Embracing an Outreaching Lifestyle
  • Unexpected Opportunity
  • Resources
  • Blog

Deploy Mentors to Rebuild Body of Christ According to God's Design (Insights in Psalms)

3/11/2013

0 Comments

 
Picture
Deploy mentors to rebuild the body of Christ according to God's design by taking the following steps:

1. Appoint mentors who counsel and lead people to Christ
2. Trust God for power and direction to fight the spiritual battle
3. Show strength by tearing down idols
4. Obey God wholeheartedly and employ people and resources He provides
5. Prepare mentors who humbly use appropriate technology platforms
6. Stop envying, worshiping and promoting false gods

Appoint Mentors Who Counsel and Lead People to Christ
Jehoshaphat with great wealth and honor allied himself with Ahab king of Israel by marriage. He told Ahab to seek God's counsel before deciding whether to attack Ramoth Gilead. The prophets said their attack would be victorious and urged agreement from Micaiah. He said Israel was scattered like sheep without a shepherd and should go home in peace. Micaiah said the Lord put a lying spirit in the prophets to lure Ahab into attacking Ramoth Gilead so he would be killed. After disguising himself, a random arrow hit Ahab between the sections of armor and killed him. The Lord protected Jehoshaphat. He turned the people from Beersheba to Ephraim back to Him and appointed judges in the fortified cities of Judah. In Jerusalem, he appointed some Levites, priests and heads of Israelite families who administered the law of the Lord, settled disputes and warned them not to sin (2 Chron. 18:1-19:11). Appoint mentors who counsel and lead people to Christ so they do not sin. 

Trust God for Power and Direction to Fight the Spiritual Battle
When Moabites and Ammonites made war, Jehoshaphat proclaimed a fast so Judah could seek help from God. He prayed to the Ruler over all nations whose power and might drove out inhabitants of the land. He gave it forever to Abraham's descendants His friend. Jehoshaphat asked God to judge Ammon and Moab since Judah had no power. They did not know what to do but their eyes were upon Him. His Spirit told Jehoshaphat not to be fear or be discouraged because the battle was not his but God's. He told him to march the next day and not fight the battle but take up their positions, stand firm and see God's deliverance. Jehoshaphat told Judah and Jerusalem to have faith in God and His prophets to be successful. After men sang and praised the splendor of His holiness and enduring love, the Lord set ambushes against Ammon and Moab to defeat them. The fear of the Lord came upon all countries when they heard how God fought against Israel's enemies (2 Chron. 20:1-37). Trust God for power and direction to fight the spiritual battle by standing firm and seeing His deliverance. 

Show Strength By Tearing Down Idols
Jehoram king of Judah did evil marrying Ahab's daughter but God's covenant prevented Him from destroying the house of David. Edom and Libnah rebelled against Judah because Jehoram forsook the Lord and led them astray. Elijah sent a letter saying Jehoram did not walk like Jehoshaphat or Asa as he murdered his own brothers. God carried away his family and afflicted him with an incurable bowel disease. Jehoram's son, Ahaziah, followed evil counsel to his undoing leading to death. The priest Jehoiada showed his strength by making a covenant with him, the people and the king as the Lord's people. They tore down the temple of Baal, smashed the altars and idols and killed Mattan the priest of Baal. Jehoiada gave Levites oversight of the temple to present burnt offerings. He stationed doorkeepers at the gates of the temple so no unclean person could enter (2 Chron. 21:1-23:21). Show strength by tearing down idols and pursuing purity. 

Deploy Mentors to Rebuild Body of Christ
Joash did right in the eyes of the Lord all the years of Jehoiada the priest. Later, Joash decided to repair the temple by calling priests and Levites to collect money due annually from towns in Judah. The king asked the chief priest why he did not require the Levites to collect as they delayed. The wicked woman Athaliah broke into the temple and used its sacred objects for the Baals. The men in charge of the masons and carpenters restoring the Lord's temple were diligent. The repairs reinforced the temple in iron and bronze according to its original design. Burnt offerings were presented continually in the temple while Jehoiada lived. After Jehoiada died, Judah officials abandoned the temple, worshiped idols and ignored God's word. Forsaking the Lord prevented prosperity and led to judgment and death (2 Chron. 24:1-27). Deploy mentors to rebuild the body of Christ immediately according to God's design.

Obey God Wholeheartedly and Employ People and Resources He Provides
Amaziah did what was right in God's eyes but not wholeheartedly. He did not put sons to death according to the Law that each was to die for their own sins. He assigned Judah's families according to commanders of thousands and hundreds. He mustered 300,000 men for military service who could handle the spear and shield. He hired 100,000 from Israel for 100 talents of silver. A man of God said to not hire Israelite troops because he would be defeated and given more than the 100 talents. Amaziah sent these troops home and killed 20,000 men of Seir. After burning sacrifices to Seir's gods, God sent a prophet saying he would be destroyed by not listening to His counsel. Jehoash king of Israel said Amaziah was proud and should stay home instead of fighting and causing his downfall. Amaziah did not listen so God handed them over to Jehoash because he sought Edom's gods. Jehoash routed Judah; captured Amaziah; broke down Jerusalem's walls; took gold, silver and articles in the temple; took palace treasures and hostages (2 Chron. 25:1-28). Obey God wholeheartedly and employ people and resources He provides with proper administration. 

Prepare Mentors Who Humbly Use Appropriate Technology Platforms
Uzziah sought Him and Zechariah instructed him in the fear of God. By seeking Him, God gave him success. He went to war against the Philistines; broke down the walls of Gath  and rebuild towns near Ashdod among the Philistines. God helped him against the Philistines and Arabs. The Ammonites brought tribute to Uzziah and his fame spread all the way to Egypt. He dug many cisterns and worked people in his fields, vineyards and fertile lands. Uzziah had 307,500 well-trained fighting men ready separated by divisions and 2,600 family leaders over them for support against his enemies. He provided shields, spears, helmets, coats of armor, bows and sling stones for the entire army. In Jerusalem he made machines designed by skillful men for use on the towers and corner defenses to shoot arrows and hurl large stones. After becoming powerful, Uzziah's pride led to his downfall. When he entered the temple to burn incense, the priests confronted him since only Aaron's descendants were consecrated to burn incense. Uzziah raged at the priests before the incense altar and the Lord afflicted him with leprosy until he died (2 Chron. 26:1-23). Prepare mentors for spiritual warfare who humbly use appropriate technology platforms.  

Stop Envying, Worshiping and Promoting False Gods
Jothan did what was right in God's eyes while not entering the temple like Uzziah. The people continued their corrupt practices. Jothan rebuild the Upper Gate of the temple and worked extensively on the wall at the hill of Ophel. He conquered the Ammonites who paid him a 100 talents of silver and 10,000 cors each for wheat and barley including the same amount in the second and third years. He  grew powerful because he walked steadfastly before the Lord. Ahaz cast idols for worshiping the Baals, burned sacrifices and sacrificed his sons in the fire following the evil ways of the nations the Lord drove out before the Israelites. God handed him over to be defeated by the Arameans and king of Israel so many people became prisoners and killed. One day Pekah killed 120,000 soldiers in Judah because they forsook the Lord. The Israelites took captive 200,000 wives, sons and daughters. Oded the prophet told Israel they were also guilty of sins against God. When Ahaz asked the king of Assyria for help, the Edomites and Philistines carried away prisoners, raided towns, captured and occupied villages. The Lord humbled Judah because Ahaz promoted wickedness being unfaithful to God. He sacrificed to the gods of Aram thinking they would help him like their kings. He took away the temple furnishings, shut the temple doors and set up altars at every street corner in Jerusalem (2 Chron. 27:1-28:27). Stop envying, worshiping and promoting false gods that appear to help other people. 

Ask God to raise up mentors who will rebuild the body of Christ immediately according to His design.








0 Comments

How to Prepare for Kingdom Ministry (Insights in Psalms)

3/2/2013

0 Comments

 
Picture
To prepare for kingdom work, fight bravely knowing God defeats spiritual enemies. Trust in His resources, build people up through His word, organize kingdom work in holiness and prayer, share ministry among various generations, let God choose workers without distinction between secular and sacred work, listen to God for practical details in ministry, and receive wealth and power from Him.

Fight Bravely Knowing God Defeats Spiritual Enemies

David expressed sympathy to Hanun because his father showed kindness to  him. The Ammonites told Hanun that David's intentions was to spy and overthrow the land. Hanun humiliated  David's men by shaving and cutting off their garments in the middle at the buttocks.  The Ammonites hired 32,000 chariots and charioteers while Joab deployed his best troops in Israel against Arameans. Troops helped one another if Arameans or Ammonites became too strong for one group. Joab said to be strong and fight bravely because the Lord would do what was right in His sight. The Arameans fled before Joab and David killed 7,000 charioteers and 40,000 foot soldiers. They made peace and were subject to David. The Arameans were not willing to help the Ammonites anymore. Joab took much plunder from the cities of the Ammonites, placed their king's crown on David's head and consigned their people to slave labor. They subjected the Philistines by killing Goliath's brother and other large descendants of Rapha (1 Chron. 19:1-20:8). Fight bravely knowing God does right and defeats spiritual enemies. 

Trust in God's Resources and Not Your Own
Satan rose up against Israel and incited David to take a census. Joab warned David that counting the Israelites would bring guilt on Israel. He counted 1.1 million fighting men in Israel and 470,000 in Judah. Because David's command was repulsive to Levi, Benjamin and God, He punished Israel. Gad gave David three options because of his sin: three years of famine, three months of enemies overtaking them or three days of plague. David asked to fall into God's merciful hands and not in men's. The Lord sent a plague that killed 70,000 men of Israel. David saw an angel of the Lord standing between heaven and earth with a drawn sword extended over Jerusalem. David obeyed God's word to build an altar to Him on the threshing floor of Araunah. He paid the full price to sacrifice a burnt offering that cost something (1 Chron. 21:1-30). Trust in God's resources and not your own since He fights for you.

Build People Up Through His Word
David appointed aliens living in Israel as stonecutters to prepare dressed stone for building the house of God. He provided iron, bronze and cedar logs to make nails for the doors and fittings. David prepared extensively to build the magnificent house of fame and splendor in the sight of the nations. Shedding blood in wars prevented David from building the house. He charged Solomon to build it according to God's word. Solomon was a man of peace with rest from all his enemies. David told him the Lord would be with him and have success if he kept the law. He asked God to give Solomon discretion and understanding, be strong and courageous without fear or discouragement when He put him in command over Israel. David took great pains to provide 100,000 talents of gold, 1 million talents of silver, large amount  of bronze and iron, wood and stone. He provided many workmen including stonecutters, masons, carpenters and craftsmen skilled in gold, silver, bronze and iron. David ordered all the Israelite leaders help Solomon and devote their heart and soul to seeking God (1 Chron. 22:1-19). Build people up through His word with a servant heart.  

Organize Kingdom Work in Holiness and Prayer
David made 24,000 Levites supervise the work of the temple, 6,000 as officials and judges, 4,000 as gatekeepers and 4,000 to praise the Lord with musical instruments. He divided the Levites into groups corresponding to the sons of Levi: Gershonites, Kohathites and Merarites. The Levites helped Aaron's descendants in the temple service and purification of sacred things. They thanked and praised God every morning, evening and whenever burnt offerings were presented during the feasts. They carried out their responsibilities in the proper number and way prescribed for the Tent of Meeting and Holy Place (1 Chron. 23:1-32). Organize kingdom work so people pursue holiness, intercede in prayer, minister to God in praise and thanksgiving, and bless others. 

Share Ministry Among Various Generations
David separated Aaron's sons into divisions for their appointed order of ministering. A larger number of leaders were found among Eleazar's descendants than Ithamar's. David and his army commanders set apart some of Asaph's sons and two others for the ministry of prophesying accompanied by harps, lyres and cymbals. Asaph's sons prophesied under the king's supervision. Jeduthun's sons prophesied using the harp in thanking and praising God. Heman's sons were given God's promises to exalt Him. All these men were under their father's supervision with cymbals, lyres and harps for the music ministry at the house of God. They were trained and skilled in music for the Lord (1 Chron. 24:1-25:31). Share ministry among various generations in Spirit-inspired prophesy, praise and music ministry. 

Let God Choose Workers Without Distinction Between Secular and Sacred Work
These divisions of the gatekeepers through their chief men had duties for ministering in the temple of God. Shemaiah's sons were leaders in their father's family because they were very capable men with the strength to do the work. Six Levites a day on the east, four a day on the north and south, two at a time at the storehouse. Their fellow Levites were in charge of treasuries of the house of God (1 Chron. 26:1-32). Let God choose workers without distinction between secular or sacred work. 

Listen to God for Practical Details in Ministry
Each army division of 24,000 served one month each year. Benaiah was a mighty man among the Thirty and over the Thirty. Each of the 12 tribes had an officer over it. A list was made of officials in charge of David's property. He charged Solomon to serve God with wholehearted devotion and a willing mind for He searched every heart and understood every motive behind the thoughts. David gave Solomon plans of all the Spirit put in his mind for the construction of the temple, instructions for the divisions of the priests and Levites, work of serving in the temple, and articles to be used for service. All this was in writing because God's hand was upon David and gave him understanding in all the details of the plan. Solomon was to be strong, courageous and without fear or discouragement. The divisions of the priests and Levites along with skilled craftsmen were ready for work on the temple (1 Chron. 27:1-28:21). Listen to God for practical details in ministry with wholehearted devotion, willing mind and pure motives.

Receive Wealth and Power from Great God
People rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders who gave freely and wholeheartedly. David praised the greatness, power, glory and majesty of God. Jesus exalted Himself as head over God's kingdom and ruler over all things. Wealth, honor, strength, power and everything came from Him. They gave only what came from God's hand. The abundance for building the temple came and belonged to Him. David gave it willingly with honest intent. The next day they made sacrifices and presented burnt and drink offerings to Him. The Lord highly exalted Solomon and bestowed royal splendor while Israel obeyed and submitted to him. David died having enjoyed long life, wealth and honor (1 Chron. 29:1-30). Receive wealth and power from the great and majestic God who rules everything.


To prepare for kingdom work, consider the following bullets:
  • Fight bravely knowing God defeats spiritual enemies
  • Trust in His resources
  • Build people up through His word
  • Organize kingdom work in holiness and prayer
  • Share ministry among various generations
  • Let God choose workers without distinction between secular and sacred work
  • Listen to God for practical details in ministry
  • Receive wealth and power from Him



0 Comments

Dynamics for Generous Giving (Insights in NT)

12/6/2012

0 Comments

 
Picture
"Our heavenly Father is a very experienced One. He knows very well that His children wake up with a good appetite every morning...He sustained 3 million Israelites in the wilderness for 40 years. We do not expect He will send 3 million missionaries to China; but if He did, He would have ample means to sustain them all...Depend on it, God's work done in God's way will never lack God's supply" (James Hudson Taylor).

For people to give generously, their hearts must break with godly sorrow that produces repentance. People must see that their gifts are administered with integrity and love. Then people will give generously to receive increased resources, righteousness and prayer. 

Allow Joy to Triumph
Having these promises enabled his contaminated body and spirit to be purified in order to perfect holiness out of reverence for God. Paul asked that they make room in their hearts for his team since they wronged or exploited no one, but sacrificed everything for them. His confidence,  encouragement and joy about the Corinthians came as his team was harassed at every turn with conflicts on the outside and fears inside after entering Macedonia. But God who comforted the downcast comforted them through Titus. He was comforted by the Corinthians and told Paul's team of their longing and deep concern for him so his joy became greater than ever (2 Cor. 7:1-7). Allow joy to triumph through conflicts and fears as you minister sacrificially to others. 

Lead People Toward Godly Sorrow
Paul's letter caused temporary sorrow and hurt leading them to repentance. Godly sorrow brought repentance leading to salvation without regret while worldly sorrow brought death. Godly sorrow produced earnestness, eagerness to clear themselves, indignation, alarm, concern and readiness to see justice done. Paul wanted them to see how devoted they were to his team before God. They refreshed Titus' spirit and Paul's boasting was true concerning them. Titus'  affection for the Corinthians became greater as he remembered their obedience in receiving him with fear and trembling. Paul was thankful for his complete confidence in them (2 Cor. 7:8-16). Lead people toward godly sorrow that produces repentance and  salvation enhancing heart relationships with one another.

Encourage People to Give Generously
Paul shared about God's grace given to the Macedonian churches in their severe trial and extreme poverty overflowing with joy through rich generosity. They gave beyond their ability and begged for the privilege to share in serving believers. They gave themselves first to the Lord and then to Paul's team according to God's will. Titus was urged to complete the grace of giving on their part. Paul wanted to test the sincerity of the Corinthians' love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. Knowing the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ that even though He was rich, yet for their sakes He became poor so they through his poverty would become rich. Paul encouraged them to fulfill their desire to give according to what they had. His desire was for equality that their plenty at this time would supply what others needed. It fulfilled Ex. 16:18 that he who gathered much did not have too much and he who gathered little did not have too little (2 Cor. 8:1-15). Encourage people to give generously by following Christ's example of one's plenty supplying the needs of others.  

Administer Gifts with Integrity
Paul thanked God that Titus had the same concern he had for the Corinthians since he came to them with much enthusiasm on his own initiative. An esteemed brother accompanied Titus as they carried and administered the offering to avoid criticism and do what was right in God's and men's eyes. Paul asked that they prove their love for Titus, his partner and fellow worker, and his brothers, representatives of the churches, so they could see it (2 Cor. 8:16-24). Administer gifts with integrity and love to avoid criticism by doing what is right in God's and men's eyes.  

Give Generously, Purposefully and Cheerfully
The Corinthians' eagerness to give stirred the Macedonians to action. Paul sent the brothers to them so his boasting would be true and make sure they were ready with their generous gift. Whoever sowed sparingly reaped sparingly and he who sowed generously reaped generously. Each man should give what he decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loved a cheerful giver. God was able to make all grace abound to them so in all things at all times they would abound in every good work. Psalm 112:9 said He scattered abroad His gifts to the poor and His righteousness endured forever (2 Cor. 9:1-9). Give generously, purposefully and cheerfully to reap and show grace bountifully in every good work.  

Gain Increased Resources, Righteousness and Prayer
God supplied seed to the sower and bread for food to increase their store of seed and enlarge the harvest of their righteousness. They would be rich in every way in order to be generous on every occasion resulting in thanksgiving to God. Not only was their service supplying the needs of believers but was overflowing in thanks and praise to God. 
They would be recipients of heartfelt prayers because of the surpassing grace of God in them. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift (2 Cor. 9:10-15). Gain increased resources, righteousness and prayer for generous and heartfelt giving. 

Answer the following questions as you consider the dynamics of generous giving: 
1. Is your heart breaking with godly sorrow?

2. Is your gift being administered with integrity and love?
3. Are you giving generously? 
4. Are you experiencing increased resources, righteousness and prayer? 



0 Comments

Process of Implosion Unless You Repent (Insights in Prophets)

8/19/2012

0 Comments

 
Picture
Joel C. Rosenberg book, Implosion: Can America Recover From Its Economic & Spiritual Challenges in Time?, explains how the US is in the midst of unprecedented and skyrocketing federal debt, severe economic troubles, political uncertainty, declining morality, a weak church, growing spiritual apathy and apostasy, historic natural disasters and other daunting challenges that many wonder if America's best days are behind her. 

Martyn Lloyd-Jones wrote, "Does it grieve you my friends, that the name of God is being taken in vain and desecrated? Does it grieve you that we are living in a godless age... But, we are living in such an age and the main reason we should be praying about revival is that we are anxious to see God's name vindicated and His glory manifested. We should be anxious to see something happening that will arrest the nations, all the peoples, and cause them to stop and to think again." 


Isaiah 3-5 explains the process of implosion from removing resources and leadership to being conquered by another nation unless the church repents of its sin. 

God Removes Resources & Overthrows Leadership
The  Lord took all the supplies of food and water from Jerusalem and Judah along with the military, politicians, judges, pastors, businessmen and workers. He made children govern them, people oppress each other, young rise up against the old and inferior against the honorable. No one would take leadership without having answers and their sin exposed like Sodom. The righteous enjoyed the fruit of their deeds but the wicked got what they deserved.  Youths oppressed God's people and women ruled over them. Guides led them astray and confused the direction of their paths (Is. 3:1-12). God removes resources and overthrows leadership because sin causes implosion. 


God Judges Pride and Injustice
The Lord judged the people including elders and leaders who ruined the vineyard and plundered the poor to their own advantage. The women of Zion were proud, flirted with their eyes and drew attention by the way they dress. The Lord brought sores on their heads, mad them go bald and removed the beauty of their clothing and accessories. The gates of Zion mourned after the men are killed in battle (Is. 3:13-26). God judges pride and injustice toward the poor by killing men in spiritual battle.

God Washes Away Sin
Seven women took hold of one man to remove disgrace and be called by his name. The Branch of the Lord would become glorious. The fruit of the land was the pride of Israel's holy survivors. The Lord washed away the filth of Zion's women and cleansed Jerusalem's bloodstains by a spirit of judgment and fire. The Lord created a canopy of glory using a cloud of smoke by day and flaming fire by night as a refuge from heat, storm and rain (Is. 4:1-6). God washes away sin and returns His glory and protection if His people repent.

Consider this the point of no return. If the church fails to repent of sin, pride and injustice toward the poor, God commands desolation, brings fruitlessness, burns in anger and empowers nations to defeat the country where the body of Christ resides. 

God Commands Desolation
He planted a loved one's fertile vineyard with the choicest vines. He cut out a winepress but it yielded only bad fruit. Judge between the builder and the vineyard as you consider why it yielded bad grapes. He commanded the vineyard to become a wasteland with thorns and no rain. The vineyard of the Lord Almighty was Israel and the men of Judah as the garden of His delight. He looked for justice but saw bloodshed, for righteousness but heard distress (Is. 5:1-7). God commands desolation for His people if they shed innocent blood and are unrighteous. 

God Brings Fruitlessness
God declared that all fields and great houses would be left unoccupied. The vineyards would yield little fruit. People pursued alcohol and parties while disregarding the Lord's deeds and disrespecting His works. Therefore He exiled people for their lack of understanding, leaders died of hunger and masses were parched with thirst. Many entered hell humbling the pride of mankind. The Lord Almighty will be exalted by His justice and show Himself holy by His righteousness. Sheep graze in their own pasture and lambs feed among the ruins of the rich (Is. 5:8-17). God brings fruitlessness to His people if they disregard Him, disrespect His works and lack understanding of His word. 

God Burns in Anger

Woe to those who glory in deceit and ask God to rush His works so they may understand it. Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, substitute darkness for light and light for  darkness, and substitute bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter.  Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, heroes at drinking wine and justify the wicked for a bribe but deny justice to the innocent. Because they rejected the law of God and despised His word, tongues of fire consumed them, their roots decayed and their flowers blew away as dust. God's anger burned against His people (Is. 5:18-25). God burns in anger if His people do not trust His working and timing while calling evil good and good evil. 

God Empowers Nations
He lifted up a banner for distant nations. No one grew tired, stumbled or slept. Their arrows were sharp, all their bows were strung and chariot wheels were like a whirlwind. They roared like young lions and seized their prey with no one to rescue. If one looked at the land, they would see darkness and distress (Is. 5:26-30). God empowers nations to be the means of judgment against His people. 

Consider the process of implosion in the church and how repentance begins with you and me in #3 below so we don't enter into the point of no return in #4-#7: 
1. God removes resources and overthrows leadership because His people sin causing implosion.
2.   God judges pride and injustice toward the poor by killing its men in spiritual battle.
3.  God washes away sin and returns His glory and protection if His people repent. 
4. God commands desolation for His people if they shed innocent blood and are unrighteous.
5.  God brings fruitlessness to His people if they disregard Him, disrespect His works and lack understanding of His word.  
6. God burns in anger if His people do not trust His working and timing while calling evil good and good evil.
7. God empowers nations to be the means of judgment against His people.  









0 Comments

Practical Requirements in Building Kingdom Ministry (Insights in Law)

1/7/2012

0 Comments

 
Picture
Many well-meaning ministers of the gospel fail in their pursuit of personal ministry goals because of their inability to conduct their ministry as a well-tuned and well-oiled operating mechanism in the same way a Fortune 500 company would.  They often over-spiritualize the practical requirements of enterprise.  Moses obeyed God's instructions and operationalized them in the building of the tabernacle, which represents kingdom ministry today. Let's learn from Exodus 35-36 on how a ministry can practically fulfill God's calling.  

Rest and Obey God
Work six days and rest completely on the seventh day to not be put to death. Don't kindle a fire in your dwellings on the sabbath day (Ex. 35:1-3). Begin your work by resting in and obeying God because of Christ's work on the cross.

Trust God to Provide 
Contribute willingly to the Lord of gold, silver, material, acacia wood, lighting oil, fragrant incense and onyx stones for the ephod and breastpiece (Ex. 35:4-9).  Trust God to provide financial and material resources instead of relying on clever fund-raising techniques.

Coordinate Labor and Planning
Let every skillful, wise and practical man make what Lord has commanded that included the tabernacle, tent and covering, ark, mercy seat, curtain, table, utensils, bread of Presence, lampstand, lamps, oil for the light, altar of incense, anointing oil and fragrant incense, altar of burnt offering, woven garments for ministering in holy place and holy garments for Aaron and his sons to minister as priests (Ex. 35:10-19). Coordinate the labor and planning for kingdom ministry with God's direction.

Share Vision and Specifics of Giving 
Everyone whose spirit moved him brought the Lord's contribution for the work of the tent of meeting, its service and for the holy garments. Those whose hearts stirred them brought offerings of gold and precious materials to the Lord, including skilled women who spun linen and rulers who brought onyx stones as settings for the ephod and breastplate, along with spice and oil for the light, anointing oil and fragrant incense (Ex. 35:20-29). Share the vision of ministry including what, when and how to give, while allowing God to work. 
 
Hire Skilled Overseers
The Lord has called by name Bezalel to fill him with the Spirit of God in wisdom, understanding, knowledge and in craftsmanship to make designs for working in gold and silver, cutting of stones and carving of wood to perform every inventive work. He put in Bezalel's and Oholiab's hearts to lay a foundation of teaching to direct peoples' lives. God filled them with wisdom of heart and skill to perform every work of an engraver, designer and weaver. God put skill and understanding in Bezalel and Oholiab along with others to know how to perform all the work in constructing the sanctuary according to His commands (Ex. 35:30-36:1). Hire skilled and wise overseers to lead the work of others under His direction.  

Present Compelling Plan 
God called everyone with skill whose heart stirred them to come and perform the work. They got freewill offerings  Moses received every morning to construct the sanctuary. He told the people to stop sending contributions since they had enough (Ex. 36:2-7). Present compelling ministry or business plan to enable people to give generously without pressure or manipulation.

Unite Various Ministries: One Mind
The skillful men constructed the tabernacle with ten curtains of fine twisted line joined together. Bezalel made two sets of 50 loops of blue and 50 clasps of gold to join the curtains so the tabernacle was one (Ex. 36:8-13). Unite the various ministries so everyone is of one mind. 

Discover Structural Connections: One Love
Bezalel made 11 curtains of goats' hair joined together for a tent over the tabernacle. He made two sets of 50 loops and 50 clasps to join the tent together as one (Ex. 36:14-19). Discover structural connections among the various ministries so everyone has one love.

Practice Good Communication: United in Spirit
He made acacia wood boards for the tabernacle with two tenons fitted to each one. Two silver sockets fit under each of the 54 boards to cover all sides of the tabernacle (Ex. 36:20-30). Practice good communication among the various ministries enables everyone to be united in spirit.

Weave Infrastructure: One Purpose 
He made five acacia wood bars for each side of the tabernacle with gold overlay and rings, as holders for the bars. He made the veil of blue, purple and scarlet material with fine twisted linen. He made four pillars of acacia wood with gold overlay and hooks, with four cast silver sockets. He made a screen for the tent doorway of blue, purple and scarlet linen, the work of a weaver (Ex. 36:31-38). Weave the infrastructure so everyone is intent on one purpose.  

You practically build a kingdom ministry by: 
1. Begin your work by resting in and obeying God because of Christ's work on the cross
2. Trust God to provide financial and material resources instead of relying on clever fund-raising techniques
3. Coordinate the labor and planning for kingdom ministry with God's direction
4. Share the vision of ministry including what, when and how to give, while allowing God to work
5. Hire skilled and wise overseers to lead the work of others under His direction
6. Present compelling ministry plan to enable people to give generously without pressure or manipulation
7. Unite the various ministries so everyone is of one mind
8. Discover structural connections among the various ministries so everyone has one love
9. Practice good communication among the various ministries enables everyone to be united in spirit
10. Weave the infrastructure so everyone is intent on one purpose  

0 Comments

Help As You Walk in the Wilderness (Insights in Prophets)

12/6/2011

0 Comments

 
Picture
Do you feel like you are walking in the wilderness not knowing where you are going? Do you feel hungry and thirsty spiritually? Do you feel vulnerable? Has a family member done something behind your back that was totally unexpected? Has a friend made you look bad? Has your boss yelled at you for no reason? Is money tight? David experienced these issues when Absalom, his own son, tried to overthrow and defeat him.

Ahithophel counseled Absalom to choose 12,000 men to attack David tonight while he was weary and exhausted so everyone with him would flee. The plan pleased Absalom and Israel's elders (2 Sam. 17:1-4). Enemies seek your harm when you are most vulnerable.

Hushai said Ahithophel's plan was not good. He said David would hide himself in a cave instead of spending the night with the people. Hushai said Absalom should lead Israel into battle to find David and defeat them "as the dew falls on the ground" so no one would be left. Absalom and all Israel said Hushai's counsel was better than Ahithophel. The Lord ordained to thwart Ahithophel's good counsel so the Lord would bring calamity on Absalom (2 Sam. 17:5-14). The Lord defeats plots against you. 

Hushai told Zadok and Abiathar the priests to warn David not to spend the night at the fords in the wilderness so they would not be destroyed. A woman hid the messengers, Jonathan and Ahimaaz, in a well with grain spread over the covering so Absalom's servants couldn't find them (2 Sam. 17:15-20). People protect you from harm.

David and his men crossed the Jordan. When Ahithophel saw his counsel was not followed, he committed suicide (2 Sam. 17:21-23). God overthrows your enemies.

David came to Mahanaim and Absalom crossed the Jordan to camp in Gilead with the men of Israel. Absalom set Amasa over the army in place of Joab. Three men from the Mahanaim area brought beds, basins, pottery, wheat, barley flour, grain, beans, lentils, seeds, honey, curds, sheep and cheese for David and people with him to eat. They said the people were "hungry, weary and thirsty in the wilderness" ( 2 Sam. 17:24-29). God provides resources at your point of need. 

Praise God that He defeats plots against you, overthrows your enemies, and provides resources at your point of need & people to protect you from harm. 


 



 

0 Comments
    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

    November 2020
    July 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    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
    Coronavirus
    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
    Narrow Way
    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
    Philippians
    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
    Small Groups
    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
    Sync With God
    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