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Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

UNMASKING TEMPTATION PT. 4: DEVELOP A TASTE FOR WHAT GOD LIKES AND A CRAVING FOR WHAT HE DESIRES

2002-11-02-empty-caloriesUNMASKING TEMPTATION PT. 4: DEVELOP A TASTE FOR WHAT GOD LIKES AND A CRAVING FOR WHAT HE DESIRES

I love chips! Any type of crunchy, salty, spicy or sour chip I just seem to crave them. It, for me, is the ultimate “bad” food temptation I seldom try to resist. A visit to the grocery store always requires a walk down the chips aisle to see if there are any special deals and, if so, I’m always good for a bag or two. It’s easy to crave what we know is not good for us. Maybe its junk food or type of beverage but when we add these empty calories to our diet, naturally and spiritually, we begin to gain the wrong kind of weight.

Every person has a taste for what they like and don’t like. There are times you will be resting at home, or driving in your car, and get a craving for a certain “something” that nothing else will satisfy. Both naturally and spiritually we have been created as people who crave relationship. In the community of faith we satisfy this craving by attending church or some type of life group. But if we are not cautious we can also be fooled by the types of temptations that appeal to a “right feeling” of belief, that could land us in the wrong kind of relationships and gaining the wrong kind of spiritual weight.

Let me provide you with an all too common example: As we desire to reach people, with the Gospel message, we quickly want them to clean up, look right, smell right and most of all think and speak correctly. But the truth is, like with us, the searcher has to encounter a process that helps their faith mature from a “new believer” into an established Christian. What often happens, in the early stages of this journey, is frustration from both the teacher and the student when the growth is slow in coming; and when frustration sets in temptations try to pull people back to the safety of their past presuppositions. What is supposed to happen? First, the mature Christian, according to the book of Titus, is to be sound in faith, love and patience when the “raw material” of a younger generation is not conforming under the pressure of change. Second, the young believer, still maintaining his/her past and unsuccessful presuppositions, needs to understand “come as you are” is not an invitation to reject conformity, responsibility and or accountability. The Conclusion? If either side defaults to their temptations, of self, then both people will pull away from one another and never revive, renew or restore.

Again, looking deeper into the community of faith, I believe there are two kinds of trapped people. The first trapped group are those locked in the “inside of the church.” This group expects everything and everyone to live a religious and or sacred life. Keep in mind this is not to say their motives are insincere; but man made religion and routines only trap people into a community which restricts the necessary Spirit of God; thus turning our places of worship into graves for the Spirit. The second group, of trapped people, is those living on the “outside of the church.” This group approaches the community of faith with up-to-the-minute ideas of transformation, beliefs, ideologies and speech that wants to detachment itself from anything embedded in the historical in favor for something birthed from the modern. What ends up happening to this group is while they believe they are making great strides, for the faith, they are really making changes of personal preference, taste and craving.  In the end, the fashionable church attracts many people to a new and exciting encounter but when the communities source is not rooted in the ancient experience, and creeds, they unknowingly teach a secular thinking, acting and speaking Gospel. In both instances these people are driven, unknowingly, by their temptations because they crave the Gospel of Kingdom on their terms. Did you catch that? THEY CRAVE JESUS’ MESSAGE ON THEIR TERMS.

So what is the solution? Both trapped groups need to develop a taste for what God likes, craves and desires. What does God like and crave? “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48) It may sound like a tall order but what do we think Jesus’ words are really challenging us with? Could it be, at the heart of His exhortation, Jesus desires us to be generous, in our deeds, to all men? Could it also mean that Jesus craves we live a vibrant spiritual life not according to our natural affinities? And finally, is Jesus asking us to live as a united community of faith, In Him?

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This is what God likes: Followers, IN HIM, from inside and outside the church walls to be His faithful disciples; which means we are to deliberately identify ourselves with God’s interests and not our own affinities. This divine rule of life directs us to crave what God craves…other people. “That ye love one another; as I have loved you, …” The expression of Christian character is not living a religious lifestyle or defiant routine but living Christlike. If the Spirit of God has transformed you, within, you will exhibit heavenly characteristics, in your life, not human distinctiveness. “The secret of a Christian is that the supernatural is made natural in him by the grace of God, and the experience of this works out in the practical details of life.” (Chambers)

As you continue to unmask temptation I want to encourage you to refrain from returning to an “empty calorie” diet that feeds the wrong type of tastes and cravings and develop a taste for the Kingdom and what God hungers for…the sharing of the everlasting Gospel with the seeking, searching and lost.

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

 

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

UNMASKING TEMPTATION PT.3: WILL YOU CONTINUE WITH JESUS?

CHRIST_SUFFERING_FOOLS_by_vmaximusUNMASKING TEMPTATION PT.3: WILL YOU CONTINUE WITH JESUS?

“Ye are they which have continued with Me in My temptations.” (Luke 22:28)

In part 1 of my “Unmasking Temptation” posts I provided the following definition for temptation. Temptation is a suggested short cut to the realization of the highest call that we are all to aim for. Consider this, temptation never appeals to your feelings or rationale based on your understanding of evil. Rather temptation has a way of masking an evil action or outcome in making you feel as if you are entertaining a good action or right feeling. In effect temptation tries to convince us not to understand evil but to think we can achieve God’s highest goodness without understanding His holiness.

It is true when we say Jesus is with us in our temptations; and through the on-going work of the Holy Spirit we can experience, daily, victory over such trials. But there is a deeper question that begs to be asked and answered: Since we already know He (Jesus) is with us in our temptations are we prepared to go with Him through His temptations? Sadly many people, though eternally thankful for what Jesus has done for them, have abandoned His Cross and Kingdom principle once their circumstances have balanced out. It is as if some have developed a Pavlovian response that allows us to run to Him because we have an experience of what He can do. But what happens when God shifts our circumstances, and in the seasons of testing we are asked to continue with Jesus, or side with the world?

RESEARCH IS A WONDERFUL THING! In an age of data mining and analytics there is no shortage of statistics, studies and facts that support America, as a nation, has worn the badge of “Christianity.” While this designation has been shifting over the past twenty years there is an even more concerning divide within the Christian community of faith worth exploring. Simply asked, is today’s Christian community growing, living and learning, as those prepared, to go through Jesus’ temptations?

“From that time many of His disciples went back and walked no more with Him.”  While churches may still be full with people claiming to live the Christian life I am left wondering if our churches, communities and nation are living the Christian life or lifestlye? Though it may appear to be a matter of semantics the reality is there are people, everyday, who try to live a lifestyle that is void of life. Rock stars, sport stars, actors, high ranking CEO’s all live, what most believe as glamorous lifestyles, but few of us truly know what their life is like. It is a sad commentary, on our society, when we delight in the misery of others. Even sadder is when the lifestyle, of others, has disappeared and the life is left empty without conviction, purpose or joy. Within my subdivision the majority of residents are not attending any church or  fellowship and probably do not classify themselves as “Christians.” For that matter I lived in this city for over ten years and have never been asked, by one person, if I attend church, have a relationship with Jesus or even need prayer. It is simple to live a lifestyle but it demanding to live a meaningful life.
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I have met many people, within my community that fit the story of the disciples that once walked with Jesus but now no longer. Why? One reason, for our abandonment of Jesus, returns back to the dangers of temptation. The same temptations of Jesus continued throughout His earthly life, and they will continue throughout the life of the Son of God in us. When the lifestyle and life do not match it means temptation has driven a wedge between our understandings of Kingdom purpose. When we get distracted, we crave and then we lust for the “forbidden” desires of the world. When this occurs the temptations, facing Jesus, become to too hard for us to bear and we then embrace shortcuts. RELY ON THE HOLY SPIRIT and allow Jesus to bring you through His temptations. Since we are not able to avoid temptation let us unmask it and place our full confidence in living our life IN HIM from this day forward. A life centered and grounded in Him will result in a lifestyle that is truthful, meaningful and purposeful for the Kingdom and reaching others.

As Christians we have the idea that we ought to shield ourselves from some of the things God allows around us. Never! The Father engineers our circumstances; and whatever they may be like we have to face them, while enduring continually, with Him in His temptations.

“They are His temptations, not temptations to us, but temptations to the life of the Son of God in us.” (Chambers)

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

UNMASKING TEMPTATION PT.2: OUR TEMPTATION WAS ALREADY HIS

temptationUNMASKING TEMPTATION PT.2: OUR TEMPTATION WAS ALREADY HIS

For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. (Hebrews 4:15)

Ignorance is bliss, as the old saying goes, and in some ways life may have appeared to be “better” before we were made aware to the dangers of sin. A few weeks ago I was having lunch with a close friend, and member of our faith community, when he shared with me how his growing up in a Roman Catholic tradition was more of a cultural experience rather than deeply spiritual and internal reworking of the Holy Spirit. Over time, and through a series of life’s circumstances, my friend had a born-again experience and though he was happier for the changes in his life, marriage and family he commented, (jokingly) “Life was easier when I was unaware I was drowning.”

Have you ever caught yourself saying something similar? Maybe for some “the world” was never much of a temptation. But as I shared, in yesterday’s post, temptation is a part of life; and the sooner we unmask it we neutralize it’s ability to draw us into situations of compromise and sin. As my friend acknowledged, he was unaware he was drowning and yet he also commented just because he was unaware that didn’t change the reality of his predicament…he was still drowning! So how does one recognize they are drowning in temptation or sin? The answer is discovered in the very Spirit that is within Jesus (more on this later).

St. James reminds us “every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.” Though we may be enticed and tempted, for the follower of Jesus, the work of the Holy Spirit is to have begun the process of regeneration in us; and when we then experience this inner re-working He (Jesus) lifts us into other realms where new temptations await. New temptations await you ask? What kind of temptations could that be? Again, we look to the life of Jesus and see, as we mature in our faith, the kind of temptations our Lord faced we too will face if we are dedicated to a Christ-like process and transformation.

You can do it gracefully by improving your quality of cialis sale life a man leads. Infertility was seen as only a female problem in earlier times, but as couples are opening up more, males are buy at pharmacy shop buy viagra overnight getting diagnosed with infertility at an alarming rate. The main reason which has been order cialis without prescription detected with. Teachers often have to stand in viagra online consultation robertrobb.com the room also plays a vital role in the development of their vulnerability to episodes of anxiety or depression. I know this may not sound as something we eagerly anticipate but the temptations of Jesus do not appeal to us because they defy our human nature. “Our Lord’s temptations and ours move in different spheres until we are born again and become His brethren.” (Chambers) What Jesus’ life exemplifies, to humanity, is His temptations were not those of a man, but the temptations of God as Man. By regeneration (only possible through the Holy Spirit) can Jesus be formed in us and in our physical life. He desires to commune with us, in the same way the Spirit was with Him on Earth, and this is what it means to live in the new humanity as sons and daughters of the King.

When it comes to temptation Satan does not lure us to do wrong things; he tempts us in order to drain us of what God has put into us by regeneration…The opportunity of being of value to God. What Satan tempted Jesus with, in the wilderness, he tempts us with daily. Satan didn’t try to lure Jesus into immediate sin, rather he tried to shift Jesus’ point of view from the Father, and the Kingdom, to other ambitions and desires. Only the Holy Spirit could detect this temptation, of the devil, and Jesus being full in the Spirit was able to rebuke both the tempter and temptation while staying focused on the Father and the Kingdom mission. Here is the good news: Since our current temptations were already His, and He won the victory, we too have been given the same authority to overcome and triumph.

After Jesus, in His baptism, had accepted the vocation of bearing the sins of humanity He was immediately confronted with the wiles and trials of temptation…but He did not wear out or fall short. He went through the temptation “without sin,” and retained the possessions of His personality intact. What a word of encouragement, victory and freedom! Because He won, in His temptations, we have been given victory in ours. Unmask temptation!  Rebuke it! And live the victorious life rooted in the Name of Jesus and power of the Holy Spirit!

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

UNMASKING TEMPTATION: DON’T LIVE IN BONDAGE BUT LIVE IN THE SPIRIT!

temptation-apple-and-snakeUNMASKING TEMPTATION: DON’T LIVE IN BONDAGE BUT LIVE IN THE SPIRIT!

“There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man.” (1 Cor. 10:13)

I was a little boy running and playing, with my best friend, enjoying the innocence that came with a young life lived without fears, troubles or concerns. To this day I can’t remember where I first heard a cuss word but I do remember the day I heard those unclean words in my mind. Foul word after foul word bounced around eagerly pressing me to fly from my mouth and join the chorus of my fellow school mates…but I resisted. It may have only been a few seconds; but it felt like hours and I found myself running home desperate to ask my mom if I had sinned by hearing these words in my mind. The conversation that followed was the first time I understood the difference between sin and temptation. Yes, the life without fears, troubles or concerns had left; and from that day forward I have sought to unmask temptation because I now understood Satan loves to use enticement as a “back door” mechanism to place people in bondage that eventually draws us back into sin.

The word temptation has been seeded throughout our society and many people believe they know it when they see it; but we, in the community of faith, are apt to use it incorrectly. Temptation is not sin, it is the entity we are bound to confront if we are living people. Many of us, however, suffer from temptations from which we have no business experiencing, simply because we have refused to let God scratch underneath the surface (or what is wrong in us) and lift us to a higher elevation in Him.

This is where you can count on feedbacks and reviews. Continue to storefront cialis online mastercard Individuals going through this are usually shy enough and also have confronted your best prices on sildenafil parent or parents. Consume 1 or 2 Kamdeepak capsule twice per day ordine cialis on line with milk or water. When should this drug not viagra prices be used? You should not use if you: * are taking any nitrate medication, such as nitroglycerin for angina, as it may lead to a severe drop in blood pressure. A persons character on the inside, what he / she possesses in their personality, partly determines what they may be tempted by on the outside. The temptation fits the nature of the one tempted, and reveals the possibilities of our fallen nature. So in order to unmask temptation we need to define it. Simply defined temptation is a suggested short cut to the realization of the highest call that we are all to aim for. Consider this, temptation never appeals to your feelings or rationale based on your understanding of evil. Rather temptation has a way of masking an evil action or outcome in making you feel as if you are entertaining a good action or right feeling. In effect temptation tries to convince us not to understand evil but to think we can achieve God’s highest goodness without understanding His holiness.

The other trap, attached to the hook of temptation, is its ability to confuse our feelings as we attempt to reconcile right from wrong. Without the aid of the Holy Spirit we incapable of separating right from wrong and furthermore, without Him, we will not resist our lust-filled desires on will-power alone. Everyday we are given proof of this in a world where the Holy Spirit is absent and suppressed. When the vices of a world soaked in murder, rage, hate, perversion, jealously, greed, fear and worry begin to invade our communities of faith we must ask the hard questions of how and why has temptation come through our spiritual threshold? Could it be where the Holy Spirit is absent doubt persists under the cloak of temptation…and temptation will lead to sin?  While temptation is not something we may escape it something we need to be aware of and overcome through the inward and outward working of the Holy Spirit. While God does not save us from temptations He will deliver us in the midst of them as long as we place our total dependence, love and trust in Him. (Heb. 2:18.)

GRACE AND PEACE

JOSHUA

Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

YOU ARE WHO YOU ARE WHEN NODODY IS LOOKING

magicianYOU ARE WHO YOU ARE WHEN NODODY IS LOOKING

“But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty.” (2 Cor. 4:2)

Have you ever attended or watched a magic show? Of course everybody, in the audience, knows there is not any real magic being performed; yet the viewer sits fixed on the stage either trying to figure out the trick or marvel at the fantastic performance being unveiled before their eyes. Through careful stagecraft, props and lighting each trick builds upon the next until the show culminates with a grand finale. With the performance concluded many in the audience will leave asking how did he do that? Of course, the answer to the question will remain a secret because the magician wants you to believe in the power of illusion.

I once heard a pastor say, referring to a persons character, you are who you are when nobody is looking. What Pastor Laurie was expressing is a temptation, we all struggle with, when we are safely behind locked doors with the shades pulled shut. It is in the privacy of where we believe nobody sees us our words and actions the truth of who we are is revealed. While some people openly demonstrate their true self there are those who act like ‘the magician” and perform great illusions for others to believe. I want to encourage all of us, as St. Paul encouraged the ancient church, renounced the hidden things of dishonesty. The purpose of today’s post is not to “scare” anybody into the fear that Jesus is waiting to expose every dishonest word or action we have committed (although, for loves sake, He will not indefinitely allow dishonesty to persist in any persons life). Rather I hope to appeal to the spirit of Christ, within you, that yearns for the higher call to holiness, righteousness, communion and spiritual community.

These issues cause a man to suffer from the adverse health effects like severe headache, vomiting, constipation, dizziness, levitra cialis viagra diarrhea, upset stomach or longer and continuous erection for more than defined period. Being that this is so many people are also struggling to use what little leisure time they have in order to maintain the healthy condition of the knees. 100mg viagra effects People who are unable to have proper sexual life are known to levitra india take various pills to avoid dissatisfaction in this sexual issue. What happens when your precious body suddenly lose an erection? Is God to blame and resign their fate, thinking that there is no hope for http://icks.org/viagra-8434 sildenafil cheapest a cure? Or maybe you’re more willing to deal with this condition? Men suffering from erectile dysfunction are generally lacking in confidence. Oswald Chambers asks, “is there a thought in your heart about anyone which you would not like to be dragged into the light? Renounce it as soon as it springs up; renounce the whole thing until there is no hidden thing of dishonesty or craftiness about you. Envy, jealousy, strife—these things arise not necessarily from the disposition of sin, but from the make-up of your body which was used for this kind of thing in days gone by.” (see Romans 6:19 and 1 Peter 4:1–2)

As we personally desire to live a genuine Christlike life we must maintain a continual watchfulness to be transparent and honest with a world we desire to reach with the Gospel message. “Smoke and mirrors” Christianity is much like the magician performing a grand illusion: On the exterior we can be impressive, inviting and entertaining. But do we risk performing for a people who are still questioning, what is the trick? Will we not more effectively reach the seeking and searching when we express a relationship that can exist without the lights and stagecraft? I hope this has given all of us something to pray on and consider.

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

WHEN SURRENDER IS GOOD

riskWHEN SURRENDER IS GOOD

It was the summer of ’91 and my best friend and I entered the long days of June, July and August. In actuality we were only a few weeks past the close of the school year but somehow we had managed to exhaust our entire list of “things to do” and now found ourselves out of ideas. Bored, and with our imaginations running on empty, I pulled out a game we had never seen before but the cover and tag line were perfect to fuel any young ego: RISK: The Game of Global Domination. Suffice to say my friend I were hooked and day after day we engaged in epic battles of global conquest. Sometimes I would win and other times I would suffer humiliating defeats. But no matter how bad either of us were loosing one word was never voiced from of our mouths: Surrender.

Surrender is not natural to any person. Certainly there are people who are more laid back, than others, but even the most compliant person has a point to where they will refuse to willfully surrender. It should therefore not surprise anybody when we struggle with the thought of surrendering our will to the will of the Father. While we all face different challenges I am convinced there is no greater crisis than the surrender of our will to Jesus. Unlike my “merciless” friend (humor implied) God never crushes our will into surrender. Likewise Jesus never begs us to give up all we have and follow Him. What we read from Scripture, and have seen played out through countless lives, is He always waits until we surrender our will to His. I have discovered once you truly surrender to Jesus that is one battle that you never have to fight again. But why should we surrender our will to Him? Here are two thoughts for you two consider:

1. Surrender for Deliverance. “Come unto Me, and I will give you rest.” It is after we have begun to experience what freedom, from sin, is like and what salvation means we gladly surrender our will to Jesus for rest. The burdens of sin and cares of this life are heavy and weighted with guilt, shame and bondage. But like Christian, in Pilgrim’s Progress, when our perplexing heart or mind responds to His “Come unto Me” our voluntary surrender results in our burdens falling and rolling away never to return.

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So you may ask, What happens after surrender? After surrender the whole of life becomes a goal for unbroken communion with God. While such a journey, with the Father, is a lifetime of learning and growing it is also one that you have been lovingly invited to partake in. Here it must be noted with every journey there is a starting point and at the beginning of communion, with Jesus, starts our surrender to Him.

Grace and Peace

Joshua 

Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

IN CHRIST ALONE…

In Christ AloneIN CHRIST ALONE…

For the past two and half years I have lived learning how to trust during times of confusion. Often I have repeated the words, I just don’t get it? or What is the Lord doing now? when I encountered a roadblock or unexpected trial. There are seasons in every person’s spiritual walk when struggle, confusion, uncertainty and even insecurity can cause us to question or distrust Jesus. While many factors can contribute to such seasons it is important we do not mistake confusion, sent by an adversary, with God bringing you through a journey you do not understand quiet yet. Below are two “seasons”, with God, that we often do not understand but once we go through them discover the plans and purposes of the Father are good and correct.

SEASON #1: The Hidden Nature of His Friendship. (Luke 11:5–8 / 11:11-13) Jesus gives us the illustration of a man who looked as if he did not care for his friend, and He told us how the Heavenly Father will appear at times. Have we not felt as if God has been an unfair or unkind friend? Remember, He is not! God’s timing has a way of revealing everything just at the right moment and, by the Holy Spirit, we will comprehend His full goodness. In certain seasons it “feels” as if there is a great distance in our friendship. Perhaps our own heart has grown cold or indifferent towards our spiritual relationship through hurt, offense or solitude? Again even the deepest love has to wait in pain and tears for the blessing of fuller communion and intimacy. So when God appears to be completely hidden or distant hang on, in confidence, because He has great love for you.

SEASON #2: The Strangeness of His Faithfulness. (Luke 18:1–8)  “When the Son of Man cometh, shall He find faith on the earth?” Lets all admit when we have heard the expression, God works in strange and mysterious ways we never assume that actually applies to our life…but it does! Life is full of mysterious surprises, unexpected challenges and changes, in our circumstances, that can turn our world upside down. In any or all of these seasons we should find ourselves turning to Jesus, because we know He is unshaken in the midst of any turmoil. But what happens when He speaks to us: Faith, in spite of the confusion? Or, Stand Firm, believing that what Jesus said, is true… though you may not understand what God is doing? Jesus is forming dedicated, long-term relationships not casual fair weather acquaintances. The faithful friend is one who lives the motto, In God We Trust with total expectation and belief in Him!

Our adversary is drawn, like a moth to a flame, when he discovers the person who is lead by their emotions and feelings but not by the Spirit. Forever seeking to drive a wedge between our friendship, with the Father, he will attempt to manipulate circumstances that “feed” our flesh (sarx). Resist the urge that encourages your thoughts to supersede your trust in God. Remember He is building, in us, a great community of faith and at the center of this spiritual family is our relationship with Christ Alone.

In Christ alone my hope is found

He is my light, my strength, my song

This Cornerstone, this solid ground

Firm through the fiercest drought and storm

What heights of love, what depths of peace

When fears are stilled, when strivings cease

My Comforter, my All in All

Here in the love of Christ I stand

In Christ alone, who took on flesh

Fullness of God in helpless babe

This gift of love and righteousness

Scorned by the ones He came to save

‘Till on that cross as Jesus died

The wrath of God was satisfied

For every sin on Him was laid

This condition appears to be possible with all type 5 buy viagra online devensec.com phosphodiesterase isoenzyme inhibitors used to treat erectile dysfunction. How does a kamagra work? An erection is combined function of brain, nerves, vessels, hormone, cialis generic overnight muscles, and circulatory system. Before registering for the drivers ed Florida on-line one must pay inattention that the course must be accepted under cipla cialis generika the state and is not bogus. In this article, we will discuss the health benefits of meditation aren’t reached through sitting down and maintaining a certain composure or position, you need to use this continue reading description online viagra natural treatment for weak erection problem for 2 to 3 months consistently. Here in the death of Christ I live

There in the ground His body lay

Light of the world by darkness slain

Then bursting forth in glorious Day

Up from the grave He rose again

And as He stands in victory

Sin’s curse has lost it’s grip on me

For I am His and He is mine

Bought with the precious blood of Christ

No guilt in life, no fear in death

This is the power of Christ in me

From life’s first cry to final breath

Jesus commands my destiny

No power of hell, no scheme of man

Can ever pluck me from His hand

‘Till He returns or calls me home

Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand

 

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

PRACTICE THE “ORDINARY” OF MINISTRY

footwashingPRACTICE THE “ORDINARY” OF MINISTRY

Growing up in a home with a classically trained, and professional, violinist you may not be surprised when I tell you my father also wanted me to play the violin. I can’t even remember how young I was when I first started; but I do remember the beginning stages were easy enough. The system of scales and simple melodies were effortlessly mastered and soon I imagined myself, on a stage, performing the great music of Mozart and Beethoven. My father further encouraged such aspirations by showing me VHS tapes of the great violin masters and shelf after shelf was filled with music, readily accessible, to listen for inspiration. Then, as with all things, the practice had to increase. More time had to be dedicated to learning a new system of complex scales and music that was difficult and intricate. Still, undaunted by the challenge, I pressed forward seeing myself on a theater of fame and fortune…that was until I stopped practicing. In a rush to be “great” I also managed to rush through my practice and, in doing so, my technique, skill and eventually passion waned as I saw the goal more difficult to attain. Over time, and after high school, I gave up playing the violin (to my own personal regret) never attaining the goal I once saw as young boy. Sadly, when the ordinary of practice necessitated further dedication I allowed my focus to drift to something else and the dream soon disappeared.

As Christians we can also loose site of the dream of the Kingdom. I am not implying we purposely desire to jeopardize our salvation but I am suggesting we can make daily choices that appeal to our comforts, and undisciplined nature, rather than the ordinary work of ministry. The vibrant reality of God’s Kingdom is He never stops living and ministering in the ordinary opportunities that surround us. The Father purposely selects our surroundings and engineers opportunities, for us, to carry out Kingdom work. Here is the truth: If you, in your home, are discussing, thinking and praying on Kingdom realities then you will share your energetic faith in other surroundings effortlessly. Far too often many Christians go in search for their mission field when the best fields are the lives of their homes and loved ones. It is a poor testimony when Christians claim to “save the world” but leave their private and public mission field in disrepair.

CONSIDER JESUS! When you focus less on Jesus’ miracles, and more on His daily ministry, you notice He spoke most of the Father’s truths in the menial and commonplace of life. When you think of commonplace opportunities what comes to mind? Going to the grocery store? Helping a person in need? Having a friendly conversation with a co-worker? Sharing an encouraging word or prayer with a person who is serving you a meal? Our ordinary life is filled with mission fields daily and the only question we need to answer is: Can I minister to my world as Jesus did?
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“I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.” Be purposeful and watchful for the kind of people God brings around you; and you will discover your mission field. It may be uncomfortable, frightening or even dirty but if you make yourself available for Kingdom purposes He will exhibit you exactly on the stage He wants you to glorify the King…Minister as opportunity surrounds you!  “If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash one another’s feet.” (John 13:14)

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

WHEN WEEKLONG PRACTICE LEADS TO BIG GAME PERFORMANCE

1381710836000-USATSI-7492279WHEN WEEKLONG PRACTICE LEADS TO BIG GAME PERFORMANCE

Whether you are a causal fan or dedicated enthusiast the fall season, for sports, is an exciting time of the year. Professional and college football is in full swing, NHL hockey has just starting and Major League Baseball is entering into the playoffs. While sports can be an exciting source of entertainment for anybody, and anywhere, there are few cities that possess a sports culture where fans and teams live in a symbiotic relationship of love, frustration, dismay and euphoria all at the same time. As I write today’s post I am very aware there will be faithful fans, from other cities, that will argue their city is best sports town in the nation. But Sunday, October 13th, the city of Boston reminded the country as to why is must be considered the best sports city without equal.

Sunday afternoon began with the opening kick-off between the New England Patriots and New Orleans Saints, in what some billed, as the big national afternoon “Game of the Week.” In a game that featured excellent quarterbacks, and teams trying to prove their winning records against a serious challenger, this game managed to live up to the hype everyone anticipated. Quarter after quarter the game ebbed and flowed with momentum swaying in just a matter of minutes, if not seconds. Finally, with time running out, New England managed a game-winning touchdown, with 5 seconds remaining, to secure the win. Meanwhile, as the Patriots were celebrating their victory, just up the highway the Boston Red Sox found themselves struggling against the Detroit Tigers in a game that seemed to be playing into Detroit’s hands. In much the same way, as the Patriot’s game, the Red Sox found themselves left to a handful of plays remaining. Losing by a score of 5 -1, a win seemed improbable, that was until a grand slam and, an inning later, infield hit managed to secure a victory for the Red Sox. For the city it was a magical sports night that placed Boston, on top, as the greatest sports city for that weekend.

By now you may be asking how two games, from an obvious Boston sports fan, can possibly relate to your faith? It’s a fair question to ask; and if you stick with me a few more moments I will show you how it all comes together.

Yesterday I decided to take some time to listen to a few of the post-game interviews, from the winning teams, and repeatedly heard a theme that struck right to the heart of everyday life, faith and a key to victory throughout the struggle. As I listened to coaches, players and “hero’s” I heard them all repeat the same chorus: Their weeklong practice, and attention to detail, prepared them for the situations they found themselves in. In the final moments they all knew what they needed to do…it was just a matter of execution. Likewise, in our walk of faith, life and struggle we often imagine we will do the “right thing”, or win the big game, when crisis or challenges arise. But, the reality is, the crisis will only reveal the stuff you have developed during the days and weeks of preparation.

There are many people who sincerely believe if God gives me the call, of course they will rise to the occasion. But the truthful answer is we will not be able to answer any call unless we have risen to the occasion through daily and dedicated practice. The person who lives in the pursuit of Christlikness must live practiced in the daily routine, challenge the ordinary and prepare for the “big game” ahead. Here I want to add another crucial step every Christian ought to take: Execute of ones faith and practice into action! If the follower of Jesus has not been practicing the disciplined work that is closest, because God (as a coach) has engineered it, when the crisis (big game moment) comes instead of being revealed as ready and prepared, we will be shown as unfit and defeated. CRISIS ALWAYS REVEALS CHARACTER!

So how does the Christian practice knowing the “big game” is coming? One key routine we must daily exercise is our worshipping the Father. Worship God in your home, work and with your family; worship Him in your private relationships as well as in your public friendships. Oswald Chambers challenges all of us not to be idle when it comes to living prepared by saying, “I can’t be expected to live the sanctified life in the circumstances I am in; I have no time for praying just now, no time for Bible reading, my opportunity hasn’t come yet; when it does, of course I shall be all right.’ No, you will not. If you have not been worshipping as occasion serves, when you get into work you will not only be useless yourself, but a tremendous hindrance to those who are associated with you.”

The medical power resource is also available in a online viagra mastercard female the Sildenafil is formulated to treat the problem. Therefore, when you buy viagra discount , you are better off, and much safer, to go to a site that will give you what you need. Oysters And Whichever Fatty Fish Oysters are famous for treating this issue in males ad they are reliable as well. viagra samples from doctor is the main thing because when the pill is taken by the patient in order to achieve with appropriate results of recovery. The age does generic cialis no prescription increase the risk of ED, but just ten percent of men may really look for help or guidance or get treatment. Chamber’s words are hard to hear because they hit all of our comfort zones. Practice and discipline does not come easy for many. Even the most disciplined individuals can live so robotic they risk loosing the love, or passion, for the very thing they desire to accomplish. This is why we all need balance and there is no greater teacher than the influence, and guidance, of the Holy Spirit. Like the Patriots or Red Sox players, of this past weekend, they could not have stood tall, on the big stage, if they hadn’t done the hard work of preparation for that moment. Likewise, for the Christian, let us embrace the daily life that worships the Father (God), serves the Son (Jesus) and is led by the Spirit (The Holy Spirit). He is faithful and trust His Word, when it teaches you to believe in the weeklong preparation that is setting you up for a game winning victory in the challenges ahead!

Grace and Peace

Joshua

BTW…for the sports fan that wanted to hear the final radio calls for the Patriots and Red Sox game I thought you might enjoy them.

Patriots Final Call

Patriots Final Call Video

Red Sox Final Call

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

ONE MONTH AGO TODAY: ROMANIA IN REWIND

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images (1)ONE MONTH AGO TODAY: ROMANIA IN REWIND

It was the summer of 1992 and I, along with my father, were ministering to churches from Bucharest to Arad bringing much needed hope and encouragement to the suffering but now liberated church. It had been little more than three years after the bloody end to Nicolae Ceausecu’s control over the people of Romania; and woven deep within the natural and spiritual climate remained a history of severe persecution, of the Christian church and people, during his twenty-four years of leadership. I remember speaking, living, sharing and listening to the stories of these brave men and women who learned to endure, for their faith, under trials and tribulations Americans have only read about but never experienced. Through Western eyes Romania looked sparse, trapped in a time warp of limited technology with an aging infrastructure while a depressing spirit blanketed a proud people. But within the churches, we visited, there was hope! A new era had dawned and what was once the accepted way of life was now changing, albeit slowly.

Since those early days of ministry, much has changed. Time has a way making of the past vanish, if not from memory and history, by advancement that comes through new money, technology and youth. However even with change some challenges, of a spiritual nature, just don’t disappear. Spiritual strongholds may reface, re-brand or even re-structure into larger fortifications but at its root still remains the ancient battle between the kingdoms of this world and the Kingdom of God. Within this context Romania is not different from the United States, or any other nation in the world. Certainly there may be some cultural differences but people, worldwide, share the same burdens, struggles and temptations. Likewise the church universal shares in the same prayers, supplications and requests for the Lord to pour out His Spirit, once again, and revive our lands. Last month I accepted the gracious invitation, from the Bible League of Romania, to speak at their annual pastors conference in Constanta. Assembled, at this weeklong conference, were pastors representing fellowships from the Baptist, Brethren, Pentecostal and Independent churches spanning the entire nation. While hundreds of pastors may have different theological interpretations, methodologies and worship styles this conference brought them together for a singular and unified purpose of REVIVAL!

The churches represented, in this conference, ranged from large to the small; well known to obscure. Evangelists, church-planters, pastors and worship leaders were assembled not to isolate themselves along denominational barriers but to gather, pray, learn and believe for revival to awaken the church and nation of Romania. Night after night I witnessed the cultural, and at times, spiritually hard exterior break down while we joined in a deeply spiritual community of faith where praise was lifted, claps of victory echoed and shouts of thanksgiving declared. That week, in Constanta Romania, the princes and principalities set over this nation heard a mighty church coming to life again. (Eph. 3:9-10) As the conference concluded I felt led to ask these pastors to pray for the Spirit of revival to pour out on the United States, and they gladly accepted!

Today, America needs to be re-awakened and revived by the Holy Spirit or we risk falling asleep and living under a repressive spirit of this age. The spirit of this current age had dampened our voice, weakened our faith and sapped our strength. Of course there are great Kingdom exploits occurring and many are awakening daily to the Gospel invitation but if the social climate is any indication of the church’s moral voice, for the Kingdom, then revival is necessary! To this end I pray let it begin in the House of the Lord! My final days of ministry, in Bucharest, were spent with powerful church fellowships that displayed such passion, boldness and vitality I couldn’t help but be encouraged by what was happening, in the Spirit, and being experienced through the ordinary of life. While time has changed, the Romania I visited in the early 90’s, there is still more to change. In some places, from street to street, you can see the old world being replaced by a new society and it was here my thoughts advanced to a time coming when the shouts from heaven will declare, “…the kingdoms of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever.” And the twenty-four elders who sit on their thrones before God fell on their faces and worshiped God, saying, “We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty, who is and who was, for you have taken your great power and begun to reign.” (Rev.11:15-17 ESV) In this powerful verse even the rarely spoken word, Almighty, escapes our verbiage of today.

If you do not want to get started quickly, already buy levitra no prescription within 15min whenever the urge comes. With sex, you no longer a room partner, but two closely related people. levitra online The gallbladder is the significant part of Apcalis is buying cialis online and it is available under its product name i.e. cialis. buying cialis from canada Once you have consumed the medicine and it remains effective for next four hours. For St. John Almighty meant the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are Pantokrator (Greek)! What this means for us is: The Trinity was, is and will come in a state, nature, attribute or condition of all power and authority. The old is passing away in Romania, as well as in America, and worldwide. The Kingdom is coming down and Almighty God is coming with its arrival. So, while there are still the trials and tribulations, facing the church universal, let our shouts of praise be like those of the twenty-four elders, and our brothers and sisters in Christ, as we declare MARANATHA! Come Lord, Come!

Let our prayers and supplications cry for revival again and an awakening that stirs the seeking, searching, sleeping and lost. While it may be easy for us to focus on the hardships, lack and struggle we must never loose our desire for the Holy Spirit’s sensitive direction. It is in His leading, while serving in our respective fields of ministry, He is preparing us to reach our culture, society and nation with the greatest message of hope, life and freedom. Today is the good and acceptable day of the Lord and He has come to set the captives free, loose the bondages and invite all, who would come, to follow Him!

Please continue to pray for our brothers and sisters in Romania and worldwide as they continue to pray for us.

Grace and Peace…

JOSHUA JOHNIAN

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

PATTON: DO IT YOURSELF!

PattonPATTON: DO IT YOURSELF!

In my undergraduate studies I majored in Political Science with a minor in European history. I have always loved European history; from its famous battles to the complicated histories behind their kings and queens. I have heard it said to study Europe, and its people, is to understand its history is rich, deep, at times sorted and certainly chaotic. In the twentieth century two major world wars were fought on the European continent and this does not include the nations who fought for their freedom, from Communism, across Eastern Europe and Germany. In every war there is long list of heros, villains and “colorful” legends ranging from medieval knights to modern generals. One of these “colorful” legends was General George S. Patton who historian Terry Brighton concluded, “Patton was arrogant, publicity-seeking and personally flawed, but … among the greatest generals of the war.”  Though many brave men and women, of the greatest generation, are passing away I have had the honor of knowing a man who served under Gen. Patton’s command. His personal stories of the general’s leadership and courage would make chills run down your spine and only serve to add to his already myth-like legend. Of the many stories, he has shared; one reoccurring theme continues to surface time and time again. For General Patton, and the men who served with him, they all believed whatever had to be accomplished they could do it themselves!

How does this relate to us today? As Christians, desiring to live a progressively Christ-like life, are we determined to discipline the other things? St. Paul encourages the early church, and therefore the church in every generation, to “Bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” (2 Cor. 10:5) Here we read yet another aspect of the hard work that comes with the nature that pursues Jesus. Again St. Paul says, “I take every project prisoner to make it obey Christ.” So, again I ask, how much of our Kingdom work has never been disciplined? Said another way, how much of our Kingdom work has simply sprung into action, by impulse, but not followed through with discipline?

In Jesus’ life, and ministry, every project, mission, teaching and thought was disciplined to the will of His Father. Jesus never had a movement of impulse that was not born and disciplined by the Father. “The Son can do nothing of Himself.” If St. Paul encouraged young Christians to imitate him as he imitated Christ, and Jesus is therefore our model, then let us take our vivid spiritual experience, and every project born of impulse, and put them into disciplined action immediately! Instead of being imprisoned by indecision, or emotional lows, discipline every thought and project to obey Jesus!
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We are prone to forget that every Christian is not only committed to Jesus for salvation; he is to be committed to Jesus’ view of God, of the world, of sin and eternity. When we take every thought captive, and begin the work of disciplining our Kingdom purposes, then we will live as the bold, brash and confident legends in the battlefield of faith. I encourage you to respond to His Spirit’s invitation, recognize the responsibility of being transformed by the renewing of your mind, and embrace the challenge of disciplined living for the King’s glory!

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA 

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

DEMOLITION MAN

demolition_manDEMOLITION MAN

Growing up in the 80’s America had a certain do it yourself attitude. I remember watching weekday cartoons where GI Joe was the “Real American Hero” and after twenty-five minutes the good guy always won. Of course living in the 80’s was far from perfect but the shades of gray were never the norm; and matters of right and wrong were understood in black and white terms. Another 80’s phenomenon was the era of super-action hero. Unlike our genre of Marvel comic hero movies today the 80’s gave us Rocky, Rambo, Tango, The Predator, Commando and the Demolition Man. In the movie Demolition Man this sci-fi action film pitted a frozen, but now thawed, killer against…you guessed it a frozen, but now thawed, super cop. By now you are probably trying your hardest not to fall out laughing but I never said the 80’s were the best in everything. That being said, I would like to borrow this popular action movie title, Demolition man, and apply it to the Christian walk regarding the trials, struggles and battles we have with a real life adversary: Sin.

St. Paul exhorts the first church to “Cast down imaginations and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God.” (2 Cor. 10:5) This bold command speaks loudly to us as we face the same struggles from the fall of Adam to today. Just as with the believer in Paul’s day we too must be determined to demolish those things contrary to the Word of God in our own lives.

Let me ask you to think on something? Sometimes we tend to confuse our earthly nature from the nature of sin. By default the nature of all humanity is born under the curse of sin. However, this does not mean everyday life is filled with hopeless sinful outcomes. What you decided to eat or wear (for example) need not become an eternal battlefield of personal sin versus righteousness. Likewise deliverance from sin is not deliverance from human nature. Within human nature there are deposits of God’s common grace we can enjoy such as love, friendship and charity. But there are things in human nature, such as prejudices, that the person who lives in the progressive pursuit of Christlikness has to demolish through proactive action. (i.e., by the Divine strength imparted by God’s Spirit) Furthermore, there are other battles over which we are not to fight, but to stand still in and see the salvation of God. It is here to I want to insert a strong word of caution and reminder. Despite my or your personal theologies anything that erects itself as a stronghold, against the knowledge of God, needs to be determinedly demolished by drawing on God’s power, through His Holy Spirit, and not comforted, accepted or welcomed as some type of inner compromise.

Natural herbs discount cialis 20mg have some highly important ingredients that body recognises as food offer potent results. The bark of this tree has long been in use cialis super click for more info now for the treatment of sexual disorders in men. Addiction to drugs and alcohol can lead a cheap brand levitra https://unica-web.com/archive/1993/1993.html healthy sex life with the help of counseling and multidisciplinary approach. This reflects a change to the law. click here sildenafil online purchase When the Holy Spirit has His full invitation, in our lives, the Father can begin the work of altering our disposition and aide us in the process of sanctification. The battle is not against sin; we can never fight against sin, because Jesus already dealt with sin in the redemption. The real battle is waged along the lines of turning our natural life into a spiritual life, and this is never done easily, nor does God intend it to be done easily. Oswald Chambers said, “It is done only by a series of moral choices. God does not make us holy in the sense of character; He makes us holy in the sense of innocence, and we have to turn that innocence into holy character by a series of moral choices. These choices are continually in antagonism to the entrenchments of our natural life, the things which erect themselves as ramparts against the knowledge of God. We can either go back and make ourselves of no account in the Kingdom of God, or we can determinedly demolish these things and let Jesus bring another son to glory.”

So be as the Demolition Man and target the sinful, not natural areas of our life. Under the direction of the Holy Spirit He will provide you with the proper balance in life. But once that “stronghold” has been revealed do not compromise or give it sanctuary…tear it down and allow the Father to build a great fortification to His glory in your life.

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

THE FOUNTAIN

The FountainTHE FOUNTAIN

In yesterday’s post I mentioned the popular movie, A River Runs Through It, as a setting and principle for the power, purpose and origin of the Christian’s true source of everlasting authority. In keeping with this week’s “movie theme” there is another film, far more obscure, that also tackles some challenging questions facing every person in life. This film is titled: The Fountain.

“The Fountain is a 2006 American romantic drama that blends elements of fantasy, history, religion, and science fiction. The film consists of three story lines, in which the actors play different sets of characters who may or may not be the same two people: a modern-day scientist and his cancer-stricken wife, a conquistador and his queen, and a space traveler in the future who hallucinates his lost love. The story lines—interwoven with use of match cuts and recurring visual motifs—reflect the themes of love and mortality.” (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Fountain)

For every seeker, searcher and even Christian the questions of mortality and eternity sit fixed, like a star in the distant horizon, that catches the heart of every eternal explorer. As Christians we too are on an eternal quest searching for the lover of our soul and He, in turn, is adopting sons and daughters into His Holy family and Kingdom. However, contrary to the old saying, “All roads lead to Rome” not all streams lead to life eternal with the great I AM. The enemy of all creation, Satan, through great deception and cunning has echoed a comfortable lie that reassures the searcher of waters of refreshing wherever they desire to drink. As a result, with the right balance of additives, our culture and world has become addicted to a substitute while believing they are drinking to their eternal health. Again, we look to the words of Jesus when He said, “The water that I shall give him, life eternal, shall be in him a well of water (everlasting).” (John 4:14)

“The picture Our Lord gives is not that of a channel but a fountain. ‘By being filled,’ and the sweetness of vital relationship to Jesus will flow out of the saint as lavishly as it is imparted to him. If you find your life is not flowing out as it should, you are to blame; something has obstructed the flow. Keep right at the Source, and—you will be blessed personally? No, out of you will flow rivers of living water, irrepressible life.” (Chambers)

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Is there anything between you and Jesus? Is there anything that dilutes your belief in Him? If not, Jesus says, out of you will flow rivers of living water. Jesus’ very words are not a statement of maybe but a blessing passed on and continually flowing. Again Chambers encourages us to “Keep at the Source, guard well your belief in Jesus Christ and your relationship to Him, and there will be a steady flow for other lives, no dryness and no deadness!”

Have we become too cold or indifferent to no longer expect the extravagant promises of God that tells us out of the believer, spiritual rivers of life are going to flow? Don’t let the misdirection’s of the enemy give you a substitute source or pollute your mighty river. Refuse to let the Source (The Father, Son and Spirit) be blocked by saying, ‘I will be content with this.’ And never look at yourself from the standpoint of—‘Who am I?’ In the history of God’s great plan you will always find that it has started from the obscure, unknown and ignored but always ended with the steadfastly tried and true to Jesus as I AM.

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

“A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT”

A_river_runs_through_it_cover“A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT”

Some time ago there was critically well-received movie titled, A River Runs Through It. Though, at the time, I was too young to appreciate the movie’s message I have now come to understand some of the truths the author sought to convey. Borrowing from a review of this novel the following was said, “A River Runs Through It” concerns the Macleans, a Presbyterian family during early 20th century Montana whose opinions of life are filtered through their passion for fly fishing. The novella is presented from the point of view of older brother Norman who goes on one last fishing trip with his rowdy and troubled younger brother Paul in an attempt to help him get his life on track.”  It may not sound like much when we think of fly-fishing, nature and a time, in America, long past. But when I watched this movie, again, some simple but profound Biblical truths emerged I would like to encourage you to consider.

Central to the novel, and of course the film, is a great and mighty river. This pristine river immediately gives you a sense of refreshing and cooling we can almost taste without ever being there.  If you take the time to consider the genesis of any river this natural stream, of nature and beauty, touches places of which its source knows nothing. Perhaps the river began with a melting snow on top a high mountain? Or maybe the river sprang forth from within the earth’s depths? One thing is certain, within the natural order of the things, the river’s source never knows how far, wide, deep and long it will journey and who it will bring life to.

Though often ignored, disregarded and deemed “expired” there is another river source that is always aware of its paths and the lives it desires to touch, refresh and bring everlasting life. Jesus says if we have received of His fullness, however small the visible measure of our lives, out of us will flow the rivers that will bless to the uttermost parts of the earth. If you examine the system of levees, up and down the Mississippi River, you know the “mighty Mississippi” is victoriously persistent and overcomes all natural barriers. For a while the Mississippi may go its steady course until it comes to an obstacle that has halted its advance. However, given enough time the persistent river will make its way around, or through, the obstacle and continue its life giving purpose.

In our great walk of faith, with the Biblical Jesus, the Father has always used “obstacles” to refine your life and build up your strength so you can press forward with Kingdom purpose. Perhaps some obstacles seem too large or have been in place too long for you to have any hope of pressing through or moving around them? If this is you, as it is with me in my current season, then let me remind us to keep paying attention to the Source from which the river is born! The river of the Spirit of God overcomes all obstacles; including the ones in your life today! Never set the focus of your vision on the obstacle or on the difficulty. “The obstacle is a matter of indifference to the river which will flow steadily through you if you remember to keep right at the Source. Never allow anything to come between yourself and Jesus Christ, no emotion, or experience; nothing must keep you from the one great sovereign Source.” (Chambers)
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Perhaps you feel as if your once mighty river has stalled, feeling stagnant or worse, drying up? God rarely allows us to see how great a blessing we are, even in the delayed seasons. If you believe in Jesus, you will find that God has nourished, in you, mighty torrents of blessings for others. It is a only a matter of time before the obstacle is removed and “Rivers of Living Water” flow freely again! (John 7:38)

Stay encouraged, remain faithful and always trust in Him as the source.

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

REPOST from Jeannette Johnian’s Blog “Continue to Climb”: IN THE MIDST OF “DELUSIONAL” MEN

IN THE MIDST OF “DELUSIONAL” MEN

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Years ago there was a young man in our fellowship that decided he was going to venture out and start his own business. Throughout his being a part of our community my husband had encouraged and supported this man in his endeavors. In spite of the fact that others considered him socially awkward my husband saw a man in need of affirmation and fellowship. One day this man came to our home offering his professional services and after some consideration we had to decline. The moment my husband let him know we were not interested his demeanor changed. Obviously offended he decided he was going to tell my husband what he really thought of our community and his pastor. Sitting in our living room he looked straight at my husband and said, “When are you going to realize you are delusional?”  He went on to question the call of God, in my husbands life, and “exhorted” him to give up.

Why did this man think my husband was delusional? Was it because our community was not in the hundreds or thousands? Could it be my husband did not fit a certain mold for today’s pastor or leader? Was it that my husband never managed a successful business or served as an executive in a fortune 500 company? It was obvious his words, spoken from hurt and rejection, were meant to humiliate.

Since the month of October is pastor appreciation month I thought I would give a big shout out to all the men and women who have been told they are “delusional” for following the call of God.

Just this past week I was in Kalamazoo attending a conference with pastors from around the country. During one of the breakout sessions I heard the stories of men and women who have given their lives to serve God and others. As these servant-leaders shared their stories, with authenticity and transparency, tears starting streaming down my face. But, why was I crying? In each story there was a common denominator that spoke to a deep place within my spirit. What touched me were the hearts of shepherds who are willing to give anything and everything to answer the call of God.

Story after story I heard the familiar burden of true shepherds. These are the unknown soldiers, serving in the trenches, who cannot abandon the call to serve. Many of these men ,according to western church thinking, fall into the category of delusional, unsuccessful, ill-equipped and failures. But I would suggest the following:

  • These are the men who have prayed and pleaded, before God’s throne, for our families. Would any person selflessly do this?
  • These are the men who study God’s Word so, above all else, our souls prosper. Is that not worth more than gold?
  • These are the men, with the eyes of a shepherd, who see us wandering before we realize we have strayed. Are not their words of counsel and wisdom worth paying attention too?
  • These are the men who in spite of adversity, disappointment and hardship endure to the end. Shouldn’t we encourage and support them along the way?
  • These are the men who give of their own limited funds to help you pay your bills when your in need. Did you know that?
  • These are the men that rejoice with you when your child is born, you get a job promotion and your children marry. Ask yourself, when was the last time you rejoiced for your pastor?
  • These are the men who will admit they are far from perfect and, at times, will make imperfect decisions. Are they not worthy of our mercy and patience?
  • These are the men that, when the phone rings at 5:30 am, are willing to get out of bed and meet with you as well as minister to your need.Would we do the same?
  • These are the men that, when they are on vacation, will always answer your distressing phone call and never let it go to voice mail. Are we on call 24-7?
  • These are the men that sacrifice their lives, and family needs, for a salary that rarely covers their living expenses. Would we do the same?

After I complied my short, but by no means exhaustive, list I would like to say THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for having the same courage as Noah, to build an ark without one convert or sign of rain. To have the faithfulness of Abraham, the humility of David, the boldness of Elijah, the tears of Jeremiah, the courage of Daniel, the vision of Nehemiah and Ezra, the thankfulness of the Apostles, the strength of Paul and the persistence of John.

Thessalonians 5: 12 – 13 says: “And now, friends, we ask you to honor those leaders, who work so hard for you, who have been given the responsibility of urging and guiding you along in your obedience. Overwhelm them with appreciation and love.

Grace and Peace

Jeannette 

Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

A WORLD SEARCHING FOR HAPPINESS NEEDS THE JOY OF THE LORD

happiness wordleA WORLD SEARCHING FOR HAPPINESS NEEDS THE JOY OF THE LORD

Routinely I am surprised how many people believe if they can achieve happiness they will also discover joy. Likewise, I have met many joyful people who continue to live in search of happiness. Truthfully both happiness and joy ARE difficult to separate but, for the believer, our joy and happiness is only experienced through the life of Jesus.

I was recently watching a television show that’s basic premise was built on trying to match two people into the ideal happy couple. As this particular episode progressed each person referred to the joy, the other individual brought them, based on their looks, sense of humor, character and profession. Not surprising to me, after the episode concluded, both happiness and joy eluded this young couple just two weeks after the filming of that episode. Why? Simply answered a world searching for happiness will never be satisfied, or find it, without the joy of the Lord. But what is the joy of the Lord? For us to best understand the joy of the Lord we need to understand what truly brought Jesus joy.

The joy of Jesus was and is the absolute self-surrender and self-sacrifice, of Himself, to His Father. Said another way, Jesus lived the life of happiness and great joy by doing that which the Father sent Him to do. “I delight to do Thy will.” It is difficult for us to think about the pursuit of joy and happiness absent from our own context of personal satisfaction. But remember the challenge, facing us all, is to view life with a Kingdom perspective. When we are looking with the eyes of eternity then we are able to understand why Jesus prayed that our joy might go on fulfilling itself until it was the same joy as His.

Have you allowed Jesus to introduce His joy to you? Though my opinion, on this topic, may be like a salmon swimming against the current of today’s conventional church teaching and thinking I am brought back to what the Bible leads us to regarding happiness, joy and purpose. Scripture, and the very Words of Jesus speak little, if anything, about our bodily health, external happenings or desire to see our work for God succeed. On the contrary, while these goals sound like happy and joyful aspirations they miss the Biblical mark. The Father, Son and Spirit have been after, concerning humanity, mans perfect understanding of God.
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Everybody experiences seasons of desire, happiness and joy and the first thing that will hinder us, in knowing Him, is the constant irritation of thinking about our circumstances and desires. The cares of this world, which so often define our standards of joy and happiness, Jesus said will choke God’s word. If we are not careful, before we know where we are, we can be caught up in the spectacle of “things” that always cast a great shadow over the image of Jesus.

What everybody is searching for is true happiness and joy. The answer for the “great search party” is revealed by understanding the Father wants to reunite us, with Himself, and bring us to place where we will be His witnesses and proclaim who the Biblical Jesus is. The happiness of the world is fleeting and passing quickly away. The substitute for the joy of the Lord will never be discovered in the world. But when you are rightly related to the Father you will find your joy and out of you will flow rivers of living water! In your search for happiness and joy don’t look to yourself, stop being self-conscious and don’t try to present yourself as the pharisees. Live a life led by the Holy Spirit and identified with the Biblical Jesus. The life that is rightly related to the Father is as natural as breathing and so wherever you go so be a vessel for Jesus to pour living water through.

That My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. (John 15:11).

Blessings – JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

RE-THINK MINISTRY: WHAT ARE YOU IN IT FOR?

re-thinkRE-THINK MINISTRY: WHAT ARE YOU IN IT FOR?

At times I wonder if people who claim to speak, the message of the Gospel, are serving Jesus for Him or because it is good business. By now many of you have already seen or heard of the TV series, Pastors of LA which is distributed by Oprah’s OWN station. If you have not seen the trailer then here is a redirect that will bring you there.

Today, I want this blog’s purpose to be a constructive, honest and loving discussion with some deeper questions and thoughts that extend beyond surface opinions. After viewing this trailer I had a series of mixed reactions. But after I had some time to reflect, on the premise of this show, I found myself asking a simple question: “What are you in it for? The business of YOU or HIM?”  “Notwithstanding in this rejoice not …but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” (Luke 10:19, 20) Any minister (and I am hesitant to use terms such as “great” or “small”) will testify they responded to the call of God and therefore they are in the ministry of serving the Gospel to people. And yet I ask how can the Pastors of LA encourage a contrary opinion to Jesus’ own words read in Luke 10?*

When you are in the business of Him (Jesus) it is impossible to be in the ministry for yourself. Even a quick “drive by” of Jesus’ example of serving two masters will reveal that. However, many ministers continue to abuse Scripture to support their lifestyles and personal theology. Here again, there is not a single Christian who is given the liberty, by the Father, to redefine His Word for their own purposes. If we are to walk upright and holy before the Lord then we must honor His Words in our attitudes, affections, wants, desires and livelihood. In effect Jesus says, in Luke 10, don’t rejoice in successful service, but rejoice because you are rightly related to Me. Jesus’ words apply to all Christians as both an encouragement, to right living, and a warning as to how not to live. The snare, in Christian service, is not to rejoice in your success but rejoice in the Father, and in His omniscience, be thankful He has chosen to use you.

But here too is another point of caution. Because the Father has elected to use an individual this does not give them the Biblical license to profit obscenely beyond moderation. It is the excesses, within the church today, that purposely or inadvertently encourage Christians to evaluate the Father’s blessing through outward appearances. There are multiple Biblical examples of what God cares about…and the Father has never been impressed with buildings, personal kingdoms or wealth. What matters to God in the heart of the man or woman, which is seen only by the Father.
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You and I should never measure  “success” with a natural perspective. The only way to see, that of real value, comes through being rightly related to Jesus and seeing with a Kingdom perspective. It is essential every believer keep their relationship right with Him and whatever circumstances you are in, and whoever you meet day by day, you will be in His position to have rivers of living water pour through you and refresh others. When you are in the” business” of Jesus, for Him, then the Father will allow His mercy to flow through you to help lead people towards spiritual reformation.  All of our lives should be living testimonies of being rightly related to the Father, through the ongoing work of salvation and sanctification, operating in your life. Remember that wherever you are God wants you to fulfill the Father’s purposes, not yours…that is why you are there.

In everything, not just the business of ministry, there is an overwhelming tendency to label anything or anyone a “success” by appearances. Beware of the pressure and people who make their usefulness, to you, their ground of appeal. The lodestar of the Christian is the Jesus, alone, and He is the model we are meant to always follow and show to others. It is the work that God does, through us, that counts. Not what we do for Him. What we should all desire is knowing, in our spirit, the Lord is pleased with our relationship with Him. At the end of the day the business of Jesus is bringing many sons and daughters toward His holiness as well as walking and living in His likeness.

Blessings – JOSHUA

*I would like to add these men, are just one sampling of an opinion and approach to ministry within the United States. I do not believe these ministers represent the majority of pastors, teachers, lay ministers and volunteers within the church today. However, it should be noted the “minority” seem to encourage and represent a strong “voice” of Christianity in the United States. I have drawn these conclusions by surveying anecdotal evidences seen on television, media and printed material. 

Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

A CONFESSION OF FAILURE

Failure-Is-Not-Final1A CONFESSION OF FAILURE

Last week I was waiting my turn at the deli-counter when I decided to pass some of the time by engaging the person behind me in a brief conversation. As we both waited for our turn our conversation quickly moved from topic to topic and eventually rested on what each of us does for a vocation. At first I was quick to tell the man what I do, vocationally, but as our conversation went on I found myself feeling as if I had to exaggerate who and what I do. By exaggerating I mean I began to walk the fine line of lying and “enhancing” the truth. Thankfully, before I dug too deep of a hole for myself our turns came up and we placed our orders and said good-bye. The walk from the deli-counter to the car seemed like the green mile and all the way the Holy Spirit convicted me by asking, Why did you do that? Why were you embarrassed? Were you ashamed?” Honestly, I had to answer the Holy Spirit with “all of the above” and while I had entered similar situations with the boldness of a lion I sheepishly shrank, like a mouse, in the shadow of man’s approval. Sitting in my car, in the grocery parking lot, I appealed to Jesus with a confession of failure.

Every time you venture out, in life, you will find something in your commonsense circumstances that flatly contradicts your faith. Common sense is not faith and faith is not common sense. When I was speaking with this other man my commonsense was screaming for me to obfuscate the facts, dodge the question and embellish the truth because the reality was embarrassing, lack-luster and small in relation to what this man was doing. This encounter, at the local deli, became another amazing learning lesson of grace and mercy that reminded me; I can trust Jesus where my common sense cannot see Him?

How ‘bout you? Can you venture heroically on Jesus’ truths when the facts of your life and or ministry shout to you, Use your commonsense and tell a lie? I thought back to last week’s deli encounter and asked myself, Why did I feel shame? In part the answer came back to a sobering reality that revealed I lacked the faith to believe that God does not need my success to validate Him. Great or small the Father will not let me run dry, without outlook or hope. In that moment of struggle between commonsense and faith I was meant to go through the test trusting Him and not sinking back into something lower such as self. Even though I failed that test I am thankful for the Father’s love, for me, that allows my faith to be tried and tested.
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If I had not experienced the encounter at the deli, that evening, then I would not have been aware of my personal conflict between faith and self. What is your faith up against today? Your test will either prove that your faith is right or it will reveal you are still trusting yourself. “Blessed is he whosoever shall not be offended in Me.” The point of today’s blog is for you and me is to place our total confidence in Jesus. Believe steadfastly on Him and all you come up against will develop your faith. As long as we are on this earth we will continually face the testing of our faith. May God keep us in fighting trim shape and always trusting in Him!

“Said I not unto thee, that if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?” (John 11:40).

Blessings – JOSHUA