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From Coronavirus to Crown of Christ

3/23/2020

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People are experiencing much loss since the coronavirus like jobs, health, finances, travel, school, and normal lifestyle choices. We see much uncertainty, fear, and anxiety since the coronavirus pandemic. Paul wrote in Philippians 3:7 that everything is loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ.

Hebrews 12:26-27 says “His voice that time shook the earth to its foundations . . . The phrase ‘one last shaking’ means a thorough housecleaning, getting rid of all the historical and religious junk so that the unshakable essentials stand clear and uncluttered” (The Message).

How can the coronavirus do a thorough housecleaning so the unshakable essentials remain in our lives? You may feel like you’re in prison being at home during this season. Paul was in a Roman prison when he wrote his letter to the Philippians, which will motivate us to transform our goals, prayer life, perspective, attitudes and calling toward a heavenly crown and reward.   
Begin with prayer for discernment to change your perspective.   

1. Pray for Disciples' Knowledge and Discernment
Paul and Timothy thanked the believers, elders and deacons in Philippi as they remembered them in prayer because of their partnership in the gospel. God's completed His good work until the day of Christ because of Paul's heart for them. He prayed their heart abound in knowledge and insight to discern what was best leading to purity and fruit of righteousness until the day of Christ for God's glory (Philippians 1:1-11). 
Pray for knowledge, discernment, purity and righteousness in your disciples.

Adopt an expectant and humble attitude focusing on advancing the gospel.

2. Rejoice Over Circumstances to Advance the Gospel
Paul's circumstances advanced the gospel throughout the palace guard and encouraged others to speak God's word boldly. He rejoiced that Christ was preached, whether with selfish or loving motives. Their prayers led to deliverance and exalting Christ by life or death through the power of the Holy Spirit. Dying was the best outcome but living helped them progress in joyful faith. Paul exhorted them to stand firm in one spirit for the faith of the gospel. Opposition was a sign of their enemies being destroyed and they being saved by God.  Paul's life showed that suffering followed believing (Philippians 1:12-30). Rejoice that your circumstances advance the gospel amid opposition.
 
3. Practice a Christ-like Servant Attitude
The love and fellowship of Christ should motivate them toward like-mindedness and one purpose by looking out for others interests instead of selfish ambition. A Christ-like attitude of servanthood and humility caused one to take up their cross, even to death. God exalted Christ by giving Him a name above every other name so that every tongue in heaven and earth will confess Jesus as Lord (Philippians 2:1-11). Practice a humble Christ-like servant attitude without any selfish ambition.

Trust in God’s power, serve others, and identify with Christ in His suffering and resurrection, which will supernaturally transform your life.

4. Work Out your Salvation in God's Power
Paul exhorted them to work out their salvation with fear and trembling trusting in God's power to act according to His good purpose. By not complaining or arguing, they became blameless children of God in a crooked and depraved generation shining like stars as they held out the word of life. Paul poured himself out as a drink offering hoping they walked faithfully so he could boast on the day of Christ. He planned to send Timothy, his son in the faith, who took a genuine interest in their welfare. Epaphroditus took care of Paul's needs and almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to provide they couldn’t give Paul (Philippians 2:12-30). Work out your salvation in God's power caring for others' welfare. 
 
5. Know Christ through Sufferings
Paul reminded them to rejoice and glory in Christ by worshiping in the Holy Spirit and watching out for evil men who trust the flesh.  Paul’s history from the tribe of Benjamin, law expertise, a Pharisee,  zealous persecutor of the church and legalistic righteousness tempted him toward pride. He considered everything rubbish compared to the surpassing value of knowing Christ as Lord. His righteousness came from Christ, not the law. He wanted to know Christ and to share in the fellowship of His sufferings and death before he experienced His resurrection (Philippians 3:1-11). Prioritize knowing Christ in His sufferings, death and resurrection.
 
6. Pursue God's Calling
Paul pressed on to lay hold of everything that Christ accomplished for him. He forgot the past and focused on winning the prize of God's calling in Christ. Paul exhorted them to embrace their citizenship in heaven instead of living with an earthly mindset like enemies of the cross whose destiny was destruction. Paul and his disciples waited for Christ, their heavenly Savior, who brought everything under His control and transformed their bodies into new and glorious ones (Philippians 3:12-21). Pursue God's calling according to His sovereign plan to supernaturally transform your life.

Continue in prayer, thanksgiving, and giving generously to others.

7. Pray Always and Think Truthfully
The Philippians rejoiced and showed gentleness because the Lord was near. Instead of anxiety, they prayed about everything with thanksgiving so God's peace guarded their hearts and mind in Christ. Their thinking was true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy to put into practice what they learned, received, heard and seen in Paul.  He rejoiced over their renewed concern and learned the secret of contentment in any circumstance because of Christ's strength. Only the Philippians gave and received when he set out from Macedonia and repeatedly sent aid when Paul was in Thessalonica. He didn’t expect their gift but gloried in their sacrificial gift credited to their heavenly account. Paul prayed that God would supply all their needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:1-23). Pray and thank God always, think truthfully, and give generously for a heavenly crown and reward.

Answer the following questions to gauge your direction in life to earn a heavenly reward:
  • What am I praying about? 
  • How do I view my circumstances?
  • What is my attitude toward others?
  • What am I striving for in life?
  • What are my priorities? 
  • What is God's calling for my life?
  • What am I thinking about?
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Relate and Keep it Simple in Evangelism

4/14/2019

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I asked a church intern to go prayer knocking with me in a low-income area of Lincoln. At our third residence, my partner and I looked up and saw a guy smoking. Frank stared at us from the top floor of an apartment complex. We asked, “Would you like to hear good news?” He said yes.

After walking up the stairs and following him to his apartment, he invited us to come inside. We met his wife and infant son. After small talk, he said his story was complicated. It would take hours to explain. He handed me a movie on DVD and told me to watch it. Frank said the movie depicted his life.

We will look at three examples of Jesus using common terms from creation in sharing truth in evangelism.

Rock
Jesus gave Simon a new identity and destiny. Because Simon was an unstable and emotional person, Jesus used “rock” to express his new name as Peter. It anticipated his future leadership role in the church (John 1:42). Everyone saw a “rock” in the countryside. Christ used “rock” to express Peter’s later revelation of Jesus as Son of the living God. Christ would build His church and the gates of Hades would not overcome it (Matthew 16:18).

Wind
Nicodemus, a self-righteous and well-connected religious leader, came to Jesus at night. When he misunderstood “born again,” Jesus used “wind” to illustrate that one can’t know where the Spirit comes or where it goes (John 3:1-21). The area had strong winds causing sandstorms. Nicodemus, used to being in control, later allowed the Spirit to guide Him by standing up for Jesus and caring for His body after the crucifixion (John 7:50-51; 19:38-40).  
   
Water
Jesus met an immoral Samaritan woman at a well. As the opposite of Nicodemus, Jesus used the term, water, to connect with her. He and the woman were both thirsty. It was noon. The weather was hot. Jesus began the conversation, “Give me a drink.” She was also spiritually thirsty. Five husbands and living with someone hadn’t quenched her spiritual thirst. Many Samaritans believed in Christ because of her testimony
(John 4:1-42).   

Get to Know
We won’t know what term to use in evangelism until we understand someone’s story. Skeptical Nathanael asked if anything good could come out of Nazareth. Jesus said he was a true Israelite with integrity. He said later that Nathanael believed because of Jesus telling that He saw him under the fig tree (John 1:45-51).

How did Jesus get the woman at the well’s attention? John says the woman left her water jar, went to the town, and said to the people, “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?” (John 4:28-29).  

In summary, get to know the person and you will develop credibility and trust. Ask the Spirit for the simple, understandable words as a vehicle to express spiritual truth in evangelism. Then watch God at work!

By the way, I’m in the process of getting to know Frank! I’m praying for the right terms to use. 

Submit
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Prioritize Knowing and Making Christ Known (Insights in NT)

1/19/2013

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"Bad will be the day, for every man when he becomes absolutely contented with the life that he is living, with the thoughts that he is thinking, with the deeds that he is doing, when there is not forever beating at the doors of his soul some great desire to do something larger, which he knows that he was meant and made to do because he is still, in spite of all, the child of God" (Phillips Brooks).

A life focus on Christ transforms a person's goals, prayer life, perspective, attitudes and calling. He prioritizes knowing and making Christ known. 

Pray for Disciples' Knowledge and Discernment
Paul and Timothy thanked the believers, elders and deacons in Philippi as they remembered them in prayer because of their partnership in the gospel. God's completed His good work in them at the day of Christ because of Paul's heart for them. He prayed their heart abound in knowledge and insight to discern what was best leading to purity until the day of Christ being filled with His fruit of righteousness for God's glory (Phil. 1:1-11). Pray for knowledge, discernment, purity and righteousness in your disciples 

Rejoice Over Circumstances Advancing the Gospel
Paul's circumstances advanced the gospel throughout the palace guard and encouraged others to speak God's word boldly. He rejoiced that Christ was preached from both selfish and loving motives. Their prayers allowed the Holy Spirit to deliver and exalt Christ in his body by life or death. Dying was the best outcome but living helped them progress in joyful faith. Paul exhorted them to stand firm in one spirit for the faith of the gospel. Opposition was a sign of their enemies being destroyed and they being saved by God.  Paul's life showed that suffering followed believing (Phil. 1:12-30). Rejoice that your circumstances advance the gospel amid opposition.

Practice Christlike and Servant Attitude
The love and fellowship of Christ should motivate them toward like-mindedness and one purpose by looking out for others interests instead of selfish ambition. A Christlike attitude of servanthood and humility caused one to take up their cross, even to death. God exalted Christ by giving Him a name above every name so every tongue in heaven and earth confessed Jesus as Lord (Phil. 2:1-11). Practice a Christlike, humble and servant attitude without selfish ambition.

Work Out Salvation in God's Power
Paul exhorted them to work out their salvation with fear and trembling trusting in God's power to act according to His good purpose. By not complaining or arguing, they became blameless children of God in a crooked and depraved generation shining like stars as they held out the word of life. Paul poured himself out as a drink offering desiring they walk faithfully so he could boast on the day of Christ. He planned to send Timothy, his son in the faith, who took a genuine interest in their welfare to receive news about them. Epaphroditus took care of Paul's needs and almost died for the work of Christ. He risked his life to make up for the help they could not give Paul (Phil. 2:12-30). Work out your salvation in God's power caring for others' welfare. 

Prioritize Knowing Christ Through Sufferings
Paul reminded them to rejoice and glory in Christ through worship by the Holy Spirit as they watched out for evil men who put confidence in the flesh.  Paul was tempted to glory in his circumcision from the tribe of Benjamin, expertise in the law, a Pharisee, zealous persecutor of the church and faultless in legalistic righteousness. He considered everything rubbish compared to the surpassing value of knowing Christ as Lord. His righteousness came from Christ, not the law. He wanted to know Christ by sharing in His sufferings and death before experiencing His resurrection (Phil. 3:1-11). Prioritize knowing Christ in His sufferings, death and resurrection.

Pursue God's Calling According to His Plan
Paul pressed on to lay hold of everything that Christ accomplished for him. He forgot the past and focused on winning the prize of God's calling in Christ. Paul exhorted them to embrace their citizenship in heaven instead of living with an earthly mindset like enemies of the cross whose destiny was destruction. Paul and his disciples waited for Christ, their heavenly Savior, to bring everything under His control and transform their bodies into a new and glorious one (Phil. 3:12-21). Pursue God's calling according to His sovereign plan allowing Him to supernaturally transform your life.

Pray Always and Think Truthfully
The Philippians rejoiced and showed gentleness because the Lord was near. Instead of being anxious, they prayed about everything with thanksgiving so God's peace guarded their hearts and mind in Christ. Their thinking was true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy to put into practice what they learned, received, heard and seen in Paul.  He rejoiced over their renewed concern and learned the secret of contentment in any circumstance because of Christ's strength. Only the Philippians gave and received when he set out from Macedonia and repeatedly sent aid when Paul was in Thessalonica. He did not look for their gift but the acceptable sacrifice credited to their account. God supplied all their needs according to His glorious riches in Christ (Phil. 4:1-23). Pray always and think truthfully with thanksgiving leading to generous giving.


Answer the following questions to gauge your direction in life:
What are you praying about? 
How do you view your circumstances?
What is your attitude toward others?
What are you striving for in life?
What are your priorities? 
What is God's calling for your life?
What are you thinking about?

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How to Pursue Multi-Dimensional Aspects of Discipleship (Insights in Psalms)

8/21/2012

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Someone wrote, "Plant a word in the mind, and you will reap an act. Plant the act and you will reap a habit. Plant a habit and you will reap a character. Plant a character and you will reap a nature. Plant a nature and you will reap a destiny." Proverbs 29-30 explain how to pursue the multi-dimensional aspects of discipleship.

Bring Stability and Concern for the Poor
Someone who hardens his neck after many rebukes will be destroyed beyond remedy. People rejoice when the righteous thrive but groan when the wicked rule. A man loving wisdom brings joy to his father but a companion of prostitutes wastes his wealth. A king gives  stability to the land through justice but one taking bribes overthrows it. Flattering a neighbor spreads a net for one's feet. An evil man ensnared by his own sin has no concern for the poor but the righteous sing and care about justice for the poor (Prov. 29:1-7). Bring stability, joy, and concern for the poor, not a hardened heart, wasted wealth, flattery and sin. 

Seek Souls and Judge Poor with Discernment
Mockers stir up a city but the wise turn away anger. The wise has controversy with fools who rage and scoff. Men of bloodshed hate a man of integrity, but the righteous seek his soul. A fool always loses his temper but the wise keeps himself under control. All his officials become wicked when a ruler listens to lies. The Lord gives sight to both the poor man and oppressor. A king's throne is always secure if he judges the poor with truth (Prov. 29:8-14). Hold your temper, seek the souls of others and judge the poor with truth and discernment.

Teach His Word and Nurture Others to Obey God
A child who gets his own way brings shame to his mother but the rod of correction imparts wisdom. The righteous see the downfall of the wicked and their sin. Correct your son and he will give you comfort and delight to your soul. Without revelation, the people are unrestrained but happy is he who keeps the law. A servant cannot be instructed and respond by words alone even though he understands. A man who speaks hastily has less hope than a fool. He who pampers his servant from childhood will find him to be a son long-term (Prov. 29:15-21). Correct, present negative examples, teach His word and nurture others so people can obey God.

Trust Lord in Humility
An angry man stirs up strife and a hot-tempered one commits many sins. A man's pride brings him low but a humble spirit gains honor. A partner with a thief hates his own life but dare not testify under oath. The fear of man brings a snare and whoever trusts in the Lord will be exalted. Many seek the ruler's favor but the Lord gives justice. The righteous detest the dishonest and the wicked detest the upright (Prov. 29:22-27). Be humble, trust the Lord and detest the dishonest resulting in honor and exaltation. 

Seek Accountability in God's Word
Who has gone up to heaven, gathered up the wind, wrapped up the waters and established all the ends of the earth? What is his name or his son's name? Every word of God is flawless and He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. Do not add to His words or He will rebuke you and prove you a liar (Prov. 30:1-6). Seek accountability and protection from an all-powerful God whose word is flawless and true. 

Pursue Truth and Ask for Daily Provision
Keep falsehood and lies from me. Give me neither poverty nor riches, but only my daily bread lest I be too rich and deny you and say, "Who is the Lord?" or become poor and steal so I dishonor the name of my God. Do not slander a servant to his master or he will curse you. Some curse their fathers, do not bless their mothers, pure in their own eyes but not cleansed from their filth, others have haughty eyes and arrogant glances, teeth like swords and devour the poor and needy (Prov. 30:7-14). Pursue truth and ask for daily provision.

Learn Mystery from Creation
The leech has two daughters that cry, "Give! Give!" Three things are never satisfied: Hell, barren womb and land that is never satisfied with water. Four that never say, "Enough!": Fire, eye that mocks a father and scorns obedience to a mother, food pecked out by ravens and eaten by vultures. Three things too amazing for me and four I do not understand: way of an eagle in the sky, way of a snake on a rock, way of a ship on the high sea and way of a man with a maiden. An adulteress eats and wipes her mouth and says she has done nothing wrong. Under three things the earth trembles and and under four it cannot bear up: a servant who becomes a king, a fool full of food, an unloved woman who is married and a maidservant who displaces her mistress (Prov. 30:15-23). Learn mystery from creation that some things are too amazing or powerful to be understood.

Learn Wisdom and Influence from Creation
Four things on earth are small and extremely wise: ants have little strength but store up their food in the summer, badgers have little power but make their homes in the rocks,  locusts have no king but go out in ranks and a lizard can be caught with the hand but is found in kings' palaces. Three things are stately in their stride and four move with stately bearing: lion, mighty among beasts, does not retreat before any; strutting rooster; male goat and a king with his army around him. If you have been foolish in exalting yourself or planned evil, put you hand on your mouth. Stirring up anger produces strife like churning the milk produces butter and pressing the nose produces blood (Prov. 30:24-33). Learn wisdom, influence, humility and self-control from creation.

Ask God to help you pursue the following multi-dimensional aspects of discipleship:  
1. Bring stability, joy, and concern for the poor, not a hardened heart, wasted wealth, flattery and sin. 
2. Hold your temper, seek the souls of others and judge the poor with truth and discernment. 
3. Correct, present negative examples, teach His word and nurture others so people can obey God.
4. Be humble, trust the Lord and detest the dishonest resulting in honor and exaltation.  
5. Seek accountability and protection from an all-powerful God whose word is flawless and true. 
6. Pursue truth and ask for daily provision.
7. Learn mystery from creation that some things are too amazing or powerful to be understood.
8. Learn wisdom, influence, humility and self-control from creation. 

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How to Make the World Better (Insights in Psalms)

3/29/2012

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J. Arthur Lewis wrote, "Do you ever sit down and wonder what is wrong with the world? Do you ever ask yourself why it is that Christians seem to have so little influence, why they seem to achieve so little, for all their numbers, in putting the world right? To each of those two questions there is ultimately but one answer. It is this: we lack the mind of Christ." The characteristics and relationships of wisdom show how to make the world better.  

Characteristics of Wisdom
Wisdom and understanding speak truth and righteousness to all humankind so they can discern prudence. Wisdom is not crooked or perverted, but straightforward and right. Wisdom and knowledge are better than gold, silver and jewels. Nothing compares with wisdom (Prov. 8:1-11). The character of wisdom is truth and discernment.


 The fear of the Lord is to hate evil, pride, arrogance and the perverted mouth. Wisdom enables kings to reign and rulers to decree justice. Those who diligently seek wisdom find it. The fruit of wisdom is riches, honor, enduring wealth and righteousness (Prov. 8:12-21). The fruit of wisdom is riches, honor and righteousness. 

The Lord possessed wisdom before creation. Wisdom was present when He established the heavens. Wisdom was a master workman beside God. Wisdom rejoiced in the world and delighted daily in humankind (Prov. 8:22-31). The action of wisdom is becoming a master workman. 

Blessed is the man who listens to me, waiting daily at My doorposts. He will find life and obtain favor from the Lord. He who sins against wisdom injures himself. Those who hate wisdom love death (Prov. 8:32-36). The source of wisdom is waiting and listening to God.


Wisdom has built her house, hewn out seven pillars, prepared food and mixed wine. She calls from the tops of the heights of the city. Wisdom says to forsake folly and live by proceeding in the way of understanding (Prov. 9:1-6). The voice of wisdom is forsaking folly and  pursuing understanding.

Relationships of Wisdom
Correct a scoffer to get dishonor and hate.  Reprove the wicked and get insults.  Reprove the wise and he will love you. Teach a righteous man and he will be wiser and increase his learning (Prov. 9:7-9). Relationship with others leads to teaching the righteous for increased wisdom and learning.


The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.  Wisdom lengthens your life span (Prov. 9:10-12). Relationship with God begins wisdom and lengthens life.
 
The woman of folly is boisterous, naive and knows nothing. She calls to those passing by saying, "Stolen water is sweet; and bread eaten in secret is pleasant." He does not know that the dead are there and her guests are in the depths of Sheol (Prov. 9:13-18). Relationship with an adulteress undermines moral purity.  

Which of the underlined characteristics of wisdom seem most influential in making the world better? Which of the relationships of wisdom must you improve to make the world better? 


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Overcoming Obstacles to Fulfill God's Purpose (Insights in Prophets)

11/28/2011

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Everyone encounters obstacles when they seek to fulfill God's purposes for their lives. Lies, curses and bad decisions from others can get you off track. To get you back on track, pray for discernment, be humble and teachable, allow friends to support you and trust God's sovereignty. Let's examine how David dealt with these obstacles so he could fulfill the will of God. Note: David was gullible and didn't pray in the first episode. 

Pray for Discernment

Ziba the servant of Mephibosheth met David deceitfully with donkeys and supplies to meet the needs of his supporters. Ziba said that Mephibosheth, Saul's son, would come to power after David and Absalom destroyed each other. David told Ziba to receive all that "belongs to Mephibosheth" (2 Sam. 16:1-4). Be on guard for those who try to take advantage and cause discord with friends through deceptive lies. 

Humble and Teachable
Shimei, related to Saul, cursed David continually by throwing stones at him, his servants, the people and his mighty men. He said that the Lord returned all the bloodshed of Saul's house upon him and gave the kingdom to Absalom (2 Sam. 16:5-8). Expect curses from enemies when you follow God's plan for your life. 

David said the Lord told Shimei to curse him. He said that "perhaps the Lord will look on my affliction and return good to me instead of his cursing this day." David and the people went their way weary and he refreshed himself (2 Sam. 16:9-14). Be humble and seek to learn truth from critics. 

Allow Friends to Support Your Interests
Hushai, David's friend, told Absalom, "Long live the king!" Absalom asked why he didn't show loyalty to David. Hushai said he would serve Absalom alone (2 Sam. 16:15-19). Let friends support your interests. 

Trust God's Sovereignty
Ahithophel's advice to Absalom was to go into David's concubines to strengthen Israel, which he did in the sight of all Israel. Ahithophel's advice was like inquiring of God's word (2 Sam. 16:20-23). Trust God's sovereignty even when people make ungodly choices to hurt others. 

Rate yourself on a scale of 1 to 10 (1 being lowest and 10 highest) on ways to overcome obstacles in fulfilling God's purpose for your life: 
1. I pray for discernment when someone says something negative about a friend 
2. I am humble and teachable when I hear criticism
3. I allow friends to support my interests instead of me
4. I trust God's sovereignty even when people make ungodly choices to hurt others 

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How to Live in the Last Days (Insights in NT)

8/5/2011

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With many media outlets today, all of us have a heightened awareness of natural disasters striking across the globe. It causes anxiety, uncertainty and grief, especially for people directly affected. Scripture predicts natural disasters on earth and signs in the heavens before Christ's Second Coming. How should you live in the last days?
 
While the rich put in gifts out of their surplus, a poor widow gave out of her poverty, all she had to live on (Lk. 21:1-4). Sacrificial giving supports others during the last days.


In the future, every stone will be torn down in the temple. When many come in Christ's name, don't go after them. Don't be terrified of wars and disturbances because the end will come later (Lk. 21:5-9). Discernment and calmness prevent deception by false teachers.

Nation will rise against nation along with great earthquakes, plagues, famines and great signs from heaven. Before these things, persecution will deliver you to synagogues and prisons and bring you before kings as an opportunity for your testimony. Christ will give you the words and wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to refute. Family members will hate and put some of you to death but not a hair of your head will perish. By endurance, you will gain your lives (Lk. 21:10-19). Share your testimony of Christ as a witness during times of persecution in the last days.

When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then recognize her desolation is at hand. These are days of vengeance, great distress and wrath to fulfill what was written. They will be killed, led captive into all the nations and trampled underfoot by the Gentiles (Lk. 21:20-24). Wrath and judgment prepare God's people as predicted by Scripture before Christ's Second Coming. 

Signs in the heavens and on earth will dismay nations. Men faint from fear for the powers of the heavens will be shaken until they "see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory." When these things take place, pay attention because your redemption is near (Lk. 21:25-28). Total deliverance from sin occurs at Christ's Second Coming. 

These signs are like seeing the leaves of fig trees, showing fruit coming on, and  knowing the kingdom of God is near. Heaven and earth will pass away but God's word will not pass away (Lk. 21:29-33). Watch for the signs and rely on God's word in the last days. 

Be alert at all times so you aren't weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and worries of life so final day doesn't come on you suddenly like a trap. Pray so you have strength to escape all things that will take place and stand before the Son of Man (Lk. 21:34-36). Pray for everything so you have strength to stand before Christ. 

Jesus taught in the temple during the day and spent nights on the Mount of Olives. Everyone got up early to listen to Him in the temple (Lk. 21:37-38). Pray with endurance and prioritize listening attentively to God's word. 

The following list explains how you should live in the last days:
1. Give sacrificially to support others
2. Discern false teachers and remain calm
3. Share your testimony of Christ during persecution
4. Endure God's judgment as preparation for Christ's Second Coming
5. Wait for total deliverance of sin at Christ's Second Coming
6. Watch for the signs and rely on God's word in the last days
7. Pray for everything so you have strength to stand before Christ
8. Pray with endurance and prioritize listening attentively to God's word

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Becoming a Peacemaker (Insights in Prophets)

6/18/2011

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When Jesus said, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God" (Matt. 5:9), He blessed the work of peacemakers to help others live in just and right relationships with others and God. Jesus calling peacemakers "children of God" confirms their deepest and original identity. The hard work of making peace pleases Him and allows you to follow in Jesus’ steps. Abigail’s peacemaking work between David and her husband, Nabal, becomes an example for all of us to follow.  

Samuel died and all Israel gathered together to mourn for him. David arose and went down to the wilderness of Paran (1 Sam. 25:1). Peaceful leaders leave a positive legacy.

David told ten young men to bless and ask favor from Nabal since they hadn’t insulted or stolen from his shepherds. Nabal was rich with 3,000 sheep and 1,000 goats. His wife, Abigail, was intelligent and beautiful, while Nabal was harsh and evil in his dealings (1 Sam. 25:2-8). Harsh leaders leave a negative legacy.

Nabal refused to give David's men food and scorned them asking, “Who is David? Shall I give meat to men whose origin I don’t know.” David told his men to take their swords with them leading 400 men while 200 men stayed with the baggage (1 Sam. 25:9-13). Returning evil for good builds animosity.

One of the young men told Abigail that since David’s men protected Nabal’s shepherds, she should consider responding to the evil plotted against Nabal and his household. Nabal's associate said he was a worthless man where no one could speak to him (1 Sam. 25:14-17). Those who associate with harsh leaders see them as worthless.

Abigail brought supplies for David and his men, but didn’t tell Nabal. David said that in vain he guarded Nabal’s possessions as he returned evil for good (1 Sam. 25:18-22). A peacemaker takes initiative and uses discernment in reconciling relationships.

Abigail told David to not pay attention to the “worthless” Nabal. She brought gift of provisions and asked David to “forgive the transgression of your maidservant; for the Lord will certainly make for my lord an enduring house, because my lord is fighting the battles of the Lord, and evil shall not be found in you all your days.” Abigail said God would protect David’s life, appoint him as ruler over Israel and save him from taking revenge on Nabal (1 Sam. 25:23-31). A peacemaker prevents sin so people can fulfill their mission in life.  

David blessed Abigail for showing discernment in preventing bloodshed. He received her provision and granted her request (1 Sam. 25:32-35). Authorities will exalt the discernment of peacemakers.

Nabal held a feast and became very drunk. When Abigail waited until morning to tell Nabal, his heart died, he became as stone and died ten days later (1 Sam. 25:36-38). God intervenes to confirm the discernment of peacemakers.

When David heard Nabal was dead, he said, “Blessed be the Lord, who has pleaded the cause of my reproach from the hand of Nabal, and has kept back His servant from evil. The Lord has also returned the evildoing of Nabal on his own head.” When David’s servants came to Abigail to take her as his wife, she washed the feet of “my lord’s servants” (1 Sam. 25:39-44). God avenges evildoing and exalts patience and humility leading to a positive outcome.


Ask God to make you into a peacemaker. Is there a situation where He wants you to be a peacemaker? If so, take the initiative and ask God on how He wants you to be a peacemaker.  

 

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God is My Shepherd (insights in Psalms)

8/31/2010

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All of us experience times when we feel lost, discouraged or hopeless. I remember a time when a promising ministry opportunity was shot down in flames. This ministry accepted me as a full-time vocational worker, but the leadership changed their minds after I attended a planning retreat for staff. It felt like a parachute had been pulled away from me and I was descending in rapid free fall. Where do we go when friends scoff, doubts reign, hope fails and finances crash? There is a person who offers provision, protection, purpose and presence in times like these.  

The Lord is personal. He is MY shepherd (Ps. 23:1). God provides our financial, physical, emotional or social needs. If you need finances, call upon Him. If you need a job, ask Him to provide open doors for a job interview. If emptiness, emotional hurt, fear or anxiety overtake you, ask your shepherd for peace. If you need a friend, ask God to provide since He sticks closer than a brother (Prov. 18:24). God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ (Phil. 4:19). 

God not only provides, He protects. Security becomes important after He meets our physical, emotional and social needs. Our shepherd makes us lie down in green pastures and leads us to waters of rest (Ps. 23:2). He protects us from a multitude of spiritual enemies seeking to harm us. False teaching like prosperity gospel, business leadership methodology and celebrity hero worship lead us away from the protective canopy of God's Word. The fast pace of the world causes stress and distractions so our work or ministry takes precedence over our relationship with Christ and caring for our families. Remaining in green pastures and quiet waters slows us down so we can feed on the pure and unadulterated word of God (1 Pet. 2:1-2). Unfortunately, many believers learn God's word second-hand from teachers and don't spend sufficient time in God's word themselves.   

Those who study and meditate on God's word will be refreshed spiritually by the Lord (Ps. 23:3). As a result, God will guide them into His purpose for their lives. He provides discernment to follow the right path whether it's a marriage, job, church, friends, hobbies, food, entertainment, etc.  

After God provides for all our needs, protects us from spiritual enemies and reveals His purpose, we must live it out. We lack confidence and power as we face evil, darkness and chaos. God's presence empowers us to walk through the valley of death (Ps. 23:4-5). His rod and staff provide authority and support enabling us to experience His tender compassion so we can apply His word in every situation. God's promises are like a feast to change our perspectives so we can rejoice in the midst of trouble. Nothing compares to God's love for us because He is always faithful and unchanging in the various seasons of life (Ps. 23:6). 

What aspect of God's shepherd nature (provision, protection, purpose and presence) is most precious to you and why?
  

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How To Be Protected From Compromise

8/2/2010

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How many times have you gotten in trouble by making a quick decision? You may face a major financial purchase and don’t do the proper research. A teenager may make a snap decision on who to date without learning about the character of the young man or woman. An employer may not check references of a potential hire. These quick decisions often come back to haunt us. 

Lack of confidence and fear will lead to defeat in our lives as we observed in an earlier blog post about Ai (Josh. 8). But over-confidence and compromise also defeat us. Because news had spread concerning the military exploits of Joshua and the Israelite army, all the Canaanite, Hitite, Amorite, Perizzite, Hivite and Jebusite kings gathered together in one accord to fight Joshua (Josh. 9:1-2). They were nervous. 

This concern motivated Gibeon to act craftily and send out envoys in worn-out clothes pretending they were from far country so Joshua would make a covenant with them (Josh. 9:3-13). Israel took some of their provisions, but did not ask for the Lord’s counsel. Joshua made peace by entering into a covenant with them, leading to an oath to let them live (Josh. 9:14-15). 

How easy to rush into things and not ask God what He thinks! Deception and compromise occur when we don’t ask for God’s counsel. As a result, the whole congregation grumbled against leaders (Josh. 9:18). Anyone, especially leaders, lose their credibility when they don’t stop and ask directions from God. The Gibeonites became slaves and took the most thankless jobs, hewers of wood and drawers of water, for the whole congregation (Josh. 9:21). 

Of course, Joshua was angry for being deceived, which ultimately was his fault for not asking God what to do. Upon questioning the Gibeonite why they deceived him, they acknowledged Israel was following God’s command to destroy all the inhabitants of the land (Josh. 9:22-24). Their fear led to them lying. 

A principle for parents or anyone in authority: Be careful not to threaten your children, employees or those you are managing, as they will lie to protect themselves. Instead, lead in prayer so the truth comes out in a relaxed, unrushed setting. Intimidated people lie to protect themselves. For business owners, ask for God’s counsel before forming any strategic partnerships to prevent any compromise of your mission.  

Asking God for wisdom protects us from deception and compromise. For any decision you are facing, ask God for wisdom and listen to what He says to you, which could be a promise or principle from God’s word.  

 

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    Mark Pomeroy

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    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.
     

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