Obedience. The word conjures up different things for different people. Some may think simply of the act of obeying an order or command. As a child, most of use learned to be obedient to our parents because it kept us safe. "Don't touch the stove; it's hot!" or "hold mommie's hand as we cross the street", which ensured that we would not wander from the safety of the crosswalk and our beloved mommie.
For the Christian, obedience is also a simple act of obeying our Heavenly Father. The problem is that so often we find that we have fallen short of obeying the Father's command. On one hand, this may be because we don't know what his commandments are (we need to read the Bible more).
On the other hand, it may be because we have a heart problem. Our hearts are obedient to whoever we look to as king and lord of our life. Ask yourself, who is on the throne in your heart? Is it you? Is it your job? Is it money? Is it a policy, an ideal, or political motive? We are made to serve. The problem is that we all too often choose to serve ourselves rather than our creator, God. When God is in his rightful place on the throne in our heart, we can then begin to serve in true obedience to Him.
Deuteronomy 5:33Walk in obedience to all that the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Peace with God (Romans 5)
Romans Chapter 5 is perhaps one of the most enriching chapters in God's holy word. Since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. We also have God's love poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. What greater news could there be! It reinforces God's central truth: that we can trust Him. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. He paid the price for our sins by His perfect sacrifice.
The argument and discussion related to death through Adam and life through Christ is written like one of the finest legal arguments you will ever read. I cannot even comment on it adequately... it's best just to read it for yourself!
Read and be blessed... and remember the part about peace with God. Do you have that peace?
-atg-
The argument and discussion related to death through Adam and life through Christ is written like one of the finest legal arguments you will ever read. I cannot even comment on it adequately... it's best just to read it for yourself!
Read and be blessed... and remember the part about peace with God. Do you have that peace?
-atg-
God is the Judge, not Sinful Man (Romans 2-3)
In Romans Chapter 2, we are reminded that we have no excuse to pass judgment on others because we ourselves are guilty, “for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself…” (v. 2:1). God makes it clear in His word that He is the judge, not sinful man. “God will give to each person according to what he has done. To those who by persistence is doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. … For God does not show favoritism.”
A couple of points need to be understood here:
(1) These passages in Romans do not mean that salvation itself is based upon works (good works versus evil deeds)… make no mistake that the Bible teaches that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, and not by works… this is made crystal clear elsewhere in Romans and the gospels.
(2) This scripture about not passing judgment does not mean that we do not share Biblical truth and use it for teaching and correcting our brothers and sisters. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. “ (2 Timothy 3:16-17) As a practical note, it is fine to correct your Christian brother and rebuke or correct him by pointing out errors and a need for discipline; but as we do this we are reminded that God is the ultimate judge. God looks upon the heart, where we clearly cannot see.
Also in Romans Chapter 3, we are reminded that God is just. We can count on that. Therefore, with justice, we know that we are condemned because of our sin. “…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (v. 3:23) This is why the sacrifice, the atonement, the payment for our sins by Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is so significant. He was the perfect man, without sin... By His sacrifice for us, our sins are paid!
Now… go read Romans Chapter 2 and 3 for yourself and be blessed.
-atg-
A couple of points need to be understood here:
(1) These passages in Romans do not mean that salvation itself is based upon works (good works versus evil deeds)… make no mistake that the Bible teaches that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, and not by works… this is made crystal clear elsewhere in Romans and the gospels.
(2) This scripture about not passing judgment does not mean that we do not share Biblical truth and use it for teaching and correcting our brothers and sisters. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. “ (2 Timothy 3:16-17) As a practical note, it is fine to correct your Christian brother and rebuke or correct him by pointing out errors and a need for discipline; but as we do this we are reminded that God is the ultimate judge. God looks upon the heart, where we clearly cannot see.
Also in Romans Chapter 3, we are reminded that God is just. We can count on that. Therefore, with justice, we know that we are condemned because of our sin. “…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (v. 3:23) This is why the sacrifice, the atonement, the payment for our sins by Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is so significant. He was the perfect man, without sin... By His sacrifice for us, our sins are paid!
Now… go read Romans Chapter 2 and 3 for yourself and be blessed.
-atg-
Don't Stop Your Fellowship (Romans 1)
The apostle, Paul, begins his letter to the Romans with a greeting, and a longing to visit his fellow Christians in Rome so that they can encourage each other in faith (verses 11-12). This reminds us of the importance of meeting together with other Christians to worship, pray, learn, and encourage each other. Indeed, many times when I need encouragement I find it from fellow Christ-followers whether at home, work, church or elsewhere.
Paul goes on to make a bold statement: that he is "...not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes..." He reminds us of the importance of the Gospel message to all of us, and our responsibility as Christians to me the messengers of that gospel.
Lastly, Paul, makes a very powerful observation about the slippery slope of idolatry leading to depravity. Read verses 18 through 32 within the context of what you see in America today and it may shock you how far our culture has slid towards that depravity. We need to pray for revival in our hearts, in our marriages, in our families, and in our country. We must honor God in all that we do and continue to serve as a light of His truth in our communities and in our world.
God bless you.
-atg-
Paul goes on to make a bold statement: that he is "...not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes..." He reminds us of the importance of the Gospel message to all of us, and our responsibility as Christians to me the messengers of that gospel.
Lastly, Paul, makes a very powerful observation about the slippery slope of idolatry leading to depravity. Read verses 18 through 32 within the context of what you see in America today and it may shock you how far our culture has slid towards that depravity. We need to pray for revival in our hearts, in our marriages, in our families, and in our country. We must honor God in all that we do and continue to serve as a light of His truth in our communities and in our world.
God bless you.
-atg-
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Going Through a Dry Spell?... Thirst for Living Water
I am always encouraged and blessed when I am reminded that Jesus refers to himself as "Living Water" (John 4:10). Referring to the Holy Spirit, Jesus says "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." (John 7:37-38) Indeed, the Scriptures are full of references to Jesus, the Holy Spirit, the Word of God all as living water. "...For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes." (Revelation 7:17)
Do you ever feel thirsty? Thirsty for the things of God... the Holy Spirit? You may attend church on a regular basis, you may listen to Christian songs on the radio; you may even pray at mealtimes or before bedtime. All of these are wonderful... but where is your heart? Do you seek the presence of the Holy Spirit with all of your heart? Do you sincerely hope and wish with everything that you are to BE with the Holy Spirit? Do you thirst?
Jesus tells us very simply to come and drink. Seek His presence. Seek the Holy Spirit in your heart and He will meet you there... with abundant, endless streams of the Living Water... you will never again be thirsty. Why would you want it any other way?!?
Today, right now, pray that the Lord God would hear your cry for Living Water... that He would lead you to that stream... and then listen, follow, read the Scriptures... and never stop drinking from that well!
Blessings,
-atg-
Do you ever feel thirsty? Thirsty for the things of God... the Holy Spirit? You may attend church on a regular basis, you may listen to Christian songs on the radio; you may even pray at mealtimes or before bedtime. All of these are wonderful... but where is your heart? Do you seek the presence of the Holy Spirit with all of your heart? Do you sincerely hope and wish with everything that you are to BE with the Holy Spirit? Do you thirst?
Jesus tells us very simply to come and drink. Seek His presence. Seek the Holy Spirit in your heart and He will meet you there... with abundant, endless streams of the Living Water... you will never again be thirsty. Why would you want it any other way?!?
Today, right now, pray that the Lord God would hear your cry for Living Water... that He would lead you to that stream... and then listen, follow, read the Scriptures... and never stop drinking from that well!
Blessings,
-atg-
Friday, September 10, 2010
Moral Compass
Although I did not invent the term, I do like to consider the concept of "MORAL COMPASS". Have you heard that term before? What does it mean to you?
As you probably know, a compass is a device to allow you to find your direction. I see a "moral compass" as a similar device that allows me to find my way through life, especially when it comes to making right and wrong decisions. My moral compass needs to point to a "true north", which the Bible provides. The Word of God is the one source of absolute truth to which my moral compass can point and allow me to find direction. It is my "true north". When I am presented with choices in which I can either tell the truth or lie, cheat or not, commit adultery or not, or treat someone with love and respect, or not... I often don't have a lot of time to think it over. I need to "glance at my compass" and make a quick decision. Because I focus my mind and heart on knowing the Word of God, I usually make the right choice... In some cases I have not made the right choice, and there are always consequences of that poor choice.
There are two verses to read and meditate on as you consider the concept of having a strong moral compass. One is Colossians 2:8 (C28). "See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ." This one is very important because if you replace your moral compass true north with one based on "hollow and deceptive philosophy" that depends on human tradition, you are bound for failure. One obvious example is that our culture believes that you can pretty much sleep around with anyone and it is ok... that there aren't real consequences. Well, as you know that is contrary to God's word (true north) which teaches that sex is for marriage and God intended it to be a wonderful and awesome commitment shared between a husband and wife. To use it otherwise is to fall victim to the hollow and deceptive philosophy of the world... and there are consequences for it.
The other verse is part of Proverbs chapter 2: "...if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding...Then you will understand what is right and just and fair - every good path. For wisdom will enter your heart and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will protect you and understanding will guard you."
Amen! If that does not describe the "true north" in our MORAL COMPASS, then I don't know what does!
Having a strong and true moral compass is not only important for making "big" important decisions. The moral compass is also critical for normal, everyday decisions because those are the ones that sometimes cause us to trip up, fail, and make a big mistake. It's a matter of keeping the moral compass with you at all times to stay on course, not just for those big decisions but also for daily life as well... that is why it is so important to stay well-grounded and rooted (solid) in the Word... so as to always have the compass based on that "true north" that we wrote about... God's word and His truth.
-atg-
As you probably know, a compass is a device to allow you to find your direction. I see a "moral compass" as a similar device that allows me to find my way through life, especially when it comes to making right and wrong decisions. My moral compass needs to point to a "true north", which the Bible provides. The Word of God is the one source of absolute truth to which my moral compass can point and allow me to find direction. It is my "true north". When I am presented with choices in which I can either tell the truth or lie, cheat or not, commit adultery or not, or treat someone with love and respect, or not... I often don't have a lot of time to think it over. I need to "glance at my compass" and make a quick decision. Because I focus my mind and heart on knowing the Word of God, I usually make the right choice... In some cases I have not made the right choice, and there are always consequences of that poor choice.
There are two verses to read and meditate on as you consider the concept of having a strong moral compass. One is Colossians 2:8 (C28). "See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ." This one is very important because if you replace your moral compass true north with one based on "hollow and deceptive philosophy" that depends on human tradition, you are bound for failure. One obvious example is that our culture believes that you can pretty much sleep around with anyone and it is ok... that there aren't real consequences. Well, as you know that is contrary to God's word (true north) which teaches that sex is for marriage and God intended it to be a wonderful and awesome commitment shared between a husband and wife. To use it otherwise is to fall victim to the hollow and deceptive philosophy of the world... and there are consequences for it.
The other verse is part of Proverbs chapter 2: "...if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding...Then you will understand what is right and just and fair - every good path. For wisdom will enter your heart and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will protect you and understanding will guard you."
Amen! If that does not describe the "true north" in our MORAL COMPASS, then I don't know what does!
Having a strong and true moral compass is not only important for making "big" important decisions. The moral compass is also critical for normal, everyday decisions because those are the ones that sometimes cause us to trip up, fail, and make a big mistake. It's a matter of keeping the moral compass with you at all times to stay on course, not just for those big decisions but also for daily life as well... that is why it is so important to stay well-grounded and rooted (solid) in the Word... so as to always have the compass based on that "true north" that we wrote about... God's word and His truth.
-atg-
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Don't Neglect the Spirit
"The West has finally achieved the rights of man, and even to excess, but man's sense of responsibility to God and society has grown dimmer and dimmer... We have placed too much hope in politics and social reforms, only to find out that we were being deprived of our most precious possession: our spiritual life." Alexander Solzhenitsyn, Nobel Prize winner (1978 during an address to Harvard grads)
Are you neglecting the Spirit? Through your pursuit of happiness, are you overlooking the one true, eternal source of happiness: The Holy Spirit. I encourage you to consider these truths as you contemplate the question:
"All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:25-28
For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men. Romans 14:17-18
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
Don't neglect the Spirit my friend. The Bible is full of promises about the Holy Spirit... seek God's heart on this and experience the joy of knowing the Holy Spirit.
-atg-
Are you neglecting the Spirit? Through your pursuit of happiness, are you overlooking the one true, eternal source of happiness: The Holy Spirit. I encourage you to consider these truths as you contemplate the question:
"All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:25-28
For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men. Romans 14:17-18
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
Don't neglect the Spirit my friend. The Bible is full of promises about the Holy Spirit... seek God's heart on this and experience the joy of knowing the Holy Spirit.
-atg-
Friday, August 13, 2010
Down Time
How often do you have time alone... just you, yourself, and... _____? ...fill in the blank there. You don't have to answer out loud, but just fill in the blank in your thoughts.
Here are some possibilities:
By "idols", I mean something that you pour your heart into, a person or thing in which you have blind admiration, adoration, or devotion. At some times, this may be thinking of hobbies, sports, job or aspirations; their money; their retirement plans; their family; their friends; their favorite TV show, their favorite comic book character, etc. ... these are things that are not necessarily "bad", but if they are out of balance with an honest relationship with your creator, these things can still leave you feeling empty or striving for more. At other times, you may focus your mind thinking about a particular vice - an immoral or evil habit or practice (be honest with yourself). For most people, there are probably times when we focus our minds on both at various times, it's our sinful nature. But how does God feel about that?
Basically, ask yourself if you spend more time focused or centered on yourself, your needs, wants, and desires; and then weigh that against how much time you focus on God - knowing Him, knowing His attributes, knowing His word, His truth, His plan, His salvation, His eternity with or without you. This is the God who is, who was, and who is to come (Rev 4:8); the God of Jacob - the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
After you've had this conversation with yourself (and maybe with God listening in), consider these truths:
Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God. 1 Cor 4:5
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12
All a man's ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs the heart. Proverbs 21:2
Spend some time thinking and praying about these truths. Ask the Lord to reveal His heart to you, and to open up some answers, giving you wisdom in this area of your life. Do you need to spend more quality time with your creator? We all have a thought life, we all have time to spend thinking about one thing or another. Consider making that time more about your Lord, God and saviour, and less about you.
Humble yourself and pray "...less of me, Lord, and more of You!..."
Blessings...
-atg-
Here are some possibilities:
- you
- your idols
- your vices
- The Lord, God
By "idols", I mean something that you pour your heart into, a person or thing in which you have blind admiration, adoration, or devotion. At some times, this may be thinking of hobbies, sports, job or aspirations; their money; their retirement plans; their family; their friends; their favorite TV show, their favorite comic book character, etc. ... these are things that are not necessarily "bad", but if they are out of balance with an honest relationship with your creator, these things can still leave you feeling empty or striving for more. At other times, you may focus your mind thinking about a particular vice - an immoral or evil habit or practice (be honest with yourself). For most people, there are probably times when we focus our minds on both at various times, it's our sinful nature. But how does God feel about that?
Basically, ask yourself if you spend more time focused or centered on yourself, your needs, wants, and desires; and then weigh that against how much time you focus on God - knowing Him, knowing His attributes, knowing His word, His truth, His plan, His salvation, His eternity with or without you. This is the God who is, who was, and who is to come (Rev 4:8); the God of Jacob - the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
After you've had this conversation with yourself (and maybe with God listening in), consider these truths:
Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God. 1 Cor 4:5
For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12
All a man's ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs the heart. Proverbs 21:2
Spend some time thinking and praying about these truths. Ask the Lord to reveal His heart to you, and to open up some answers, giving you wisdom in this area of your life. Do you need to spend more quality time with your creator? We all have a thought life, we all have time to spend thinking about one thing or another. Consider making that time more about your Lord, God and saviour, and less about you.
Humble yourself and pray "...less of me, Lord, and more of You!..."
Blessings...
-atg-
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Feeding the King and His Kingdom
"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' Matthew 25:34-40
Ask the Lord to give you opportunities to "do" for others. Sometimes those are in the form of ministry opportunities, mission trips, donating to a charity or mission, or maybe even short-term opportunities that may only last a few moments...
I recently had an experience in a downtown fast food restaurant in a big city. A young man came into the store and walked (more like stumbled) up toward the exit of the food ordering line. He was obviously having some sort of withdrawal symptoms, was shaking and twitching, he had some open wounds and scars on his face, head, and arms, and was dirty. I was keeping an eye on him out of the corner of my eye because it was sort of a strange scene. We made eye contact for a brief moment, and he pointed to the sign on the wall with a picture of a value meal... He wanted food.
This young man was probably in his early 20's. I have a son around the same age. I cannot imagine what this man's life is like, or at least what he had gone through that day... It really didn't matter at the time... the important thing was that he was hungry and needed a few minutes off the street.
The meal was something like $5.59 for a sandwich, fries, and a coke. No matter the cost of the meal, how could I not follow through on his gesture - his simple request for some food? He did not ask for money, he did not try to sell me anything, he was not threatening in any way. I've often read the scriptures where Jesus teaches what to do in the situation, but I have ignored that too many times before. To ignore it and to walk away would be to do what probably most everyone else would have done in that restaurant also, and what he may have experienced at other places as well. I felt peace and a strong sense of the Lord's leading in that moment.
I already had my food, but I got back into line and bought the man his meal. He quietly took it and was still sitting quietly eating when I left several minutes later after wolfing down my beef 'n cheddar and jalapeno poppers. He did not look up when I walked by him. Who knows... by then he may have forgotten how he got the meal. The important thing was that he was safe, cool, dry, and fed for a few minutes before going back out into the life he has on the streets. I said a silent prayer for him and asked God to give me more such opportunities... not for my benefit, but for the Glory of God.
-Andy G.
"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' Matthew 25:34-40
Ask the Lord to give you opportunities to "do" for others. Sometimes those are in the form of ministry opportunities, mission trips, donating to a charity or mission, or maybe even short-term opportunities that may only last a few moments...
I recently had an experience in a downtown fast food restaurant in a big city. A young man came into the store and walked (more like stumbled) up toward the exit of the food ordering line. He was obviously having some sort of withdrawal symptoms, was shaking and twitching, he had some open wounds and scars on his face, head, and arms, and was dirty. I was keeping an eye on him out of the corner of my eye because it was sort of a strange scene. We made eye contact for a brief moment, and he pointed to the sign on the wall with a picture of a value meal... He wanted food.
This young man was probably in his early 20's. I have a son around the same age. I cannot imagine what this man's life is like, or at least what he had gone through that day... It really didn't matter at the time... the important thing was that he was hungry and needed a few minutes off the street.
The meal was something like $5.59 for a sandwich, fries, and a coke. No matter the cost of the meal, how could I not follow through on his gesture - his simple request for some food? He did not ask for money, he did not try to sell me anything, he was not threatening in any way. I've often read the scriptures where Jesus teaches what to do in the situation, but I have ignored that too many times before. To ignore it and to walk away would be to do what probably most everyone else would have done in that restaurant also, and what he may have experienced at other places as well. I felt peace and a strong sense of the Lord's leading in that moment.
I already had my food, but I got back into line and bought the man his meal. He quietly took it and was still sitting quietly eating when I left several minutes later after wolfing down my beef 'n cheddar and jalapeno poppers. He did not look up when I walked by him. Who knows... by then he may have forgotten how he got the meal. The important thing was that he was safe, cool, dry, and fed for a few minutes before going back out into the life he has on the streets. I said a silent prayer for him and asked God to give me more such opportunities... not for my benefit, but for the Glory of God.
-Andy G.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Waiting on the Lord
Even when I pray and fast, I must be reminded that my timing for the hoped-for answer to those prayers is not always the same as the Lord's. In the meantime, I must remain on course, placing my faith in God that he hears my prayers. If I pray with confidence that the Lord hears those prayers, then I should be able to proceed about my business (the Lord's business) with confidence that they will be answered according to His will. These answers may even come without my knowledge at some point in the distant future.
The Bible is full of promises that the Lord hears and answers our prayers. Two of those instances are particularly encouraging to me. They are:
Phillipians 1:3-6 "I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
and
Romans 8:26-27 "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will."
Let me try an analogy for this... a runner will train for a marathon for months at a time before the actual event. They don't run once and then expect they are ready for the marathon... they run and train through a well-planned routine that will prepare for them for success in the marathon. And even as they run the marathon, they must persevere and continue running until they cross the finish line. This is similar to the "waiting" that I am writing about here. Even as we wait on the Lord to answer prayers, we should continue with the training... through prayer and fasting, and living out our day, completing the tasks that the Lord has given us (family, job, school, etc.) to the best of our abilities even as we wait for those answered prayers.
Stay strong... keep praying...
-Andy G.
The Bible is full of promises that the Lord hears and answers our prayers. Two of those instances are particularly encouraging to me. They are:
Phillipians 1:3-6 "I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
and
Romans 8:26-27 "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will."
Let me try an analogy for this... a runner will train for a marathon for months at a time before the actual event. They don't run once and then expect they are ready for the marathon... they run and train through a well-planned routine that will prepare for them for success in the marathon. And even as they run the marathon, they must persevere and continue running until they cross the finish line. This is similar to the "waiting" that I am writing about here. Even as we wait on the Lord to answer prayers, we should continue with the training... through prayer and fasting, and living out our day, completing the tasks that the Lord has given us (family, job, school, etc.) to the best of our abilities even as we wait for those answered prayers.
Stay strong... keep praying...
-Andy G.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
House of Prayer (Isaiah 56)
I recently had the honor and privilege to participate in 24 hours of prayer. It was held at our church for the purpose of humbly offering our hearts to the Lord to ask for His wisdom, guidance, knowledge, blessings, and grace... and to honor and glorify Him! The night started with songs of worship with nearly 80 people in attendance... lifting up prayers and praises to Jesus. Throughout the night there was continuous prayer interspersed with worship, scripture reading, and testimonies.
There were powerful times, when the Holy Spirit was moving through that place, touching hearts... tears flowed and prayers continued to be lifted up. Prayers for healing, prayers for knowledge and wisdom, prayers for specific needs of the church body, for specific needs of people, for friends, loved ones, pastors and elders.
At times there were 5 or 6 people praying silently... at other times there was one person praying out loud... and at times everyone was lifting up worship to our Lord and King. The Lord, in some way, blessed everyone who participated... and the blessings continue.
We can tell that the Holy Spirit is moving, because the enemy has stepped up attacks to disrupt our work... stress, illness, and disruption are examples of the enemy's attempts. But we continue to pray in Jesus' name that that we will be able to stand our ground, that with the full armor of God, we will prevail.
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” Ephesians 6:10-13
Worship and prayer continued throughout the 24 hours, with the last two hours being devoted to praying for those with terminal illnesses such as cancer. The Lord specifically brought people there that night to hear testimonies, to pray and to be prayed for, and to glorify our heavenly Father.
Lord, we thank you and ask for your continued wisdom, grace, and blessings as we honor you with all of our hearts, souls, minds, and strength... Amen.
-Andy G.
"...for my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations." Isaiah 56:7
There were powerful times, when the Holy Spirit was moving through that place, touching hearts... tears flowed and prayers continued to be lifted up. Prayers for healing, prayers for knowledge and wisdom, prayers for specific needs of the church body, for specific needs of people, for friends, loved ones, pastors and elders.
At times there were 5 or 6 people praying silently... at other times there was one person praying out loud... and at times everyone was lifting up worship to our Lord and King. The Lord, in some way, blessed everyone who participated... and the blessings continue.
We can tell that the Holy Spirit is moving, because the enemy has stepped up attacks to disrupt our work... stress, illness, and disruption are examples of the enemy's attempts. But we continue to pray in Jesus' name that that we will be able to stand our ground, that with the full armor of God, we will prevail.
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” Ephesians 6:10-13
Worship and prayer continued throughout the 24 hours, with the last two hours being devoted to praying for those with terminal illnesses such as cancer. The Lord specifically brought people there that night to hear testimonies, to pray and to be prayed for, and to glorify our heavenly Father.
Lord, we thank you and ask for your continued wisdom, grace, and blessings as we honor you with all of our hearts, souls, minds, and strength... Amen.
-Andy G.
"...for my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations." Isaiah 56:7
Friday, June 4, 2010
Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord
I've recently been reading through the letter to the Ephesians. My practice lately has been to read through a particular book in the Bible more than once, so that I can meditate on certain aspects of it, pray through it, and ask the Lord to reveal His wisdom as I study the book. I just started this with Ephesians, and although I've read it a few times in my life, I've never really appreciated how rich this book is in wisdom and practical application to daily life.
Something stood out to me today, however... it was in Chapter 5, verse 19... "Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual song. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord."
Wow! How many times do we "sing and make music in your heart to the Lord"? You may find that most of the time our heart is focused on what we need or what we want and not on worshiping the Lord.. even if we are contemplating the word of God and and even if we are seeking Jesus, still ask yourself... how often are you making music in your heart to the Lord? This is an amazing example that a heart focused on the Lord would be doing.
I am going to ask the Lord to help me focus on this... singing and making music in my heart to the Lord... this will undoubtedly push my agenda out of my heart to make room for His.
-Andy G.
Something stood out to me today, however... it was in Chapter 5, verse 19... "Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual song. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord."
Wow! How many times do we "sing and make music in your heart to the Lord"? You may find that most of the time our heart is focused on what we need or what we want and not on worshiping the Lord.. even if we are contemplating the word of God and and even if we are seeking Jesus, still ask yourself... how often are you making music in your heart to the Lord? This is an amazing example that a heart focused on the Lord would be doing.
I am going to ask the Lord to help me focus on this... singing and making music in my heart to the Lord... this will undoubtedly push my agenda out of my heart to make room for His.
-Andy G.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Anxious? Don't be.
What wakes you up at night? What worries you and snaps you out of your thoughts and focus? Do you worry about your loved ones, your finances, your job, your health, your friends? Most of us do... it's pretty normal to worry, I'm sure you would agree.
However, if you really think hard about it, how much control do you really have over this stuff? There are so many factors and variables involved that it's amazing how well things go most of the time. In any event, even when things are going well, we still worry! We are anxious for tomorrow, not sure what it will bring. We are anxious to be successful, healthy, and happy... anxious to have things "go our way". If we aren't careful, we could "lose our mind" with worry!
I've been thinking pretty hard about this one lately, and I've been praying... Why? Because I found a promise of peace, which I am very thankful and grateful about and which I'm very happy to share with you.:
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
Wow... can it get much better than this? God promises that if we present our requests to him, by prayer and petition (asking), that His peace will guard our heart and mind. He goes further to tell us that this peace will transcend our understanding. In other words, we wont be able to figure out why we have this sense of peace. To know why would probably blow our mind. Did you know that the guy who wrote this (the apostle Paul) was in prison when he wrote it? Would you have enough "peace" to write this from prison?... So, there's your example of how this peace transcends our understanding.
Don't overlook the last part of the verse... "will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." If you desire to keep your heart and mind focused on what's important and to keep it guarded by peace from God, then give this a try: pray for everything, be thankful for what you have, and present your requests to God on a regular basis... and may God bless you for it with his peace.
-Andy G.
However, if you really think hard about it, how much control do you really have over this stuff? There are so many factors and variables involved that it's amazing how well things go most of the time. In any event, even when things are going well, we still worry! We are anxious for tomorrow, not sure what it will bring. We are anxious to be successful, healthy, and happy... anxious to have things "go our way". If we aren't careful, we could "lose our mind" with worry!
I've been thinking pretty hard about this one lately, and I've been praying... Why? Because I found a promise of peace, which I am very thankful and grateful about and which I'm very happy to share with you.:
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
Wow... can it get much better than this? God promises that if we present our requests to him, by prayer and petition (asking), that His peace will guard our heart and mind. He goes further to tell us that this peace will transcend our understanding. In other words, we wont be able to figure out why we have this sense of peace. To know why would probably blow our mind. Did you know that the guy who wrote this (the apostle Paul) was in prison when he wrote it? Would you have enough "peace" to write this from prison?... So, there's your example of how this peace transcends our understanding.
Don't overlook the last part of the verse... "will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." If you desire to keep your heart and mind focused on what's important and to keep it guarded by peace from God, then give this a try: pray for everything, be thankful for what you have, and present your requests to God on a regular basis... and may God bless you for it with his peace.
-Andy G.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Pilgrimage
pilgrimage - "a journey, esp. a long one, made to some sacred place as an act of religious devotion"
Can normal everyday life be considered a pilgrimage? I think most of us consider a pilgrimage to be something that is deliberately long and focused on reaching a particular place. However, consider the possibility that normal everyday life is also a pilgrimage to be in the presence of God on a day to day basis until reaching the ultimate goal of an eternity spent in his presence.
Psalm 84:5-7 has the passage "Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion."
Using this passage with the analogy of normal everyday life as a pilgrimage would mean that even in our day-to-day existence, there will be times of long, arid, dry stretches (like the Valley of Baca... read the Bible text notes) but the springs and pools serve as blessings and refreshment... reminders of the ultimate joy that the experience of reaching Zion will bring.
May your day-to-day life bring you blessings of springs and pools as you go "from strength to strength" on your pilgrimage.
-Andy G.
Can normal everyday life be considered a pilgrimage? I think most of us consider a pilgrimage to be something that is deliberately long and focused on reaching a particular place. However, consider the possibility that normal everyday life is also a pilgrimage to be in the presence of God on a day to day basis until reaching the ultimate goal of an eternity spent in his presence.
Psalm 84:5-7 has the passage "Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion."
Using this passage with the analogy of normal everyday life as a pilgrimage would mean that even in our day-to-day existence, there will be times of long, arid, dry stretches (like the Valley of Baca... read the Bible text notes) but the springs and pools serve as blessings and refreshment... reminders of the ultimate joy that the experience of reaching Zion will bring.
May your day-to-day life bring you blessings of springs and pools as you go "from strength to strength" on your pilgrimage.
-Andy G.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Testimony
testimony - "open declaration or profession, as of faith; evidence in support of a fact or statement"
Lately, I have been very encouraged through hearing several testimonies from various people. These testimonies are of things that the Lord God had done for people. Sometimes the person was just sharing good news or "good luck" stories, and other times the person was completely aware that God had done a good work in their life. It has made me realize that we should not hesitate to share such stories with people... friends, co-workers, family, and maybe even strangers that we meet. When you have a testimony to share, don't hold back... you never know if the listener needs to hear that story at that particular time or not.
In the Gospel of Mark, chapter 5, there is the story of when Jesus healed a demon-possessed man who was living in the tombs by the side of a lake. After Jesus had cast the demons out and healed the man, the man begged to go with Jesus. However, Jesus did not let him go with him, but said "Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you." So the man went away and began to tell throughout the region how much Jesus had done for him, and the people were amazed!
In the above story, I believe that Jesus sent the man to go tell his story because he knew that people needed to hear it and would be amazed. If the man had gone with Jesus instead, many other people throughout the region would not have heard about what the Lord had done for the man.
Let's proclaim all that the Lord does for us! Share your testimonies!
Lately, I have been very encouraged through hearing several testimonies from various people. These testimonies are of things that the Lord God had done for people. Sometimes the person was just sharing good news or "good luck" stories, and other times the person was completely aware that God had done a good work in their life. It has made me realize that we should not hesitate to share such stories with people... friends, co-workers, family, and maybe even strangers that we meet. When you have a testimony to share, don't hold back... you never know if the listener needs to hear that story at that particular time or not.
In the Gospel of Mark, chapter 5, there is the story of when Jesus healed a demon-possessed man who was living in the tombs by the side of a lake. After Jesus had cast the demons out and healed the man, the man begged to go with Jesus. However, Jesus did not let him go with him, but said "Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you." So the man went away and began to tell throughout the region how much Jesus had done for him, and the people were amazed!
In the above story, I believe that Jesus sent the man to go tell his story because he knew that people needed to hear it and would be amazed. If the man had gone with Jesus instead, many other people throughout the region would not have heard about what the Lord had done for the man.
Let's proclaim all that the Lord does for us! Share your testimonies!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Pursuing Knowledge of the Attributes of God
With regard to finding the answers to questions that we have about God...
"...They must be sought by prayer, by long meditation on the written Word, and by earnest and well-disciplined labor. However brightly the light may shine, it can be seen only by those who are spiritually prepared to receive it. 'Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.'" from The Knowledge of the Holy, by A.W. Tozer (p.22)
What questions do you have about God?
What attributes of God have you seen or been made aware of?
"...They must be sought by prayer, by long meditation on the written Word, and by earnest and well-disciplined labor. However brightly the light may shine, it can be seen only by those who are spiritually prepared to receive it. 'Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.'" from The Knowledge of the Holy, by A.W. Tozer (p.22)
What questions do you have about God?
What attributes of God have you seen or been made aware of?
Monday, April 12, 2010
Media Discernment
Discernment – the act or process of exhibiting keen insight and good judgment.
Learning media discernment is very important for Christ-followers (especially young Christians) in order to maintain a focus on God’s communication and plan for us. What I mean by “media discernment” is the ability to identify and distinguish those things in the media (music, movies, TV, books, magazines) that are inherently “bad” for us, and separate them from the “good” or “neutral” category. It is like having radar to detect stuff that we know deep inside that God would rather have us steer clear of. Sometimes it is easy to identify this: obviously God would rather us not choose to view a pornographic movie or magazine. Other times it is not so clear. Music in particular is a form of media that is sometimes difficult to have clear discernment for good and bad, because it isn’t always visual and the lyrics can sometimes cloud an otherwise clear message. Nevertheless, I believe that it is extremely important for all youth, and Christians in particular, to develop a strong sense of discernment about what they choose to listen to, see, and be exposed to.
In my own life, music has always had an extremely powerful pull on my emotions, attitudes, and way of viewing the world. When I was a teenager, I had a youth pastor who helped me to understand why it was important to develop a sense of discernment, to basically learn how to be careful what I listen to. He would often listen to our records and tapes with us and help us to evaluate the good and bad, and to understand why it was important for us to pay attention to it. I am not just talking about the style or genre of music, but rather the content of the message, the lyrics, and the way it makes you feel about yourself, others, and the world. Ask yourself “Does this song glorify God or does it show rebellion towards God and his plan?” It is not just the style of music that is the topic of this discernment issue, but the content and the message being sent out to the listeners. I thank God that I started to learn this art of discernment early on (in high school), and that I have been able to improve my sense of discernment and continue to improve my understanding of God’s will in this area of my life. It has helped me to develop a positive outlook on life, and has given me a strong sense of looking out for and being careful with what I “consume” in the form of media (music, movies, TV, magazines, etc.) – to help me to determine what is good and what is bad for my soul, and ultimately to help me stay focused on the goals and attitudes that God has intended for me.
-Andy G.
See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human traditions and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.
Colossians 2:8
Learning media discernment is very important for Christ-followers (especially young Christians) in order to maintain a focus on God’s communication and plan for us. What I mean by “media discernment” is the ability to identify and distinguish those things in the media (music, movies, TV, books, magazines) that are inherently “bad” for us, and separate them from the “good” or “neutral” category. It is like having radar to detect stuff that we know deep inside that God would rather have us steer clear of. Sometimes it is easy to identify this: obviously God would rather us not choose to view a pornographic movie or magazine. Other times it is not so clear. Music in particular is a form of media that is sometimes difficult to have clear discernment for good and bad, because it isn’t always visual and the lyrics can sometimes cloud an otherwise clear message. Nevertheless, I believe that it is extremely important for all youth, and Christians in particular, to develop a strong sense of discernment about what they choose to listen to, see, and be exposed to.
In my own life, music has always had an extremely powerful pull on my emotions, attitudes, and way of viewing the world. When I was a teenager, I had a youth pastor who helped me to understand why it was important to develop a sense of discernment, to basically learn how to be careful what I listen to. He would often listen to our records and tapes with us and help us to evaluate the good and bad, and to understand why it was important for us to pay attention to it. I am not just talking about the style or genre of music, but rather the content of the message, the lyrics, and the way it makes you feel about yourself, others, and the world. Ask yourself “Does this song glorify God or does it show rebellion towards God and his plan?” It is not just the style of music that is the topic of this discernment issue, but the content and the message being sent out to the listeners. I thank God that I started to learn this art of discernment early on (in high school), and that I have been able to improve my sense of discernment and continue to improve my understanding of God’s will in this area of my life. It has helped me to develop a positive outlook on life, and has given me a strong sense of looking out for and being careful with what I “consume” in the form of media (music, movies, TV, magazines, etc.) – to help me to determine what is good and what is bad for my soul, and ultimately to help me stay focused on the goals and attitudes that God has intended for me.
-Andy G.
See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human traditions and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.
Colossians 2:8
Saturday, April 3, 2010
To walk humbly with your God
"He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" Micah 6:8
What does it mean "to walk humbly with your God"? To me it means that wherever I am I should invite and welcome God's presence there with me, AND that I should seek to be where He is. I should desire to be with God in everything I do, whether that is at home, at work, at play, or at church. The Lord reveals His desire to be with us throughout scripture, He longs to be with us, and we should long to be with Him. Should I do this simply out of obligation? (After all, he is God.) Well... obligation is ok, but really I should do this because I long to know God and to understand His attributes and to know His love for me. In eternity I will worship and adore Him constantly; there is no reason that I shouldn't strive with all of my heart, soul, mind, and strength to do that here on earth as well, 24/7.
-Andy G.
What does it mean "to walk humbly with your God"? To me it means that wherever I am I should invite and welcome God's presence there with me, AND that I should seek to be where He is. I should desire to be with God in everything I do, whether that is at home, at work, at play, or at church. The Lord reveals His desire to be with us throughout scripture, He longs to be with us, and we should long to be with Him. Should I do this simply out of obligation? (After all, he is God.) Well... obligation is ok, but really I should do this because I long to know God and to understand His attributes and to know His love for me. In eternity I will worship and adore Him constantly; there is no reason that I shouldn't strive with all of my heart, soul, mind, and strength to do that here on earth as well, 24/7.
-Andy G.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Welcome to the Peace Through Wisdom weblog. I hope you will find peace in your heart as you seek the truth and wisdom that comes only from a life centered on knowing Jesus Christ. Jesus said "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6) This is perhaps one of the clearest statements from Jesus that he is Lord and savior. Being a Christ-follower is not something that happens once and then you just go on with your life as usual. My hope and prayer for you is that you will seek true encounters with God, and through these you would come to know a greater knowledge of Him, and that the "peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Come with me on a journey that takes us deeper into our faith and will help focus our hearts on that one thing that truly matters for eternity: having God's truth written on your heart.
-Andy G.
-Andy G.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Welcome
"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7
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