The Truth of the Narrow Way

What is the truth of the narrow way? What happens when you decide to fix your eyes on Jesus and the things of earth grow strangely dim? I think there is a dichotomy of things that happen. Two opposing things come to pass, and if we aren't aware of them we can become disillusioned, disappointed and even turn away from the Lord. So, I think we should look at these things to be aware of what we can expect.
Let's look at the positive first. I believe that if you are fixing your eyes on Jesus, you are walking the narrow way. If you love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength, you are on the narrow way. I believe that you are called the righteous in the Bible. So, first of all, every promise made to the righteous is yours! Good news!! Just one verse that tells us what to expect is Psalm 16:11 "Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore." If you are endeavouring this walk with the Lord, then you know that the joy and pleasures mentioned are not worldly, carnal joy and pleasures. You know that you can be in the middle of the biggest storm you've ever faced in this life, and still find joy and pleasure in the Lord. John 16:33 "These things I have spoken unto you, that in my ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." John 14:27 " Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." So, we have something that other people won't have, a peace that the world cannot give. We have a hope to cling to that others who don't put their complete faith and trust in God do not have.
Guess what? This separates you from a lot of other people. In fact, I think that if you really have this complete faith and trust in Jesus, you will be different from almost ALL people. And this includes church people. No offense to anyone, but I need a way to differentiate those who truly follow Jesus, and those who just go to church and do good things. There is a difference. I have done a pretty extensive study on the passage in Matt. 7:13-14 and I've found something interesting in the words spoken here. The word for "strait" is Stenos in the Greek. It says in the concordance that this word is spoken figuratively of the gate which leads to eternal life; narrow because it runs counter to natural inclinations. So, I ask again, what happens when you are on this narrow road? Like the song says, "the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace." I think it makes sense to say that when the things of earth grow strangely dim, you may find that you no longer have a lot in common with others. In fact, you may have nothing in common with others. And, to go even further, unfortunately in this day and age, you may not have much in common with "church people".
When I think over the Bible, and look at the people who were devoted to God, you don't really see them being the popular people. They weren't running with the "in" crowd. Start in the beginning and just look at Abraham. He had to leave his family and move to a strange land. He was able to take Lot with him, but that didn't even last very long. Noah....need I say much more. Only 8 people survived at the end of that story. Even the "prophets" who were God's messengers were basically alone. Jesus, when told by the crowds that they would follow Him, replied; "The foxes have holes and that birds of the air have nests: but the Son of Man hath not where to lay his head." Even Jesus, especially Jesus, was not popular with the crowds. Many times when he was speaking, there were people who were angered and sought to kill him.
When Jesus sent forth the twelve apostles, he told them in Matt.10: 22 "And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved." And when the people of Nazareth rejected him Matt 13:57 says, "And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honor, save in his own country, and in his own house." Let's not focus on the word prophet, but take the whole message here. Jesus said that these things would happen. That we would be rejected in our own neighborhood, city, and even our own homes. He even refutes the "Santa-God" idea when he says in Matt. 10:34-38 "Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter-in-law against her mother in law. And a man's foes shall be they of his own household. He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me." God is not here to bring peace. He's not some big Santa in the sky who is saying, "Can't we all just get along?" John 3:19 says something interesting. "And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God." These verses tell us that it can be expected that people whose deeds are evil will not want to come to the light. In fact, those people will hate the light. How many times and places did Jesus say, "You are the light of the world."? We must expect that people will not like us, maybe even hate us. We must expect that they will not even want to be around us, because their deeds will be condemned. Have you ever been around when someone curses, then apologizes for saying those words? Eventually, they will find it easier to be their normal selves if they don't have to apologize, so that means they won't want to be around you.
So, what's the point of this post? If these answers are already to be expected, why write about it? There is a good reason. As believers who trust in God, and follow Him wholeheartedly, we cannot get sidetracked because others may choose to reject us. I think there is a place for heart searching, going before God and making sure we haven't wronged anyone. But, if God doesn't point out anything to us, we need to understand that we will be hated because of Jesus. We can't get stuck in constant personal angst because people don't like us. We must do what God's word says in Rom. 12:18 " If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men."
I encourage you to be a follower of God, no matter what the cost.

There is None Like You

The words of the song prompted me to look up scriptures pertaining to the phrase, "None like You". What I came up with is a powerful list of scriptures that reiterate over and over that the God of Jacob is like none other. What a great knowledge to have! In times of trouble or distress, in times of pain and sorrow what can comfort you better than knowing that the God you serve is like no other! Below are the scriptures I found. I pray they give you an awesome perspective of our God!
Ex.8:10 "And he said, To morrow. And he said, Be it according to thy word: that thou mayest know that there is none like unto the Lord our God."
Ex. 9:14 "For I will at this time send all my plagues upon thine heart, and upon thy servants, and upon thy people; that thou mayest know that there is none like me in all the earth."
Ex 15:11 "Who is like unto thee, O Lord, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?"
Deut. 4:35, 39 "Unto thee it was shewes, that thou mightest know that the Lord he is God; there is none else beside him. Know therefore this day, and consider it in thine heart, that the Lord he is God in heaven above, and upon the earth beneath: there is none else."
Deut. 33:26 " There is none like unto the God of Jeshurun, who rideth upon the heaven in thy help, and in his excellency on the sky."
I Sam. 2:2 "There is none holy as the Lord: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God."
II Sam 7:22 "Wherefore thou art great, O Lord God: for there is none like thee, neither is there any God beside thee, according to all that we have heard with our ears."
I Kings 8:60 "That all the people of the earth may know that the Lord is God, and there is none else."
I Chron. 17:20 "O Lord, there is none like thee, neither is there any God beside thee, according to all that we have heard with our ears."
Isaiah 45:5, 6 "I am the Lord, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me: That they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside me. I am the Lord, and there is none else."
Is. 45: 18, 21, 22 "For thus saith the Lord that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am the Lord; and there is none else. Tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together who hath declared this from ancient time? have not I the Lord? and there is nor God else beside me; a just God and a Savior; there is none beside me. Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: For I am God, and there is none else."
Is. 46:9 " Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, "
Jer. 10: 6, 7 "Forasmuch as there is none like unto thee, O Lord; thou art great, and thy name is great in might. Who would not fear thee, O King of nations? for to thee doth it appertain: forasmuch as among all the wise men of the nations, and in their kingdoms, there is none like unto thee."
Joel 2:27 "And ye shall know that I am in the midst of Israel, and that I am the Lord your God, and none else: and my people shall never be ashamed."

These words have encouraged my heart, and I hope they do the same for you.

Where are you focusing????

How important is it where our attention lies? I think it's extremely important, even crucial to our very health. What we focus on determines where we go. Our pastor told a story in his sermon which I am going to try to recapture briefly. There is a new sport called tree-skiing. You can ski some of the best powder if you ski between the trees. Sounds scary! The important thing to remember is where to keep your focus. You must focus on the spaces between the trees, because if you focus on a tree, you will crash into it. I find this an appropriate analogy for the Christian life. Where is your focus? Is it on Jesus? Or is it on distractions?
I will admit that for a few years, my focus was on distractions. Were the distractions legitimate? Some of them were, but my focusing on them was never legitimate. I am beginning to see that if we take our eyes off of Jesus, we begin a journey that can threaten our walk with God and even our salvation. The Bible is very clear about where we should be focusing. Hebrews 12:2 says, " Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of God.
That verse says a lot. First, it establishes who is the author and finisher of our faith. It's Jesus, it's not us, or any works that we can do, it is Jesus. And, it's not like Jesus is the author and we are the finisher. I've seen a lot of people with that mentality. They believe that Jesus' death on the cross provided their salvation, but somehow they feel that the baton was passed to them to finish their salvation.
The next thing the verse tells us is that Jesus went to the cross for the joy set before Him, which was relationship with us. Jesus wasn't being punished, or wasn't taken to the cross against His will. He knew that He was the way for all men to come to God. How great is His love for us!!!! I can't find a better description of love.
We must pay attention to what we are focusing on. If we focus on ourselves, like trying to find our purpose, or our place in the body of Christ, we can easily become self-centered, depressed and not useful. If we focus on ourselves, we can magnify things which God does not want magnified. I've seen a whole realm of "inner healing" going on where people focus on the bad things that have happened to them, and search for healing. I had many bad things happen to me, and a lot of them were by a parent. This kind of thing can really skew your perspective. I did the searching for healing thing, but ultimately I found that if you focus on God, He takes care of everything. Do I still find that my perspective is off sometimes? Of course, I'm not perfect, but God has given me good friends who I can talk to and find a sense of balance in talking things out. Do I hurt sometimes because of what I've missed out on because of the dysfunction in my family? Yes, but God is bigger than all that, so I choose to focus on Him and let Him guide me in the right path. Do I sometimes feel inadequate because of the life I've had? Yes, but I don't let those feelings define me. I look to the Way, the Truth and the Life for my meaning.
Another way I see people getting distracted is by focusing on things like spiritual warfare and various areas of the spiritual realm. Again, I have been down this road, to a degree, and I've come back to the place where I focus on God. When I focused on the spiritual realm, I became what some might call superstitious. Everything had a secret meaning, and I needed to know what that meaning was. Since I stopped focusing on the spiritual realm, my life has become more balanced, peaceful, and more productive. I see the armor of God mentioned in Ephesians as the Christian walking out the Christian life -which is to know Christ, and His Word, and to then live out life being an imitator of Him and an ambassador for Him.
I believe that the Word of God is one of the most important tangible things we have been given by God. I have an entire post about God's Word brewing in my heart, and in His timing I will publish it, but for now, I give you Psalm 119. Let's look at a few verses. Psalm 119:9 "Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word." So, God's Word is how we are cleansed. And not just God's Word, but TAKING HEED THERETO. A phrase often left behind. If we read, and obey God's Word, we are being cleansed. Not by some program, or retreat or Bible study. It's a cheap course. Read and obey God's Word.
Let's move on to Psalm 119: 11. "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." So, God's word keeps us from sin. If you're having trouble with sin, refer to the last two verses. Something along the way is not being done. Either the word, the word being hid in your heart, or the taking heed thereto. If you are not willing to hide God's word in your heart, or take heed to His word, no program on earth will change the circumstance. It may change your actions for a while, but your heart will not be cleansed.

Psalm 119:105, 130 "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." "The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple." Here we find that we can find our way in God's word. Does it say, "Go to the store on this day, and to the bank that day?" No, but if we are in God's word and hiding it in our heart, and taking heed thereto, we won't be searching for our "purpose". We will find it in His word. We will find it in Him. Our path will be lit for us when we are in His Word, AND we don't have to have a degree. It gives understanding to the simple. I see lots of people running around getting degrees for this and that. I see People wanting to be in ministry and going after "training" and degrees so that they can be regarded as "fit for ministry". My Bible says that God's word giveth understanding to the simple. I believe that if all you're looking for is God in the Bible, you won't need a degree or need to have taken a class to figure the Bible out. God says, Seek me and you will find me, when you search for me with all your heart.
Why is there such confidence and freedom in focusing on Jesus? Hebrews 13:8 says, "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, today and forever." So, no matter what the fad is in Christianity, no matter what philosophy the world is embracing, no matter what different form of sin or hurt comes upon you, Jesus is the same! He does not change, so you can cling to Him and find that He isn't going anywhere. Though the tide of public opinion may change, and their solutions to the world may change, Jesus is the same. That is why He is the rock we should build our lives on.
So, let us throw off the sin and weights that so easily beset us and fix our eyes on Jesus. When our focus is there, we cannot help but enter the rest that is spoken of in Hebrews 4.

Worship!!

What's in my IPOD and why. That is the substance of this post. Worship is so special to me, and music holds such a dear place in my heart that I listen to worship all the time. I decided to share what I'm listening to and why because I want to encourage you to be an all the time worshipper too!
Play list titled My Worship
1. Love The Lord- Lincoln Brewster
This song is scripture, and nothing but the first and greatest commandment. We can never be reminded enough of what we are asked by God to fulfill. And, it's a great tune!
2. Awesome Is The Lord Most High- Chris Tomlin
To me, this song is declaring who God is and I can always use songs like this. When I become overwhelmed with life, I choose to focus on God, and how awesome He is.
3. Holy Is The Lord- Chris Tomlin
This is a song which reminds me of what we will be doing in heaven. Revelation chapter 4, 5 talk about what is happening in heaven, and songs declaring God's holiness never cease to remind me of how we will soon be worshipping around the Throne of God.
4. You, You are God- Gateway Worship
Another declaration song which I love. Songs where I can state my intent and beliefs are good for me because life has a way of trying to get me muddled and lost. This song states it clearly- You are God!!!!! And it's a mighty great tune too!
5. Let The Praises Ring- Lincoln Brewster
By now I will admit that I truly enjoy Lincoln Brewster. I've heard his name for many years, back to my days of driving to Calvary Temple Modesto for Friday night worship nights. I feel a true sense of worship, not just performance with him, and I love the lyrics to this song. "Let every thing I say and do be founded by my faith in You!"
6. Everlasting God- Lincoln Brewster
This song gives me hope, and reminds me that God is not a man that he should become tired and not be able to help me. The verses this song is based one are ones that I love! I love songs that are scripture.
7. Beautiful King- Michael Neale
This is an artist I found by seeing what's new on Itunes. I love, love, love his album. This song really states my heart toward God right now. "All I can say is thank you, all I can do is fall down at your feet, all I can cry is Holy, Holy Holy is the Beautiful King." I encourage you to check out his CD which is full of powerful truth.
8. I Am Yours- Michael Neale
This is a rendition of "Take My Life and Let it Be". The words are powerful, and the chorus states it all, I am Yours set apart for You.
9. Beautiful- New Life Worship
I love this song because it is stating who God is, directly to Him. Just try being angry, or irritated or anything else while singing this song. It gets you back to the right perspective quickly.
10. Magnificent- Hillsong
The album "Blessed" by Hillsong is probably my favorite worship CD. I've listened to it a multitude of times. Magnificent is another love song to God, and that is why I love it. What a great song!
11. There Is None Like You- Lenny LeBlanc
This is a short, simple song which states the truth. There is none like the One True God of Israel. As with many of the others, a real perspective song.
12. I Stand In Awe- Ross Parsley
I have been a fan of New Life Worship for many years, and although their church has been through a lot in the last year, I don't think God is finished with them yet. This song states my feelings quite well.
13. Amazed- Ross Parsley
This song is so great. I was singing this to myself yesterday at church during communion. I am amazed by how God loves me. This song is a reminder to me, and an offering to God.
14. Beauty of the Lord- Jared Anderson
Another New Life worship leader, this song states the intent of my heart. "I will declare the beauty of the Lord, nothing compares to the beauty of the Lord." Enough said by me.
15. Holy God- Brian Doerkson
I came across this song on Itunes. When I play this song, I feel like I am in the throne room of heaven. The angelic voices raised, singing "Holy, Holy Holy God" gives me the chills. The statements of Who God is increases my faith. I highly recommend his album for a great personal worship CD.

So, there's a look into my IPOD. Sometimes we can get stuck in a rut, or lose the habit of personal worship. Don't wait for Sunday! Start worshipping with song now! Music has a way of lifting the heaviness, resetting our perspective and cheering our souls.

Church??

Okay, this is another brief post of some thoughts. Here is what I'm contemplating--What is church really supposed to be? I know a friend of mine has been asking the Lord this since childhood, and I guess I've just gotten disturbed enough with current American church to start asking this myself. Are we really supposed to have lots of programs going, and always be asking people to help out? What purpose do those programs actually serve? Who do those programs actually serve? Is the church supposed to be actively drawing unsaved people to "church"? Are we supposed to be measuring important things like spiritual health by amount of service?

When I looked up the definition of "church" in the concordance, this is what it said. This word stresses a group of people called out for a special purpose. It designated a new society of which Jesus was the founder, being as it was a society knit together by the closest spiritual bonds and altogether independent of space. How does this definition work when discussing "church membership"? If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, aren't you already a church member? What is the real point to current church membership?

Yesterday I heard a missionary speak at my church. He was speaking out of Luke, and talking about when Jesus told Peter to go out in his boat to the deep and cast his net and he would catch many fish. He stressed the fact that too many people are comfortable on the shore, and not enough are going out into the deep.
I may agree, but let me ask you-- Are we Americans making church too comfortable with our classes, programs, etc.? What happened if we only met together to worship God Almighty? First of all, how many people would stop coming to church? Second, wouldn't that meet the need of the original intended definition of the church? If church is about people being knit together by our spiritual bonds, why should we need anything other than to worship God together?

I think part of this confusion is brought on by the fact that people don't read their Bibles or obey God like they used to do. If people read their Bibles and obeyed what was in them, the need for all these classes would go away. If you had a true reverence for God, and read in His Word what God says about tithing, you wouldn't need a financial class that teaches people about tithing and money. God answers all these questions, but we have to read our Bibles to find them. We want to take a short cut by letting someone else do the work of reading it in the Bible for us, then putting it into a curriculum so all we have to do is take the class. But the fact remains, if you don't apply what you learn, it is all for naught.
You may call me crazy, but I will admit that I like this one part of the Amish culture. I've been reading some fiction about the Amish, and it talks about how each family takes a turn hosting the "preaching" Sundays. They remove walls in the main floor of their home and clear the furniture and bring in benches. In the summer, they even had it in their barns. How simple it seemed. No big building funds, no asking people for money. No huge buildings to keep maintaining, pay the utilities for, keep track of who is using what room. Please bear in mind that I am not endorsing their theology, but the method of holding services. What would happen if this were the status quo in America?

Then I ask myself, can we really go back? Is it possible to regain the church of the New Testament, or is the ball rolling too fast? What would the impact be? I don't have any easy answers, but I know the One who holds all of life's mysteries. I would pray that we as American Christians would return to the God of the Bible. That we would revere Him, and His Word. That we would put aside the vain philosophies of man, and rely on the One True God.
Okay, I'm done for now, and it wasn't such a brief post. Let me make it clear that I am not advocating that we should all leave our churches in droves and start our own church. I am just trying to stimulate thought, and put my thoughts out there to see if I'm missing something here. Please don't be afraid to post your thoughts on church.

The Lost Sheep

Today the Lord showed me his heart as reflected in the parable of the lost sheep in Matthew 18:12-14. "How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And is so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish."
This morning, as I sat in church before the service, I was observing the people coming in and being seated. I saw a man leading a woman who looked quite frail, maybe even sick. The first thing I noticed that she was young, and I felt so sad for both of them. Then I noticed that there was a young girl with them, and again felt the sadness. Then I saw some more people that were with them, and I was shocked. I began to realize that this was a family, and not just any family, but one with whom I was acquainted. These were my former neighbors. The neighbors who tortured my family for months, the ones who seemed to hate us because we were Christians. The ones whose names I never even knew because they hated me before I could ever get their names.
My heart was cut to the quick. I was overwhelmed with tears. My mind was racing. I could not believe they were in my church. These people who spat out the words "born-again christian" with such contempt were here in my church. I could not forget my initial assessment of sadness over a woman who looked so frail and sick. She did not seem to be the same woman who had knowingly and willingly approved and enticed her children to curse at us. I began to pray. I prayed for the mother who seemed too frail to be healthy. I prayed for the daughter who called the police and falsely accused my son of something. I prayed for the youngest daughter who was led into calling us names by her siblings. I noticed that one son was missing, the one who seemed to thrive on ways to antagonize us. I prayed for the father, that he would be able to lead his family in a godly direction.
For those of you who know us, you know that we moved because of these neighbors. Just at the time when the real estate market was about to come to a screeching halt, they started harassing us. Because they were happy to call the police with false reports, we felt we had to move. In the five months that followed, while our home was being built, we never regretted that decision. We have never regretted it since. We lost a lot of earthy wealth because of the move, but we gained a faith that was less shakable, we learned to trust the Lord with our lives, and we have neighbors that we truly love. We absolutely LOVE our new home, and thank God often for giving it to us.
Just before the whole neighborhood thing started about two years ago, I had been praying and asking God to show me if the hearts of my neighbors were open to hearing about Him. When all this happened, I felt I had my answer. I was being picked on for the sole reason that I followed Christ. After we started sharing with friends what was happening, several people mentioned to us that the Bible says to shake the dust off your feet if you are not welcomed in a city. I knew this was a pretty severe thing because Jesus said in Matt. 10:15 "Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city." So, when we left the neighborhood, we took that thought. That we were shaking the dust off of our feet. By the way, God sent us a miracle, in that we had an offer on our house which closed in about 21 days, and with no repairs requested, no extra money spent on our part.
The only thing I could think of today when I saw this family was, I can't imagine what brought them to the point of entering a church when just two years ago they detested the very word christian. I saw in living color the lengths that Jesus would go to for the lost sheep. I've always known that the Bible says, He is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance, but in this moment, I truly felt God's heart.
Many times during the worship,and the service I found tears streaming down my face. I just wanted to run up and hug these people. Believe me, I know that church attendance does not secure anyone's eternal future, but the fact that they were there was a huge victory in my eyes. I must also confess that I was ashamed. God showed me that while I had moved on and left these people behind, he was most concerned about them. He was still out searching for them. I also felt shame for the unforgiveness I held in my heart toward them. I asked God to forgive me for not praying for them more, for not forgiving them for their acts toward me. My thoughts went to Stephen and the words he spoke, so like Jesus, Lay not this sin to their charge. I prayed that for this family.
Why do I tell you this story? First, I have been profoundly moved today. I cannot deny the power of what happened in church today, and am writing this as a testimony of what the Lord has done in my heart. Second, I ask you to pray for this family. I honestly do not know their names, but God does, and he's searching for them. Finally, I ask you to search your own heart and make sure you are not harboring unforgiveness, or search it to make sure you have a heart for the lost sheep like Jesus does. The scary part is, I would have said I forgave them, but God knew and I believe that is why they sat two rows in front of me this morning.
I pray that I get to meet these people. I would love to just pretend that we had never met before. I believe that love covers a multitude of sins, and I would love to get to know them better. I would love to put my arms around that frail woman and tell her how much Jesus loves her. I want her to know the peace of God. I pray that we could some day be a testimony of how God restores and gives life. Most of all, I pray that they will come to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved.

Are you saying what I'm saying?

In my "perilous Times" post, I spoke of my displeasure at people throwing around the term "unteachable". I went on to define the way I will be "teachable". I am finding in this "post-modern" society, we are using words as peer pressure to try and shut people down. Today I'd like to reflect on a couple of words- Legalism and judging.

In recent years, I've often heard people, even pastors from the pulpit talk about not being "legalistic". This usually comes when, in my opinion, people are trying to justify their actions. The word legalism actually means, " strict, literal, or excessive conformity to the law or to a religious or moral code". I'm not quite sure how I feel about this based on what I know of scripture. When we read John 14:15, 21, 23 and I John 5:2,3 It basically (and literally) says, "If you love me, keep my commandments." and I John goes on to say that his commandments are not grievous. I don't see Jesus speaking in a vague or non-literal sense, so I have to surmise that Jesus meant it literally....If you love me, keep my commandments.
So, what do we do in a world that doesn't want to be "legalistic"? If you were asking me to abide by some church law which could not be substantiated in scripture, I would agree that you were being legalistic. I don't see such things as length of hair, types of clothing, in scripture, so I would say if certain things were prohibited to qualify good standing with a church, or these would define whether or not you were "saved" I would agree that those things are legalistic. I would not agree however, that living by the Word of God is being legalistic.

Matt. 7:15-20 does say that we will know them by their fruit. I find it interesting that this particular part is wedged right between the parts talking about the narrow gate, and depart from me I never knew you sections of scripture. Because so many people are conflicted about meanings of words, I went to the concordance on much of this. I wanted to know what the original words actually meant. To "know" means to recognize, become fully acquainted with. To observe, fully perceive and to know as it really is. "Fruit" is the same word used in the fruit of the Spirit which means, the visible expression of power working inwardly. Invisibly, the character of the fruit being evidence of the character of the power producing it. So, the fruit of the Spirit is the outward expression of the work of the Holy Spirit within you. The works of the flesh are outward expressions of hidden lusts. Jesus Himself says in Matt 7:18 " good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit." Two verses after this is where Jesus talks about the people that will come to Him professing all their many, wonderful works in His name, and Jesus says, I never knew you, depart from me. So, we can't look at just works, we need to see fruit.

I do think that we can recognize people by their fruit. Do I think you make a concrete, lasting decision based on one experience with a person? No, absolutely not! I know that I have sinned and would not want to be judged by that one moment of sin. But, I do think you can look at a persons life, and tell what kind of fruit they are producing. The unfortunate part about all this is that many people are doing those "wonderful works in Christs' name" and certain parts of their lives are consistently expressing works of the flesh. None of us are perfect, but I think that if people watch us, they should see a progression toward holiness. I think as Christians, we should realize how our behavior affects others' opinion of Christ.
So, if I take what the Bible says and adhere to it, am I legalistic? I believe that God's Word is truth. When it says, if you love Me, keep my commandments, I take that literally. I will not worry what the changing definitions of legalism are, I will keep to the Word of God. I will speak the Word of God as well. I will not be silenced by those trying to use the word legalistic to quiet me. I Peter 1:25 puts it nicely, "But the Word of the Lord endureth forever. And this is the word by which the gospel is preached unto you." Definitions and uses of words may change, but God's Word does not change.

The Word of God speaks about Christian conduct. Romans 12:1,2 says, "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed, by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, acceptable and perfect, will of God."
Conformed means to be shaped outwardly. We are not to be shaped outwardly by the world. I don't think we stop to think about this very often. I believe that if you talk like the world, go to the same places as the world, and conduct your life by the same standards as the world, you are being shaped by the world.

Transformed means to change into another form. The obligation being to undergo a complete change, which, under the power of God, will find expression in character and conduct. Wow! That sounds a lot like the definition of fruit.

Renewing means the adjustment of the moral and spiritual vision and thinking to the mind of God, which is designed to have a transforming effect upon the life.

All of these words speak to a changed life. We should be able to see a "before" and "after" difference. And, these changes should not only be in conduct, but in character. I look at it this way: Conduct can be changed, for a time; but if the character is not changed, the conduct will revert to the nature of the character. Character is the attributes which make up a person. All of us had ill character before we were saved. Even if our actions were mostly"good", Jesus points out in Matt. 5 that our thoughts, motives and intents are just as guilty as our actions. Once we come to Jesus, we are no longer bound to those character traits, we are no longer bound to sin. We are free! Paul says in I Cor. 7:22 that "...likewise, also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant." That word servant means one who gives up himself to the will of another; this word used views the person in relationship to his master, not in relationship to the work. So, we give ourselves up to Christ, and our relationship with him. Isn't that what Jesus said in Matt. 16:24 "Then said Jesus unto the disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." We are to deny our flesh and follow after Christ.
Paul also says in II Cor. 6:17 "Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." Again, I find this scripture to be very clear, and I don't know how it is taken by those who don't want us talking about sin lest we be legalistic. Titus is a great book about sound doctrine, and while I can't type it all out here, I strongly encourage you to read Titus. I want to just point out Titus 2:11-15 " For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and wordly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee." Again, the scripture seems clear to me that we can, and should be living a sober, righteous and godly life in this present world. It's not like we can't possibly live this way.

Honestly, I think we are living in the times of II Timothy 4:3,4 "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned to fables." I also see Isaiah 30:9,10 "That this rebellious people, lying children, children that will not hear the law of the Lord: Which say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits;"

II Timothy 3:16, 17 says, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." It does not say that all scripture is profitable for saying nice things, making you feel better, for use only when you want it. We have to remember that we are to be changing more and more into the image of Christ and we are to use our love for God and the Word of God as our basis for that change. I think that I John says that his commandments are not grievous because when our hearts are turned toward God, we want to do all that he wants. I read a statement in the concordance that said, "When man obeys God, he gives the only possible evidence that in his heart he believes God." I thought this was a powerful statement, and one I've had to think on in the past few days. It's true, and it leaves no room for excuses.

When I hear people talk about "judging", it is usually used in the context of "I don't like what you're saying because my actions are being called to question". We really need to take those opportunities to look at the scriptures and see what God thinks about it. What I really see going on in these situations falls under the word "reproof". This word in the concordance is defined as "to rebuke another with the truth so that the person confesses." We are told that the word of God is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction and for instruction in righteousness and none of those sound like they leave room for the appetites of the flesh or our own ego. It will sting a little if you are reproved or corrected, but the immediate answer is not to claim that the other person is judging.
I don't think that Christians realize the importance of the fact that they are ambassadors of Christ. Are we giving the world a correct vision of God? How can people truly believe that the wages of sin is death if Christians live in sin, meanwhile claiming to have eternal life? Why should the world come to a place of repentance and claim Jesus as Lord when they look at Christians and see us acting the same basic way as they act? If we cannot show them that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life, why should they accept the gospel?

I realize that living a life that is different than this present world is not easy. We would be laughed at in the beginning. I can guess we would be called weird, or out of touch with the times. But don't forget that we are called to be a "peculiar people". I believe we would be laughed at and mocked in the beginning. But I also believe that as time went on and our reactions, our very lives reflected Jesus, those same people that mocked us would come and say, "I want what you have." When they see us go through tough financial times leaning on Jesus, when they see us go through loss of loved ones trusting Jesus and not grieving as the world grieves, they will have to stop and consider why things are different for us. When they notice the peace of God on our lives, when they notice that we never cheat or lie, but still make a profit. When they see that we don't harbor anger and unforgiveness, when we can love the unlovely- they will want to know how we can do it. This opens the door to the gospel being preached.

I will admit to you that this world we live in makes me uneasy. I am seeing a gospel preached that I don't recognize. I am being told things by people in church that I don't see in scripture. I am seeing that it is getting harder and harder to live the way I think God calls us to live. Harder because even Christians are not living this way, and trying to persuade me that it's okay. I am having to turn down activities with Christians because I cannot go based on my convictions. I truly believe that each person must search the scriptures, not to justify their own flesh, but to really know God. When we read the Bible wanting to know God, he will not disappoint us. When we know God, we can live the way He calls us to live because we are renewing our minds based on the Bible.


I leave you with this quote from an old hymn : Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face; and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace. This is truly how I want to live my life.

Food For Thought

So, here what's circling around in my mind. At what point does God's House of Prayer turn into a den of thieves? I've been noticing things happening at churches that are disturbing to me. There have been times when I have been in a church and have been very uncomfortable with the things taking place. Not that the things happening, in and of themselves, are somehow wrong or evil, but in the context of a church they make me uncomfortable. So, where's the line?
What happens if we only allowed Christ-centered, Christ-honoring things to happen in our churches? If we allow things to take place at the church that aren't necessarily "Christian" where does the line get drawn? Is it only God's house on Sundays?
I'm just doing some honest thinking out loud here. I don't have any answers. I am open to hearing other people's ideas here.
I really think it has to line up with God's Word and Character for me to be able feel comfortable with it.
I hope this gets you thinking.

Proceed with Caution! Perilous Times !

II Tim. 3:1-7 "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away by divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth."


II Thess. 2 also speaks of the day of Christ is at hand. The entire chapter is relevant, but let me exerpt a couple of verses. Vs. 3-4 " Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God."


Vs. 8-12 " And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: even him whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. "


Vs. 15 "Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle."


My heart has been heavy for some time, but let me start at the beginning. A few years back, my church started a series called "The Purpose Driven Life". Our pastor told us that MANY churches in the area were also doing this at the same time, and encouraged us to purchase the book "The Purpose Driven Life" so that we could follow along in the series. Now I must say, that my natural personality is to not follow the crowd. But in the interest of not being "unteachable" I decided to at least start out with the crowd and see what happened. I bought the book and began to read. I could not get far before I came across my first issue. I could not get past the MANY VARIOUS translations, and other so-called versions of the Bible that were used. As a girl who was raised in Christian schools and memorized out of the King James version from childhood, I could not read these "other" versions. Most of the time the verses did not even really mean the same thing as in the KJV. So, before the first week was over, I stopped reading the book. No one else was really talking about it, and I didn't know exactly what my beef was, and I didn't want to be "unteachable" so I kept quiet.


(On a side note) I am coming to believe that this threat of "unteachableness" is tamping down people who ask valid questions as to what is going on in the church today. I no longer struggle with being "unteachable" but I have defined what I will allow to teach me. The Word of God and the Holy Spirit. I WILL be a good Berean and search the scriptures daily. I will not take a teaching purely on it's face and allow it to change my personal beliefs. I will not be talked into diluting the truth of Scripture to make myself comfortable in this present world.


As the years went on, my church again brought a new "campaign" to it's congregation. This time it was called "40 days of Community". By now, my feelings about Rick Warren and the "Purpose Driven" movement were clanging alarm bells. I had gone to Barnes and Noble and read parts of "The Purpose Driven Church" and was appalled at what was written in there. I felt that it brought the church down to a business with it's thoughts like.. teach your congregation to read the bulletin and don't make lots of announcements. I just kept feeling like...it's not a formula, it's not a formula. Also, the spiritual growth classes were something with which I had issues. I don't think you need to take a class about your spiritual gifts. I am not a real proponent of the "formula" way to do things. I also don't think that taking some classes can qualify you as "spiritually mature". Anyway, I knew I could not participate in the "community" campaign, but God was leading us away from that church (for other reasons). May I add that my current church adopts the "Purpose Driven" paradigm, and state that they intend to get each one of us on their baseball diamond of classes.


Also during this period, our church adopted the "Celebrate Recovery" program. I knew I wouldn't be on the same page as this either, but when I heard people in the church talking about their "sponsors" I knew something was radically wrong. And the worst part was, no one really seemed to notice! In my opinion, slapping a few verses and "Christian" words onto a secular 12 step program does not make it "Christian". I also don't believe that everyone needs to go through this program, which is how it was presented at our church.


So, I finally decided I needed to know some things about why I am so disturbed about all this. I started by looking up Rick Warren on my computer. I started reading. Reading about Rick Warren led me to read about Robert Schuller, Brian Mc Claren and the "Emerging Church". What I was reading was starting to illuminate many things I'd been concerned about in the churches I've attended.

Here is why I'm having such a problem with all of this stuff. Rick Warren fully admits that he is trying to "grow" churches. He has made comments about fundamentalists to the effect that there aren't many left, and if there are, they aren't big churches. Where does it say in scripture that bigger churches are better? Where does it say that big churches mean that things are going well, and you are doing right in God's eyes? It never says anything like that. In America, we are such a competitive nation, that we have deluded ourselves into thinking that bigger is better. Along with that comes the fallacy that God wouldn't allow something to grow if He didn't approve of it. May I refer you to the parable of the wheat and the tares. Matthew 13:24-30 is where this is taught. Jesus says, "Let them grown together until the harvest." Matt. 7:15-20 talks about how we must beware of false prophets, and that we will know them by their fruits. Directly after this Jesus says in vs. 21-23 "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."

God makes His standards clear. I think that in this time of "post-modernism" we are in such a hurry for everything that we don't want to take the time to look for fruit in people. In Rick Warren's "ministry toolbox" on his pastors.com website he lists the 5 tools Saddleback uses to develop spiritual maturity. It's issue #325 dated 8/22/2007. Here is his list. 1. Commitment cards 2. Classes based on the purposes 3. covenants 4. small groups 5. campaigns. Not one place in here does it talk of time in God's Word, watching people to see the fruit of God in their lives. I see these 5 things as being very superficial, and not indicative of maturity. The scary thing to me is that these 5 tools are used in the criteria for maturity and the tools are basically putting in some time. I think it would be easy to move through all 5 of these things and never have a heart change, never have a spiritual change in your life. In reading through a lot of the "ministry toolbox" on the pastors.com website, I found a lot of the topics to be very superficial, and very much geared to "growing" a church. It also had a lot to do with targeting the unchurched. I guess I missed the turn in scripture when the church went from being about Christians in I Peter 2:5 "Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ." to now the church is about the unchurched. He does address this in his toolbox, #257 entitled Develop a Plan to Assimilate Members . Here he spells out that if you are targeting the unchurched, you should make it clear that you must be a believer to join the church. Maybe I'm old-fashioned at age 39, but this seems all backwards to me.

You may ask why am I speaking up about this? Why the Purpose Driven Life and Rick Warren? The answer is this, Rick Warren's programs have affected both churches I have attended in the last few years. When the comment was made "we'll get you on this ball field" which represented the purpose driven paradigm, I became alarmed. The idea that to be in ministry you must complete these classes disturbed me. What do the classes have to do with anything? It only promotes the purpose driven mentality. When I delved further and saw what Rick Warren's philosophy is, and with whom he has ties, it caused me concern. I personally believe that the purpose driven mentality is opening the door to the emerging church movement.

People---BEWARE!!!! The times that the New Testament talk about are here! II Tim 4:3-4 "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall heap unto themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned to fables."


Interesting this word fables, because that is a hallmark of the Emerging church. The Emerging church tends to deny the inerrancy and authority of the Bible and instead call Authors Matthew, Mark Luke and John, Jesus' editors. They prefer to rely on "experiences" and not Biblical exposition as the means for teaching. Some of these "experiences" are mystic and new age in concept. If you are sitting in a church where you never really need your Bible, beware!!! If the pastor just tells a story referring to the Bible or it seems more like a pep rally than a Bible study pay attention to what's going on.


I cannot accept this theory because I believe that God's Word is TRUTH. I believe II Peter 1:21 when it says, "For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost." I also believe II Tim 3:16 "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works."


I believe that more churches are affected by this philosophy than are unaffected. It would be difficult to find a church not touched by these things. At this point in time I do not feel God is leading me to stop going to church. I believe He is leading me to KNOW what I believe, and why I believe it. There was a country music song out many years ago, and I agree with it's main line. "You've got to stand for something or you'll fall for anything!" God has been saying to His people....There is a great time of darkness coming, your way through it is to cling wholly to My Word. People, we have got to know God's Word. I don't get the impression I will leave a church willingly, I feel I may someday be asked to leave a church because of my beliefs. Please know that I am not actively speaking against this at my current church, but through this website, and through other meetings where I am active, I believe that one day I will have to make a choice. Be quiet about what I believe, or be thrown out. I say to you now, I will not be silent. I do not know exactly what that will bring to my life, but I can only hope that it can be said of me what was said of Stephen in Acts 6:15 "And all that sat in the council, looking steadfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel."


There are many websites devoted to writing about these errant philosophies that are infiltrating the American church. I would encourage those interested to look some of them up. Although I cannot vouch for the entirety of these websites, here are some where I've found the truth to be spoken. http://www.apprising.org/


http://ingridschlueter.wordpress.com/





http://www.letusreason.org/


http://www.inplainsite.org/





I leave you today with the words of Paul in Col. 2:6-8 "As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ."

But You Don't Understand!

Maybe you say to me, but you don't understand. Horrible things have been done to me, and no one even acknowledges what happened. First of all, let me say I do understand. I've been there and by the power of the ressurected Jesus, I have moved on with my life. Let me say that people are never eager to admit their failings. If it was something really horrific that happened to you, the less likely it will be that those involved will truly admit to the reality of what happened. Think about it, I think most people would rather die than admit that they altered someone's entire life with some sort of abuse. Let me also say that abuse takes many forms, and none are okay. Whether or not it was sexual abuse, emotional abuse, mental abuse or physical abuse or any combination of those, it was NOT okay.

I struggled with this until one day someone looked at me and said, "God never thought it was okay that this was happening to you." "He's just as angry about it as you are." I assumed that because God never stepped in and stopped what was happening, He must have been okay with letting it happen. I have since learned that God gave us free will. He did not want us to be slaves in loving Him, He wanted it to be our choice and in doing so, He gave man free will. God is a just God, and he will serve justice on those who sin, but He will not force people to do the right thing. He always has an eye on you though, and in my life, I have been able to look back and see God's hand even when I thought it wasn't there.

So, let's say you have accepted God's free gift of salvation, but are tormented by things that have happened to you in the past. What do you do to stop the torment? How can you make it a part of your past, without affecting your present and future?

In one word, forgiveness. Before you tell me I can't possibly understand, let me say that I know this is probably a word you don't want to hear. You will argue that the person, or people don't even want forgiveness. You say, "How can I forgive someone who won't even admit they've done anything wrong?" I asked all those questions. I struggled with them for years after I gave my life to the Lord. He was patient with me. He knew I had to forgive, and kept showing me in different ways.

I will always preface any recommendations by saying you must pray about your situation and ask God to show you how He wants you to walk this journey. I will tell you that I have been studying forgiveness for years. I have notes that I have taken on some teaching tapes that date back to 2003. I will say that Joyce Meyers' teachings on Bitterness, Resentment and Unforgiveness and also Spirit of Offense have been life changing for me. She is the first person who taught me that forgiveness is not a "feeling" it is a choice. That forgiveness is actually letting the other person go and letting God decide their fate. I have found that forgiveness frees God to work in the other persons life. So, if you find yourself saying, "God, it's not fair what's happening to me, do something!" You should start by forgiving. Forgiveness keeps bitterness at bay. If you walk in forgiveness, bitterness has no place to take root.

I have found that I need to forgive everything! Even little things that you may think need no forgiveness, I pray forgiveness for those things as well. I would rather over-forgive people in this world, than get relaxed and then find that bitterness has sprung up in my life and destroyed relationships.

What if I forgive, and still feel angry about what happened to me? This was also addressed in Joyce Meyers' teaching "Forgive and Forget". I learned there that my choice to forgive had nothing to do with my feelings. And, additionally, my feelings didn't get a choice as to whether I forgave or not. She referenced Heb. 11:15 where it talks of the children of Israel. Here it is in the Amplified Bible. " If they had been thinking with homesick remembrance of that country from which they were emigrants, they would have found constant opportunity to return to it." Basically, she was saying, don't go back there in your mind. Don't keep reliving the wrong that was done to you. If it affects you, maybe you'll never be able to speak of it again. That's hard when we feel we've been wronged. We want everyone to know how we've been wronged. We want to talk about it until the other person says, "You're right, I was wrong and I'm sorry."

I see one of two choices when thoughts come up about the wrongs that have been done to you. I employ both, and have not figured out if one is more right than the other. First, I keep praying forgiveness. If I keep thinking of something, I keep asking God to forgive the person. I have heard it said that we should not continue to forgive the same thing over and over, but STAND on the original forgiveness we've asked God for. I agree to some extent, but I also know that sometimes I feel that repeating the prayer is just me standing on the forgiveness. Whatever you decide, do not let your mind take you back to a place of unforgiveness.

I think Jesus is our example, and He offered the greatest example of forgiveness when He was on the cross. His words, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." have become a prayer of sorts for me. I do not believe that most people hurt us knowing exactly how they are making us feel. I know that I don't intentionally hurt people, but I also know that I have hurt people. So, that means that I " knew not what I did." And, because I want others to extend that mercy to me, I will freely extend it to others. I have heard the saying, "We judge ourselves by our intentions, and others by their actions." And I have found that this statement has profoundly altered my life. I now try to sense what the intention may have been before passing judgment.

I believe you can forgive someone who doesn't see a need for forgiveness. I also believe that you can forgive without the other person knowing. You don't need to walk up to someone and say, I forgive you for hurting my feelings. They may have never known they did that, and you could be opening up a bigger can of worms by telling them you forgive them. Always consult the Lord before approaching a person. I always spend hours in prayer because I don't want my intentions to be clouded. Sometimes I can say one thing, but there is a secret adjenda behind my words. I am very conscious of my frame of mind. I'll stay in prayer for days to make sure my intent is pure, and my emotions are not driving my actions. Not to say that things don't catch me off-guard and I make mistakes, but I try to get myself under control of the Holy Spirit.

Now, a word about forgiveness. In all of this, we must not miss God's forgiveness towards us. At the first confession of sin, I John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sin, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sin, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." We do not need to walk around begging for forgivenss from God. He is faithful and just to forgive and cleanse. I see so many Christians walking around in perpetual states of begging God to forgive their past. Get over it people! God is not human, he is Holy and Perfect. Just because you find it hard to accept God's forgiveness does not mean it is hard for Him to forgive. Remind yourself through God's Word about how many people God used that needed to be forgiven. All of the great leaders fell short in some way. Some were murderers, adulterers, some had low self-esteem but God used all of them mightily. We need to remember , "In that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Rom. 5:8. God didn't wait for us to know we were in need of a savior, He died for us BEFORE we realized we needed a savior.
Please don't mistake my passion for flippancy. I am not flippant, but I am frustrated with seeing God's people walking around defeated, unhappy, and not an effective witness for Him. I truly believe that our walk with God should be simple and effective. Notice I did not say EASY and effective. I believe that forgiveness is simple and effective. Not EASY, but simple. We decide not to collect on a debt owed to us. I hope this stirs your heart about forgiveness.

WWJD

Okay, so we've all heard the phrase "What would Jesus Do?" I have been pondering some things brought about by a statement that was made to me a couple of months ago. Someone said to me that a Sunday School teacher said to them the "the homeless are the most reached people in the world." It was said in a way that made me think it wasn't said in a good way. The statement troubled me. I didn't pursue anything with the person I was conversing with, because there were some things I needed to work out for myself, and it didn't seem that the conversation would be profitable. But, here is what I think about it after having time to sort through some things.
Jesus made it clear that He came for the lost. He didn't specify a race, creed, life station or appearance. In the gospels, Jesus usually rebuked the Pharisees. These were the "religiously pious" of the time. Uh-oh...there's my first question. Am I one of them? Am I a "religiously pious" person? I think it's easy in America today to become a modern day Pharisee. When I saw the movie "The Passion" one of the most memorable scenes was when the Chief priests and Pharisees rode past Jesus as He hung on the cross. I use the visual to check myself. Am I behaving like that?
God has given me the honor and privilege to teach occasionally at a church for Women on Friday mornings. He led me to a study called "What do You want from me, God?" that I am going to attempt to paste in here. I have found that what God actually wants from us, is so far from" religious. " Let's see if I can paste the whole thing.
What Do You Want From Me, God?
I want to share with you today something exciting; something that I think will simplify our Christian lives. It seems like this is something that we should know already, but it seems to be a plan of the enemy to try to “muddle” and complicate our Christian lives so that we become ineffective. I pray that after today, we can all move more quickly to get back to the place in which God wants us to be. I want to answer the question, “What do You want from me, God?” I’ll tell you right now that part of the answer is pure religion. We’ll get to that later. First, let’s look at Saul. Saul tried to give God what Saul thought God would want, and that is where I got my first lead on “what do You want from me, God?”
(Read I Samuel 15)
We see that Samuel gives Saul a message from the Lord. It is a clear message. He tells Saul to smite and destroy Amalek. This is a nation that had done evil to the people of Israel, and God had appointed this time as the time to avenge that act. We see in Ex. 17:8-16 and Deut. 25:17-19 what happened between Israel and Amalek. Not only did God tell Saul to smite and destroy Amalek, He gives clear instructions on what was to be done. From the time that the children of Israel had come into the Promised Land and had begun driving out their enemies, God had told them exactly what to do in regards to their battles. They would either destroy only the people and keep the goods of the city as spoils, or totally destroy everything from people, animals, jewels, etc. This was an instance where God made it clear that they were to destroy everything.
So, Saul gathered his men and went to the city of Amalek. After letting the Kenites escape, Saul smites the Amalekites. Vs. 8 is where he gets into trouble. Unfortunately, Saul has no idea the consequences he is about to receive for his choice. In vs. 8-9 we see that Saul not only takes the king of the Amalekites (Agag) captive, but Saul and the people keep the best sheep, oxen, fatlings, and lambs and all that was good. They only destroyed what was vile and refuse. I’m sure it seemed like an okay idea at the time. They were in the heat of battle; no one was really stopping to think too clearly. Maybe the livestock was of a much better quality than the ones back home. We will see in a minute what Saul’s reasoning was for why the animals were not destroyed. I think this is a pretty important thought. Saul was given the Word of the Lord, he had CLEAR instructions and yet Saul chose to do something different. How many times do we have clear instructions from the Lord, and we come up with a reason to do it just a little bit different? Do we let reasoning interfere with total obedience to God?
Let’s keep going and see what is the result of his actions.
God tells Samuel that Saul did not obey the commands given his. It says that Samuel was grieved and cried unto the Lord all night. What devotion Samuel had for this king, anointed by God. Then, Samuel goes to find Saul. Saul greets him and says, “Blessed be thou of the Lord: I have performed the commandment of the Lord.” Wow! That is boldness. To walk up to a prophet of the Lord and boldly lie-Wow! Vs. 14 is one of my favorites when I picture it. Samuel says, “What meaneth then this bleating in my ears, and the lowing of oxen which I hear?” He doesn’t leave Saul much room to wiggle, does he? But look at how much room Saul makes for himself. We really see here what kind of leader Saul is. He puts the blame on the people. Not only that, but he also says that they were saving the animals for sacrifices to God. He tried to cover his disobedience by saying that it had a “holy” purpose. Saul had a boldness that made me shake my head.
However, God reminded me that not too long ago I did the same thing. At the end of February, Graceland had a sale on CD’s- they were a great price. I felt the Lord lay on my heart to buy one CD. When I went that morning, reasoning and, ok, greed took over and I walked out with more than one CD. I thought, how could it be wrong to buy Christian music? It’s a tool for praising God, right? Part of my consequences for that were that I have not liked one CD I brought home without permission. It is not impossible to find ourselves in the same position that Saul was in.
So, Saul not only disobeys, but he tries to make it a “holy” reason for disobedience. This is scary ground. Saul’s reasoning, and most likely the reasoning of the people around him, caused him to forget God’s CLEAR instruction and also caused him to make it “appear holy”. They deceived themselves, and God’s judgment was swift. Saul tried to make a second appeal in vs. 21 and even tries to make it look like he DID obey, but it doesn’t change God’s mind. Vs. 22 is a verse that I have heard often spoken, but when you hear it in the context of this story, it takes on a much more rich meaning.
“And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better then sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.”
Vs. 26, 35 show what happened to Saul, in part, because of his actions; but I also think it was because God knew Saul’s heart. God rejected Saul from being king because Saul rejected the Word of the Lord.
God really drew me to vs. 22 in this passage. When Samuel posed the question- Does God have as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifice as in obedience, it made me want to look deeper.
Let’s look at a few verses and see what God has to say about sacrifices.
Ps. 40:6
Ps. 51
Is. 1: 10-20
Hosea 6:1-11
Matt. 9:10-13 & 12:7

It is very interesting to me that most of these passages in the Old Testament are actually passages referring to repentance, cleansing, and sanctification. I believe that God is calling apart His people for repentance, not sacrifices. Hebrews 10 makes it clear that the sacrifices could not take away sins (vs.4) But how many times in our distorted minds do we feel we can “make up for things” if we sacrifice more, or offer more offerings. God wants us to know that the only way to let go of sin is through repentance and forgiveness, which came through Jesus’ blood being shed on the Cross. He wants us to lay down our pre-conceived ideas about the way things “should” be done, and just be obedient. When we clear out the junk in our lives and can hear God’s voice and we make a decision to obey no matter what our soul thinks about it, we will walk in victory and freedom, peace and joy. We can no longer listen to the devil’s lies and be convinced by them. The lies that say, “If you just do more, God will love you more.” We are wasting our time on insufficient sacrifices. I believe that now more than ever our time is short and we MUST come to a place of making everything count.
If God does not want sacrifices and offerings from us, I think we need to ask him, “What do you want from us, God?” In fact, how many times have we said that to God? Crying out in desperation, frustration or even anger, “ What do you want from me, God?” The good news is that His Word makes it clear what God wants from us.
I Sam. 15:22- obey, hearken
Ps. 51:17- broken spirit, broken and contrite heart
Is. 1:16- wash and make clean; put away the evil of your
Doings from before His eyes; cease to do evil
Is. 1:17- Learn to do well; seek judgment; relieve the
Fatherless, plead for the widow. (James 1:27)
Hosea 6:6- desired mercy; the knowledge of God (Dan.11: 32)
Micah 6:8- do justly; love mercy; walk humbly with thy God
(Deut. 10:12-13)
Matt. 9:13, 12:7- mercy

James 1:27 tells us what "pure religion" is," Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world."
Wow, it says right there to visit these two (fatherless and widows- basically abandoned people) in their affliction. It doesn't say to try to get them into your station of life so you can fellowship. It says, visit them in their affliction. I disagree with the tone of the original statement that the homeless are the most reached people, and I don't really see in Scripture where our mission field is really much else.
Maybe God has done a miracle in me, but I love every chance I get to minister to the homeless. They are much easier to show their need of God. It's much more difficult to convince an affluent person that they actually have a need that they can NEVER fulfill.
I hope this study has shown you what God thinks about "sacrifices", and religion.

I'll never be "normal"

First of all, let me say that I do not intend to post every day. I am posting things that are on my heart, and need to be put down in words. Time may go by between postings, but as things come into my heart, they will be posted. I almost can't think of anything else until the words are written, so please understand.
What if you say, my past is so messed up, I can never be "normal"? I think these thoughts come to many, and I want to write about how to come out of destructive experiences and mindsets that plague us. When I was a young adult and first living out of my parents' home, I would tell stories and talk to my co-workers about my life experiences. I never realized before I saw the shocked looks on their faces that my life was not "normal".
I grew up in a home with an alcoholic father, and this affected my life. My experiences and mindsets were different from other people. Things that come normally to me were not normal for other people. I began my quest for understanding at a time when I was not walking with the Lord. I don't know how it would have been different if I had done all of my "processing" with Him instead of half with and half without, but I can't go back. I went to a family counselor in my mid-twenties and began talking to her about things before my marriage broke up. She recommended a few books to me on Adult children of alcoholics. I read one that changed my life. I started to see where some of my destructive behavior was coming from. I was beginning to see how my experience of living with an alcoholic shaped my life. Thankfully, I have never been a "blamer" and I used this information to change, not to blame.
If you do tend to be a blamer, I encourage you to remember that you alone are responsible for your choices. Your circumstances may have been tough, but today as an adult, you have a choice. The choice may be harder for you to make because of your previous circumstance, but nonetheless, you must take responsibility for your choices. I urge you to ask your friends for prayer about this, and press in to the Lord for the grace to make changes. I will speak more to this later.
When I was going through a divorce, I found another counselor. I will tell you at this point that both women primarily let me talk, and asked questions to help me clarify my thoughts. I thank God that I did not get bogged down in Psychology, because I believe that psychology tends to muddy the waters and bring more bondage than freedom. If you look at the very origin of psychology, you will begin to see why a Christian MUST be very careful about adopting a mentality that aligns with psychology. We are to depend on God, trust in Him fully. We aren't to find our own solutions or lean on our own understanding. I can't go into this more fully at this time, because that is not my focus for this post.
When I did come back to the Lord, I was plagued by the same things as I was before. I had many problems with my emotions, and dealing with relationships. I was a very critical person, who held people to high standards and did not cut any slack for people. I was harsh and unforgiving and had a hard time staying in relationship with people. I was constantly involved in "drama" with people and had many with whom I was in contention. I could never disagree without a loud argument, and never allowed others to express their opinion without judgment from me. I do not see myself as the same person today, and hopefully neither do you. God has worked countless miracles in my life, in part, because of my obedience to Him.
So, as a new Christian, I didn't know how to change my life. I think the first step towards my freedom was honesty. I was very honest about my life, past and present and didn't hide things when talking to other people. Fortunately for me, this came naturally. For others, a life lived hiding the truth may have ingrained a deep habit of not telling the truth. Again, I urge you to seek the Lord. If you can't be honest with anyone else, be honest with Him. He knows your thoughts and intents anyway, why hide from Him? I love the Psalms because David held nothing back from the Lord. I read some Psalms and cringe because of some of the things David says in them, but the fact that he could say them to God gives us an example. God is faithful. No human will ever be perfect, but He is. No matter what your life experience, no matter how many people have let you down, God says in Hebrews 13:5, 6 "...for he hath said, I will never leave thee nor forsake thee. SO THAT we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me."
When I began to speak out to my friends, someone recommended a teaching to me. I will name that teaching, but not because I think it is the only answer. I will tell you what God used in my life, and tell you that if you seek Him, he will show you what He will use in your life. The first teaching I listened to was "The Root of Rejection" by Joyce Meyer. I find her teachings to be based solely on the Bible, and her style was something I could appreciate and relate to so that it was effective in my life. Her testimony is powerful. But let me also say that there are many people who speak to hurting women, some that I have read include Beth Moore, and T.D. Jakes. There are probably many more out there, this is why you have to seek God first. He knows where you are, where you've been and what would most minister life to you.
God has used teachings, music, fiction and just good God-fearing friends to bring healing and deliverance to my life. Don't limit God by deciding that something is not "spiritual" enough. I also believe that just reading the Word of God will bring much healing and deliverance. John 15:3 says, "Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you." He goes on in that chapter to say that you cannot bear fruit unless you abide in Him, so we must make the Bible and prayer our first avenue of help.
I think if Saul could become Paul and go on to write most of the New Testament, if Peter could deny Jesus three times in one night, and go on to be another key figure in the first church, then you and I can overcome our past and walk in the light as He is in the light. I believe that our past does not have to define us, but I also think Jesus asked a powerful question to the man by the pool of Bethesda. In Jn 5:6 Jesus asks the man, "Wilt thou be made whole?" And I think that this is a question we must ask ourselves. I heard a sermon on this once, and it just came alive for me. The pastor asked, Do you want to be well? You may have to give up your disabled placard, and park further away from the store. You will have to give up any excuse you have for not doing things. So, you must ask yourself- Do I want to be well? Even if it means I can no longer be unforgiving? Even if it means that people will have more of an ability to hurt me? Do I trust God enough to take care of me that I will chose to be vulnerable and be well?
I think sometimes we feel comfortable with what we know. Whether it be good or bad, we are comfortable with our circumstance. Our thoughts can be, Okay, so maybe I'm not successful, but no one is walking all over me. Maybe I'm not happy all the time, but I'm not being taken advantage of. It's scary to change. It's scary if you're the only one in your circumstance that is willing to change. But I say unto you that the God who created you is "able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us," (Eph 3:20)
Think for a moment about God. Read Genesis 1 and 2. God spoke and the world in its entirety came into being. Not only the things, but in perfectness so that it survives even today. It says that he SET the sun and moon into the firmament of heaven, and he SET the stars also. He created every animal throughout the food chain. And in Gen 2, God formed us out of the dust of the ground. Imagine Him bending down and gently scooping up the dirt to form us. Then bringing it to His mouth and breathing into is the very breath of life. This is the God who will fight for you, if you belong to His family.
So, I believe that no matter what your previous life circumstance, God is able to deliver you, and that you can produce godly fruit. I also believe that the pursuit of this deliverance DOES NOT have to consume the rest of your life. What good does it do the body of Christ or the world if you can never come to a place of life? Jesus said to Peter in Luke 22:31, 32 "Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren." Jesus told him that there was a progression, when thou art converted strengthen thy brethren. If Peter had taken many years to find his healing and deliverance do you think he would have been at Pentecost in Acts 2? Would he have given that great sermon? Would he have impacted the kingdom of God in the same way that he did?
I think one of the byproducts of psychology is that we are now "searching". We are searching for answers, for healing, for understanding of things that God may not want us to ever understand. I do not see digging into our past as Biblical. Read the gospels and note how Jesus healed and delivered. It was brief and to the point and the people moved on with their lives. I am no longer in a place of seeking healing or deliverance of my past. And this has caused many to not even know what I've been through unless they hear my testimony. And, I think this is Biblical. As followers of Jesus, we are to be so close to Him that we begin to take on His characteristics. The actual definition of disciple in the vines dictionary is a follower, but it implies imitating the teacher. How well do I speak of the power of Christ if I walk around defeated, and bearing the mark of my past without Christ? I speak of a God who cannot transform, who cannot overcome my past. This will not draw the world to Him! But, when you hear about my life, and you see the differences that Christ has made in me, you will be drawn to this Christ who can change a harsh, unforgiving woman into a woman who loves people. My life will give you hope that Christ can do the same in you. And He can, and WILL if you allow Him to do it.

Practically speaking

Okay, so you've made a decision to be a disciple of Christ, but what exactly does that mean? "Church" people can throw around a lot of terms that mean nothing to the average person, so I'd like to tell you from my life how I go about following Jesus. If you have ever said, "I just feel like there's something blocking me from God", I think this will help you.
First of all, let me tell you a little about my background. I was raised in a Christian home where we went to church and I also attended Christian schools. I was exposed to the Bible from early on, and in fact belonged to the now defunct Bible Memory Association. I can honestly tell you that most of my childhood exposure to the Bible was from a purely obedience stand point. And, because I went to very conservative schools which focused strongly on rules, I didn't really "get" what was the big deal about being a Christian. I never was exposed to the idea that I could/should have a personal relationship with God, or that through learning about Him I would choose not to indulge in the things of the world. I've never quite figured out how I missed all of this, why no one ever told me about a personal relationship.
As a young adult, I decided that Christianity wasn't helping my life at all, so I struck out on my own. I didn't go to church, I didn't do anything remotely "religious" for years. Until my life was in a shambles. As a single mom, I reconnected through a phone call to my former daycare provider, and she mentioned this lady on TV. Ironically, I had seen this woman on in the middle of the night, but after the conversation decided to seek the show out, not just happen upon it. This woman seemed like she was speaking directly to me. This was the beginning of my journey back to God. I started attending a church with my sister, but my kids didn't really like it, so I was limited in how often I could go. Then, I met my husband, and we attended church together. Life was still pretty touch and go for me, I still had a lot of problems and issues. I couldn't figure out how to fix my life. Then, when a crisis happened, I called the same friend and cried on her shoulder. She asked me how my quiet time was, and I said non-existent. She encouraged me to come back to the Lord, and be in the Bible every day. My turmoil didn't erase overnight, but I can say that I have a firm foundation now.
So, what do I do to encourage my relationship with the Lord now? First thing, I read my Bible. I encourage you to read it cover to cover. Pray before you read and ask God to make his Word come alive to you, and speak to you. When you know God's Word, you can call on the promises given in God's Word at any time. I can't tell you how many times I've started down a wrong road with doubt, fear, anger and the verses I've read and memorized come back and bring me balance to my life. Knowing the Bible helps you stay anchored in God's truth. Like it or not, we live in a time when you can find a teaching to fit your desire around any corner. But, if we are God's children, we need to know HIS truth. I can't tell you how valuable my Bible is to me.
Secondly, I have cut out of my life anything that would distract me from God, or would hurt Him. Just like I would not want my children to purposely do things to hurt me, I don't want to hurt God either. God is a Holy God, and sin is an abomination to Him. It makes Him want to throw up. The first thing that went for me was secular music. I was used to listening to Pop music in the car with my kids, I thought it was a way for me to connect with them. But, as I listened to the words, I knew I had to let it go. Music is a huge drive in my life, and it has great influence over me. I could probably play "Name That Tune" with the best of you. But, I began to realize that the songs were distracting me from God, and hurting Him as well. The interesting thing is, that now my kids talk about the music in youth group and say, "You have that song on your CD, Mom." My son has downloaded many songs from my library to his IPOD. I am being blessed by the fact that my kids CHOOSE to listen to Christian music now. I heard a friend say that she listens to secular love songs with her husband. She doesn't feel it's wrong, and has never felt convicted about it. I took HER permission and tried it out for myself. I made a whole CD of love songs and played it for my husband, and all I could think of was how wrong the lyrics to the songs were. I CAN live without my husband. HE IS NOT my only happiness. Not in a bad or mean way, but the lyrics just screamed out their error at me. This story proves that the Holy Ghost is personal. What's ok for me, may be totally wrong for you. Please use much prayer when deciding these things. In fact, let God do all the leading. If you are seeking Him with all your heart, He'll show you what needs to change.
Just as quickly as the music went, I was convicted about my reading material. I am also an avid reader. I'll read one paperback per day if I'm left to my own devices. I was reading popular fiction which did not glorify God. I determined to read Christian fiction from that point forward.
These are areas that God worked in me. He literally took away the desire for these things. Just because I feel this strongly about these things doesn't mean they have to become "rules" or "laws" to you, but honestly....I've cut out a lot of things just because they don't PROMOTE my relationship with Jesus. Think about it, how many things in your life don't promote your relationship with God? Movies, hobbies, books, magazines, lifestyles, values, music, these are just a few examples of things to look at in your life.
I also stopped drinking alcohol of any kind. At this point in my life, I wasn't really drinking much of anything- just some wine coolers or maybe a beer every once in a while. But again, I felt that it was something that wasn't necessary, and it was not promoting my relationship with God. I was determined not to keep going down the same dead end road I had been on for years. I walk past things in the store now, and really have no desire for them anymore. For me, it's like the song says, Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.
Try looking at the situation differently. Don't look at all the things you CAN'T do. Look at what a sacrifice Jesus made for you, so that you could have eternal life. Then live worthy of that sacrifice.
Now, I have kids. I have 3 teenagers. And it's hard to teach them about life without making it all about rules. I make an effort to talk to them about why we don't do certain things. I try to talk to them about my regrets in life, and show them why I don't want them going down certain roads. I try to talk to them about living a life with fewer regrets than I have. I don't know if it's sinking in with them at all, but I trust in the verse in Proverbs 22:6 "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." That is what happened in my life. My earlier training in God's Word caused me to come back to Him.
Okay, because this blog is purely voluntary I am going to put out some of my recommendations here. Please note that these are my personal preferences, and you may not like them. I just like to give people a starting point to start looking.
My favorite Christian author: Linda Nichols- her books are complex, they deal with real life and do not make Christianity into useless platitudes. I have learned much from her books.
I referred to two books in my last post, Though None Go With Me, and also Pilgrims Progress. These are both great books for anyone to read. I would add to that In His Steps by Charles Sheldon. Another book that changed my perspective.
I would also recommend the author Francine Rivers. I would caution you that she tackles some really tough subjects, sexual abuse, abortion, etc. and some books may be tough for some people to read. As a woman who has been abused, I found Redeeming Love to be a book I've read many times. I personally, needed to see that God does wait for us. That He is always there ready to take us back. I got some great healing from that book.
Do not be surprised if God speaks to you through fiction books. I believe that truth can be said in a novel and move your heart and soul in a way that preaching or teaching cannot. Fiction bypasses the brain, and in reading we can accept challenges and admonitions that we could not accept any other way. I have received much healing and deliverance through books.
As far as music goes, I live with worship music. I work out to worship on my IPOD, I play worship in my car, I play worship as I clean my house. Like I said, music is vital in my life. At this point, Lincoln Brewster is popular with me, as well as Ross Parsley and New Life Church. Although that church has been through much in the past year with their pastor stepping out of ministry, God's hand is on their worship! I love to see how God restores!!
If you are looking for more quiet worship, Brian Doerkson's Holy God is on my list right now, and also Michael Neale. He's a new artist who is a worship leader in TN. His song Beautiful King reflects my heart towards God.
I hope this nuts and bolts discussion helps someone who may not know exactly what "have your quiet time" means. I've been there, I understand.