examples from any number of the roles I live out in this life, but here are a few from my experience as a mother, a spouse, a pastor.

As a mother, I want to make my children their favorite cookie to bless them (we don’t usually have cookies in the house. You can pray for how disadvantaged our kids are). In the process of making the cookies, I find I am out of ingredients which calls for a run to the store. Frustration. I didn’t plan on it taking this long. As I am baking I get interrupted with other peoples needs. More frustration. I just want to get this done. As I grump my way through the process, snapping at my family if they should cross my path, my joy is gone and theirs drains away under the weight of my snarky attitude. Oh, they’ll eat the cookies, they’ll like them, but there will be no joy.

As a wife I can want to bless my spouse with some “personal attention” if you catch my drift. As the day progresses, however, things can happen that begin to strip that desire away. Unsuspecting, my hubby can be full of good expectation, while I am fighting my day. I can fulfill his expectations, but if I have an attitude that doesn’t enjoy the process, the end-goal isn’t particularly spectacular for either of us. What a waste!

As a pastors, we can have a vision of God’s purpose for His church, but is the end-goal really the goal?

In Mark 6:45, Jesus “made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side…”. God sent them in a particular direction, putting them in the boat they were to travel in.

I don’t know about you, but sometimes I am desperate simply to know what direction God wants me to go in and how He wants me to get there. In this story, these blessed dudes had that answered for them.

In the midst of their God-directed journey, the winds resist them, making rowing difficult. They are now straining to reach the other side. Wow. How many times have I been headed in a God-direction and felt the resistance pick up until I find myself straining with all my effort to fulfill the vision?

And then there’s Jesus, coming to them, walking on the sea. “Cheer up boys, there’s nothing to worry about” is His response to them. No worries, men, I’m here. See Me? It’s going to be a fine ride!

When we get our eyes on the end-game, on reaching the other side, on gaining the success of our vision, we can strain in the journey when it meets resistance, (or coast along in our own sufficiency when it’s smooth sailing, priding our skill as rowers), and all Jesus wanted was for them to SEE HIM IN THE JOURNEY.

THE JOURNEY is of primary importance. How am I going about it? Do I see Jesus as I travel, or am I focused elsewhere?

Oswald Chambers puts it this way: His purpose is for me to depend on Him and on His power now. If I can stay calm, faithful, and unconfused while in the middle of the turmoil of life, the goal of the purpose of God is being accomplished in me. God is not working toward a particular finish—His purpose is the process itself. What He desires for me is that I see “Him walking on the sea” with no shore, no success, nor goal in sight, but simply having the absolute certainty that everything is all right because I see “Him walking on the sea” (6:49). It is the process, not the outcome, that is glorifying to God.

Interestingly enough, when I reach the goal of seeing Him as I travel, then I will ultimately reach my vision “with good cheer”. (Mark 6:50). I’ll have joy in the journey. I like that!
As a church, we have gotten into a God-given boat and been sent in a particular direction. God has directed us to sell our building and start something new, to go where we haven’t gone before. As we push off towards the vision He has given us, will we see Him in the journey? Let’s do it! Let’s see Him along the way – let’s be of good cheer and enjoy the ride with Jesus. Because really, what good is reaching the shore if Jesus isn’t in the boat?

Moving into New Things

2009-07-10T12:29:00.000-07:00

This last week I've been chewing on all the messages we have heard in the last weeks, and I spent time pulling together the recurring themes in them. I also spent looking back since 2002 at recurring themes God has spoken to me personally, and I have to say...

I AM SO EXCITED

about what God is doing in and through us.

I am also THANKFUL for the friends who have kept up with us, engaging in conversation, dreaming with us, praying with us, believing together for the future. I am GRATEFUL for great and faith-filled attitudes too!

It's hard for us, as human beings, to accept the pace and timing of change - especially if we can see ahead through God's various gifts of discernment, knowledge and prophecy. But to have the amazing Spirit-resolve to see it through to the end - it is an amazing feeling.

Just think...a church without walls...

Long -kept dreams and vision awaken and stir
Unseen chains slipping away
God's timetable moves forward
His perfect timing
A new thing

Revealing - the bad and sad, the good and the glad
Shifting, moving, changing
Growing, stretching, enlightening

People
Loving, patient, faithful, loyal
Sons, daughters, friends
Tenacious, generous
One

True friends
Nothing to prove
Everything to gain
Together

Aaaaaaaaaaah. Priceless.

Refreshment that Comes from God

2009-07-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

This is such a beautiful Psalm, and I think a timely one for us now. When going through tough times, who doesn't relish the thought of trees by the water, the refreshment of quiet, of good things? I put the original here for you first, then read on to my paraphrase. How would you paraphrase it?

Psalm 1, NKJV

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,

nor stands in the paths of sinners,

nor sits in the seat of the scornful;

but his delight is in the law of the Lord,

and in His law he meditates day and night.

He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water

that brings forth its fruit in its season,

whose leaf also shall not wither;

and whatever he does shall prosper.

Now, for the Michelle D Higgins Version.....

Psalm 1, MDHV – A life worth living!

Happy is the one who gets godly advice and counsel for life’s situations,

Who hangs out with people who are living right with God and for God,

Who chooses a faith-attitude that believes God;

This person thinks through a God-filter, seeking and seeing His perspective on life.

This person draws life, soul-care, encouragement, comfort and refreshment from intimate relationship with God

which in turn results in an enjoyable and rewarding life,

one that doesn’t burn out or dry up when under fire;

And succeeds in whatever calling God has given him.

Have a blessed day!

APPRECIATE YO MAMA!:

2009-06-29T07:33:00.000-07:00

Last one in this series....

Growing up, dinnertime was always anticipated in our household. It was the tastiest meal of the day! As a mother, it is a meal that I enjoy providing for my family. There is something special about everyone gathered together at the table to eat and share together. I would never have considered disrespecting my mother and the effort she put into providing a delicious, warm meal for me. As a mother, it would be insulting to prepare meals for my family only to have them disregard those meals and the effort that was put into them. In our household, appreciation is shown in different ways. My family is generous to say thank you for what is served, complimenting my efforts (even when it doesn’t turn out so good- I’d mention the recently grilled corn, but that’s another story), and by helping to set and clear the table and clean the kitchen afterwards. My husband is generous to provide the finances I need to put these meals on the table, and he enjoys the result!

As a Church, “eating at the table” should be accompanied by equal respect. Have we shown our appreciation for what has been offered? Have we assisted in some way for what we are about to share in? Have we provided what was necessary to put the “meal” together? Or are we simply consumers or food critics? Do we eat and run? Do we eat and pick apart the meal?

Sometimes, it is when visitors come to eat that we are shown the most appreciation. I am always blessed when visitors in a service give an offering. They don’t have to do that, and there’s a certain graciousness to it-sort of like bringing a hostess gift when visiting someone else’s house. It shows a generosity of spirit and it’s always a thoughtful surprise. As members of the church family however, we move beyond graciousness and become intentional participants in family life. So I might ask, “What table are you sitting down to eat at?”

THEY HAVE BIG BUTTS…

2009-06-25T11:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, the whole conversations on money were a single-session download of thoughts that I've broken down from my head to these pages. This thought had me giggling in church. Sometimes, you just go with what comes to you....

When we don’t give, we just end up with big butts! Our wallet gets fatter, and our butts (where wallets are often kept) bulge out. Who wants a fat butt? In essence, we get fat butts by hording our own seed, for our own consumption, and it only leads to poverty. When we don’t sow it, don’t spread it around, it won’t come back to us in increase.

In kindergarten we used to sing a song, “Love is Like a Magic Penny” (thanks Roxie Phillips!) - think I've shared this before, hmmm......

Love is like a magic penny, you hold it tight and you won’t have any.
Lend it, spend it and you’ll have so many, they’ll roll all over the floor.
Ooooh, love is nothing til you give it away, give it away, give it away.
Love is nothing til you give it away and you’ll end up having more.

Good, huh? Love and money, baby, love and money. Anything good worth having is worth sharing and will come back to you!

ENTITLEMENT, EXCUSES AND ECONOMICS

2009-06-23T11:30:00.000-07:00

ENTITLEMENT, EXCUSES AND ECONOMICS
One of my first professors in University was a microeconomics professor who liked to say “There’s no such thing as a free lunch”. That has stuck with me all these years. Everything has a cost, everything. My love costs something: when I love I often say “no” to me and “yes” to others. My affections cost something: what I give to one thing I cannot give to another – my resources are finite. You get the drift. And guess what, eating costs money!

We like to eat dinner out, and my attitude towards tipping was initially developed by those I respected – I watched how they approached tipping and followed their example. Often, that example was one of tipping for excellent service. If the service was great, we tipped. If not, we tipped less, a sort of sliding scale. Tipping was a matter of personal judgment of the service received. Interestingly, while I might be inclined to tip more or less, I have never even considered walking away without paying for the meal I have eaten. The food had been purchased and prepared for me. The location of the meal had been prepared for me. Even when I have not particularly enjoyed a meal, I have always paid for it. I may never go to that restaurant again, but when I do choose to eat their food, I pay for it. Tipping then tops things off, showing my appreciation for the service rendered by the staff.

I want to suggest this scenario as a picture of our relationship to the Church, painting with broad strokes, so bear with me. When we attend a particular church, we become “patrons” of that establishment. We choose to go there and to eat off their particular menu. We avail ourselves of their services, their “spiritual food” and their hospitality. Why then do we think nothing of “skipping out on the bill”? (Here is where the broad strokes come in. We don’t “purchase” anything in the Church with our tithe– it is an analogy of spiritual life). We partake of what the Church offers, but fail to bring our tithes. Maybe we will leave an occasional “tip” of goodwill, but week in and week out we choose to come, to take part, and to not contribute to the overhead of the establishment? It takes money to keep a building open, the lights on, the place clean, staffed, atmosphere set. There’s no getting around that. We wouldn’t do that to any other establishment!

Perhaps we get around it by saying that it is a “spiritual establishment”. But it resides in the natural. Does our spiritual life not need natural sustenance?

Perhaps we get around it by saying that “such-and-such church” or “that ministry’ is more deserving of our money. Then go eat there! Where you eat, that is where you pay the bill. I don’t eat at Applebee’s and then pay the bill at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse – I pay Applebee’s. If I am sustained and nourished in a particular house of worship, then that is where I bring my tithes.

Perhaps we get around it by saying that the money belongs to, and goes back to God, so we can give wherever we felt “led” to give. Where do we feel “led” to be connected to the Body (God)? Where do we feel “led” to come and eat? That is where our tithe should go. If we aren’t getting fed where we are, or we don’t like the food served, then by all means change where we eat, but then pay where we eat. To do otherwise lacks integrity.

Giving is not limited to one place, but for certain it is right to bring your tithes to the house that is feeding you.

To do otherwise is ungrateful, unthankful, arrogant and entitled. How do you see it?

By the way, as I’ve matured, my tipping habits have changed. I have chosen to live a generous life and enjoy blessing the hard working staff where we eat. It would have to be truly terrible service for the tip to dip. I tip generously. I try to engage with the wait staff and verbalize my appreciation, backing it up with my money at the end of the meal. Whether it is acknowledged or not, it matters to me. I am blessed to be a blessing. And as much as I like to receive good things, I want to give that to others as it is in my power to do so. What kind of patron are you?

LAMBS TAILS, CHURCH LIFE, & MONEY

2009-06-22T13:54:00.000-07:00

Money is an uncomfortable subject for many to talk about, but honestly, it's a necessary part of our daily life, so let's talk.

Just as our physical bodies have many members, as believers we are all members of one Body, Christ’s. When we withhold from the Body, it strangulates the flow of life, potentially resulting in death to parts of the Body.

Growing up I had friends who raised sheep for showing – you know, competitive judging for best in breed, etc. One day I watched them place rubber bands tightly at the base of the each lambs tail. When I asked why, they explained that the rubber band cut off the circulation of blood to the tail and eventually the tail would fall off, which was part of the requirements for showing. Blocking the flow of blood to the tail resulted in death, severing the tail from the body.

In Biblical application, 1 Corinthians talks about how we are the Body of Christ. This truth can be applied to our lives both individually and to the church – many churches make up Christ’s body, and each part contributes to the health and vitality of the whole.

There are parts, some worthy of more honor than others (parts that are more visible, prominent), but we do not disregard any part – all parts of the Body are necessary. God does not create unnecessary parts! Some may esteem one ministry or church over another, but God says there are no unnecessary parts! Where you are positioned in a Church, you are connected to the whole Body. Just think, each part of your own body has vessels that direct the flow of blood, the flow of life, throughout your whole body (via veins, capillaries). If you choose not to allow “life” to flow through your part (such as putting a band around your arm that cuts off the flow of blood), then it will strangulate and separate that very necessary part from blessing and being a part of the Body as a whole.

What strangulates life in the church? Withholding.

· Withholding service
· Withholding money
· Withholding fellowship
· Withholding ourselves. Hearts withheld often results in withholding in other areas.

When there is freedom of flow to each part, life is imparted and shared, enabling each part to function and prosper the Body as a whole with no member lacking. Just think, the veins running through your life, the conduit of blessing through your life, feeds the health of the whole Body. We are “blessed to be a blessing”. Blessing in my life does not benefit me alone! We have the power to bless or curse, to withhold or live generously.

[Note: There are those who argue that the corporate expression of the church is not necessary, but my body is a corporate expression of many parts. What that corporate expression looks like is not what I am arguing, but that we are meant to live in connection with one another, supporting and strengthening each other as we reside in community together. I expect my personal arm to benefit my personal body, etc.].

There is no greater investment than the Kingdom of God. When we give, we give to Him, to the tangible expression of His Body in the earth, and we are supporting the life flow of His Body. Where you are positioned, that is where you are connected to the Body, and that is the point where life is going to flow. As a hand, the life doesn’t flow from my hand to the belly, but from my hand to the arm. Where are you connected to the Body? That’s where your life is going to make a primary contribution to the whole. If you are connected to the Body of Christ via a local Christian Church, then allow life to flow through you to the rest of the Body, freely and generously.

Life, Leadership & Sermon on the Mount - Pt 2

2009-06-18T11:16:00.000-07:00

The good news is, no one was harmed in the writing of this blog. No snoring occurred, sleep was had, and all are feeling rested. Read on. :)

LEADERSHIP LESSONS FROM MATTHEW 6

1. Don’t Blow Your Own Horn (1-4). We all like to have our ego stroked, but really, how annoying – “look at me, look at me”. Let your actions speak for themselves without making a show out of them. And leaders, take note, pay attention to what your team is doing. Notice the good, celebrate the good. It can be helpful to establish regular times of recognition for outstanding work or effort. Acknowledgement goes a long way with your team.
2. Mean What You Say: Don’t just talk to be heard (5-15)
a. Talk to people in private. Make petitions in private. Both as a leader and a follower, it shows respect for the other person, considers them first.
b. Don’t be a pest with your petitions – eventually your voice is going to be drowned out by the plethora of words used (Think “the boy who cried wolf”). Followers, keep your requests simple, relevant and to the point. Leaders, let them know you’ve heard them.
c. Ask the right way:
i. Show honor and respect
ii. Let them hear/see that you are for them, not being self-motivated
iii. Be clear about what you need
iv. Reconcile any difficulties or conflicts
v. Be teachable. Ask for help in achieving your goals.
vi. Treat others the way you want to be treated and it will get noticed!

3. Whistle While You Work (16-18). Enjoy your work and work hard. The 7 dwarfs in “Snow White” had the right idea – a positive attitude creates an uplifting atmosphere, even in dark places. The book “Fish” is a great illustration of this, depicting how the fish mongers at Pike Place Market became world famous, in part because of this attitude. They chose the attitude they were going to bring to work, and then had fun while working. Attitudes are infectious – spread some joy where you work!
4. Keep Perspective (19-21). Work needs to be kept in perspective. Your greatest treasure lies in the people you have relationship with. Don’t allow work, achieving your goals, to run roughshod over your relationships. Don’t neglect your families. Stay connected with your friends. Stay in tune with how people around you are doing. Are we pushing too hard? Are they bored and need a challenge? It can be as simple as asking not only how we are doing at achieving our goals, but how are the people who are doing the work doing? People matter, and they’ll work for you or against you.
5. Keep a Clear Vision (22-23). Clean the glass on your lamp all the time, removing those things that fog up the glass. Have you ever lit a candle, and after a while the glass holder it is in begins to blacken with soot from the flame? It dims the light of the flame. We need to keep the vision burning bright, removing all that distracts from the flame of our vision.
6. Choose Whom You’ll Serve (24). There can only be one master. One boss. One vision. One goal. When our allegiances or efforts are divided, our ability to succeed are lessened. As a leader, clarify the vision, the goal, the tasks continually to keep everyone on the same page. As a follower, don’t get sidetracked. While you are on the team, eat, breathe and sleep the same vision. Rowers in a boat will get where they are going faster if everyone is pulling in the same direction, in unison. If someone is pulling against the direction you are going, they need to turn around or get out of the boat (hopefully finding a different boat to row in – no one gets anywhere fast by themselves).
7. Don’t Worry (25-24). As leaders we need to create a stable environment for people. When shaky times come, help them stay on task. Today has enough worries of its own, so keep the “what ifs” at bay and focus on today. Hey, that rhymes! Also, leaders need to plan for eventualities and be prepared for unexpected turn of events, to handle them with calm. Nothing shakes people up more than to see their leader get frazzled or blow their stack.

Leadership, Life & the Sermon on the Mount-Part 1

2009-06-10T09:57:00.000-07:00

I want you to know that at 2 AM I am deeply skilled at Spider Solitaire. I’m just saying.It’s in the crucible of marriage that my skills deepen – I’ve been driven from my bed by the melodic, light snoring of my beloved. Normally, this doesn’t keep me awake, but since my attitude began to slide towards decidedly uncharitable ends, I decided to get up and write what I was dreaming about. See, I went to bed early, driven by my need for quiet (noise was getting under my skin, a pattern?), and I decided to read my Bible first. I consider the following thoughts to be a gift from God for choosing an edifying endeavor over yelling at my family to be quiet (My tongue is in my cheek). :)

I was reading the Sermon on the Mount and “flashed” on how applicable it was to leadership. [Note: I once read the Sermon on the Mount and “flashed” on how it could be read through the sieve of 1 Corinthians 13 at almost every point – that was profound for me, such a practical lesson on what love looks like day to day. But I digress.] I love how Jesus’ words are so completely applicable to our everyday living, and to be challenged by them in the context of leadership is awesome, so here goes, my thoughts on leadership and the Sermon on the Mount. I’ll probably write this in parts, beginning in Matthew, chapter 5. Verses will be noted in parentheses. I’d love your thoughts on the various applications of these verses, so please feel free to share!

LEADERSHIP LESSONS FROM MATTHEW 5

Lead By Example (15-16). “Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven”. The light in you, the gospel of Jesus, is something that is meant for others. It’s meant to be seen, visible in you. So, "who is in your house”? Who is in your everyday life that needs the light?Your life is meant to be an influence to others, to be a living example of Jesus, a light lifted up for all to see. The light becomes VISIBLE through your good works, because that is what people can SEE. Just do it for Him, give Him the glory as His light shines through you. It’s all Him, baby.
Integrity Matters, Practice What You Preach. (19-20). There are two kinds of people here: Both are teaching and leading others, but one breaks the law, the other obeys the law. If we are going to be a light to others, we need to be living in that light ourselves. We can’t point others towards something that is not applied in our own lives – what hypocrisy. Leaders gotta walk the walk. Let your life be a living example.
Leave No Man Behind: Reconcile offenses whenever possible (21-26). In the course of our day we are going to have times when life gets ugly, hurtful, confusing, etc. Offenses happen. When we recognize that somehow we have offended someone, don’t leave them hanging – as a leader, go after them! Jesus said that if He had 100 sheep and one was lost, He’d go after it. Don’t leave a team member swinging in the wind, cut them down! It requires humility in a leader, but you can do it! Reconcile quickly: Don’t ignore problems or gloss over them – they’ll bite you later!
Get Rid of Bad Apples – they’ll spoil they whole bushel (27-30).Sometimes we have a team member who is hurting the team and efforts to reconcile them have proven fruitless [pun intended]. Their bad attitude or negative actions are going to begin to rub off on others. Sometimes we have to cut off the offending member. I know this can be painful for all involved, but it’s necessary. We are charged with bearing good fruit that remains. If we allow the bad to spoil the good, the harvest may be unnecessarily lost. Really, it’s negligent to allow this to happen. Try to save and restore, but when that fails, cut off the spoiled fruit.
Infidelity Breaks Relationships (31-32). Lack of faithfulness, broken promises…infidelity is a tearing of trust in a relationship. On our teams we need to trust each other to fulfill our roles, accomplish our tasks, support and help one another. Be faithful in your dealings as a leader, or your team members will go elsewhere. You’ve worked hard to build relationships on your team, and your follow-through will help retain your members. Build trust by fulfilling your role faithfully.
Leaders Keep Their Word – Integrity (33-37). “Let your yes be yes and your no, no”. Our church is familiar with this story. When our middle child, Nathan, was about 9 years old, we found ourselves in the van after a Sunday meeting, heading to lunch. We had promised the children we’d go to McDonalds for lunch, but when the time came, my husband and I would rather have gone to In-n-Out Burger. We told the children of the change in plans and it got quiet in the car. Then, from the back seat came a quiet, and respectful, voice. “Dad, let your yes be yes and your no, no”. Gulp! We immediately turned around and went to McDonalds for our special combo meal of crow and humble pie. Your team is going to remember what you have promised, so follow through!

That completes thoughts for chapter 5. What has been your experience in these areas?

Tough Decisions, Peace, & Alligators

2009-06-04T08:01:00.000-07:00

Ever wrestle alligators? That's what a friend calls having a hard day dealing with issues, dealing with people. Ever tried it? It's exhausting! No, I haven't wrestled real alligators, but you get my drift. Sometimes the battles we are in seems endless. There are opposing and contradicting forces pulling one way and another, we aren't sure from one day to the next how things are going to end. But then....

When we are torn between two opinions, pulled in different directions, and we have a decision to make, how do we know when we make the right one? Peace. A supernatural peace that goes beyond our own understanding. I've recently spent months and months wrestling alligators in my own life. Then I made a decision, and with that decision, peace flooded my soul. That is nothing less than God.

John 14:27 (NLT) "I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid."

See, the difficulty is that I want to make decisions that God would make - and that isn't always recognizable to me. Sometimes it goes against what I want, what seems logical, etc. But when I make a decision that lines up with His will, His peace comes. A relief from struggle and burden.
Was I sure the decision was the right one? I thought so, but was still wrestling....until I made my decision firm in my heart, and the peace came.

Without the peace, I'd still be wrestling.
So, if you have decisions to make, if you are feeling pulled betwixt and between, choose which way you will go. If peace is not your companion, go back to God because you're not done yet.

And by the way, having His peace doesn't mean I understand it all, doesn't mean I have all the answers, except for one: I'm right where I need to be with God. Beautiful.

Got peace?

How do you handle making tough decisions? Does peace play a factor in the decision-making process, and what is that like?

Staying Centered on the Gospel | TheResurgence

2009-05-28T09:18:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed reading this this morning. Greear provides some great thoughts about how to enter into a day of living a gospel-centered life. You'll enjoy this!

Staying Centered on the Gospel TheResurgence

Nothing I do today can make God love me more or less
God's presence and approval is all I need to have joy today
God's Word for me is true, His intentions for me are blessing....

Michelle

Many gods in San Diego

2009-05-28T08:38:00.000-07:00

Every morning I drive by a large idol of Buddha. It's in a private yard just off the main street. At the "French" bakery this morning I bought croissants for our staff meeting (I try to be nice when really I'm feeling a bit grouchy - the good overcomes the evil) and there were Hindu gods at the cash register and over the door. And private homeowners are not allowed to have Bible studies in their homes without a major use permit or they'll get fined. (I realize that's a bit of an oversimplification - there are parameters and issues about size, parking, etc). Churches in San Diego are regularly denied the possibility of buying property.

Our City needs Jesus. Our City needs Pastors and churches to stay, to continue, to stand and not give up. Our City needs Christians to permeate and influence and flavor society. Where is there evidence that we are here? (Thanking God right now for the crosses on our hills that have been hard-fought for).

Let's lift up Christ. Let's let our light shine. Let's be salty and relevant. Let's love, and learn how to love, our City.

Let's not waste our time in-fighting. Let's not waste our time figuring out how people are wrong, but let's let it be known God is right. Declare the goodness of God! Declare His goodness in your life, tell of His wonderful love! Let it be known who He is and what He has done. Don't let the hinderances and obstacles stop us from BEING CHRISTians. Love Him. Live Him. Share Him.

Christians, Community, Barriers, $.....

2009-05-27T09:17:00.001-07:00

I've got a lot of thoughts percolating about being a Christian, church, and living like a Believer. Since I don't know exactly what I want to tackle first, I thought I'd just hit on the thoughts and see where it will develop later...sorry, but bullets help me order my thoughts....

Lots of talk about "community", what constitutes community, how it achieved/maintained, how it is redefining (potentially) the "church" as we know it. I actually love this line of discussion, and think it's essential for Christ-followers to consider. Things to think about: letting go of traditional church structures; accountability and discipleship; roles and relationships; mission-reaching the lost....One question I have is that time is short and so many people are yet to be reached for Christ - does "community" focus on the believer or can it be intentional and purposeful about introducing others to Christ?
Barriers that exist not just between believers and non-believers, but between Christians! Had some amazing conversations these past months with people from different denominations who have amazing hearts and passion for God, and discovered the barriers we had in communicating (to our Christian brothers) by the words we used. Different definitions for words we commonly use. These men have both the fruits and the gifts of the Holy Spirit evident in their lives, and yet our words created barriers. So: do we shut off conversation because of words we use? Are we willing to converse and learn what our differences are so we can come together? Do we label things in a rigid manner that excludes others? (for example, we often say we are "spirit-filled" because we are baptized in the Holy Spirit and operate in the gifts of the Spirit. But all believers are "spirit-filled", and I know people who would never label themselves this way but who function in the gifts of the Spirit....I've found it is offensive to fellow Christians to say "I am spirit-filled", implying that they are not? Words, wording, definitions....). Do our labels, titles, words create unnecessary barriers between Believers, and what does that say to the world?
Sectarianism. What an ugly word, yet it seems alive and well in church? Sigh. "I belong to this group or this stream" mentality. Holding up one over the other. Yet we are enjoined to lift up Christ - that's our standard. We can enjoy the particular communities we relate in, but can we do it without exclusion? How can we be many different parts of the Body without excluding or demeaning the value of the other? Many in the Body have been stung by rejection in this area.
Politics, $, tradition: allowing either of these to get in the way of authentic relationship? Do I need to say anything?

Oh, that's enough of that for now. I'm excited about the future, actually. There is nothing better than being a follower-after-God, joining in on His plan for this party. I'm excited that when God wired me up for life, He gave me interesting thoughts to think, and I look forward to thinking them for Him. At least my thoughts interest me, lol! :)

And for the record, I love the church - it's His Body! I love the inter-connectiveness that that implies, and the life that is meant to flow from one part to the other. I love that it is an extension of HIM. How awesome is that?

Getting Mean and Nasty

2009-05-20T19:40:00.000-07:00

Is it ever okay to be mean and nasty? Are we ever entitled to be rude? How about demanding or insensitive?

Sigh.

Yes, we can disagree, be disappointed even. We can have strong feelings and opinions. But love is not mean, nasty, rude, demanding, insensitive, negatively critical.....I am disappointed when I find such things in my own life, and it's a terrible disappointment when on the receiving end of it from Christ-followers.

Love lives a Spirit-controlled life, not allowing emotions to override us. Love listens and asks questions instead of passing judgement first. Love responds instead of reacting.

Do I always walk in perfect love? Nope. But I am constantly working on it.
God, give me patience to love those who are struggling with being unlovely, and to remember that they are on a journey as much as I am. As much as I need God's grace, God help me to extend it.

Let's keep the love.

Simplified Missional Living | TheResurgence

2009-05-19T09:49:00.000-07:00

Living like a Christian in 2009. Great article, very accessible and do-able. Dodson shows us that living on purpose for Christ does not have to be complicated. Reaching out doesn't require a degree or special training. Just LIVE your life, don't let it simply happen around you, pulling you in its current. And I think you'll find you enjoy it a whole lot more. What do you think?

Simplified Missional Living TheResurgence

Could it be easier?

Eat with non-Christians - flee the Christian sub-culture
Walk, don't drive - engage!
Be a regular - build relationships
Hobby with non-Christians. Have fun, be yourself
Talk to your co-workers. Work on mission
Volutneer with non-profits. Serve your city
Participate in city events, with the city
Serve your neighbors - be creative

How could your life incorporate such changes? Is there one you could focus on right now to get the change started?

Young Love, Simple Love - Part 2

2009-05-19T09:13:00.000-07:00

....so the journey continues.

During high school I was exposed to prophetic ministry, and was both amazed and scared by it. Thankfully, those I met were genuine and sincere in the Lord, and I only wanted to experience more of God’s voice in my own life. When I reflect on those times of my youth, it seems truly golden, simple and good. Relationship with God was a natural outflow of love.

Labels, Performance, Failures
I’ve thought a lot about the shift I experienced after high school. …..

The pursuit of Him became [unknowingly, innocently] a pursuit of outward manifestations. Perhaps that’s a bit strong of a statement – I still was after Him – yet as I gained “knowledge” of the gifts of the Spirit, and I wanted to grown in them, I unconsciously began to inventory those things in my life. Where before it just was a part of my relationship with God, it then became something I was aware of, conscious of. With this knowledge came judgment. How was I doing? Did I measure up? Did it sound right, look right, etc. The shift was gradual. At times I was surrounded by other young people, passionate for God, reveling in discovering and moving in the gifts God had given us. Unfortunately, being my own harshest critic and judge, I continued to compare myself. Relationship was becoming performance.

How often have we seen someone gloriously come into relationship with God only to become consumed with wanting to experience His gifts. Learning about them, pursuing them, receiving prayer, sometimes tying themself up in a knot to somehow “earn” the gift or "learn" the gift. “If I just do this or that, I’ll have this gift in my life”. As humans we are very comfortable with formulas. 2+2 = 4. That never changes, it’s dependable. Wouldn’t it be great if God worked that way? If we could just jump through this hoop, say these words, in this manner, it will all “work”. Create this atmosphere, play this music, act this way….”Genuine Holy Spirit ministry” looks like ABC. Yet I can’t help but remember….

Walking in the love of heavenly Father, without reproach, free from the burden of sin and thankful for His hand in mine. Living daily in Him. My words and actions informed not by books I had read or words people spoke, but by my simple relationship with Him. He had created me and He knew how to speak my language! I understood His voice without question. I just LIVED in Him.

THAT is beautiful.

All else pales in comparison. It's hollow and exhausting and utterly disappointing otherwise.

How do we lead others into the simple love relationship? I think that is His job. We give opportunity as it comes, as we follow Him in daily life. It’s not contrived, but free. We join together and worship Him. We hear His word together, and we go on our way, living it out. Living it out in daily life. I'm not saying we forgo being intentional about sharing Jesus, but I'm saying that it needs to flow from our relationship with Him.

Can we go back? Can we rediscover such simplicity? I think we can. Maybe if we just let go of all the voices saying “do this or do that”, and simply follow Him.

I am so thankful for all the Christian Sunday School teachers, pastors, and family who have spoken the Word into my life, explained it, lived it, prayed it. For friends who have stretched me in my faith, stretched me in grace. This is not a solo journey we are on, and I continue to believe in the essential of community in this journey. That’s where I was introduced to Him and inspired to seek more of Him.

Have you had some of these struggles?
Where are you on your journey?
What questions does it bring up for you?

Young Love, Simple Love - Part 1

2009-05-19T09:09:00.000-07:00

Been thinking about my faith journey, and it's a long conversation, so I'm going to break it into parts....there's a place I am trying to get to in the conversation, so if you feel like bearing with me....

Confessions of a Believer

I came to the Lord at a young age. It was during a Vacation Bible School that our church hosted during the summer. We gathered for songs, Bible stories, crafts and snacks, and each day there was an opportunity for us to ask Jesus to be the Lord of our Life. I remember the absolute “yes” in my young heart – I wanted Jesus in my life. I responded every day to the altar call, each day passionate to put my hand in His. A kind volunteer took me aside to explain that I only needed to respond one time, that was all it took, but I didn’t care – I wanted to say yes again!

I was an avid reader, so reading the Bible was a pleasure. My mother’s parents gave me my first Bible, a New American Standard version with a puffy brown cover with fancy gold lettering on it. I loved it! I read as much of it as I could. On Sundays I watched and listened in awe as people began to speak in tongues during the services. I was particularly impressed with the Pastors wife, Mrs. Barr. She was like a machine gun, just rattling out this strange yet wonderful language in quick succession….oh, how I wanted to speak in tongues! I read in the Bible about the Holy Spirit, and one quiet day I sat alone in our living room, a patch of sun surrounding me, my Bible on my lap when I asked the Holy Spirit to fill me up and give me this prayer language. I began to speak in tongues on that day, and all I did was ask. God was so good to my young and trusting heart!
Without comprehending what I was doing, I began to experience the flow of the Holy Spirit activated in my life. With my sister, we had “Bible studies” under the playground tree, inviting our friends to hear stories about Jesus. We prayed for a miracle multiplication of cookies in our class one day, (no child wants to be the one responsible for not having brought enough for everyone), and we ended up with leftovers! Several times we had the opportunity to share Jesus with friends on the sports bus, to answer their questions and pray with them. One friend grew up and gave her life wholeheartedly to the Lord. I ran into her in my early 30’s, and she was married to a Christian man and they were serving in youth ministry at their church. God is so good! So often I found myself being faced with people coming and sharing their hearts with me and I would have words of comfort of encouragement for them, even words of discernment or knowledge. This could happen in the cafeteria, on the school bus, at band concerts, after sports games….it was just a regular part of my life. I had no idea there was a name for what I was doing, there was no label, it was just the life flow of the Spirit of God flowing through my heart. I loved God and He loved me! .........more coming

Help for When Your Anxious

2009-05-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

I read this article last week....here's an excerpt. Centuries have gone by....nothing new under the sun!

“As we’ve seen, anxiety arises from an excessive desire to be freed from pressing evil or to obtain some hoped-for good…..Whenever you urgently desire to escape from a certain evil or to attain a certain good, strive above all else to keep a calm, restful spirit. Steady your judgment and will, then go quietly and easily after your goal, taking all the appropriate means to attain it.

By “easily” I don’t mean “carelessly”, but rather without hurry, trouble, or anxiety. Otherwise, instead of obtaining the goal you seek, you will hinder it, adding more and more to your perplexities.

Examine yourself often, at least every morning and night. If your soul has become anxious, make it a priority to bring it quietly back into the presence of God, placing all your hopes and affections under the direction of His holy will.

When you become aware that you are growing anxious, commend yourself to God, as the Apostle Paul urges, and resolve firmly not to take any steps whatever to obtain the result you desire until your disturbed state of mind is altogether quieted. Of course, this is the approach to take uness it’s necessary to do something without delay. In that case, you must restrain yourself from acting impulsively, even when you must act immediately.

Frances De Sales 1567-1622, a bishop of Geneva, Switzerland, was well known as a preacher and writer.
.Discipleship Journal, May/June 2009, Issue 171, “Soul Disturbance”, p. 66

I love that he talks about waiting on the Lord AND going after your goals. We tend to think that "goals" are new, are business....yet this preacher, hundreds of years ago, gets it!
I also love that he talks about taking "appropriate means" to attain your goal - go after it! People think waiting on the Lord is inactivity, waiting for God to move, to drop the answer from the sky, into the lap....yet we have to move forward, take a step.

Did you like this?

The Life Church Rocks!

2009-05-04T09:18:00.000-07:00

Wow. I am sitting here this morning amazed at the light that shines out of the people I do life with. There is such immense faith, creativity and courage in their hearts. Their response to hard things emboldens me, lifts me up. How do they respond?

Quickly and postively
Creatively
Strategically
Seeing beyond the moment to the future
With vision and passion
Tenacity
Courage
Not looking behind

There is such love in the heart of our church family, amazing, courageous, stalwart love. WOW! I am especially grateful for those who see beyond, who have caught something in their spirit for the future. Thank you, God, for this amazing group of people we call The Life Church!

Lessons Learned When a Church is Growing

2009-04-21T09:05:00.000-07:00

I was asked what lessons I've learned while helping to lead a church that has been experiencing growth - a big question! I'll try to give you 10.

1. Growth hurts. It stretches and challenges us beyond our comfort zone, making room for greater capacity. If we try to avoid these symptoms, we won't grow and our capacity will be diminished.

2. Growth is scary. It involves risk. But with risk comes great adventure! Risk achieves what others thought was impossible.

3. Growth tests our commitment. Relationships, motivations, and attitudes will be tested, and the refining process brings out the highest quality gold.

4. Success involves failure. We don't like failure, but we learn from it. It constantly pushes us to God to assess ourselves, to renew our dreams, to expand our creativity - He is the ultimate source and end of all we do. God is endless in possibilities, hope, creativity, opportunity.....

5. We need positive, believing, hope-filled, creative people around us. They breathe life, speak life, see the potential, the possibilities, and they dream. The nay-sayers, the "realists", the offended, the negative and critical sap all vitality, creativity, hope and nourishment - it's like killing a young plant before it has the opportunity to become firmly established.

6. Good fruit rocks! Celebrate it all over the place, no matter how small. See the good, advertise the good, focus on the good, lift it up and let it shine. Shout out what God is doing. Problems always exist, but they can't be our focus. People will be drawn to what God is doing, and how will they know unless we tell them?

7. God is in charge. He's firmly in control and our journey belongs to Him, leads to Him. Therefore our trust must be firmly rooted in Him at all times.

8. When I can't, God can.

9. Rejoicing is a choice. I must choose to rejoice, choose not to be distracted from it, choose to seek the joy and express it as best I can.

10. Growing a Church is about growing the Body of Christ. We choose to do it in an organized setting which meets weekly - but our purpose is One. To lift up Christ, to help others be drawn into relationship with Him, to grow in relationship with Him. He is what we are all about.

There. 10 things I've learned and am still learning.

What Kind of Faithfulness Do We Have?

2009-04-21T08:37:00.000-07:00

We are very proud to call ourselves "the church", to take on the identity of Christ's body, removing ourselves from the perceived stigma of simply being an organized entity. "I don't go to church, but we are the church". But if the distinction is so precious to us, do we really contemplate what it means?

If we are Christ's body, we are in sacred union with GOD. I don't know about you, but in my mind and heart, this is no small matter.

I read a book recenty on marriage, and I was struck by the similarities between the struggles in marriage and struggles in the Church. It is grievous that the Church has statistically eclipsed the world's divorce rate - we are now leading the pack - and the reasons for divorce mirror some of the issues that the Church experiences on a regular basis.

Some reasons given for divorce:

God told me to leave my spouse (yes, people actually have said this)
Marriage is just an institution, and I want relationship
I'm just not happy in this relationship
You are holding me back from succeeding (amazing)
I've been seeing someone else (also a common problem)
I've changed, my needs have changed
You've changed and I don't like change
It's too hard to stay
I've wasted my time in this relationship
This relationships isn't exciting enough

...same reasons people give for leaving a church

You get the drift. We can all find ways to try and justify unfaithfulness, and we can sound self-righteous while doing so. But when a covenant relationship is entered into, it's for keeps. Perhaps the permissibility of divorce within our Church culture, and the underlying lack of faithfulness, is the root of the same struggle for faithfulness in the Church? It is so much easier to give up, move on, or make an exchange than to do the nitty gritty hard work of keeping a relationship together. Will it always get better if you try? No. Does that excuse the covenant made?

The devastation of divorce is real, and there is a devastation in Churches when they experience faithflessness. I'm often saddened by the callousness of people to the pain Churches, Pastors, leaders and friends experience as a result of faithflessness - but I can't say I'm surprised.

Can we turn the tide? Can we reverse the trend of divorce in the Church? Can we strengthen the faithfulness of peoples hearts in relationship to one another? I believe it is possible - anything is possible if we believe. So we will continue, one marriage, one relationship at a time. And in the meantime, I'll be checking my own heart.

Musings on Justice, Mercy & Faith

2008-11-19T09:11:00.001-08:00

Jesus said that "Justice, mercy and faith" were the weightier elements of the Law that were being neglected by the Pharisees.

What is justice and how is it executed? Who is responsible for it? Is it always paired with mercy and compassion?

We know that we are to be just. Noah was referred to for our example as a just (lawful, righteous) man.

"He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" Micah 6:8

We are to be just in our business dealings and in our relationships with others (doing what is naturally, morally or legally right; showing equity).

We are justified (made innocent; righteous) by faith in Christ. We can't do it of ourselves.

Justice refers to making things right.
And it is often paired with mercy.

Isaiah 58:6-7 speaks of justice, of fasting to "loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, to let the oppressed go free that you may break every yoke...to share your bread with the hungry and that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; when you see the naked, that you cover him....." Justice and mercy.

The greatest mercy we have ever received was that while we were steeped in sin, Christ came and died for us. The greatest violence in the name of justice was the violence that Christ received to Himself to make us just/right/innocent of our sin. Christ brought justice through His blood, once for all. I do not need violence to bring justice. Christ already did that. I need to do justly, do what is right, be innocent and love mercy.

I can bring justice to the world by doing justly in my corner of it. I can uphold justice by my choices, attitudes, actions, and speech. And I can do it with mercy, the same mercy Christ showed me. Humbly before God.

The horrible truth is, Christ will come back to execute final justice. At that point all will be judged, both the just and unjust. Until that time, how great a charge we have to bring Christ's justice to each and every person, that they have the opportunity to believe on Him and be saved by faith. I cannot force justice on anyone. But I can show it, live it, think it, speak it. Humbly before God.

Am I walking justly? Treating others right? Am I standing for justice? Making just choices? Am I loving mercy? Am I relying on Christ's justice or seeking my own? Am I in humility?

more to think on....

Presumption

2008-11-19T08:34:00.000-08:00

You know when you read the Bible and a verse causes you to pause and tremble, when the fear of God, an awareness of Who He Is, rises within in you? That moment which causes you to say "Lord, is that me? Keep me!"? It leaves me trembly inside. I read such a verse this morning.

"Who can understand his errors? Cleanse me from secret faults. Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, and I shall be innocent of great transgression". Psalm 19:12-13

I often pray and ask God to shine His light on my heart that nothing hidden can remain there, so I'm not nervous about secret sins (the Bible does remind us that NOTHING stays hidden). But what are "presumptuous sins", and how can they rule over us?

Numbers 15:30-31 says "But the person who does anything presumptuously...that one brings reproach on the Lord, and he shall be cut off from among his people. Because he has despised the word of the Lord, and has broken His commandment, that person shall be completely cut off; his guilt shall be upon him".

This tells me a few things about presumption:
1) We can be presumptuous about anything. Big or small, I can act presumptuously.

2) Presumption brings a reproach on the Lord. That word "reproach" means 'to hack with words'. It means 'revile; blaspheme'. That's what my presumption does!

3) It ends up hurting me and others around me. Not only will I be cut off, alone with myself, but others are deprived of the good measure I have been given to share with them. Presumption isolates me from others and stops my ability to share with them.

4) It means that I have despised the word of the Lord. I have gone my own way. Pride and arrogance. I've not sought what He would say, but have done what I thought was right.

5) Presumption is a sin, it breaks His commandments.

6) It adds guilt to me.

So, as I began to repent before God, I asked Him to show me what it looks like.
That moment when I don't stop to consider what His word says, to seek His counsel, but do what is right by my own knowledge, understanding or experience. When I lean on me. When I follow my emotions or what is "right for me". When I know something (a thought, attitude, or deed) is wrong, but I hold onto it anyway. When I allow sin to reign in me, presuming on the grace of God. When I don't change. When I stand in God's place and judge others harshly as if I know all that is to be known. When I don't read my Bible, but skate on grace. When I read only a portion of the word and stand on it's narrow ledge, forsaking the breadth of God's counsel.

Presumption presumes that we know what God would do, yet the Bible tells us that His ways are unsearchable. He doesn't operate the way we do. I can be all kinds of "right", yet fall into presumption. And such sin begins to control us when we fail to submit ourselves to the Word. That is why it is so vital for us to read the Bible, to let it wash over us and convict, challenge, cleanse and heal us. It shines a light on the way we should go. It does the most thorough of "heart checks".

Lord, "keep me from presumptuous sins", and let Your word do it's work in us.

Pet Peeves and Things I Love

2008-10-15T20:28:00.000-07:00

I'm always hesitant to put pet peeves out there, but thought maybe if I also put what I love out there....maybe it will be cathartic. These are in no particular order, and may be repetitive and it is not exhaustive...

Peeve: People who have something to say but nothing to contribute.

Pleasure: People who get it done.

Peeve: People saying "God told me" as a rationalization or justification, yet they have no Biblical support for such a claim. Does God contradict Himself? Do we find support in His Word to back up what He is saying to us now? I should hope so!

Pleasure: The wealth of the word that brings a richness and depth to God's voice, that resonates when a person shares, causing the living word to come alive.

Peeve: When pride trumps experience (in people's attitudes and mindsets)

Pleasure: When humility trumps experience (in people's actions and words)

Peeve: People using relationship to attain a platform (or looking at people as objects to speak into and thus gain a platform)

Pleasure: People caring more about people than platforms.

Peeve: Hidden judgements and critical comments and attitudes that erode the good

Pleasure: Undercurrents of unity, pleasure, rejoicing together in common purpose.

Peeve: Closed ears and proud hearts in Christians

Pleasure: Ears that hear and hearts that rejoice, seeking the good, advertising it and sharing it.

Peeve: Excusing unrepentant sin because of charisma or gifting.

Pleasure: Gentle, persistent, loving restoration that doesn't give up but continues to believe God for a turnaround.

To the Peeve's out there: I have been there. I occasionally still visit there. There's no ill will, it just makes my stomach turn when I see it in myself or anyone else.

To the Pleasures: out there: Keep rocking it!

Politics & Religion

2008-10-14T17:12:00.000-07:00

Even writing the title of this makes me cringe. Do these words even go together? I was contemplating Jesus' take on politics, the dominion mindset some Christians have, etc., and I have not spent time developing this, but it's just my thought process.....

Jesus came for ONE purpose - to seek and save the lost, utterly destroying the work of the enemy through the redeeming power of the cross and His resurrection. He deliberately avoided getting caught up in the political turmoil of the times (both in and out of the church) and kept His focus on loving people into the Kingdom. He preached the gospel to them, prayed for them, fed them, etc...and left the decisions up to them. If they chose not to follow Him, He shook the dust off His feet and went on. He continued on His mission to show us how to live out life in Him, to all who would hear.

What's amazing is that He did not react and point the finger and judge those who chose not to follow Him. He didn't criticize or demean. He wasn't mean-spirited. He just moved on to the next town. His fierce judgement was for those in the "church" who were politicizing and profiteering off of the people instead of leading them into the love and grace of God.

The Father's heart was His only agenda. Now that's straight talk! Now that is true change!

So in a time of political debates and elections, there are tremendous wranglings over who is the "right one" to vote in, which party is "better", etc. There are the harsh words for the "other side" (whichever one that is for you). Neither side treats the other any better than the other. We gleefully spout our judgements over our neighbors and their "wrongness", all the while neglecting the heavier weight of the law: Loving our neighbors. When the elections are over, a soul still hangs in the balance. When the elections are over, will our witness be destroyed by playing politics?

Don't get me wrong - we should fulfill our duty to vote, and do so informed and in good conscience to our beliefs and values.

But must we destroy our witness to the world in the process? Who wants to hear of God's love and grace from people who don't exemplify it in daily life? Sigh. Humility is required of every man. God loved US when we were steeped in sin, and gave His Son as a sacrifice for our sins. He continues to love us when we err, when we stray. God loves McCain and God loves Obama. God loves the neighbor who believes differently. God loves Muslims and homosexuals. God loves fornicators and adulterers, liars and the proud. God loves you. He loves me. Our job is to love Him back and to share His love with others. What they do with it is between them and God. But we never give up loving. 1 John says how can we say we love God and hate our brother? Can love and hate spring from the same well?

Love. Love and don't give up loving. Share the gospel in word and deed. Exemplify God's love the best you can every day. And when we fail at love, forgive and exemplify that. Let's put down the pointing finger and harsh judgements and let God stand in His rightful place (i.e. we need to get out of His way and let Him be the judge).

Love. Don't let politics and religion suck you down and miss the simplest truth there is to live by....

A new schedule takes so much time...

2008-09-20T20:08:00.000-07:00

...and it takes such effort to reconfigure your head around how to get done what needs to get done.

The kids going to school is both a blessing and a curse. Strong language, I know, but it's true, ha ha. It's so great to see them enjoying being with their friends, experiencing new things and all that. In fact, sometimes after we drop the older two off, we sit and watch them walk away from us, so smart looking in their uniforms, looking so old, and we wonder if those are really our kids. Until the youngest asks if we can go yet. :) It's so great to see the confidence that has blossomed in them during last year's homeschooling experiment. And how great to see such a positive outcome!

But then I resent the time school takes away from our family. It demands its own schedule and tries to supercede the family's schedule at every turn. Hate that! There's enough of life trying to do that already. I want to be able to prioritize family and church, then school. Unfortunately, I can't do that to the degree I would like, so I get to be creative and that means I have to be on MY game and think ahead and plan and execute.....understanding the curse part?

Another area of new scheduling is at work. With staff changes we are having to redefine our daily in and out roles in the office, and it is a real stretch to walk through. The good side is that we don't have to be the ones to do so many things, and we can have actual family time with the children on the weekend,...but after so many years of functioning in "work" mode, we are having to rediscover how to have fun as a family. Isn't that sad? We were talking today about having to plan the re-learning of it. Our fun is so often mixed up with work, and truthfully, we like it that way most of the time. But the kids are getting older, and so are we. In the long run, we'll be healthier in body and spirit, stronger, for the changes being made, but God, help us make the changes! :)

Kinda brings tears to my eyes, re-reading this paragraph. I am so thankful to God for the pieces that have fallen into place around us. There is such an open door for this time, and I know God is at work, that destiny is being shaped. And not just for us..............

TLC: Live with Vision

2008-08-30T09:46:00.000-07:00

People underestimate the power of having a clear vision to live by, work towards, dream of. I'm amazed by how often we allow life to suck us up and wring us out in the day to day minutae of activity, caught up in doing what the day dictates. What would happen if we took our lives back?

Now, before launching into visionary thoughts, let's consider common mistakes we make: our visions tend to be self-centered, closed off and limited. Ouch! I discovered this while doing a vision exercise at our church. We were encouraging people to have vision for their lives, to create "dream books" about what they were believing for. No matter what age we worked with, there were two common responses. First, there were those who had never ever given thought to such things. They had no dream or vision for their life. It was neat to watch them begin to consider the possibilities. Some were scared at first, and some had been living a vision but just hadn't clearly identified it.

Secondly, there were always those whose dream books were all about what they wanted for themselves. The car, the spouse, the house, the stuff. They hadn't reached the point of seeing beyond themselves in the process. We all go through those stages.

I believe that when we can identify a vision that goes beyond ourselves, that is not easy to achieve but challenges us and challenges the walls of limitation we have lived in - that is true vision. Let it be large and vibrant! Dare to dream! Vision always needs to be broken down into bite-size chunks. There are steps you are going to take on the journey, but you need to know what you are running for!

At The Life Church, Mission Bay, we have a vision. Simply put, it is Encounter, Equip, Engage. We believe that this church, a part of San Diego for 30 years now, is here for a purpose that will touch not only our personal lives, but the lives of those around us and abroad.

ENCOUNTER
It is essential that we be able to encounter the living God, to come into a close and sustained intimacy of relationship with Him. As a church we facilitate these encounters through the preaching of the word, worship and prayer. These elements are woven into all that we do. We desire to know God more and more!

EQUIP
Being in relationship with God is only the beginning. Living the activated life of a Believer, being a Disciple of Jesus, is key for us. We encourage all believers to grow in their faith and understanding of the Bible, God's words to us. We also get excited about helping others find out how specially made they are: an amazing mix of temperment, gifts , abilities and experiences that work together to be a tremendous blessing to those around you!

ENGAGE
Knowledge is nothing if it is not used. Believing is not real if it is not put into action, tested, activated. Nothing it more thrilling than for us to stand on the foundation of our relationship with God, prepared to use what God has given us, and launch out to touch others with the gospel of Jesus Christ. We are believing for a massive paradigm shift - that the Church will see that no matter where she goes or what she does, she is a disciple of Christ. We see a bold and passionate people influencing their workplaces, neighborhoods and families with the love and power of God. Partnering with God to reach those who are lost in darkness and bring them into His marvelous light, seeing them saved from sin, healed from infirmities of body and soul, and delivered from bondages. A people no longer living for themselves but for something greater, SomeONE greater!

We don't believe in wasting time. Times are moving quickly now, hastening forward...let's not waste it. If you are joined together with The Life Church in commitment of relationship, then run with us. Let's go forward together. We have somewhere exciting to go!

Lakeland had made me think

2008-08-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

Friends told us yesterday of a ministry on the other side of the world that just revealed hidden sin and deceptions of a grand scale that truly has stunned their community. This can be disheartening to continue to see such things in the Body of Christ. It is a disease that cannot be ignored, it kills a Body that is mean to be glorious. Despite the negatives, I think we are on the brink of a GLORIOUS OPPORTUNITY, for the Bride to truly rise up and shine in all of her beauty. To shake off the sin that has entangled her, to no longer be impressed with outward appearances, but to seek the "truth in the inward parts".

Psalm 118:8 "It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man".

Now is the time for us to finally get this - to stop elevating and promoting each other, and to elevate and promote the Lord. To not be concerned about our "rights and authority" in Christ, but to let God exercise His. To lift Him up. (I am secure in the authority I have in Christ because I know it is not mine, but His).

I think we sometimes fall into the trap of having such long-held dreams and desires to see God move in certain ways, that we fail to be discerning. I know for myself that at times I can assert that I want God to be in charge and move how He wants to move, yet in my heart I am expecting this or that. We hold on to expectations and judgments of how we think it should look or sound if it is really 'anointed'. Really? Can we really know the mind and ways of God so absolutely? Lord, help us.

Church, let go! Read the word, pray and cry out to the Lord, petition heaven, mix the word with faith and run forward! Declare HIM and His goodness. The future lies before us full of His promise. I believe God wants to establish His reputation - not ours. Are we really ready for that? Lift up the name of the Lord! Let's continue to believe God for true revival!

"Because they do not change therefore they do not fear the Lord" Ps. 55:19

That won't be us! We will learn from our mistakes and move forward in the fear of the Lord.

Lift up the name of the Lord and praise His wonderful name!
His beauty and majesty are known in the heavens and the earth,
Glory and honor are His.
He alone is the King Eternal,
Forever.
He will be praised.
Exalt the name of the Lord,
Lift Him up!

Truth in the Inward Parts

2008-08-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

The truth can hurt. It can be ugly. It can be freeing.
The Bible says that God "desires truth in the inward parts" of us. We aren't supposed to hide our stuff, deny it or run from it. Rats.

Of course, reading that was like shining a light on "stuff" in me. I like to think that my reaction to acknowledging my "Stuff" is normal - what everyone else would do - I want to run from it. Forget about it.

"Fearfulfness and trembling have come upon me, and horror has overwhelmed me. So I said, "Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest. Indeed, I would wander far off and remain in the wilderness. I would hasten my escape from the windy storm and tempest". (Ps. 55:5-8) Yep, that's me.

But if I run, the stuff just stays in place, perhaps grows more entrenched, and I really do want to be free from it. We all have "stuff". Areas of weakness in our hearts where we are vulnerable (attitudes are biggies). There are times where I empathize with the Apostle Paul as He cries to God to remove the thorn in his flesh - he is tired of dealing with it.

V. 22 says "Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved". "When I cry out to You, then my enemies will turn back; this I know because God is for me....In God I have put my trust" (Ps. 56:9-10).

I know, am convinced, that God is for me. He doesn't bash me with my "stuff". He forgives it. I am standing in the righteousness of Christ, and God will not permit me to be moved because I am His. Beautiful.

So, I desire truth - bring it on. But God, have mercy upon me and deliver me!

Gonna do a little freedom dance now.....

Fathers and Children

2008-08-16T09:22:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 17:6 says "the glory of children is their father".

Think on that!

I had just been thinking about all the men I have heard or read about in recent days who have had moral failings and have either left their families or who continue to make a mess of things. All of these men, some in politics and some in ministry, have families. Wives and children. Where is the glory for these children?

If I was a man, this alone would give me great pause to consider what I wanted in life. Is it better to have the trappings of "success" or to bring glory to your children? At the end of life, would your rather your children say "he was a great success" or to say "he was a great father"? What inheritance are you leaving for them?

One of the men who has been in the public eye for his failures said that his celebrity had caused him to become egocentric (his word) and that he didn't think the rules of right and wrong applied to him, that he wouldn't get caught. I was amazed at the candor of the statement. It is quite a truth to realize about ourselves: the more centered we are on ourselves, the less we see how our actions affect others, the more calloused we become to the consequences.

In stark contrast, we can see the way our Heavenly Father is and live by His example as One who "is a glory to His children". He marks our lives with glory, with blessing, with honor, with all of His goodness because He is a good Father.

That's a lot to live up to. Perhaps fathers can simply begin with the desire to live their lives in such a way as to bring glory to their children. Sounds like a good start to me. And may every father know that you are not alone in this, but God, in all His power, might, and goodness, is with you. God bless you!

Inheritance

2008-08-16T09:05:00.000-07:00

Just say the word "inheritance" and our eyes light up and our pulse beats just a bit faster. It's a word filled with expectation of good things, of blessings you didn't have before, of generosity. To be included in an inheritance, it's filled with possibilities.

But funny creatures that we are, we tend to jump from the end of humbly and thankfully receiving what wasn't ours to begin with, to licking our chops and looking for the best cut to consume for ourselves.

No, no one I know has died. But I read Psalm 47:4 and it says that God "will choose our inheritance for us".

What struck me immediately was an embarassingly fleshly reaction. "He chooses it? But I want to choose it for myself". There it was, laid frighteningly bare - I thought I could choose the best for myself, that I would do a better job than my loving Father, that somehow His best for me wouldn't equate with what I wanted. Selfish creature.

Scripture makes it clear that our loving Father desires to give us the best gifts. He is omniscient, and knowing all, He is more than able to make the best choice to bless my life. And since when did we begin to think of our spiritual inheritance as a goody bag of treats that we get to choose from? "I want great faith. I want miracles. I want riches. I want.....". In our minds we know that HE is the greatest inheritance we have, but still we want....

Inheritance isn't a goody bag. Death is required. Usually, to receive an inheritance, someone has to die, and Christ died to give us an inheritance of eternal life with God. Would I rather plead with God for the inheritance that I think I want, like the prodigal son? Or will I trust the God who "will choose our inheritance for us, the excellence of Jacob whom He loves"?

He loves us. Let's love Him back and let Him pour out His blessings, receiving with thankful hearts and great joy His love poured out into our lives in endless creativity, variety, and generosity. God is good!

When Favor is No Longer Evident

2008-08-13T07:56:00.000-07:00

Have you ever experienced the favor of God? When all of life seems blessed and is going in the right direction? Have you ever been given promotion beyond your expectation? Favor is a fun ride!

Psalm 44 talks about God's favor and how it has,

brought us into possession of the promises He has given us
Saved us
Pushed down our enemies
Put to shame those who hated us

"In God we boast all day long, and praise Your name forever".

BUT...."what about now"? We may have experienced favor in the past (hours, days, months, years), but now the tables seem turned:

we retreat v. advance
we are shamed and taken advantage of
we are divided, possibly left on our own
people hate us and mock us

Ever been there? Things were going so good, the favor was exciting, but now it all seems to be going wrong.

BUT..."We have not forgotten You, nor have we dealt falsely with Your covenant. Our heart has not turned back, nor have our steps departed from Your way."

As Christians, we have known the blessing and favor of God in our lives, in our Nation. Yet today, we increasingly find ourselves hated, mocked and persecuted. This happens in the media, the court systems, schools, business....We have become safe targets to shoot at. Remember that old hair color commercial, "Don't hate me because I'm beautiful"? Perhaps the change is in part because of the favor itself.

Perhaps the change is because we started taking credit for what God had done for us and began to move in our own strength.

No matter the reason, the Bible is clear that if we humble ourselves, pray and seek Him, turning back (repenting), then He moves. In a sense, we take our hands off and make way for Him to come again and show Himself strong to the praise of HIS glory.

Do you find yourself in a time of favor? Praise Him! Keep the praise going UP! Be diligent to follow hard after Him and see great things accomplished far beyond what you could think or imagine.

In a time of trouble? Make room for Him to move again. ..."We have not forgotten You, nor have we dealt falsely with Your covenant. Our heart has not turned back, nor have our steps departed from Your way." Call upon the name of the Lord and be saved. Guard your heart and remain diligent to trust God.

"...for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content...." (Phil. 4:11).

May His strength bring you through, no matter where you are.

The Fruits of Righteousness

2008-08-12T08:25:00.001-07:00

Well, to continue on the subject of fruits, today I read Proverbs 12 - what a great Proverb, so much to chew on.

Sunday, I talked about the Fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, Galatians 5:22-23), and touched briefly on the Fruits of Repentance and the Fruits of Righteousness. Proverbs 12 talks about the fruits of righteousness. I call it the "root fruit" chapter. :0)

Here are some of the fruits of righteousness:

Immovability. (V. 3) says the "root of the rightoues cannot be moved". See Phil 3:9 and Isaiah 11:10.
Right Thoughts (v.5)
A House that will Stand/endure, not be overthrown (v.7)
Kindness to animals (v. 10)
Fruit (v.12), see Galatians 5:22-23, Matt. 7:15-20
Safety (v.13) "But the righteous will come through trouble"! - In particular I believe the verse is saying that because the righteous know how to hold their tongue, speak wisely, etc., they are going to be saved from a whole lot of trouble. Amen!
"No grave trouble will overtake the righteous" (v.20)

GOOD STUFF! That is some fruit that I am interested in having.

Even better, it is not our own righteousness that brings this good fruit, but living in the righteousness of Christ, "being found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith." Philippians 3:9

Sometimes the path of seeing the fruit developed is not fun (Hebrews 12:3-11) as God trains us as sons, but in the end it "yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness".

Hmmmmm, how is my fruit looking today?

Gifts, Fruit, & Reconciliation

2008-08-11T08:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had the honor of my husband sharing the pulpit, allowing me the privelege of sharing the Word with the Body. Part of that message (available at lcmb.org for free downloads), was that FRUIT is who we are, GIFTS are what we do. I shared about the importance of the fruit of the Spirit to be cultivated in our lives, creating a firm foundation for the gifts of the Spirit to be added on to as they are given to us. Fruit can be cultivated, gifts are received....but you can listen to the message for more of this.

So today, I was contemplating these things, gifts and fruit, and was reminded of Matt 5 where Jesus is talking about being reconciled with offended brothers. He says "Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First, be reconciled to your brother and then come and offer your gift".

Our gifts cannot be rightly given when there is not reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:18 says that God "has given us the ministry of reconciliation", that just as Christ has reconciled us to Himself, we are to now live in the same manner.

So this causes me to ask myself - "Have my gifts eclipsed my ministry of reconciliation? Are my gifts being used to foster reconciliation"?

As a believer, I am embarassed when those who have received beautiful gifts from God refuse reconciliation. When ministries experience success because of their giftings, yet are not humble to be reconciled with those who are offended by them, this is not love, but arrogance? The attitude seems to be that the gifting somehow implies a "pass" on having to explain ourselves.

I heard a testimony recently of a minister I deeply respect, giving a "pass" to a fellow minister because of the personal relationship they had. Because he knew the man personally, he was asking others to also give him a "pass", to trust his judgement. There was no scriptural foundation for the "pass" offered, just personal experience, which may or may not be valid. And yet the man in question has done little, if anything, to reconcile the offenses against himself. Now, I know that we are not to hold offenses in the first place, but as ones entrusted with the gifts given, we have a responsibility to lives of reconciliation, whether we think the offense is justified or not.

As a ministry, I should be willing to lay open my finances to give an account to those who are offended by what they see. I should be willing to explain the foundation upon which I base my ministry. I have nothing to hide and desire that all men be edified. I cannot hide behind my gifting. The gifts God has given do not make me "special". Gifts are given to all for the edification for all. I am already special because Christ, though I was dead in my trespasses and sin, died for me, that I might be reconciled to Him. He set His heart upon me before the foundation fo the world!

So what about us? The "every-day believer"? Let's endeavor to not hide behind the gifts God has given us, but to live lives of reconciliation with God and man. This will take courage, humility, and grace to lay ourselves open in this way, but Jesus said that it is possible (not easy, but possible)! Are you ready to look in the mirror? I'll go first....

Get Real

2008-08-04T14:03:00.000-07:00

Can we just tell the truth? Why do we feel the need to hide instead? People hide behind justifications (for Christians, these are often couched in Christian-ese), or we may even hide by not communicating. If I say nothing, then I can avoid confrontation, conflict, or simply keep things simply the way I like it without interference from others (otherwise known as control).

Is a relationship hurt by failing to tell the truth?

Sometimes Christians hide from telling the truth (or being true) in a cloak of spiritual endeavors, verbage, piety. Yet, The Sermon on the Mount is filled with practical applications for true relationships, and none of it is spiritually-coated avoidance. How often would we rather 'pursue God' rather than deal with our relationships. We can pray for people, but do those people know you care? Have they experienced true relationship with you?

As Believers, we should be different - not because we use spiritual words or do spiritual activities, but because we are changed. I guess we all have a long way to go.

Hard Work & Good Fruit

2008-07-30T07:40:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here this morning with sore muscles. We have spent the past 3 days preparing our building for new carpeting - completing painting projects, pulling staples and tack strips from the floor, etc. We have more to do, but have been really blessed with the friends who have joined with us in the effort, and I have observed several things from the experience.

First, friends are awesome. Friends you didn't even know you had, even better!

Second, those who embrace the camaraderie of such efforts seem happier than those who don't. These people have jobs and lives outside of what we are doing at the building, yet they are there, smiling, laughing, enjoying being a part of what is changing. Of course, we all can have days when work just seems like work, but how much more satisfying to enjoy what you are doing, and what a blessing to enjoy those you are working with! I had some great conversations with people while I worked, and got to pray for some as well.

Third, children are able to work hard, and they can do so with enjoyment! I watched 5 children, ages 9-14 spend the last few days doing hard, tedious, necessary work, and they found the joy in it. Let us be like little children.

Fourth, my husband rocks.

Fifth, I learned a little bit more about why I am working this hard. When our leadership said "Yes, this is the way we will go" in January, when they gave their commitment to the vision we are running in, I bought in wholeheartedly, and I'm not looking back. I see something that goes beyond the "reality" around me. I see the future, I have expectancy, I see ahead to what God is doing. When we started the renovations on our building, I gave myself to it because I believe what God has said and I am committed to be here for the long haul - and the changes need to be done.

Sixth, my husband rocks. Did I say that already?

I gotta get ready to go - the carpet installers come today....the fruit of our labor is coming. First the natural, then the spiritual....

Fools, Liars, & Lazy People

2008-07-26T08:30:00.000-07:00

I learned a couple of things from Proverbs 26 this morning. As bad as it is to be a fool - and they don't paint a pretty picture here - it is worse to be lazy! V.12 says "Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him." V. 16 continues, "The lazy man is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who can answer sensibly". Ouch! I also found it interesting that in the first 12 verses' discussion of a fool, there is, in v. 2, a verse about curses. "Like a flitting sparrow, like a flying swallow, so a curse without cause shall not alight". I love this verse because I have always taken comfort that curses can't touch me if I don't open the door for them. What I hadn't considered was how my "foolishness" can be one of those doors! What kind of foolishness? Well, the proverb lists: being wise in my own eyes (have done that before); repeats his folly (yep, have done that before too). God help us all.

The end of the Proverb describes one who hates as a liar/deceiver. I had never thought about how deceit can go hand in hand with hating. Hate is such a strong word, a horrible word. Perhaps it means simply this: when we lie, we are hiding the truth of who we are, that we don't love - ourselves, others, a situation. Hate is me-focused. Love is other-focused. Lying, hating, are all about "me". Hate does not care for the truth, it hides from it, just as lying does.

But love....love believes and hopes and advertises the good. It looks for the truth and proclaims it, puts it on display. And I'm not talking about our versions of the truth, but The Truth. We would do well to weigh our 'truth' against the full weight of the Word of God.

Here's some truth: God loves us all. Christ died and rose again because that love was greater than anything we have done wrong, and He continues to desire relationship with each and every one of us. Maybe if we all focused on that Truth, sharing that Truth, living in that Truth, the world would be a better, more joyful, content place.

Let's not get distracted - let's try to truly live in The Truth.

The Challenge: Love Without Expectation

2008-07-26T07:49:00.000-07:00

Love without expectation. I read that phrase this last week, and I was challenged by how often I, we, love with expectation. We give love when everything is how we want it to be, we withhold love when our expectations are not met. I was challenged in my own heart with scenarios where I've been let down by this one or that one, where expectations have not been met or have been disregarded (seemingly so casually - which I don't get. I'm so hard-wired to keep my commitments...). Sometimes my disappointment is on behalf of others (which technically would be called "picking up an offense" which is none of my business). Do I withhold love in these situations because I am disappointed in them? Or do I love without expectation?

God loves ME without expectation. Until I grasp that, it is hard for me to do the same. This is a continual work in progress for me. However, I do it naturally with my children. I love them no matter what. There are things they do which may cause me not to trust them or like them temporarily, but I never stop deeply caring for and loving them. I can't fathom that. Can I love others the same way?

With God, when I accept His love without expectation, I am then free to be. To be who I am, to do what I do. That's where my actions, my work, my effort can flow freely, without expectation, but with expectancy. Expectancy of the end result. Expectancy of the joy it will bring. Expectancy of the satisfaction my contribution will make. Expectancy of a job well done. Expectancy of the love that will be felt. Expectancy of the "this is my daughter in whom I am well pleased".

When I feel disappointed or let down, I will love anyway. I will believe the best. This will be a challenge. When I feel irritated or upset, I will ask myself, "Is it because of some expectation I had?" and I will let go and love anyway.

This doesn't let people off the hook for what they do wrong, but it lets me off the hook for suffering from their sin. Whoa. When I am angry when others fail in what is expected, I am the one who suffers for their sin. I suffer enough with my own sin, why would I want to suffer with someone elses?

Let's try to live and love without expectation, but with expectancy. That sounds a whole lot happier way to live. [I have to admit, my nature is not yet perfected because I struggle with the thought "nothing will get done then", but I am trusting that true love begets true action, and that as I love truly, I will see the fruit of it in my life and in others]. In the meantime, I am going to receive true love, give true love, act in true love - the best that I can as I grow in love.

Up for the challenge?

The Kingdom and Power of God

2008-07-22T08:08:00.000-07:00

I love how, in the Bible, David doesn't shy away from sharing his real feelings with us. In Psalm 22:1 he says, "Why are you so far from helping me?". Ever feel that way? But no matter what our circumstance looks like, no matter what we are feeling, we are given a key in the next verses for seeing a change happen.

(vv.3-4) But You are holy, enthroned in the praises of Israel. Our fathers trusted, and you delivered them."

Praise brings the presence of God into the midst of the situation. Charles Green calls it the "distinct manifestation of His rule. God enters!" This is not a temporary visit. When God is enthroned, He is planning on staying. He settles Himself in for relationship with us.

Jack Hayford says "The presence of God's Kingdom power is directly related to the practice of God's praise. The verb "enthroned" indicates that wherever God's people exalt His name, He is ready to manifest His Kingdom's power in the way most appropriate to the situation as His rule is invited to invade our setting".

His Kingdom come!

God's Kingdom is not mysterious or difficult--praise Him! See the reality of God's Kingdom enter into your life. Exalt the name of the Lord, lift Him up! God will be glorified.

These verses link together praise, trust and deliverance. These three work together to establish God's Kingdom in our situation. Put your trust in the Lord. Your praise reveals the trust you have in Him. Sing it, shout it, let it be heard!

God sovereignly chooses how He will manifest His Kingdom. [The Kingdom is at hand - look to see how God is revealing Himself in your life - He IS at work!] He will come as we praise Him [the Bible just said so!], so we trust Him and let Him show Himself as He chooses.

Sometimes we are dismayed because we want Him to come in a certain way or time - but trust the Lord - He is working to show His kingly authority in your life. God will be praised and magnifed! His victory in our lives sets us free from sin, torment and shame. His "kingliness" drives out the harasser. His light causes the darkness to flee. He is the King!

I am reminded of the calling Paul had as he was sent out to "open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me" (Acts 26:17-18). Praising the Lord is one of the ways that we can do this! As I practice a lifestyle of praising the Lord in every situation, I am bringing His delivering presence into the situation for me and those I am with. This is something I can do!

I will praise the Lord today, putting all my trust in Him, and He will deliver me, showing Himself strong to the praise of His glory!
Remember the Lord in all His goodness and trust in Him. Lift your voice in praise and watch Him work. Where He is, nothing can stay the same!

God Delights in Me

2008-07-18T09:28:00.000-07:00

The Psalmist David had an amazing ability to declare what was going on in his life, the needs, emotions, failures, successes and victories, at the same time that he was declaring his utter dependency upon, and the sovereignty of, God. It is at times challenging to read, to keep it all in context. Psalm 18 is such a Psalm.

"He also brought me into a broad place; He delivered me because He delighted in me." (vv.19-20). I love this verse. The Lord can DELIGHT in ME. What an amazing thought! And this brings comfort, hope, and security to me. Think about how easy it is for us to delight in someone or something that we love. It is the same with God - He loves us, and I'm sure it brings great joy to His heart to be able to delight in us. I experience this with my children. There are times when I truly delight in them, my love and enjoyment of them just seems to fill me up and run all over.

But not all the time.

Have you ever been in a relationship--or place of authority, as a parent, a teacher, a boss-- where you were not delighting in the one you are with? Why? What diminished the delight? Have you ever been in a position where YOU have caused the delight to drain out of someone's eyes? This is where I get uncomfortable.

See, I like to think about God delighting in me, unconditionally loving me. Yet I don't like to think of it in conjunction with the rest of the verse, "The Lord rewarded me according to my righteousness, according to the cleanness of my hands He has recompensed me". My immediate instinct here is for self-preservation, and I think "BUT, it's no longer by MY righteousness, but by the righteousness of Christ that I am made acceptable. What about the rich young ruler? He tried so hard to do everything right, but in and of himself he couldn't make himself perfect. See? I can't earn God's love. He loves me as I am".

Yes, God absolutely loves us as we are, in our imperfections. (Thank you, Father!) But love and delight are not the same thing. I love my children. Period. That will never change. But I do not always delight in them. People are able to hurt us. Disappoint us. Let us down.

So here's the deal. "It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect" (v.32).

Throughout this Psalm, David recounts all the works he has done, but he then continually brings it back to this, that it is in God alone that he is able to accomplish anything. David is dependent upon the Lord for his rescue, his victory, his peace. This was the key to God's delight in David. It wasn't about what David did, but about God at work in David's life.

"YOU have also given me the shield of Your salvation; YOUR right hand has held me up, YOUR gentleness has made me great, YOU enlarged my path under me, so my feet did not slip." (vv.35-36).

David's righteousness was not his own, it was in God. Even before Christ, David knew where His help came from. And the Lord delighted in him.

I like being the object of someone's delight. When I see that delight shine through the eyes of those I love, I am richly blessed. What greater joy could I have than to see that delight shining from the eyes of my Greatest Love?

Your love, O Lord

reaches to the heavens

Your faithfulness

stretches to the sky

Your righteousness

is like a mighty mountain

Your justice flows

like the oceans tide

I will lift my voice

and worship you my King

I will find my strength

in the shadow of Your wing

Do you need Rest?

2008-07-16T07:37:00.000-07:00

Rest. It means to cease activity, take a break, take a nap...our definitions tend to be along those lines. I don't know about you, but I tend to swing from frenetic activity to "have-to-rest-or-I can't-continue" . When I am really busy and challenged, I sometimes feel guilty that I'm not resting enough- it is a command of God to rest one day a week after all - but how can I do that more? How can I rest when I am busy? So I was interested today when I saw a verse that mentioned rest in my Bible reading.

"Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory re joices;...." [who doesn't want more gladness and joy?]

..."my flesh also will REST IN HOPE." Wow.

Hope is the place of rest. When I have my hope right, I will have rest.

Okay, time for a Strongs Concordance definiton of hope:

betach, beh'-takh; from Hebrew 982 (batach); properly a place of refuge; abstract safety, both the fact (security) and the feeling (trust); often (adverb with or without preposition) safely :- assurance, boldly, (without) care (-less), confidence, hope, safe (-ly, -ty), secure, surely.

I just love the fact that hope here addresses not only the physical security that I have, but also the feeling of hope that I need for my wellbeing! The Amplified Bible says it this way,

"...my body too shall rest and confidently dwell in safety". THAT is what I'm talkin' about! I want to be a "confident dweller". To dwell confidently is to be in hope, is to be in a place of rest.

Psalm 16 continues in v.10-11, "For You will not leave my soul in Sheol, nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption. You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures evermore."

Note that He will SHOW ME the path of life, but I am the one who chooses to walk in it. And it is such a good place to be in: a place where He is, where joy is, where pleasure is. THIS is the God that I hope in. This is He whom I can confidently dwell in, hope in, believe in, stay in. And in this, I find rest.

v.1, 8 "for in You I put my trust...I have set the Lord always before me; because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved."

Natalie Grant sings a song about this:

I will stumble
I will fall down
but I will not be moved
I will make mistakes
I will face heartache
but I will not be moved
On Christ the solid rock I stand
All other ground is sinking sand
I will not be moved!

I have set the Lord always before me.
My flesh also will rest in hope.

I may still be busy, but I will hope and rest!

Psalm 14: 2,5

2008-07-14T10:32:00.000-07:00

"The Lord looks down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there are any who understand, who seek God.

...for God is with the generation of the righteous."

What generation are we?

What generation am I living in?

I need to ENCOUNTER God in order to ENGAGE the culture that I live in. An EQUIPPED generation who has seen His face, who stand in His righteousness, bringing His light to a world darkened in its understanding.

Perfect Love Casts Out Fear

2008-07-14T09:50:00.000-07:00

"There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. We love Him because He first loved us." 1 John 4:18-19.

There is a battle between fear and love. They are polar opposites. Fear is something that I have always battled. My understanding of what "fear" means has evolved as I've gotten older, simply because when I think I have fear beat, I battle it again. That is when I become aware of some new tactic fear has taken against me. Understand, I do not believe fear has anything on me, it does not overtake me. It is simply an area I battle in, overcome in.

What struck me about this verse is that it said "He who fears has not been made perfect in love". Love is something I have been seeking to grow in, so this really caught my attention. I want to be perfect in love. Could my battle with fear be a battle to grow in love?

God is love, so to be made perfect in love is to be made perfect "in Him". Verse 16 - "And we have known and believed the love God has for us, God is love, and he who abides in love, abides in God, and God in him." Perhaps, as I press in to the love of God, to abide more in Him, fear raises its head to try and stop me. We all have areas in our lives, points of weakness, that are soft spots on our underbelly's where the enemy takes aim.

The opposite of love involves torment. The amplified Bible describes torment this way - "for fear brings with it the thought of punishment". Fear means I have moved away from abiding in God, from trusting Him and the love that He has for me. And think about it, fear often causes us to feel like we haven't been good enough, that we have failed in some way, and somewhere the shoe is going to drop and we are going to counted as not worthy or not good enough. Comparison is rooted in fear, not love.

But Good News! Verse 17 tells us that it is in union and communion with God that love is brought to completion and attains perfection with us. Yes! As I seek Him, I am being perfected in love, and fear loses its grip.

Now, I know I'm not a hopeless case, because earlier in chapter 4, John tells us some more about what abiding in God looks like (and hence, love). It we confess Jesus as His son, we abide in Him (v.15); He's given us His Spirit because we abide in Him (v.13); and "if we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us" (v.12). I have the first two down, and I am continually working on loving others, so I'm not doing too bad after all.

And fear? Well, fear has no hold on me.

Guard our Foundations

2008-07-11T08:32:00.000-07:00

Psalm 11:2-3 "For look! The wicked bend their bow. They make ready their arrow on the string, that they may shoot secretly at the upright in heart. If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?".

Their is a battle against our foundations, and to get at them, the wicked are aiming right at our hearts. What is in my heart? I'll tell you what is in mine: my family. My husband and my children. My God, my church, the Word of God. These all matter dearly to me, and they are under attack. We cannot be fooled into thinking this attack doesn't touch us, but it does.

I was listening to the radio the other day and heard a report of an hotel owner who made a $125,000 donation to a cause he believed in (I believe it had to do with supporting marriage as between a man and a woman, but I'm not sure). This man was sued for supporting what he believed. The commentator who was justifying the action said that "of course we have the right to give money where we want to, but to give this much money must have been motivated by fear or hate." That doesn't even make sense. Do we now live in a country that will censor our giving? Since when is it acceptable to Americans to censor free speech? To censor what we read or quote? Because this is happening more and more today, and is often targeted at Christians who are expressing their beliefs.

If our foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do? We need to guard our foundations now, fight for what we hold dear in our hearts, and not allow fear to intimidate us, not allow ourselves to be bullied down.

The amazing challenge as Christians is to do this in love. To stand in our convictions of faith, loving others. It is not love to allow others to steal our foundations. Lord, help us! Lord, help us know how to guard our hearts and our foundations!

Staying Offended Never Works Out

2008-07-09T07:55:00.000-07:00

Offenses never work to our benefit.

After 30+ years of Christianity and nearly 20 years in active ministry, this has always been true. I have never, let me say it again, never known an offense to work out to anyone's benefit. Whether justified or not, if we don't forgive offenses, they work against us every time.

It used to make me mad when people stayed offended with me, but after seeing the consequences eat away at so many lives, I am usually left with a deep sadness for the offended person. Notice I make a distinction between being offended and staying offended. We all get offended. The Bible says that's normal. The problem is when we hold on to the offense.

Psalm 9: 15-16 says "The nations have sunk down in the pit which they made. In the net which they hid, their own foot is caught. The Lord is known by the judgement He executes. The wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Meditation." - think about that!

From observation, and my own personal experience with offense, I would say that offense unforgiven lays a net that is hidden from view. Pretty soon we don't see it anymore, we forget about it, and then we find ourselves tripping in it, tangled up in it. We find ourselves dealing with upset of some kind in our lives and wonder where it's coming from, not recognizing the net we are caught in.

On the flip side, when an offense is forgiven, there is nothing left to trip us up.

It's painful to see people you care about caught in a net of offense, especially when they say they've forgiven. There is nothing I can do but pray for God to show them what's tripping them up. Unforgiven offense is the devils playground.

If you are struggling with offense, you may be kicking and screaming right now about the need for the offender to repent, to see their wrong. "What about what they did or said, or didn't do or didn't say?". If you don't forgive (true forgiveness is not dependent on what the other person does or says), you are going to cut your own foot off as it loses circulation in that net. Then I suppose it will be the "offenders" fault?

When I forgive those who have offended me, I do my part to free them from their own mess they have made. It is the most effective way of effecting change in someone - much more so than staying offended. Do people always change when I forgive them? Not always, but sometimes they do. And at least I am free from suffering in my offense.

Hebrews 11:6 was a verse ministered on Sunday morning, and it reads, in part "...God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him".
Psalm 9:10 sayks "And those who know Your name will put their trust in You, for You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You."

I want to know the reward of seeking Him, not the reward of my own offense. I put my trust in the Lord when I forgive those who have offended me, and it positions me in a place of security in Him who does not forsake me. (Psalm 27:9-10).

Are you offended? Forgive, let go, free yourself. Are you trapped in your offense? Pray to the Lord for help, forgive your offender, be restored and healed. Are you an offender? Repent, seek restoration and keep a soft heart of grace.

Life is so much sweeter without the annoying, cloying baggage of offense hanging on us.

Why God made me

2008-07-08T08:23:00.000-07:00

Psalm 8, The Holy Bible

What has more power to catch our attention than reading "God made me [for]...."? It cuts to the quick of what we all want to know, what we are scared we'll never find.

Psalm 8:6 says "You [God] have made him [man] TO HAVE DOMINION over the works of Your hands; You have put ALL THINGS under his feet.

It is my destiny, and yours, to have dominion. It's why you were created. It's why He made you. To walk on the earth in the authority God has given you, as His God-formed, Spirit-filled creation. How can I do that?

Verse 4 says that God is "mindful" of us and that he visits with man. Think of that! It is my destiny to visit with God! He thinks about ME. He considers ME. He cares about me and wants to visit with me.

In Genesis we see how God made man and woman and visited them in the garden, the place where they exercised their dominion, and walked with them and talked with them. It is from that place of relationship with God, visiting with Him, that I can walk in my delegated authority on the earth. My dominion is GIVEN to me by God - He is the ultimate authority - and to walk in it as I should, I need to walk with Him.

A picture came to mind of a bride and groom walking side by side in right relationship. The groom gives his bride dominion (authority, resources, responsibility) to carry out the necessary tasks she has to accomplish. Think of the Proverbs 31 woman who is excellent not only in caring for her home, but in her business dealings outside of the home. She and her husband are working in their individual spheres of responsibility, and she has everything she needs to do it well, and his love and respect for her, the freedom he gives her to carry these tasks out - beautiful!

God has made us in the same way. We are created to walk with God in His ordained authority for us, having all that we need in Him, through Christ Jesus, for all things to be under our feet. That means we are the overcomers, not the overcome.

We are above and not beneath

We are the head and not the tail

God wants to visit with you today. To walk with you. To talk with you. It's what you were made for.

Stay True

2008-07-03T11:11:00.000-07:00

It takes discipline to stay true to the call, to keep our feet on the road God has us on. There are so many good things pulling at us, but what has God asked of you? What is the part He wants you to play? Pleasing God, staying in tune with His plans and purposes in our lives, that can be the challenge. I am grateful when I am reminded that my most important role is following Him in everything. I try to stay in His grace. From there, I am able to do so much more than I could on my own. In fact, I am amazed at how much passion, drive, and energy I can run in when I am running in His grace, staying true to the call of God on my life. I LOVE what I do for God, and it worth the price.

Pastor Allen used to tell us, when we were younger in the ministry, that if we were burning out, likely we had stepped outside of God's grace on our lives. It's the place of striving and self-effort that we can fall into.

Let's stay in His grace and run with all we have.
Let's stay in His grace and be positioned for the "suddenly".
Let's stay in His grace and take ground.
Let's stay in His grace and see people saved, healed and delivered.
Let's stay in His grace and happily serve Him with our lives.

Let's ENJOY our relationship with God and one another.

Stay true to God's call, and love those who around you.

Getting Started

2008-06-28T19:41:00.000-07:00

A first time blogger, it's a bit daunting to think of posting one's thoughts out there for the world to see. Is there a benefit to baring the push and pull of your thoughts, the journey of your faith, the reality of your humanity? As one prone to a melancholic bent, I can only imagine the directions I could go in at times- at times creative, sometimes doubting, occassionally powered up, and yes, ridiculoously introspective. I would hope that through it all, my desire for growth in believing, in faith, would be evident for others to see, and perhaps it would challenge as well.

We just finished our annual ministers conference and I am once again amazed at the men and women who pastor small churches in this country. There are those who believe that small churches make no impact, that they are irrelevant or lame. Yet, as I look at them, I see great courage to believe God, that He is able to use anyone, at any time. I see faithfulness that would challenge anyone. How hard is it to stay the course when you have "success" at your door? I read of a successful pastor of a mega-church, he was a young man, praised for what was happening in his ministry. It was awesome to read about what he was able to accomplish through the vehicle of ready resources at his fingertips. Yet, I couldn't help but wonder what success is there in inheriting everything that is called your "success"? When I consider the price that many pastors I know pay on a daily basis - in their wallets, confidence, energy, faith - it was hard to be truly impressed the story.

We have lived in San Diego for 9 years now, and in that time we have seen pastors come from around the world to start churches in our beautiful city. Some have come with extended resources: staff and money, that make small church pastors envious (yes, we struggle with it like you do). Some of them believe they have what it takes to crack San Diego open, (that they have the 'formula' for success). Yet most of them have not lasted. Some have redefined themeselves and their purpose. For some, it was simply too hard. Discouraging to work so hard, to plow through your resources with little to show for it. There's also a lot of comparison we suffer - how does our "success" measure up to someone elses - and we believe that it somehow must not be God, that His blessing is not on it, or whatever. And then there are the small church pastors who are still here, still planting, watering, weeding, tending, believing. I honor them.

I'm not kidding myself. I want to see a profit from my efforts as a pastor. I want "success". I would love to have abundant resources. I struggle with comparison as much as anybody. But I am also impressed with the faithful men and women who just won't give up.

A woman shared a testimony this week from her own life. There was a point in her life when she struggled with sin, couldn't shake it, was drawn to it like a magnet. She kept returning to it, knowing it was the wrong choice, but unable to stop. One day, on her way to sin, she heard the Lord say to her heart that He did not condemn her. She continued to sin, but also continued to hear this message reverberate in her heart. She experienced well-intentioned believers try to talk her out of her sin, pointing it out, challenging her, judging her at times. Yet it was the sovereign work of God in her heart, expressing His unconditional love and acceptance for her, that eventually did it's work in her life. She no longer is a slave to the sin, she is free. What amazes me about this (there are many things, actually), is that she did not give up on God, the church, or Christians. She is still, all these years later, loving God and His Body. THAT is a miracle. She didn't give up. THAT impresses me.

So, to all those in small churches, no matter your role, believe God and don't give up so easily. Continue in what God has called you to do and resist the trap of comparison. Do your best to learn, grow, improve, "succeed", but keep it in perspective. Give your all, give your best, keep believing. And don't forget to love on people while you're at it. Encourage their efforts, their success and their faith.