Embracing an Outreaching Lifestyle
  • Serve Sacrificially for God's Kingdom Purposes
  • Resources
  • Blog

Resist Being Squeezed into the World's Mold (Insights in NT)

1/30/2012

1 Comment

 
Picture
In John 18, you learned how to speak God's word openly as His disciple and fulfill your destiny by persevering in the midst of betrayal, endure persecution, resist temptation toward comfort, embrace your role as Christ's disciple, take up your cross and seek God's kingdom by bearing witness to the truth. John 19 teaches the core attitudes in being His disciple so you can identify with Christ without reservations and resist being squeezed into the world's mold.  

Pilate scourged and soldiers put a crown of thorns on Jesus. After clothing Him in a  purple robe, they said, "Hail, King of the Jews!" Pilate told the chief priests and officers to crucify Him themselves since he found no guilt in Jesus. The Jews said He should die because He made Himself out to be the Son of God. Jesus told Pilate that any authority over Him was given from above and those who delivered Him to Pilate had greater sin. When the Jews said Jesus opposed Caesar by saying He was a king, Pilate delivered Him to be crucified (John 19:1-16). Trust God's sovereignty during tough times. 

He bore His cross and was crucified with two other men. Many Jews read an inscription put on the cross, "Jesus the Nazarene, the King of the Jews" (John 19:17-22). Bear your cross and don't be concerned with others' opinions of you.  

The soldiers took Jesus' outer garments, tunic and cast lots to fulfill Scripture. Mary, Jesus' mother, His mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene stood by the cross of Jesus. He told John to take his mother, Mary, into his household (John 19:23-27). Stand on the promises of Scripture when circumstances get out of control. 

When Jesus knew all things had been accomplished to fulfill Scripture, He said, "I am thirsty." When He was given sour wine, He said, "It is finished!" and gave up His spirit (John 19:28-30). Surrender your life to God by trusting in Christ's finished work on the cross. 

The soldiers did not break Jesus' legs when they saw He was dead. Blood and water came out when a soldier pierced His side to fulfill Scripture. Jesus' witness was true so those could know the truth and believe (John 19:31-37). Boast in the cross of Christ so you can be dead to the world.  

Joseph of Arimathea, a secret disciple of Jesus for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate's permission to take away Jesus' body. He and Nicodemus who came to Him at night, bound Jesus' body in linen wrappings with spices. They laid His body in a new tomb (John 19:38-42). Identify with Christ and be transformed into a bold witness of Him. 

To resist being squeezed into the world's mold:
1. Trust God's sovereignty during tough times
2. Bear your cross and don't be concerned with other'swhile being crucified to the world 
3. Stand on the promises of Scripture when circumstances get out of control
4. Surrender your life to God by trusting in Christ's finished work on the cross
5. Boast in the cross of Christ so you can be dead to the world
6. Identify with Christ and be transformed into a bold witness of Him

1 Comment

Finding Deliverance in Extreme Pain (Insight in Psalms)

1/28/2012

3 Comments

 
Picture
People try various strategies in dealing with their extreme pain. These include over-eating, smoking, alcohol, drugs, sex, busyness, television, social media, and accomplishments. Israel experienced severe pain when Babylon conquered and removed them from Jerusalem, the place where God dwelt. God shared an alternative strategy in dealing with extreme pain.  

We wept by the rivers of Babylon when we remembered Zion. Our captors and tormentors demanded we sing songs of Zion. 
May my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth if I don't exalt Jerusalem about my chief joy. How blessed will be the one who repays Babylon for their destruction of Jerusalem (Ps. 137:1-9). Exalt God in your extreme pain.

I give thanks heartily for His love and truth since God has magnified His word together with His name. He answers prayer and makes me bold with strength in my soul (Ps. 138:1-3). Claim God's promises in prayer to have strength and boldness. 

Every king gives thanks and sings of the Lord's ways when they hear His words. The Lord's glory is great and He regards the lowly. He revives and saves me from the wrath of my enemies. The Lord accomplishes what concerns me. Because His lovingkindness is eternal, He won't forsake me (Ps. 138:4-8). Humble yourself so God's purposes can be accomplished in your life and the world.

God knows everything about you, even before doing something. He is present everywhere in the universe. He leads and works on my behalf in both darkness and light  (Ps. 139:1-12). Submit to God's leadership because He knows you and is present everywhere. 

God weaves me in my mother's womb. I give thanks because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. I was made skillfully and secretly in the depths of the earth. God ordained the number of days I will live. How precious and vast are God'sare  (Ps. 139:13-18). Thank God for His design, sovereignty and thoughts in and for your life. 

Ask Him to slay the wicked who speak against God. I hate and loathe those who hate Him (Ps. 139:19-22). Agree with God in hating sin and wickedness. 

Ask Him to search and know your heart. God will examine your anxious thoughts and way of pain so He can lead you forever (Ps. 139:23-24). Let God search and know your heart so He can lead you always.  

When you are experiencing pain, follow this checklist:
1. Exalt God in your extreme pain
2. Claim God's promises in prayer to have strength and boldness
3. Humble yourself so God's purposes can be accomplished your life and world

4. Submit to God's leadership because He knows you and is present everywhere
5. Thank God for His design, sovereignty and thoughts in and for your life
6. Agree with God in hating sin and wickedness
7. Let God search and know your heart so He can lead you always

3 Comments

Benefits of Wisdom (Insights in Prophets)

1/27/2012

0 Comments

 
Picture
Media and the world wants to squeeze you in a certain mold. God offers the valuable possession of wisdom. When Solomon asked for wisdom, he received many tremendous benefits. 

Solomon formed a marriage alliance with the daughter of Pharaoh king of Egypt and brought her to the city of David until he finished building his house, the Lord's house and the wall around Jerusalem. People still sacrificed on the high places because no house was built for the name of the Lord (1 Kings 3:1-2).  Wisdom creates places for people to worship God. 

Solomon loved the Lord but burned incense on the high places. He offered 1,000 burnt offerings on an altar in Gibeon. The Lord asked Solomon what He should give him. Because God shown David great lovingkindness due to  his faithfulness, Solomon asked for an understanding heart to discern between good and evil in judging His people (1 Kings 3:3-9). Wisdom empowers you to discern between good and evil.

Because Solomon asked for discernment to understand justice instead of a long life, riches and success, God gave him the latter. If he obeyed His commandments, God would prolong his days (1 Kings 3:10-14). Wisdom imparts prosperity of riches, success and honor.  

Solomon stood before the ark of the covenant of the Lord and offered burnt and peace offerings and made a feast for his servants (1 Kings 3:15). Wisdom leads to total surrender of your life to God.  

When two women argued over whose son a baby was, Solomon said to divide the child in two and give one half to each woman. The one whose child was still living became deeply stirred over her son and said to give him to the other woman instead of killing him. Solomon gave the first woman her son as she was his mother. All Israel saw God's wisdom in the king to administer justice (1 Kings 3:16-28). Wisdom allows people to see God as you administer righteous justice.  

King Solomon was king over all Israel with Azariah, priest, Elihoreph and Ahijah, secretaries, Jephoshaphat, recorder, Benaiah, head of the army, Zadok and Abiathar, priests, Azariah, head of deputies, Zabud, priest and king's friend, Ahishar, head of household, Adoniram, head of men subject to forced labor (1 Kings 4:1-6). Wisdom selects the right team to serve in your sphere of rule. 

Solomon had 12 deputies over Israel who provided for the king and his household. Each man provided for one month per year. Geber in the land of Gilead, country of Sihon king of the Amorites and Og king of Bashan, was the only deputy in the land (1 Kings 4:7-19). Wisdom dispenses multiple revenue streams to provide financially for your needs. 

Judah and Israel, numerous as the sand on the seashore, were eating, drinking and rejoicing (1 Kings 4:20). Wisdom enables others to enjoy life. 

Solomon ruled and had dominion from the River Euphrates to the land of the Philistines and to the border of Egypt. Judah and Israel lived in safety with peace all around them during Solomon's reign. He had 40,000 stalls of horses for his chariots and 12,000 horsemen. Solomon and those who came to his table lacked nothing (1 Kings 4:21-28). Wisdom causes peace and safety in your sphere of rule. 

God gave Solomon wisdom, great discernment and breadth of mind like the sand of the seashore that surpassed the sons of the east and Egypt. He was wiser than all men and his fame was known in all the surrounding nations. He spoke 3,000 proverbs, 1,005 songs, of trees, animals and birds. Men and kings came from all peoples to hear Solomon's wisdom (1 Kings 4:29-34). Wisdom increases your mental capacity in diverse fields of study. 

Benefits of wisdom include: 
1. Creates spaces for people to worship God
2. Discern between good and evil
3. Imparts prosperity of riches, success and honor
4. Leads to total surrender of your life to God
5. Allows people to see God 
6. Selects right team to serve in your sphere of rule
7. Dispense multiple revenue stream to provide financially for your needs
8. Enables others to enjoy life
9. Causes peace and safety in your sphere of rule
10. Increases your mental capacity in diverse fields of study
Which one is most important to you right now?



0 Comments

How to Make No Provision for the Flesh (Insights in Law)

1/24/2012

0 Comments

 
Picture
Many times God seems far away. Statistics from George Barna show that less than one percent of those between the ages of 18 and 23 have a biblical worldview. Barna suggested that “parents are not focused on guiding their children to have a biblical worldview. One of the challenges for parents, though, is that you cannot give what you do not have, and most parents do not possess such a perspective on life.” Paul instructed Timothy to take things he heard from him and entrust to faithful men so they could teach others (2 Tim. 2:2). Furthermore, he was to suffer hardship as a soldier by not getting entangled in the affairs of everyday life (2 Tim. 2:3-4). God inspired Moses to take the soldier mentality and live in spiritual intimacy while making no provision for the flesh. 
 
They made finely woven garment that Aaron used for ministering in the holy place. They made a ephod and attaching shoulder pieces of fine twisted linen and gold sheets woven together, the work of a skillful workman just as the Lord commanded Moses (Ex. 39:1-5). God prepares you for spiritual intimacy with Christ.


They made onyx stones set in gold filigree settings engraved like signet with the names of the sons of Israel. They were placed on the shoulder pieces of the ephod as memorial stones just as the Lord commanded Moses (Ex. 39:6-7). God engraves your name like precious stones near His heart.

He made a breastpiece like the workmanship of the ephod of gold, blue, purple and scarlet material and fine twisted linen.  They mounted four rows of precious stones set in gold filigree setting engraved with the names of the 12 tribes of Israel. They made on the breastpiece chains like twisted cordage in pure gold and placed two gold rings on the two ends of the breastpiece just as the Lord commanded Moses (Ex. 39:8-21). God protects your heart to remain pure. 

They made the robe of the ephod of blue woven work and pomegranates of  blue, purple and scarlet material and twisted linen on the hem of the robe. They made bells of pure gold between the pomegranates for the service just as the Lord commanded Moses (Ex. 39:22-26). God clothes you with Christ to make no provision for the flesh.

They made tunics, turban, decorated caps, linen breeches, sash of finely woven or twisted linen for Aaron and his sons. It was blue, purple and scarlet material, the work of the weaver, just as the Lord commanded Moses (Ex. 39:27-29). God renews your mind to know and do His will.

They used pure gold to make the plate of the holy crown, which was inscribed like engravings of a signet, "Holy to the Lord." They fastened a blue cord so all of it could be attached on the turban above, just as the Lord commanded Moses (Ex. 39:30-31). God crowns you with ultimate worth more precious than gold.  

Thus all the work of the tabernacle of the tent of meeting was completed. They brought the tabernacle to Moses, the tent and all its furnishings, covering of rams' skins dyed red and porpoise skins, screening veil, ark of the testimony with its poles, mercy seat, table, utensils, bread of Presence, pure gold lampstand with its arrangements of lamps, utensils and oil for the light, gold altar, anointing oil and fragrant incense, veil for the doorway of the tent, laver, hangings for the court, equipment for the service of the tabernacle and tent of meeting, holy garments for Aaron and his sons to minister as priests. Moses examined and blessed all the work they had done just as the Lord commanded (Ex. 39:32-43). God sees and blesses works done in His name. 

To learn how to make no provision for the flesh, use a chiastic structure beginning with the first paragraph: A, B, C, D, C', B' A'. We group together the content in A & A', B & B', etc.:
1. God prepares you for spiritual intimacy by seeing and blessing your works
2. God engraves your name like precious stones upon His heart and crowns you with ultimate worth more precious than gold
3. God protects your heart to remain pure and renews your mind to know and do His will

 

0 Comments

Speak God's Word Openly As Christ's Disciple (Insights in NT)

1/22/2012

0 Comments

 
Picture
Many forces conspire to prevent you from speaking God's word openly as Christ's disciple. Learning evangelism presentations and applying church growth methods are not sufficient. When close friends betray you, you may lose confidence in the gospel. When persecution makes life harder and more complicated, it becomes tempting to pursue the American dream of prosperity and comfort. Rather than being a disciple of Jesus, you allow the world to mold your thinking and actions. You become preoccupied with human strategies to meet your needs instead of taking up the cross and seeking God's kingdom. Jesus provides the example on how to speak the word openly as His disciple after Judas betrayed Him. 

Judas came with soldiers and the Pharisees to betray Jesus. Twice Jesus asked, "Whom do you seek?" Jesus spoke that He would not lose anyone God gave Him in fulfillment of His word. After Peter cut off the right ear of the high priest's slave, Jesus said he would drink the cup the Father gave Him (John 18:1-11). Persevere in midst of betrayal while fulfilling God's destiny. 


After the Romans soldiers and Jews arrested Jesus, they led him to Annas, the father-in-law of the high priest, Caiaphas. He had advised the Jews it was expedient for one man to die for the people (John 18:12-14). Endure persecution while 
fulfilling God's destiny. 

Peter and another disciple followed Jesus into the court of the high priest. Peter told a slave-girl that he was not one of Jesus' disciples. He warmed himself next to a charcoal fire with slaves and officers (John 18:15-18). Resist temptation toward comfort while fulfilling God's destiny.  

Jesus answered the high priest saying He spoke openly to the world by teaching in the synagogues and temple where all the Jews came together. Jesus said they should question those who heard Him speak to know what He said. Annas sent Him to Caiaphas the high priest (John 18:19-24). Speak God's word openly to the world while fulfilling God's destiny. 

Twice Peter denied that He was one of the disciples and immediately a cock crowed (John 18:25-27). Embrace your role as Jesus' disciple while fulfilling God's destiny. 

The Jews told Pilate that they could not put anyone to death in answering what accusation they were bringing against Christ. This fulfilled Jesus' word signifying what kind of death he would suffer (John 18:28-32). Take up your cross while fulfilling God's destiny. 

Pilate asked Jesus in the governor's residence, "Are You the King of the Jews?" Jesus said that because His kingdom was not of this world, His servants would not fight to prevent Him from being delivered up to the Jews. When Pilate asked if Jesus was a king, He answered that He was born to be a king and bore witness to the truth so those of the truth would hear His voice. After Pilate asked, "What is truth?", he told the Jews that he found no guilt in Him. The Jews told Pilate to release Barabbas, a robber, instead of Jesus at the Passover (John 18:33-40). Seek God's kingdom by bearing witness to the truth while fulfilling God's destiny.

To speak God's word openly as His disciple and fulfill your destiny, do the following:  
1. Persevere in midst of betrayal
2. Endure persecution
3. Resist temptation toward comfort
4. Embrace your role as Christ's disciple
5. Take up your cross
6. Seek God's kingdom by bearing witness to the truth

0 Comments

Trusting Idols or God (Insights in Psalms)

1/20/2012

0 Comments

 
Picture
It's easy and tempting to put your trust in made-made idols instead of God. Money, position, possessions and status can easily make you forget Him. Those who serve, praise, exalt, trust, revere, thank, remember and love Him, will know that He rescues and provides for our needs.

All of the Lord's servants who serve by night in His house should bless Him. Lift up your hands in this holy place.  God who made heaven and earth will bless you (Ps. 134:1-3). Serve God as you glorify Him at night.


Praise the Lord who is good and lovely. He chose Jacob for Himself and Israel as His special treasure (Ps. 135:1-4). Praise God who chose you as His treasure. 

The Lord is great and above all gods. He does whatever He pleases in heaven and earth. He causes the vapors to ascend, makes lightnings for the rain and brings forth wind (Ps. 135:5-7). Exalt God who does whatever He pleases.

He killed the first-born of Egypt and sent signs and wonders upon Pharaoh. God killed many kings, including Sihon of the Amorites and Og of Bashan. Their land became Israel's possession. The Lord judges and has compassion upon His people. The nations' idols are silver and gold, the work of man's hands without breath. Those who make and trust in them will be like them  (Ps. 135:8-18). Trust God who performed miracles in Egypt and the wilderness and don't trust man-made idols.

Those who revere the Lord should bless Him. He dwells in Jerusalem (Ps. 135:19-21). Revere the Lord who dwells with you.

Give thanks to the Lord for His goodness and love. He is God of gods and Lord of gods since His love is eternal. He alone does great wonders. He made the heavens with skill, along with the sun to rule by day and moon & stars to rule by night (Ps. 136:1-9). Thank God for His goodness and love as you observe His creation. 

With eternal love, God brought Israel out of Egypt with a strong hand and outstretched arm after killing their first-born. He divided and made Israel pass through the Red Sea while overthrowing Pharaoh and his army. God led His people through the wilderness and killed mighty kings. He gave their land as a possession to Israel His servant (Ps. 136:10-22). Remember God's miracles in Egypt when He divided the Red Sea and gave land to His people. 

God remembered us in our low estate because of His love. He rescued us from adversaries. He gives food to all flesh because of His love (Ps. 136:23-26). Love God because He rescues and provides for you.

When you are tempted to worship an idol, remember God's miracles in your life so you praise Him.


0 Comments

Necessity of Accountability (Insights in Prophets)

1/18/2012

0 Comments

 
Picture
No task or enterprise will succeed unless you have accountability. People rebel and lose focus unless they are made accountable for their actions. I know from experience having a coach or partner helps you stay focused on your goals. God's "disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness" (Heb. 12:10).  When David was old, Abishag nursed and kept the king warm. Adonijah exalted himself saying he wanted to be king. He prepared chariots and horsemen with 50 men to run before him. His father never crossed him saying, "Why have you done so?" Only Joab and Abiathar followed him (1 Kings 1:1-10). People exalt themselves in evil actions or rebellion when they don't have accountability. 

Nathan told Bathsheba to ask David whether Solomon was to be king after him and not Adonijah. She said that Adonijah had sacrificed animals and invited all the sons of the king, along with Abiathar and Joab, but not Solomon. Bathsheba and Nathan asked who would succeed David as king so she and Solomon would not be considered offenders (1 Kings 1:11-27). Accountability confronts evil by seeking truth.  

David said Solomon would be king and ride on David's mule. He would be brought down to Gihon so Zadok the priest and Nathan could anoint Solomon as ruler over Israel and Judah (1 Kings 1:28-37). Accountability trusts faithful workers to follow through on their actions.

After he was anointed, the people rejoiced and the earth shook. Adonijah heard the uproar and the report that Solomon's name and throne would be greater than David's.  Solomon said Adonijah would be killed if wickedness was found in him (1 Kings 1:38-53). Accountability increases your kingdom impact so God is glorified. 

David challenged Solomon to be strong and walk in God's commandments to succeed in all he would do. The Lord would have his sons sit on the throne if they walked before Him in truth with all their heart and soul. David said Joab should be killed because he shed the innocent blood of Abner and Amasa. David said that kindness be shown to Barzillai's sons by having them eat at Solomon's table. They assisted David when he fled from Absalom. Because Shimei cursed David, he told Solomon to show wisdom and even have him killed (1 Kings 2:1-9). Accountability challenges people to obey God's word and reap the consequences of their actions.

David died and Solomon sat on his father's throne with his kingdom firmly established. Solomon had Adonijah killed after he asked Bathsheba if Abishag could be his wife.  Solomon dismissed Abiathar as priest, which fulfilled God's word concerning the house of Eli (1 Kings 2:10-27). Accountability makes the tough choices in removing people from your team.  

Joab was killed so David's house and throne could have peace from the Lord forever. He appointed Benaiah to replace Joab and Zadok to replace Abiathar (1 Kings 2:28-35). Accountability appoints proven people in key positions.  

Solomon told Shimei to build a house in Jerusalem and threatened death if he left it. When Shimei left to get his servants, Solomon confronted him about his evil heart and what he did to David. By having Shimei killed, the Lord returned evil on his head. The kingdom was established in the hands of Solomon (1 Kings 2:36-46). Accountability establishes boundaries so people suffer consequences if they violate them.


Review the underlined principles about accountability above and ask God what actions you should take in your life, family, business or ministry. 















  

0 Comments

Mechanisms to Equip Workmen of the Word (Insights in Law)

1/16/2012

0 Comments

 
Picture

Quoting Steve Jobs, founder of Apple: “There is no reason not to follow your heart.”
“Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.”
“We made the buttons on the screen look so good you’ll want to lick them.”



In the blog explaining Ex. 35-36 to get the proper context, one builds a kingdom ministry by obeying and trusting God for provision while coordinating the labor and planning under His direction.  Share the vision and particulars with potential donors before hiring skilled and wise overseers to lead the work of others. Present a compelling ministry or business plan uniting the various ministries with structural connections, good communication and infrastructure enabling everyone to work toward one purpose and mission (Ex. 35-36). Moses next gives instructions on how to equip workmen to handle God's word accurately in every good work (2 Tim. 2:15; 3:16-17).  


Bezalel made the ark of acacia wood overlaid with pure gold inside and out and gold molding around it. He cast four gold rings, two on each side, and poles of acacia wood overlaid with gold. He placed the poles in the rings to carry the ark. Bezalel made a mercy seat of gold and two cherubim of gold at both ends. The cherubim had wings spread upward with faces toward the mercy seat (Ex. 37:1-9). Construct a platform under God's direction so the word and cross of Christ will be heard and applied in full view of the world.   

He made the table of acacia wood overlaid with pure gold and gold molding around it. He cast four gold rings placed on the four corners. He made poles of acacia wood overlaid with gold to carry the table. He made gold utensils, including dishes, pans, bowls and jars, to pour out libations (Ex. 37:10-16). Construct a user interface so people readily and easily access God's word.

He made the gold lampstand, a hammered work with its base, shaft,  and cups shaped like almond blossoms along with bulbs and flowers in one piece. It had six branches with three on each side. He made seven lamps with gold snuffers and trays (Ex. 37:17-24). Create the platform and user interface skillfully and beautifully to encourage people to interact with God's word so they see His glory.  

He made the altar of incense with acacia wood overlaid with gold and gold molding around it. He made two gold rings on opposite sides of the altar as holders for poles to carry it. He made poles of acacia wood overlaid with gold. He made holy anointing oil and pure, fragrant incense of spices, the work of a perfumer (Ex. 37:25-29). Equip workmen in God's word who pray fervently and handle His word accurately to be prepared for every good work.

He made the altar of burnt offering of acacia wood and horns overlaid with bronze on its four corners. He made bronze utensils of the altar, including pails, shovels, basins, flesh hooks and firepans. He made a grating of bronze network underneath the altar. He cast four rings on the ends as holders for the poles. He made poles of acacia wood overlaid with bronze to carry the altar. He made a bronze laver and bronze base from the mirrors of the women who served at the doorway of the tent of meeting (Ex. 38:1-8). Lead workmen in God's word who see themselves through the mirror of His word in repentance and confession of sin.

He made the court of fine twisted linen and 20 pillars with 20 bronze sockets. He made silver hooks and bands with silver overlay on their tops. A weaver of blue, purple and scarlet  material wove fine twisted linen to make the screen of the gate of the court. The pegs of the tabernacle  and the court were bronze (Ex. 38:9-20). Motivate workmen in God's word who prioritize intimacy with God. 

Bezalel of the tribe of Judah and Oholiab of Dan, an engraver, skillful workman and weaver in blue, purple, scarlet and fine linen, made all that the Lord commanded Moses for the tabernacle of testimony. All the gold used in the work of the sanctuary set aside for the worship of God cost 29 talents and 730 shekels. The silver cost 100 talents and 1,775 shekels; (a beka a head or half a shekel for each one who passed over whoolder than 20 years was 603,550 men. Casting the sockets of the sanctuary and veil (one talent per socket) cost 100 talents of silver. The hooks for the pillars, tops overlay and bands cost 1,775 shekels. The bronze of the wave offering for sockets to the doorway of the tent of meeting, bronze altar and grating, utensils, sockets and pegs cost 70 talents and 2,400 shekels  (Ex. 38:21-31). Write a business plan listing specific costs and trusting God to provide the money.  


Here are mechanisms to equip workmen of the word:
1.  Construct a platform under God's direction so His word and cross work of Christ will be heard and applied in full view of the world
2.  Construct a user interface so people readily and easily access God's word
3.  Create the platform and user interface skillfully and beautifully to encourage people to interact with God's word so they see His glory
4.  Equip workmen in God's word who pray fervently and handle His word accurately to be prepared for every good work
5.  Lead workmen in God's word who see themselves through the mirror of His word in repentance and confession of sin
6.  Motivate workmen in God's word who prioritize intimacy with God
7.  Write a business plan listing specific costs, how money will be raised and break-even analysis


0 Comments

Making the World Stand Up and Take Notice (Insights in NT)

1/14/2012

0 Comments

 
Picture
One of the prime reasons why the world does not believe in Christ is the division they see in the church. Marketing the church won't work. When I served in college ministry, many students said the multitude of denominations confused them. It prevented them from seeing Christ. In John 17, Jesus prayed that believers would be unified so the world would believe in Him. In this way, the world will stand up and take notice. 

Jesus asked the Father to glorify His Son so He could glorify Him and accomplish the work God gave Him to do. God's authority enabled Jesus to chose those to know Him for eternal life. Jesus revealed His name to ones He took out of the world who kept His word. God was glorified when they believed His words and that He sent Jesus. Jesus prayed the Father would guard and protect them in His name so they could be one like the Son and God (John 17:1-12). God glorified His Son so He could glorify believers to be one like them. 


Jesus spoke these things in the world so they could have full joy through His word. The world hates believers because they are not of the world like Jesus. Staying in the world, they will be protected from Satan's power by being sanctified in truth through God's word. God sent both Jesus and believers into the world. He prayed that every believer and those believing in Him through their word would be sanctified in truth and become one. The Father, Son and believers are one so the world may believe that God sent Jesus (John 17:13-21). God sanctifies believers through His word so the world could believe in Him.  

Jesus gave God's glory to them so they could be perfected in unity as the Father and Son are one. In this way, the world  could experience His love, behold His glory and be filled with God (John 17:22-26). God perfects unity in believers so the world could experience His love and glory.


We ought "with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing forbearance to one another in love, be diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" since their is one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism and one God and Father of all (Eph. 4:2-6). 

0 Comments

Fruit of Sowing the Word (Insights in Psalms)

1/12/2012

0 Comments

 
Picture
Sowing the word produces fruit in your children and work. It protects you from the wicked. Coupled with prayer, sowing the word leads to His love, forgiveness and redemption from sin.  A humble heart trusting in God enables you to equip other sowers as lights to bless the needy. The ultimate fruit of sowing God's word is unity and life forever.  

People labor or watchmen stay awake in vain unless the Lord builds the house or guards the city. It's vain to be always working because He gives to His beloved in their sleep. Children are a gift and reward like arrows in the hand of a warrior. They won't be ashamed when speaking with their enemies in the gate (Ps. 127:1-5). Sowing God's word enables your children to impact culture.  


You will be happy and well when you eat the fruit of your hands by fearing the Lord and walking in His ways. Your wife will be like a fruitful vine and children like olive plants as you see Jerusalem's prosperity and your grandchildren (Ps. 128:1-6). Sowing God's word causes prosperity in your work and blessings to your family.

The Lord's righteousness defeats and shames the wicked so persecutors can't overwhelm me. They wither like grass upon the housetops (Ps. 129:1-8). Sowing God's word protects you from the wicked.

The hope of God's forgiveness, love and redemption from sin motivates me to heart-felt prayer as I wait upon His word like watchman in the morning (Ps. 130:1-8). Sowing God's word coupled with prayer leads to His love, forgiveness and redemption from sin.

I have composed and quieted my soul like a weaned child resting against his mother. It prevents pride and chasing after matters too difficult for me (Ps. 131:1-3). Sowing God's word comes from a humble heart trusting in God. 

Your first priority in all affliction is to dwell with God. Focus on your sons so they learn from Him in keeping His covenant. Prepare God's people so they sow His word to bless the needy (Ps. 132:1-18). Sowing God's word involves equipping other sowers as lights to bless the needy. 

Brothers living together in unity are like precious oil coming down from Aaron's beard and the dew of Hermon coming down upon the mountains of Zion. Unity is life forever (Ps. 133:1-3). Sowing God's word results in unity and life forever.

Answer the following questions:
1. Are you sowing the word with your children?
2. Is God's word producing love, forgiveness and redemption from sin in your life? 
3. Do you have a humble heart that trusts in God?
4. Are you equipping other sowers to bless the needy by sowing into them? 
5. Are you experiencing unity with other believers?



0 Comments
<<Previous
    Picture
    Mark Pomeroy

    RSS Feed


    My goal is to ignite the hearts of people by explaining God's word in the Law, Prophets, Psalms and New Testament consecutively, much like the experience of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:32,44). I have been a missionary in Lincoln, NE, for 13 years with Christ For the City Int. and Sync with God.
     

    Sync with God is a highly versatile web app that hosts on-demand, virtual small groups. Sync is designed to connect young seekers in the faith and scripturally-trained mentors, even globally. It offers a safe, engaging interface for Millennials/Gen. Z and is readily adaptable to technical advances well into the future.

    ​Overview
    ​Sync pilot lesson 1
    Sync YouTube

    ​
    ​

    Follow syncwithgod on Twitter
    View my profile on LinkedIn

    Archives

    December 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    June 2013
    May 2013
    April 2013
    March 2013
    February 2013
    January 2013
    December 2012
    November 2012
    October 2012
    September 2012
    August 2012
    July 2012
    June 2012
    May 2012
    April 2012
    March 2012
    February 2012
    January 2012
    December 2011
    November 2011
    October 2011
    September 2011
    August 2011
    July 2011
    June 2011
    May 2011
    April 2011
    March 2011
    February 2011
    January 2011
    December 2010
    November 2010
    October 2010
    September 2010
    August 2010
    July 2010
    June 2010
    May 2010

    Categories

    All
    1 Chronicles
    1 Corinthians
    1 John
    1 Kings
    1 Peter
    1 Samuel
    1 Thessalonians
    1 Timothy
    2 Chronicles
    2 Corinthians
    2 John
    2 Kings
    2 Peter
    2 Samuel
    2 Thessalonians
    2 Timothy
    3 John
    Abide
    Abortion
    Abundance
    Abundant Life
    Acceptance
    Accomplishment
    Accountability
    Accuracy
    Accusations
    Acts
    Addiction
    Adultery
    Adventure
    Affiction
    Affirmation
    Affliction
    Alcoholism
    Alive
    Ambassador
    Amos
    Antichrist
    Anxiety
    Apathy
    Apostasy
    Apostolic Gifts
    Appearance
    Application
    Armor Of God
    Artistic
    Asleep Spiritually
    Assignment
    Assurance
    Attacks
    Authentic
    Authorities
    Authority
    Awesome
    Balance
    Bargain
    Beauty
    Believe
    Benefits
    Betrayal
    Bible
    Biblical Illiteracy
    Biblical Worldview
    Blameless
    Bless
    Blessing
    Blessings
    Blind
    Blood
    Blood Of The Lamb
    Boast
    Bold
    Bondage
    Broken And Contrite Spirit
    Broken Heart
    Burdens
    Business
    Business Plan
    Busyness
    Calling
    Careers
    Cares
    Change
    Change Agent
    Character
    Children
    Choice
    Choices
    Chosen Instrument
    Christ
    Church
    Church Growth Strategies
    City Ministry
    City Transformation
    Clarity
    Clear Conscience
    Coach
    Colossians
    Comfort
    Comfort Zone
    Command
    Communication
    Communities
    Community
    Community Ministry
    Compassion
    Compensation
    Competence
    Complacency
    Complexity
    Complications
    Compromise
    Condemnation
    Confess
    Confession
    Confess Sin
    Confidence
    Confident
    Conflicts
    Conformity
    Confront Sins
    Confusion
    Connect
    Consequences
    Conspiracy
    Consumerism
    Contend Earnestly For Faith
    Contentment
    Control
    Convergence
    Convict
    Convictions
    Corrupted
    Cost
    Counsel
    Courageous
    Covenant
    Covet
    Craftsmanship
    Creative Media
    Creator
    Credentials
    Crime
    Crisis
    Critical Speech
    Cross
    Cross Denominational Lines
    Crown Of Glory
    Cultivating Spiritual Life
    Cultural Christianity
    Cultural Insiders
    Culturally Sensitive
    Culture
    Curses
    Cursing
    Daniel
    Deacons
    Deadness
    Death
    Debt
    Deceit
    Deception
    Decision
    Decisions
    Defraud
    Delegation
    Deliverance
    Deliverer
    Dependence
    Depression
    Descendants
    Desire
    Desolation
    Destiny
    Deuteronomy
    Development
    Dialogue
    Diligence
    Discernment
    Disciple
    Disciplemaking
    Disciples
    Discipleship
    Discipline
    Discussion
    Disease
    Disenfranchised
    Disgrace
    Disobedience
    Dissension
    Distractions
    Divisions
    Divorce
    Double-minded
    Doubt
    Dread
    Drift
    Drudgery
    Dry
    Ecclesiastes
    Economic Depression
    Edify
    Effectiveness
    Elders
    Emotions
    Empower
    Emptiness
    Encourage
    Endurance
    Enemy
    Entanglement
    Entrap
    Environment
    Ephesians
    Equip
    Esther
    Eternal Impact
    Eternal Life
    Eternal Punishment
    Eternal Reward
    Evangelism
    Evangelism And Discipleship Team
    Evangelismi
    Evil
    Exalt
    Exaltation
    Excessive Profits
    Excessive Study
    Exodus
    External
    Ezekiel
    Ezra
    Faith
    Faithful
    Faithfulness
    False Gods
    False Security
    False Self
    False Teachers
    False Teaching
    False Way
    Families
    Family Relationships
    Famine
    Fasting
    Fathers
    Father's Blessing
    Favor
    Fear
    Fear Of God
    Feedback
    Feel-good Religion
    Fellowship
    Finances
    First Love
    Fisherman
    Flesh
    Flourish
    Fool
    Forgiveness
    Foundation
    Freedom
    Free Gift
    Fresh Relationship
    Friends
    Friendship
    Fruit
    Fruitfulness
    Galatians
    Generational Sin
    Generosity
    Generous Giving
    Genesis
    Giving
    Glory
    Goal
    God-confidence
    Godliness
    Godly Foundations
    Godly Offspring
    Godly Sorrow
    God Rules
    God's Agenda
    God's Leadership
    God's Rule
    Good Friends
    Good Life
    Goodness
    Good News
    Good Works
    Gospel
    Gospel Of The Kingdom
    Gospel Workers
    Grace
    Gracious
    Gratefulness
    Gratitude
    Greater Works
    Greatness
    Great Society
    Grief
    Grieve
    Growth
    Grumble
    Guidance
    Guide
    Guilt
    Habakkuk
    Haggai
    Happiness
    Hardships
    Harmony
    Hate
    Hate Sin
    Healing
    Health
    Health-giving Service
    Heart
    Heart Test
    Hebrews
    Heir
    Hell
    High Priest
    His Design
    Holiness
    Holistic
    Holy Spirit
    Holy Spirit Power
    Homosexuality
    Honor
    Hope
    Hopeless Situation
    Hosea
    Hospitality
    House
    Human Resources
    Humble
    Humility
    Hunger
    Hurt
    Husband
    Hygiene
    Hypocrisy
    Identification
    Identity
    Identity In Christ
    Idol
    Idolatry
    Idols
    Image
    Immigration
    Immorality
    Implosion
    Impossible Situation
    Independence
    Individualistic
    Influence
    Infrastructure
    Initiative
    Injustice
    Insight
    Inspire
    Instruction
    Insubordination
    Insults
    Integrity
    Integrity Tests
    Intellectual Faith
    Intercession
    Internal
    Interpersonal
    Intimacy
    Intimidation
    Invest
    Isaiah
    Isolation
    James
    Jealousy
    Jeremiah
    Jesus
    Job
    Joel
    John
    Jonah
    Joshua
    Joy
    Jude
    Judges
    Judgment
    Judgment Seat Of Christ
    Judicial System
    Justice
    Kindness
    King
    Kingdom
    Kingdom Dominion
    Kingdom Impact
    Kingdom Ministry
    Kingdom Mission
    Kingdom Of God
    Kingdom Opportunities
    Kingdom Strategies
    Kingdom Work
    Kingship
    Knowledge
    Know Your Heart
    Lack Of Love
    Lamentations
    Law
    Leadership
    Leadership Crisis
    Least Of These
    Legacy
    Legalism
    Leviticus
    Lies
    Life
    Lifestyle
    Listen
    Living Faith
    Living Water
    Longterm Impact
    Longterm Success
    Lord's Table
    Lose Life
    Loss
    Lost
    Love
    Loved
    Love Of Money
    Lovingkindness
    Luke
    Lukewarm
    Lust
    Majestic
    Make Disciples
    Making Decisions
    Malachi
    Margin
    Mark
    Marketplace
    Marriage
    Martyr
    Mask
    Materialism
    Matthew
    Meaninglessness
    Meditate
    Men Of Peace
    Mental Capacity
    Mentoring
    Mentors
    Mercy
    Micah
    Micromanage
    Mighty Deeds
    Mindset
    Ministry
    Ministry Plan
    Miracles
    Mission
    Mistreatment
    Mocking
    Model Cities
    Money
    Moral Purity
    Moral Relativism
    Motives
    Mourning
    Multiply Disciples
    Music
    Nahum
    Name
    Need
    Neediness
    Nehemiah
    Neighbor
    Neighborhood Ministry
    Network
    New Covenant
    New Hands
    New Heart
    New Heaven And New Earth
    New Mind
    New Testament
    New Wine
    Nt
    Numbers
    Nurture
    Obadiah
    Obedience
    Obey
    Object Lesson
    Obstacles
    Offend
    Offense
    Ogd
    Older Men And Women
    Opportunities
    Oppressed
    Organize
    Othercenteredness
    Outcomes
    Overcomer
    Over-confidence
    Pain
    Parenting
    Parents
    Participate
    Partner
    Partnership
    Passion
    Pathway
    Patience
    Peace
    Peacemaker
    Perceptiveness
    Performance
    Persecution
    Perseverance
    Persevere
    Persistent
    Personal Identity
    Perspective
    Persuasiveness
    Petition
    Phiippians
    Philemon
    Physical Needs
    Plagues
    Plans
    Pleasure
    Political Tyranny
    Poor
    Pornography
    Possessions
    Possess Territory
    Post
    Power
    Powerlessness
    Practice
    Pragmatism
    Praise
    Prayer
    Prayer Partners
    Prayer Walking
    Preach Gospel
    Preparation
    Presence
    Presence Of God
    Pressure
    Pride
    Priest
    Priorities
    Proclaim
    Prodigal
    Productivity
    Professionalism
    Profit
    Profiteering
    Promise
    Promise Land
    Promotion
    Prophecy
    Prophesy
    Prophets
    Prosperity
    Protection
    Proverbs
    Provision
    Psalm
    Psalms
    Purity
    Purpose
    Quarrel
    Questions
    Rationalism
    Rationalization
    Reality
    Real Living
    Rebellion
    Rebuild
    Reconcile
    Reconciliation
    Redemption
    Refresh Others
    Refuge
    Reign
    Rejection
    Rejoice
    Relationship
    Relationships
    Relief
    Religious System
    Repent
    Repentance
    Rescue
    Research
    Resources
    Responsibility
    Responsible
    Rest
    Restitution
    Restoration
    Restore
    Restoring Relationships
    Resurrection
    Revelation
    Revenge
    Revenue Stream
    Revival
    Revive
    Reward
    Riches
    Right
    Righteous
    Righteousness
    Right Living
    Ritual
    Romans
    Rule
    Ruth
    Sabbath
    Sacred Assembly
    Sacrificial
    Sacrificial Death
    Safety
    Salvation
    Sanctify
    Satan
    Satisfaction
    Satisfied
    Scroll Of Remembrance
    Second Coming
    Secular
    Security
    Self Confidence
    Selfishness
    Self-made Religion
    Self-righteousness
    Self Sufficient
    Self-sufficient
    Sent
    Servant Attitude
    Serve
    Service
    Sex
    Sexual Sin
    Shame
    Share Gospel
    Shepherd
    Significance
    Signs
    Simplicity
    Sin
    Sinfulness
    Single Minded
    Single-minded
    Skillful
    Skillful Workman
    Social Justice
    Song Of Solomon
    Sound Doctrine
    Sovereignty
    Sow
    Sowing
    Sowing The Word
    Speak Tenderly
    Speak Truth
    Speech
    Sphere Of Influence
    Spiritual
    Spiritual Battle
    Spiritual Defenses
    Spiritual Discipline
    Spiritual Dryness
    Spiritual Enemies
    Spiritual Fruit
    Spiritual Gifts
    Spiritual Growth
    Spiritual Harvest
    Spiritual Influence
    Spiritual Intimacy
    Spiritual Leadership
    Spiritual Leadership
    Spiritual Nourishment
    Spiritual Warfare
    Spiritual Warriors
    Spiritual Weapons
    Stability
    Stand In The Gap
    Status Quo
    Steal
    Stewardship
    Straightjacket
    Strategic Partnerships
    Strength
    Stress
    Strong
    Strongholds
    Structural Connections
    Struggles
    Study
    Submission
    Submit
    Success
    Suffering
    Supernatural
    Supernatural Transformation
    Supervision
    Surrender
    Sweet Spot
    Take Up Cross
    Talents
    Teach
    Teachable
    Teaching
    Team
    Teamwork
    Technology
    Temptation
    Temptations
    Testimony
    Test Spirits
    Thanksgiving
    Theology
    Thinking
    Thirst
    Thirsty
    Throne
    Timing
    Titus
    Tongue
    Training
    Transform
    Transition
    Transparency
    Tree Of Life
    Trial
    Trials
    Tribulation
    True Justice
    True Self
    Trust
    Truth
    Unashamed
    Unbelief
    Unconditional Relationship
    Underdog
    Unforgiveness
    United Prayer
    Unity
    Vanity
    Victory
    Vindicator
    Vocation
    Volunteer Recruitment
    Volunteers
    Vows
    Wait
    Wait Patiently
    Walk
    Warfare
    Warning
    Wasted Life
    Water Of Life
    Weakness
    Wealth
    Well Being
    Well-being
    Wife
    Wisdom
    Witness
    Wonderful Counselor
    Word Of God
    Word Of Testimony
    Work
    Workaholic
    Work Environment
    Work Life Balance
    Workmen Of The Word
    Works
    World-changing Ministry
    Worldliness
    Worldly Advice
    Worldly Thinking
    World's Scorn
    Worship
    Worthless
    Wounds
    Wrath
    Young People
    Zeal
    Zechariah
    Zephaniah

Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.
Photos used under Creative Commons from blumenbiene, Kirt Edblom, f2 photografia