IMPROVING MY BIBLE IQ (part 2)

The following are some suggested steps anyone can follow to improve their Bible IQ.  In a previous post (Improving My Bible IQ part 1) I explained how important Bible study is to developing a more intimate understanding of God.

Step 1 - Decide to study the Bible. 
The first step in every action is a decision to act.  In other words, Bible study doesn’t just happen by accident, it is intentional! 

Impress these words of Mine on your hearts and souls, bind them as a sign on your hands, and let them be a symbol on your foreheads. Deuteronomy 11:18 (HCSB)

Step 2 -  Deal with attitudes that might interfere with learning.
Jesus told a parable about a sower, the seed, and four types of soil (Luke chapter 8).  In that story the soils represent four different attitudes we can have toward God’s Word (the seed).  Attitude is a never-ending struggle.  I must confess there are days when I begin my study with the thought “let me get this done so I can move on.”  Every day I have to deal with all kinds of negative attitudes before my mind and heart is ready to read the Bible.  The key to winning this battle is prayer. 

Step 3 - Join a small group Bible study.
I cannot say enough about the importance of small group Bible study (aka Sunday School) to a believer. Here are just a few of the MANY REASONS why small group Bible study is so important. Jesus taught in small groups as did many of the apostles.  There is a reason for this, small groups (groups of twelve or less) have a level of intimacy.  Also within a small group there is shared interest and mutual support.  Finally, small group studies have a learning dynamic not available in learning groups of thirty or more. There is a large amount of literature on this topic, email me for a list of recommended texts. 

When He was alone with the Twelve, those who were around Him asked Him about the parables. Mark 4:10 (HCSB)

Step 4 - Take sermon notes.
Taking sermon notes produces positive results.  Many churches today provide an outline or a “fill in the blank” guide.  These are good places to start.  But, even if the pastor provides a “hand out” I recommend taking one’s own notes.  This allows space for the listener to write thoughts and questions that popup during the course of the sermon.  It also requires a higher level of attentiveness resulting in a greater retention.  With the invention of Ipad, Kendel, and other “tablets,” it is very easy to keep notes and organize them for future review. 

As a matter of fact, I still have on my book shelf the notebooks containing every sermon I ever heard between 1995 and 2002 (in 2002 I began keeping electronic copies). I have referred back to some of those sermons from time to time and received a blessing from those notes.  Every sermon is a commentary, just that some are better than others. (See Acts chapter 7)

When Philip ran up to it, he heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and said, “Do you understand what you’re reading?”  “How can I,” he said, “unless someone guides me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. Acts 8:30-31 (HCSB)       

Step 5 - Devote time daily to Bible study

A key factor in daily Bible study involves time.  Be consistent, try to study at the same time every day. Answer the question, “When is the best time for me to study?”  When I was in Army Basic Training, the answer was, “During my breaks.” For some moms, the best time is during the children’s nap time.  As a school teacher, it was easier for me to get up earlier and do it in the morning before I left home for work (this is still my practice as a pastor)

And it shall be with him, and he shall read it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the LORD his God, by carefully observing all the words of this law and these statutes,
Deuteronomy 17:19 (NASB)

Step 6 - Focus on quality not quantity.
It is good to read through the Bible in a year.  Every believer should do that at some point.  But I think it is better to spend a year reading and studying the Gospels.  I have a study method that I call the Jacob principle.  In Genesis Jacob wrestles with the Lord until daybreak.  Jacob says, “I will not let you go until you bless me.” (Gen. 32:24-28) 

The Jacob principle works this way.  Before I sit down to study, I pray, “Lord, I’m going to read this passage over and over (i.e. I will not let go) until you bless me with comprehension.  Then commit to reading that passage daily until it happens. 

The first time I practiced this style of study is when I was taking a doctoral seminar on the Gospel of Mark.  In preparation for the class, I decided to read a chapter of Mark every day until I finished the book.  Each day at the beginning of my study time I would say, “Lord, I’m going to read this Gospel over and over until you bless me.”  After I finished reading Mark the first time I thought, “Ok, that was nice, but I don’t feel like I’ve learned anything new.” So, I started over.  It was during the third time through the Gospel that the Scripture literally began to explode in my brain!  I think God was testing me to see if I was truly committed to reading His word.

Years later in preparing to teach 1 Peter, I applied the Jacob principle again and God blessed me in the same way.  In fact, I have practiced this for every difficult passage I’ve ever had to preach / teach and every time God has blessed my faithfulness. Sometimes it is the second reading, sometimes the fourth or fifth, but He is always faithful to reveal His Words to me.

For the record, I’ve been advocating this method of study for several years and every person who has followed it has experienced similar results.  Now this is nothing new, it is simply putting Scripture to practice.  Now that is a novel thought!

How happy is the man who does not follow the advice of the wicked, or take the path of sinners, or join a group of mockers! Instead, his delight is in the Lord’s instruction, and he meditates on it day and night. Psalm 1:1-2 (HCSB)

Step 7 - Make it a practice to memorize scripture

"Guard my words as your most precious possession.  Write them down, and also keep them deep within your heart."   Pr. 7:2-3

Memorizing scripture can help me resist temptation.  It can help me identify false teaching.  It provides comfort and strength when I a troubled and discouraged.  Also it helps me to witness to unbelievers.

Right now someone is reading this and thinking something like, “I can’t memorize things.”  I used to be one of those people. For those who believe that they cannot memorize anything, here are two verses to read, meditate, and memorize:

I can do all things through Him [Christ] who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 (NASB)

Next, memorize this verse.

Finally, be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of His might. Ephesians 6:10 (NASB)

Here are a few suggestions that may help to memorize a verse or piece of scripture:
1.  Pick a verse that speaks to you.        
2.  Study the verse, it’s context and meaning.
3.  Read the verse aloud many times.  Record it!       
4.  Break the verse into natural phrases.
5. Say the reference before and after the verse.
6.  Write out the verse on a flash card and carry it with you.    (Also use your smart phone)
7. Display your verses in prominent places, like your computer screen saver, background, or home screen.
8.  Put the verse to music.  Write a song or learn a song already written about that verse.    
9.  Get a partner so you can check each other.

PRESS ON OR MOVE ON

About ten years ago my family and I walked into our first worship service at Deltona Lakes Baptist Church.  Right away we could feel the warmth of Christian love among the congregation.  Since that day, my family has been blessed to know the feeling of Koinonia* that can only exist in the hearts of God’s people. Not only have I experience this special love, but I have been blessed to witness many of our church members demonstrate that same love to each other and even to strangers!

It is said that the average stay of a pastor is 2.7 years (I once interviewed at a church that was preparing to hire their 6th youth pastor in 5 years). Our senior pastor is beginning his 21st year and I my eleventh.  There have been many difficult times, times when either or both of us have wanted to run away, but we have held onto God’s calling on our lives and stayed faithful to His ministry assignment.

Mature Christians learn to persevere through hardships and persecution. In fact, endurance is a requirement for spiritual maturity!

But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. James 1:4 (HCSB)

Ministry leaders will never develop a deep trusting relationship with God as long as we “jump ship” every time the job becomes unpleasant or difficult. If strong human relationships require a strong commitment how much more will a strong spiritual relationship also require a strong commitment to God?

Remember the earlier days when, after you had been enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings. Sometimes you were publicly exposed to taunts and afflictions, and at other times you were companions of those who were treated that way. For you sympathized with the prisoners and accepted with joy the confiscation of your possessions, knowing that you yourselves have a better and enduring possession. So don’t throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you need endurance, so that after you have done God’s will, you may receive what was promised. Hebrews 10:32-36 (HCSB)

Note the key words the writer uses in this piece of scripture: hard struggle, sufferings, and sympathized with prisoners. Specifically, he uses the word endure three times once in past tense, once in present tense, and in the future tense.  The Bible seems to place a premium on endurance and perseverance.

For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with goodness, goodness with knowledge, knowledge with self-control, self-control with endurance, endurance with godliness, godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 2 Peter 1:5-7 (HCSB)

Reflecting back on the past ten years, I am amazed at the many ways God has blessed our congregation.  When we had 3 hurricanes in 6 weeks (we jokingly refer to this as “40 days of hurricanes), God protected us.  When our backs were against the wall financially, God provided for us. When we sent teams to help other towns following tornadoes and hurricanes, God prepared us. Singer Andre’ Crouch expressed it this way, “If never had any problems, then I’d never know that God could solve them.”  There is no denying that the Spirit of God continues to be at work. 

You are the God who works wonders; You revealed Your strength among the peoples.
Psalm 77:14 (HCSB)

There must be many in ministry who are struggling with the tough question, “Do I stay or go?” or “Should I press on or should I move on?” Only God can correctly answer those questions.  Have the courage to pray “I will not let go of this work until You bless me.” (Genesis 32:26 paraphrased).

So we must not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up.  Galatians 6:9 (HCSB)

My point is to demonstrate the value of the blessings received from enduring in any God-given ministry assignment. The day will come when we will say “It is done.” and we will pass the leadership role on to another. But until that day comes lets all continue to fight the good fight, endure hardship, and finish the task God has appointed us to complete.


* For more on Koinonia see: my post “Back to Blogging” at: http://docfox09.blogspot.com/2012/10/back-to-blogging.html

PSALM 55 AT 55

John Denver wrote, “I've been lately thinking about my life's time. All the things I've done and how it's been.” (Poems, Prayers, & Promises, 1971) The funny thing about these lyrics is that he wrote them at the age of 27.  I’m sure at 27 John thought he had lived a long life.  Another singer from the 70's declared, “Once was the thought inside my head, by the time I reached 30 I’d be dead.”

God, listen to my prayer and do not ignore my plea for help. Pay attention to me and answer me. I am restless and in turmoil with my complaint, because of the enemy’s voice, because of the pressure of the wicked. For they bring down disaster on me and harass me in anger. My heart shudders within me; terrors of death sweep over me. Fear and trembling grip me; horror has overwhelmed me. I said, “If only I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and find rest. How far away I would flee; I would stay in the wilderness. Psalm 55:1-6

Psalm 55 opens with a call to God for help.  The writer begins by begging Elohim (Hebrew for God Almighty) just to listen to his plea.  I can not help but sense the helplessness and the feeling of abandonment obviously felt by the psalmist.  These depth of the author’s despair is evident as he expresses his wish to just “fly away”, in an effort to escape from the massive trouble which engulfs him.

In the movie Forest Gump, young Jenny's father is chasing her through the fields to beat her. Jenny and Forest are holding hands and kneeling together while hiding in the field. Jenny begins to pray, “Dear God, make me a bird. So I could fly far. Far, far away from here.”

When we have troubles in our lives, often the easiest thing to do is to run away. This is especially true when the trouble(s) in our life is overwhelming.  We may see the only choice available is to “fly away” to abandon the Titanic.  However, there are times when the best solution is to stand our ground and defend the Alamo.  It is hard to discern which is the appropriate action.

But I call to God, and the Lord will save me. Psalm 55:16

A major problem we have is we try to handle life on our own power.  A problem arises in our life and we address it with all our might.  After we have tried everything we know to try, the problem not only still exists, but now looms larger.  We then, as a last resort, turn to prayer hoping God will bail us out.

When we bring problems to God, He will communicate to us when to fight, when to flee, and when to wait.  The question before each of us is, “If I believe that there is a God and if I believe He answers prayer, then why don’t I pray first and react second?”

I complain and groan morning, noon, and night, and He hears my voice.  Though many are against me, He will redeem me from my battle unharmed. God, the One enthroned from long ago, will hear, and will humiliate them.  Psalm 55:17-19

We need to take note that at the beginning of his lament, the psalmist begs for God to listen to his prayer.  However, after listing his complaints, the writer shares his assurance that not only does the Lord hear, but He will also rescue him.  The phrase, “Though many are against me” implies there is no trouble too tough, no problem too powerful, in short, nothing too big, for God!

Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken. Psalm 55:22

There were many times in my own life, when I've faced physical harm, even death, in those times, God chose to protect me.  Additionally, there were other times when I've felt rejected, dejected, abandoned, and afraid, yet as I remember those times, I can now see how God was there with me.

This week I will complete 55 years of living and walking on God’s good Earth.  Like John, I too have spent some time thinking on my life. Looking at my past I have some regret, some pride, but mostly lots of gratitude.  Like Mr. Denver, I can say  “It’s been a good life all in all.”

My life has been one of trials, turmoil, and troubles, as well as blessings, pleasure, promises, and praise.  Those experiences allow me to echo, “cast your burden on the Lord, and He will support you.”

But You, O God, will bring them down to the pit of destruction; Men of bloodshed and deceit will not live out half their days. But I will trust in You. Psalm 55:23

Like Forest Gump, “ I may not be a smart man” at lest I don’t claim to be smart.  However, after a life of undeserved blessings, undeserved forgiveness, and undeserved protection, I too declare to God, “I will trust in You.”

BIBLE KNOWLEDGE AT ALL-TIME LOW

I spend a lot of time emphasizing the importance of Christians knowing and living by God’s Word.  one reason I am so passionate about Bible study is because the Bible is our instruction book for life. In fact, EVERY relational problem that occurs in any church directly results from ignorance of God’s Word.

Recently I read several articles which presented various survey results that demonstrated a high level of biblical illiteracy among Christians in the United States. These results underscore the need for 100% of church attendees to be involved in a group Bible study.  Here is a summery of those articles followed by my "take-a-way".

In 2009, the National Biblical Literacy Survey demonstrated that biblical knowledge in people younger than 45 years old is in decline.  Of the more than 900 people from faith and non-faith backgrounds surveyed, fewer than one in 20 could name all of the Ten Commandments.  Additionally, 62%  did not know the parable of the Prodigal Son and 60% could not name anything about the story of the Good Samaritan. That is not the worst of it! the survey also showed that young people think of the Bible as "old fashioned" and "not relevant" to their lives. 

Here are two particularly disturbing results that document the lack of Bible knowledge among church attendees.

•  The most widely known Bible verse among church attending adults and teens is “God helps those who help themselves” (not in the Bible and actually conflicts with Scripture).

•  Less than one out of every ten believers possess a biblical worldview as the basis for his or her decision-making or behavior.(Barna Research Online, "Discipleship Insights Revealed in New Book”)

According to Gary Burge, professor of New Testament at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois, biblical illiteracy is at a crisis in America’s churches.  Burge references research conducted at Wheaton College in which the biblical and theological literacy of incoming freshmen was monitored. These students, who represent almost every Protestant denomination in the United States from every state in the country, have provided some disturbing data. 

•  One-third could not put the following in order: Abraham, the Old Testament prophets, the death of Christ, and Pentecost.

•  Half could not sequence the following: Moses in Egypt, Isaac’s birth, Saul’s death, and Judah’s exile.

•  One-third could not identify Matthew as an apostle from a list of New Testament names.

•  When asked to locate the biblical book where a specific story is found: half did not know that the Christmas story was in Matthew and half did not know that the Passover story was in Exodus. 

MY TAKE-A-WAY
The answer to this growing problem of biblical illiteracy is three fold. 

Step one, Know the Word: Pastors and other church leaders must spend time every day, reading, studying, and memorizing the Bible. Additionally, leaders must encourage church attenders to develop the same habit of a daily devotion to Bible study.

In personal study, we need to place a higher value in the quality of reading than on the quantity of text read.  It is nice to read through the Bible in a year.  However, it is better to take a year to study the Gospels, Paul’s letters, the minor prophets, or any other Bible book.

All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer. Acts 2:42 (NLT)

Step two, Teach the Word: The Bible holds the answers to a great life here on earth and a greater life in eternity.  The stories are exciting reading and are filled with examples of behaviors to imitate and to avoid.  We need to teach God’s word not as we might teach some boring text, but as it really is, alive, valuable, and exciting.  

The sad truth is people will never grow and mature by listening to a weekly 30 minute sermon.  Real life change occurs through a Bible study group. A place where learners can be discipled through the Scriptures. Churches in the U.S. are going to have to enthusiastically encourage attendees to become a part of a Bible study group, if biblical illiteracy is to be reduced.

These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 (NIV)

Step three, Live the Word: The greatest criticism of Christians as a whole and the church in particular is hypocrisy.  That is we don’t do the things we tell others to do.  If the 21st century church is to be effective in our culture, we are going have to live what we say we believe.  This is the hardest part of the three steps, but it is the part that will result in the greatest blessing.  Lets commit today to “BE THE CHURCH” to our world.

This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to recite it day and night, so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do. Joshua 1:8 (HCSB)

LEGACY

leg·a·cy – something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor or from the past.

At some point in life each person has or will reflect on his or her impact in this world.  Perhaps the first time is at high school graduation.  We see the end of high school, a time best described as the best of time and the worst of time, approaching and begin to reflect on those years perhaps wondering what difference did it make. 

In the movie “It’s A Wonderful Life”, the main character George Bailey gets a view of what the world had been like if he had never been born. George is given an opportunity to see the positive impact his young life has had on the people of an entire town.  There is one scene where George has discovered his brother Harry's tombstone:

Clarence: [explaining] Your brother, Harry Bailey, broke through the ice and was drowned at the age of nine.
George Bailey: That's a lie! Harry Bailey went to war! He got the Congressional Medal of Honor! He saved the lives of every man on that transport!
Clarence: Every man on that transport died. Harry wasn't there to save them, because you weren't there to save Harry.

George's life even impacted people that he didn't know and had never met.

What a great gift it would be for each of us to see the positive impact our life has had so far.  At the same time, it might be a bit of a curse.  After all there are those of us who’s impact would have to be an established series.  Unfortunately, there are others of us whose impact would barley fill a commercial.  

I have an aunt who will celebrate her 89th birthday this Saturday, unfortunately I can’t be there.  She has and is continuing to build her legacy.  When my father was ten, his father died.  Circumstances required my father to live with several relatives.  Soon after my Aunt Gladys married my father went to live with her. Later after my brother, sister and I were born, my parents would not only take us to visit Aunt Gladys, but we were allowed to visit for a week or two every summer. 

There are so many wonderful stories that testify to the faith in God that anchored the lives of my aunt and uncle that they cannot all be told in one sitting.  My personal favorite is every night Aunt Gladys would gather all of us together and we would read from the Bible. After finishing the chapter or story she would then help us to understand the thing(s) God was teaching us through this piece of Scripture.

I am convinced that a big part of my being a Christian, even becoming a pastor, comes from the Godly influence Aunt Gladys has had and is presently having on my life!  Through me she is impacting people she doesn't know and will most probably never meet on this side of Heaven.

Here’s the short of all of this.  Aunt Gladys passed on her faith to her children, who then passed it on to their spouses and their children.  Those children (Aunt Gladys’ great grand children in case you are having trouble keeping up) are passing that same faith on to their spouses and to their children also.  But that’s not all!  Aunt Gladys passed her faith on to my father, my siblings and myself.  We in turn are passing that same faith and influence on to our children.  There is still more!  There were ten children in the Foxworth clan. That makes for a lot of cousins.  To my knowledge every one of those cousins spent time with Aunt Gladys and her faith in God was passed on to each of them too!  What a legacy!

So, take time to day to reflect on your legacy?
Ask: “Am I living a life that points people to Jesus or away from Him?”
“What will be my legacy?”
Hopefully my legacy will be more than a statue in a park, a name on the side of a building, or the dash between two dates on a grave marker. 

In the words of Clarence from “It’s A Wonderful Life”, “Strange, isn't it? Each man's life touches so many other lives. When he isn't around he leaves an awful hole, doesn't he?”

WHAT'S YOUR STORY?

There is an old Hymn which states, “We have a story to tell to the nations...” What a true statement! The most effective form of advertising is known as the “testimonial.”  That is why advertising companies get someone to say things like, “I tried (insert your favorite brand name), it works! You try it too!”

I have heard many wonderful stories in my time here on Earth of different ways people have come to commit their life to God. Some stories were dynamic.  Other stories were very ordinary.  Regardless of the "excitement value",  all of them need to be told!  Why? Because they all involve an "Amazing Grace" from GOD!

The truth is we don’t have to be eloquent (it’s better if we’re not), it’s OK to be nervous (it is better if we are), and my story doesn’t have to qualify to become a “made for TV” movie (most people’s won’t).  What we need to do is to be honest, open, brief, and focus on the guarantee of being forgiven rather than on glorifying my disobedience. 

I believe the greatest personal story about God’s involvement in a person’s life comes when we can say, “One thing I do know is that I was blind and now I see.”(John 9:29)  What a great story! What is your story? “I was ________ (fill in the blank), and now through faith in Jesus I __________ (fill in again).” It doesn’t have to be earth shattering, just real!  

Below is an excerpt from a song written in the 70's by a Christian couple and singers named Micky and Becky Moore:
Testimony Song
Well there is not much to tell
whenever I’m compelled
to share my testimony
there’s no hair-raising tails
of hell-raising days
with demons hanging all over me
and I never smoked dope,
or swore at the Pope
or spent the night with a “shady lady”
I just came in bold,
when I was ten years old
and said, “Preacher, I want HIM to save me. © Copyright-Maiden Music (http://www.mickeyandbecki.com)

The greatest story is one that involves a life lived Loving God and Loving People.

Final Note:  I invite readers to reply to this blog with your own story.  Please keep it to about 10 or 12 sentences or less.

HELPING PEOPLE DEVELOP A MEANINGFUL LIFE

NUMBER 5: 

PEOPLE ARE MADE FOR A MISSION (final part, AMEN)

Do you think any one of the people you know would be encouraged to know that God created him or her for a specific mission here on Earth? It’s true! God’s fifth reason for creating us is for a mission.  Jesus is quoted in the Gospel of John as saying,

 "As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world.”  John 17:18 (NASB)

Every believer has two missions, one to fellow believers, the other to unbelievers. Actually it is more like a MINISTRY to believers, and a MISSION to unbelievers. It is not hard for us to do both, serving believers and helping unbelievers. The truth is most people are far more receptive to hearing the gospel from a friend than a stranger. That means our relationship with an unbeliever caries more value than our fame in this world. Put simply, “People don’t care how much you know.  They want to know how much you care.” This gives the average Christian an incredible opportunity for ministry and mission.

Each of us play a crucial role in helping the people around us to develop this sense of mission in their lives. One thing we can do is to help others see what mission God has planned for their lives. This doesn’t mean we have to be able to read tea leaves or someone’s palm, then declare to them the specific plan God has for their life.  Indeed not!  Rather, our role is to encourage and guide others around us.  God says this very activity (performing our ministry and mission) is one of the reasons why HE gives us the Bible.

God uses it [the Bible] to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.
2 Timothy 3:17 (NLT)

The hardest thing is for us to be living examples of what we say we believe.  What does it say to the world when we endorse one thing, but never use it.  For example, what are we saying to the world when we say, I believe in eating healthy as I’m chewing on a chocolate candy?  Get my point. Here is what the Apostle Paul had to say about this:

let us keep living by that same standard to which we have attained. Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us. Philippians 3:16-17 (NASB)

We need to begin by asking God to grow each of us in all of these areas.  At the same time we should be building into the lives of the people around us, a strong sense of how God created each of them to experience a meaningful life. The great lie is that we have to be perfect, or really, really good to help others.  Again, NOT SO! Not all of us are called to be leaders, but we are all called to be followers of Jesus Christ.  Don’t be afraid to say to the people around you,  “Walk with me as I try to walk with God.”  You'll be amazed at what God will do!

HELPING PEOPLE DEVELOP A MEANINGFUL LIFE (part 3)

People are created to be like Christ

Let’s review: Part 1 is: We were planned for God’s pleasure, and that’s called worship. Part 2 is: We Find Meaning in Community, that’s called relationships or fellowship.

Now, there’s a third reason God made us. He created each one of us to be like Christ, and we call that discipleship. God works in our lives to transform us into the likeness of his Son, Jesus Christ.

The Bible says in Romans 8:29 (HCSB)
For those He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers.

We need to have a clear understanding that Jesus was not an accident. His birth and our lives are all part of God’s original plan. God still working the same plan today that He has had from the very beginning of time.

God’s plan needs to become our plan -- immediately! Our goal needs to be to help the people around us to become more and more like Christ. Part of the process is helping them understand how God is going to take them through everything that happens in their life.  Just as Jesus went through joy we too will experience joy. Just like he went through sorrow, we too will experience sorrow.

Was there a time when Jesus was lonely? Yes.
Was there a time when Jesus was tempted? Yes.
Was there a time when Jesus was unpopular? Yes.
Misunderstood? Yes.
Criticized? Yes.
Went without basic needs? Yes.
Was there ever a time in Jesus’ life when things left him uncomfortable? Absolutely.

Our lives are filled with all these problems and too many more to list here. We need to remember God is not only in control, but He is right there with us in our Joys and our sorrows.  Only then can they truly become like Jesus.  Perhaps Corrie Ten Boom said it best when she wrote:

“No pit is so deep that He is not deeper still; with Jesus even in our darkest moments, the best remains and the very best is yet to be.”

The Bible also says that other people are able to see God at work through our own suffering.

“It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” Jesus answered. “This happened so the power of God could be seen in him. John 9:3 (NLT)

In order to produce the fruit of the Spirit in us, God will place us in difficult situations, surrounded by people who don’t like us, won’t try to understand us and often will treat us unfairly. Our faithfulness through trials will help others to see their problems from God’s
perspective and will help them submit to his sovereign hand as he works to make them more like Christ.

HELPING PEOPLE DEVELOP A MEANINGFUL LIFE (part 2)

NUMBER 2:
We Were Created to Communicate the Truth.

The second thing that gives a person’s life meaning is to have a mission.  In the Star Trek series, the Enterprise was on a mission “to go where no one had gone before.” In Swamp people the mission is about catching ‘gators.  Even the Blues Brothers were “On a mission from God.”  Someone might think or even say, “Well, that’s just entertainment.”  Perhaps, but even in history there are examples of the importance of having a mission.  Phrases like “No taxation without representation” and “Remember the Alamo” were rallying cries calling people to a common mission.  Having a mission gives meaning to our lives.  God’s second reason for creating us is for mission.  

We all have a mission.  Like the Mission Impossible task force we can choose to accept it or not.  The difference is the mission we have is one that gives our lives meaning.  Our mission is to tell unbelievers about God and to encourage believers in God.  

 

God said to Moses,

and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.' These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel." Exodus 19:6 (NASB)

and Jesus said to the disciples,

Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you.”
Matthew 28:19-20 (HCSB)

Every believer should have a ministry to believers, and a mission to unbelievers. It is not hard for  people to do both. One possible way to accomplish both is to involve the entire family by going on a mission trip together. 

Studies show most people who come to Christ -- at least in the United States -- come to him before they turn eighteen . Other studies show people are far more receptive to hearing the gospel from a friend than a stranger. This combination gives Christian families an incredible opportunity for ministry and mission.

We all play a crucial role -- if not the most critical -- in helping people develop this sense of mission in their lives.  We have the power, more than that, we have the mission to begin building into the lives of people a strong sense of how God created each of them for a mission. 

DEVELOPING A LIFESTYLE THAT WORSHIPS GOD

Disclaimer: The following post are just some brief thoughts about worship.  For an in depth study of Worship I recommend: Will You Worship? by Ray Jones and Dr. Dino Sensi; also, Tozer on Worship and Entertainment. by A.W. Tozer; finally, The Air I Breathe: Worship as a Way of Life. by Louie Giglio

For worship to be more than “That thing we do on Sundays” we must begin by changing our understanding of worship. Most importantly I must begin with having committed my life to obeying God and receiving the forgiveness provided by the sacrifice of  Jesus.  Having done that, there are three steps involved in this change:
1- I must begin to think of God as always with me;
2- I must begin to pray more often than prior to eating a big meal;
3- I must establish a regular time alone devoted to meeting with God. 

Perhaps the place to start is to answer the question, “What do I worship?”  In the previous post I gave some examples of false objects of our worship.  I propose two formulas that a person can use to discover what they truly worship.

First, take time to consider what gets my attention, my affection, and my allegiance? In other words, what are the things I spend the most time thinking about?  What am I passionate about?  To what am I most loyal? 

The second formula which helps us discover what we truly worship is to make a list of what do I spend my money, my time, my thoughts and my energy upon?  Where I spend my money is bigger then “Do I tithe?” If we examen our shopping habits and our credit / debit card statements we will discover where our disposable income is spent. If I worship an activity, then I’ll spend my money on that activity more than anything else. My calendar will be dictated by the activity(s) I worship, that I will plan around and even cancel events because of what I worship.  I will spend almost all of my free time thinking and dreaming about my object of worship. All of my  energy will be focused upon my object of worship. 

In 1 Samuel chapter seven, the people Israel are told to get rid of their idols and devote themselves to God.

Then Samuel spoke to all the house of Israel, saying, "If you return to the LORD with all your heart, remove the foreign gods and the Ashtaroth from among you and direct your hearts to the LORD and serve Him alone; and He will deliver you from the hand of the Philistines." So the sons of Israel removed the Baals and the Ashtaroth and served the LORD alone. 1 Samuel 7:3-4 (NASB)

A serious misunderstanding is  possible at this point.  I am not saying that worshiping God means that there is nothing but “church” in my life.  The Bible teaches we have freedom to have hobbies, to enjoy various activities, to recreate, etc, as long as it doesn’t lead to sin by us or others. In fact, we can actually do various activities in a way that is actually worship, or leads to worship.

For you are called to freedom, brothers; only don’t use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another through love. Galatians 5:13 (HCSB)

and

“Everything is permissible,” but not everything is helpful. “Everything is permissible,” but not everything builds up. No one should seek his own [good], but [the good] of the other person. 1 Corinthians 10:23-24 (HCSB)

and again

Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for God’s glory. Give no offense to the Jews or the Greeks or the church of God, just as I also try to please all people in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved. 1 Corinthians 10:31-33 (HCSB)

Once we discover the “false gods” we have in our lives, then we can begin to call on the Holy Spirit to enable us to remove those gods.  Begin by fasting from any object or activity that I suspect of controlling me.  Use the urges and desires for that object or activity to cause me to turn to The Father in prayer. Replace the time we spend on that object or activity with time spent with God or studying about God by reading the Bible.   These behaviors will start us on the path that will develop in us a lifestyle of worshiping God!

HELPING PEOPLE DEVELOP A MEANINGFUL LIFE

The most fundamental question people ever wrestle with is "Why am I here?" Unlike past generations, people today aren’t necessarily looking for “the meaning of life”. Instead they’re searching for meaning in life.

Americans especially are desperately seeking something that makes their life worth living. We are so desperate for it, we will grab onto any activity, cause, or belief regardless how poorly it fits into our lives.  The fact is we are seeking the very thing for which God made us. 

The Bible teaches that God made everyone for a relationship with Him.  That relationship is the key ingredient for a meaningful life.  For instance, in Colossians we’re told: 

because by Him everything was created, in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities— all things have been created through Him and for Him. Colossians 1:16 (HCSB) 

The Bible also teaches that there are several steps we can take toward developing a meaningful relationship with God.  Following each of these steps is the single most important thing any of us can ever do.  God holds us accountable for living these five purposes as an example to the people around us and most importantly to our children as part of training them in the ways of the Lord.

STEP NUMBER 1:   We were created to Worship God.

If there is one thing people in the world, especially in the United States, understand it is how to worship.  People who worship Star Trek are called “Trekkies”; those who worship Jimmy Buffet are called “Parrot Heads”; those who worship famous stars are called “groupies”. I should also mention those who might worship sports, T.V. shows, possessions, pleasure, popularity, or power.  The truth is we get worship.  What we don’t get is the correct focus of our worship.  The Bible tells us that we were created to worship God!

"Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created."  Revelation 4:11 (NASB)

Most people struggle with love and acceptance.  We need to understand how critical it is to build into other lives the precious knowledge that all of us were created as an object of God’s love.

By understanding God’s love for us, we can reflect our love for God. In Matthew 22:37 (the verse we know as the Great Commandment) Jesus says:

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.” (NIV)

People who miss this are missing something of critical importance in life. We need to teach people to know God, and we need to teach them to express their love to God through worship.

Before we teach others about worship, we must first understand worship and begin to develop a worshipful lifestyle.  Worship of God builds our relationship with God and gives our lives meaning. 
In my next post I will present some thoughts and scripture about developing a lifestyle of God worship.

TEEN CRISIS INTERVENTION (part 2)

Three Reasons to Help a Teen in Crisis

Now when Job’s three friends...heard about all this adversity that had happened to him, each of them came from his home. They met together to go and offer sympathy and comfort to him. Job 2:11 (HCSB)

1. When I was hurting God provided someone to help me.

Everyone of us has gone through or is presently going through a time of crisis.  (Personally my teen and college years were one crisis after another.)  Each time we experience a crisis God puts not only one, but usually several people, in our lives to be there for us.  This includes the Holy Spirit!

While I do not recommend the movie Pay it Forward (because of the excessive foul language) I do recommend the philosophy.  Someone was there for me, so I should be there for someone else.

Ignoring a person in crisis is equal to ignoring a person drowning in a pool.  Most people describe their crisis as feeling like they are drowning.  Job was in a crisis greater than most of us can imagine, he lost his property, his children, and his health.  But he still had three good friends who were there for him. 

2. When I needed someone no one but God helped me.

This reason is the opposing cause with the same result as the reason above.  Perhaps you experienced a life crisis alone (this never happens for believers because the Holy Spirit is always with us).  You know how hard it is to survive a crisis.  Surviving a crisis, either alone or with friends, highlights the importance of having a friend(s) to lean on and to provide that extra help to those in crisis.

Choose to be that person for someone else.  Job’s friends weren’t there by accident, even Jesus sought comfort and support from his friends while he was experiencing his crisis in the garden the night before his death (Mt. 26:38).

3. God is giving me an opportunity to participate in HIS work.

Each one of us has been commanded by God to love God and love people (Mt. .  Part of loving God is to love the things HE loves, that includes people.  Part of loving people is helping each other through various crises we experience in life.  There is a word we use for this, it’s discipleship.

God not only directs us, but HE also empowers us to help each other.  THIS DOESN’T MEAN WE ARE TO BECOME "THE SPIRITUAL ANSWER MAN."   I am convinced the best answer to helping those in crisis is, “I don’t know, but lets find out together.” 

The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, Because the LORD has anointed me To bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to captives And freedom to prisoners; To proclaim the favorable year of the LORD And the day of vengeance of our God; To comfort all who mourn, To grant those who mourn in Zion, Giving them a garland instead of ashes, The oil of gladness instead of mourning, The mantle of praise instead of a spirit of fainting. So they will be called oaks of righteousness, The planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified. Isaiah 61:1-3 (NASB)

H.A.B.I.T.S. (part 2)

This is part 2 of  "Six HABITS that will build a great life."  Part one contained the letters H. A. B. part two has I. T. S.

I.  = Involvement in a ministry of the Church
There are a multitude of ways to be involved in the church. One of the most important ways is to be involved in a small group Bible study.  A person will never connect with the church by attending Sunday services alone.  Small group Bible studies (some call this Sunday School or home groups) is the place where people connect, it is the place where true community happens.

Additionally, we need to become involved in the things of the church.  Things like being a hall monitor for children's or student ministry. Watching the parking lot during and following the mid-week services.  Spending one Sunday a month as a greeter or at the welcome center.  Volunteering to help put up decorations for a church member or at the church once a year.  Showing up for one or more of the "work days"  at the church.  These are only a few of the simple ways that every church has to be involved.  There are way too many to name them all here.

T. = Tithing to the church
Why is money the second biggest reason people give for not attending a worship service (the biggest reason is hypocrites in the church)?  It takes money to pay the electric, water, insurance, building repairs, paper, Bible study materials, copy machines, office supplies, cleaning supplies, building maintenance supplies, alarm system and monitoring, various licenses for audio and video, wages for nursery workers, maintenance/custodial staff, office staff, and pastors.  In addition to that a % of each offering goes to support missionaries all over the world.  The main reason to tithe is BECAUSE GOD COMMANDS IT!

A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD. Leviticus 27:30 (NIV)

Before someone says, “That’s an Old Testament idea.” check this out...

“Well then,” he [Jesus] said, “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” Luke 20:25 (NLT)


S. = Serve others through God’s Love
Jesus was in the HABIT of S-serving.  Since we are called to be imitators of Jesus we too should serve.  We serve God by serving His creation, people.

Jesus called them over and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles dominate them, and the men of high position exercise power over them. It must not be like that among you. On the contrary, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life—a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:25-28 (HCSB)

Why is serving so important? Because, it demonstrates our love for God.

So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example that you also should do just as I have done for you. John 13:14-15 (HCSB)    

When we start developing the first five parts of HABITS, the S. naturally begins to happen.  After all God wants EVERYONE to know HIM and love HIM.

This is how we are sure that we have come to know Him: by keeping His commands. The one who says, “I have come to know Him,” without keeping His commands, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps His word, truly in him the love of God is perfected. This is how we know we are in Him: the one who says he remains in Him should walk just as He walked.
1 John 2:3-6 (HCSB)

Developing these H.A.B.I.T.S doesn’t happen over night or even in the course of a year.  It takes a lifetime.  So get started right-a-way.  The sooner we commit ourselves to developing good H.A.B.I.T.S. the sooner we will begin GROW-ing in Christ!

H.A.B.I.T.S. (part 1)

There are six habits that produce a GREAT life! Today I'm posting the first three of those habits (some have suggested that my posts are too long) and I'll post the other three later this week (so keep checking back, or just join and follow for automatic updates).

 Some time back Stephen R. Covey wrote a book titled, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. The book identifies 7 habits that will make the reader more effective in his personal and public life. Additionally, Covey claims that “this is powerful advice that will help you live a happier and more fulfilled life.”
    These six HABITS will produce perseverance, joy, and fulfillment in life no matter how good or bad things get!  The only cost is the time to read this post and the effort to implement the habits. WHAT A GREAT DEAL!

Here are the first three HABITS!
H. =  Hang Out with God
The most important habit we can develop is to spend time with God daily. The more the better, but remember God values quality above quantity.  Choose a place and a time where there is the least chance of being interrupted. I have a place on my porch that I use.  Praying or singing is allowed, but also listening.  It may feel awkward at first but stay with it!  It takes a little time to learn to “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 49:10)

A. = Accountability with another believer(s)
Last year we emphasized every attendee being a part of an accountability group.  Here is the problem, many people have stopped their accountability groups.  Just because the banner is down, doesn’t mean the practice of accountability should end.  Strong Christians have trustworthy accountability partners (note more than one).  Begin today to gather a group of 3-5 devoted believers as accountability partners. Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:12 (NIV)

B. = Bible Study regularly
To love God, we must first know God.  We get to know God through reading the Bible.  There are two ways we need to study the Bible. Alone (during our “hang time”) and together in a small group (accountability thing).  The Bible describes God’s personality, it helps us to experience Him, it describes His attributes, most importantly is repeatedly affirms His love for us.  There are more than 7,000 promises God makes to us in the Bible.  How many of them can you name? But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. Psalm 13:5 (NIV)

Take time this week to begin to develop these first three HABITS!  They will serve you well in working on the next three.  If you need some help with H & B I suggest "My Utmost for His Highest" by Oswald Chambers.  It's a 366 day devotional book that only takes about 8-10 minutes per day to do, but it is rich enough that you can also spend 30 or more minutes in deep study.  In short, it's very adaptable.

A SIMPLE BIBLE STUDY METHOD

( THE SCIENCE OF INTERPRETATION)

There are many strategies or methods for studying the Scriptures. 

Here is one method that I like to recommend for personal study.  It is easy to use and simple to understand.  Dr. Rick Warren suggests using the S-P-A-C-E-P-E-T-S Pattern.  This involves asking ourselves the question, “After reading this passage, do I have a..., or is there a...”

I taught this Bible study method while on mission to Haiti and even though the term “space pets” didn’t translate well, the people embrace it and began to use this method while we were still there.

1.         Before you begin, PRAY for insight.  Remember without the involvement of the Holy Spirit, we will never be able to fully understand or apply the Scriptures.

The LORD came and stood there, calling as at the other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" Then Samuel said, "Speak, for your servant is listening." 1 Samuel 3:10 (NIV)

2.         Look for AN APPLICATION to your life.  Every story, statement, example, or directive is specifically put there by God for our benefit.

All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, 2 Timothy 3:16 (HCSB)

3.   As you read a passage ask yourself, “Is there a . . .”

S - SIN to confess

Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge. Psalm 51:4 (NIV)

P - PROMISE to claim

Above all, be strong and very courageous to carefully observe the whole instruction My servant Moses commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right or the left, so that you will have success wherever you go. This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to recite it day and night, so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do. Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:7-9 (HCSB)

A - ATTITUDE to change

Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, have this attitude; and if in anything you have a different attitude, God will reveal that also to you; however, let us keep living by that same standard to which we have attained. Philippians 3:15-16 (NASB)

C - COMMAND to obey

Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19 (NLT)

E - EXAMPLE to follow

Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ. 1 Corinthians 11:1 (NIV)

P - PRAYER to pray

Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain." And God granted his request. 1 Chronicles 4:10 (NIV)

E - ERROR to avoid

I told him that I am going to judge his family forever because of the iniquity he knows about: his sons are defiling the sanctuary, and he has not stopped them. Therefore, I have sworn to Eli’s family: The iniquity of Eli’s family will never be wiped out by either sacrifice or offering.”

1 Samuel 3:12-14 (HCSB)

T - TRUTH to believe

“You don’t have enough faith,” Jesus told them. “I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.” Matthew 17:20 (NLT)

S - SOMETHING to praise God for.

For while we were still helpless, at the appointed moment, Christ died for the ungodly. For rarely will someone die for a just person—though for a good person perhaps someone might even dare to die. But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us! Much more then, since we have now been declared righteous by His blood, we will be saved through Him from wrath. Romans 5:6-9 (HCSB)

It is not enough to know what God through the Bible tells us to do, we must do what it says needs to be done?  Then get specific, ask "What is one thing I should do today and what is one thing I should work on this week as a result of this Scripture?"   

 Remember, it took years for us to get this messed up, becoming “Jesus imitators” will take time. 

But be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. James 1:22 (HCSB)

THE “SCIENCE OF INTERPRETATION”

A proper understanding of Scripture is not a daunting task!

Previously in “Growing in Christ” I posted about the critical importance of curriculum as a means of monitoring what is being taught in Bible studies. While only one comment is visible, several others have questioned the phrase “science of interpretation.”  I totally understand how this phrase has created some confusion.  Allow me to kindly clarify what I was trying to express. 

To begin, we need working definitions of the word “science” and “hermeneutics.”  According to Webster’s Dictionary science may be defined as: “a department of systematized knowledge as an object of study (i.e. the science of theology).”  Additionally, Webster’s defines hermeneutics as “the study of the methodological principles of interpretation (as of the Bible).” The question was raised regarding where is this supported in the Bible.  The Scriptures are filled with commands and declarations of the benefits of Bible study.  Here are just a few: Ezra 7:10; Nehemiah 8:13; Psalm 1:2; Psalm 111:2; 2 Timothy 2:15. 

The Holy Spirit has to be involved if we are to understand and apply God’s Word.  However, believers must participate in the Work of the Holy Spirit.  We do that by spending time in the word, asking questions and searching the Scriptures for answers. 

A specific example of this can be found in Acts 17:10-11. Paul and Silas traveled to Berea where the people “welcomed the message with eagerness and examined the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.” (HCSB) The Jews at Berea tested the truth of Paul's message by the standard of Scripture rather than judging it by political and cultural considerations. So they examined the Scriptures daily to see whether what Paul proclaimed was really true, and many believed. In short the Bereans demonstrated the “science of interpretation.”

Bible study leaders have an obligation to rightly understand the Scriptures.  Incorrect doctrine, theology, and inappropriate usage of Scripture often occurs when a person does not devote himself to the Bible as “an object of study.”  Specifically, what happens is misquotes of scriptures, but most often misapplications. When repeated these misquotes and misapplications become accepted resulting in the spread of false doctrine. 

I plan to post a couple of recommended study methods to this blog in the upcoming weeks.  If there is one in particular you would like to see please post. 

THE CASE FOR CURRICULUM

One of the more difficult tasks for a pastor is monitoring what is being taught within each of the church’s Bible study groups.  When Bible study groups go unmonitored, the door is opened for dissension within the church.  Unrestricted study group leaders can allow false doctrine to be taught, groups to degenerate into gossip sessions, and bad theologies to become accepted within the group.

To write a good Bible study lesson takes a lot of time and study.  Biblical interpretation is a science and writing a good lesson requires careful and correct hermeneutics. Without the proper preparation, a Bible study leader can easily twist and contort Scripture into a false doctrine or bad theology (even unintentionally) in an effort to respond to a question or comment.

Good Bible study curriculum, can limit misinformation being presented in the study.  Curriculum should be evaluated prior to being allowed to be used in a Bible study group.  Basic criteria for evaluation includes, but is not limited to, publisher, author, ease of use, doctrine(s) presented, and key theological points.

Equally important is good judgement on the study leader’s part. Leaders need to be free to  respond with “I don’t know” when faced with a question or comment not covered in the lesson material. More importantly, to ask “Where is that in the Bible?” when anyone makes a statement with the words, “I think . . .” (or anything similar to that phrase).

At Deltona Lakes, we use several key checkpoints to monitor our groups:
1.    Interview small group leaders who desire to write their own lessons.
2.    Require lesson notes from those who write their own lessons.
3.    Limit, review, and approve all Bible study materials that are used.
4.    Once a year for 8 weeks the church goes into “lock-step.” Every small group is studying the same Scripture text and every sermon is preached from that same text.  This is a great opportunity for us to present correct theology and doctrine to the entire church body.

These checkpoints may sound legalistic or over controlling, but they are not when they are applied through reason. What these checkpoints tend to do is to eliminate divisive personalities before they get into a position to do harm to the body.

In addition to the four checkpoints, we require our leaders and co-leaders to attend one of  two small group leader workshops held each year.  At these workshops we not only present the rules but also explain the reason for the rules.  Additionally, we spend about 90% of our time at the workshops providing training to enhance their small group leadership skills.

Since implementing curriculum standards and leader workshops, we have noticed a positive outlook and spiritual growth within Deltona Lakes Baptist Church.  There is a growing passion for ministry and a growing desire to know God!

THOUGHTS ON LIVING THE DREAM!

Many people spend their days trying to find real peace, true happiness, and complete rest. We often find ourselves chasing our shadow trying to grasp “the dream.”  The very first Psalm is a step by step process for receiving happiness, peace and rest from God.
Note: All scripture quoted from the Holman Christian Standard Bible, except where other wise noted.

    (1) How happy is the man who does not follow the advice of the wicked, or take the path of sinners, or join a group of mockers!
A truly happy person is quickly identified by the things he doesn’t do. That is to say, his life is NOT directed by the opinions, advice, or influence of unbelievers. True happiness is a result of being full of joy, not a shallow pretense that is created by a temporary event or experience. A major problem among our society is most people are intellectually constipated.  People often say, “I am an individual and want to express my individuality.” But in truth the expression that they cherish is determined by someone else.  It may be a fashion designer, a writer, a photographer, reporter, etc., but they allow others to determine their actions.  This problem is not limited to fashion, rather it extends into every area of our existence.  We seek, even follow advise without concern for the qualifications of the advisor. 
God paints a verbal picture of the life style He has appointed for us in the book of Jeremiah, “I never sat with the band of revelers, and I did not celebrate [with them]. Because Your hand was [on me], I sat alone, for You filled me with indignation.” (Jer.15:17). 

    (2) Instead, his delight is in the Lord’s instruction, and he meditates on it day and night.
The Bible is God’s instruction book for our lives.  Have you ever noticed that everything the Bible tells us to not do is harmful for us?  Not only that, but everything the Bible tells us to do is beneficial for us.  What is equally amazing to me is that sooner or later secular science always ends up agreeing with the Bible (regarding healthy and unhealthy habits).  The reason why the happy person doesn’t take advise from the world is because the world is made up of amateurs!  We are a bunch of creatures trying to pretend that we are more than we are, that we know more than we do.  Most worry-some of all is we are creatures pretending that we have it all figured out.  God is the expert! He created us and wrote the instruction book for life (The Bible).  The real question here is “Which does it make more sense to follow an amateur or the expert?

    (3) He is like a tree planted beside streams of water that bears its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.
    Cyprus trees are known for strength and their resistance to rotting.  Ever thought about where they grow?  They grow next to the water. In searching for life on other planets, astronomers focus their search to find “water planets.” One thing that biologist agree on is water is the source of life!  Jesus speaking to the woman in John 4 used the term “living water” to illustrate it importance of our relationship with God.  The prophet Jeremiah wrote: “For My people have committed a double evil: They have abandoned Me, the fountain of living water, and dug cisterns for themselves, cracked cisterns that cannot hold water.” (Jeremiah 2:13) 
          The Bible is God’s instruction book for life, it connects us with the “streams of water” that God provides to us.  Streams which make us strong, that enable us to “bear fruit,” and keep us from withering away.    

    (4) The wicked are not like this; instead, they are like chaff that the wind blows away.
The Hebrew word translated into English here as “wicked” can also be translated into English as “criminal.”  Other translations use the word “ungodly” here. We may conclude that “the wicked” are those who disobey God’s law.  They are “wicked,” “ungodly,” “criminals,” in God’s eyes.  The same law that the “happy man” (see verse 1) delights in destroys those who violate it.   I have spend a lot of time counseling people regarding the dangers of certain substances or particular behaviors.  We need to be equally motivated to proclaim the truth about God’s ways and His mercy available for those who disobey His law.

    (5) Therefore the wicked will not survive the judgment, and sinners will not be in the community of the righteous.
The Bible makes it clear in multiple and varied ways and in numerous locations, that God is reserving a “day of judgement” for HIS creation.  As followers of Christ we must believe that!  Knowing that judgement is coming, our love for people should compel us to tell others about Jesus and the grace offered through His sacrifice.     
               
    (6) For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to ruin.
This Psalm began with statements about people who are happy and those who are not. It closes with one of the pursuits coveted by people, the pursuit of protection. God promises His protection and also His guidance for those who obey His instructions. The Bible is our instruction book for life.  The better we know it, what it says to do and to avoid, the better our lives become.  It is so obvious and so simple.

DREW BREES, TIM TEBOW, AND HEALTHY CHURCHES

 Drew and Tim while two very different people who have different playing styles have a very important commonality.  With all of the success and media attention these two quarterbacks have received, it is not surprising that they consistently deflect praise towards their teammates.

They understand that no matter how accurate or how smart they may be, a quarterback is nothing if the receivers constantly drop the ball.  These two men understand what many people in our churches today fail to embrace.  It takes a team to win!  As great as any quarterback may be, he needs a team around him to block, run, and to catch.  He also needs a good defense to keep others from “outscoring” your team. Drew Brees, Tim Tebow, and other quarterbacks understand that it takes a great team to make a great quarterback!
 

    What football teams and churches have in common is that both require members to make huge sacrifices and work hard with little hope of fame or even public recognition. It takes eleven guys on special teams, eleven guys on defense, and ten guys on offense to make Drew Brees and Tim Tebow look good.  In the same way, it takes a lot of people in a church to make the church healthy and successful.

HEALTHY CHURCHES HAVE A STRONG TEAM SPIRIT

    Team spirit can be identified using the following criteria:

1.  there is a common goal;
2. there is a willingness to do whatever it takes to accomplish the goal;  
3. the team expresses a greater concern for team success, than personal attention or fame; 
4. they demonstrate an understanding that every position on the team is important; 
5. every member has a desire for excellence.

    What I’ve noticed in ministry is that healthy churches exhibit two things.  First and foremost, they have a deep love for God.  Secondly, they have a strong team spirit. For any church to grow into a healthy body of believers, it needs to make sure both of these elements are present.

   We need to understand that the church is designed by God to be a living,  functioning body.
  Now as we have many parts in one body, and all the parts do not have the same function, in the same way we who are many are one body in Christ and individually members of one another. Romans 12:4-5 (HCSB)

   Essentially, God designed it so that we all need each other to have a fully functioning healthy church. The very fact that the church is a body and not a business means that teamwork is more important to those of us in ministry than it is to people in a normal business relationship.

    I think we all agree that no single person has cornered the market on all the gifts it takes to make a church successful. The problem that I see with a lot of Christians, and I’m being blunt here, is that too many of us are afraid to admit to being able to do some of the things we can do. We push back against many service opportunities because we see them as insignificant or because we are afraid of being “trapped” in a role we view as unpleasant for one reason or another.

    The success of the early church was really about the many people who worked together toward a common goal. There was an attitude that everyone was important, but noone more important that the message and mission of the church. They realized that a single strand of hair is as important as a tooth or even an eye.  Today, we need the same attitude, just like every cell is important to a healthy body, every member’s role is equally as important to a successful church.

    We also need to remember that teams accomplish more together than individuals accomplish working separately.  This principle is taught all through Scripture. When there are more hands working, more can be accomplished. One example of this is found in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, where we’re told that two are better than one, and a rope of three cords is hard to break.

Another example of teams accomplishing more than individuals is in Nehemiah, where people worked by groups or families. In the New Testament, Jesus sent people out by two to minister (Mark 6:7). Luke, in Acts 18, specifically mentions four people who were part of Paul's ministry team.  This mutual encouragement is vital to our ministry because we are NOT just working on well-meaning projects: we are in a spiritual battle -- carrying the most important message the lost world will ever hear!

Psalm 12 for 2012

I’ve taken some time off from the blog to travel and enjoy the Christmas season.  However, with the changing of the wall calendar from 2011 (a date I could never imagine experiencing when I was a teen) to 2012, I thought it appropriate to fire up the ol’ brain cells and write another post.

During the past three calendar years, the media has tried to convince us that life in the U.S. holds very little promise of success and that our economic status has little hope of recovery. Some of those reports were exaggerated in order to gain viewers/listeners and to sell advertising.  Some reports were accurate.  I have no intention of trying to identify which were which. 

I found it humorous when in November the media suddenly began to report that the economy was “looking up.” Which incidentally was precisely 12 months prior to a major election.  Imagine that! As usual for any election year, those in power will be saying, “things are getting better because of us.” While those who want the power will be saying, “things are this bad because of them.”   What does all of this have to do with Psalm 12?  I thought you’d never ask. 

Psalm 12 while a short Psalm (it’s eight verses long) packs a lot of punch. It also fits our situation in 2012, because of a complaint, a comfort, and a confidence.  Some theologians claim it is messianic in nature prophesying the time of Christ’s birth.  Others associate it with apocalyptic  literature describing end times (see John Gill’s commentary, Introduction to Psalm 12).  Regardless of one’s view, it certainly fits where I see in our world today.

Complaint
The author begins with a complaint, very similar to the one made by Elijah (2 Ki 19:14), Micah (7:2), or by Habakkuk (1:1).  A complaint that, while somewhat exaggerated, could very easily be made by any of us today. In that complaint is a cry for help. 
Comfort
Then there is a very important part where David finds comfort in the sovereignty of God. He also takes note of God’s power but as well as His declaration to act against evil. The psalmist even points out the value and assurance of God’s words. 
Confidence
In the last two verses we read of God’s desire to be protector and provider to us. That while ungodly people may brag, and evil may appear to succeed, God will prevail according to His schedule. 

This period of time we call 2012 may be remembered many ways.  It may be an election year, a recovery year, a destruction year (according to the Mayans we have until Dec.), whatever year, but most of all it is a year for us to live what we say we believe.  During 2012, I’ll complain about things, but I’m going to bring my complaints to the one who can do something about it . . .  God!  Then I plan to take comfort in His power to address my complaints.  Finally, I will pray for a confidence that will help me to be patient and trust God’s timing in taking care of my problems. 

Happy New Year to all!