1 Thess 5:16-18
16 Be joyful always; 17 pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. -NIV
I read a sign the other day that said, "the simplest form of Joy is gratitude."
Want to start your day out with a smile and lifted spirit? Take time to be grateful. Pause for a moment and tell God thanks for all of the many wonderful things in your life.
Yeah, I know that all of us could list the "not so good" things but guess what? There is no joy there!
Trust me, just a few moments spent telling God thanks for all the many blessings in your life and you will be on your way to a day filled with gratitude and joy.
Oh and the other "not so good" things, don't worry, God will give you grace for those as well!
Blessings,
Darren
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Grab a Shovel
Matt 17:20
20 He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." –NIV
God desires to produce in us mountain moving faith and expectancy. Jesus made it clear that nothing is impossible to God. As our faith grows in God so does our ability to see mountains moved in our lives, our church our community and our world.
So I ask a question…who moves the mountain? God? Us? Both! God moves mountains through believers that will trust and follow Him. God uses the obedience of His children, empowered by His Spirit to do the impossible.
James 2:17
17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. –NIV
See any mountains needing moved? In your life, our church, our community, our world? GRAB A SHOVEL and ask God to empower you by His Spirit to be a mountain mover!
Blessings,
Darren
20 He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." –NIV
God desires to produce in us mountain moving faith and expectancy. Jesus made it clear that nothing is impossible to God. As our faith grows in God so does our ability to see mountains moved in our lives, our church our community and our world.
So I ask a question…who moves the mountain? God? Us? Both! God moves mountains through believers that will trust and follow Him. God uses the obedience of His children, empowered by His Spirit to do the impossible.
James 2:17
17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. –NIV
See any mountains needing moved? In your life, our church, our community, our world? GRAB A SHOVEL and ask God to empower you by His Spirit to be a mountain mover!
Blessings,
Darren
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Believed not Explained
"One of these days some simple soul will pick up the Book of God, read it and believe it. Then the rest of us will be embarrassed" – Leonard Ravenhill
Christianity is a message to be believed not dissected. The power of Christianity is not found in sharp intellect or quick whit but rather a burning heart.
Ever find yourself trying to explain the Word of God, hoping you can make people understand, only to finish feeling frustrated??? So often we start with the head (endless attempts at explanation and convincing) and it never moves to the heart (faith and belief), therefore it doesn't manifest into obedience in their life. We live for Christ from our heart. Perhaps this is why Jesus told us that so often our barrier to receiving from him is our need to become like children. Children live from their heart (belief). So often as adults we try to live from our head (knowledge).
The ability to quote scripture, teach without error, move in religious motion does not mean there is BELIEF. You can believe without fully understanding but you can understand and not believe! There are many things I still do not fully understand about God but believe - such as His grace in my life, the work of the Holy Spirit, His sovereignty, the list is endless!!! If I can only believe what I can explain I won't have faith for most of what God wants to do in my life!
I don't think the woman with the issue of blood understood how God would heal her but she believed. I don't think Peter really understood how Christ would turn him from a fisher of fish to a fisher of men but he believed. I don't think the thief on the cross understood how he would see Jesus in paradise that day but he believed. Don't misunderstand me we have a logic, we have a knowledge, but it is not from our head, but rather birthed from the Spirit of God in us (I Cor 2)
I encourage you...let open your heart. Let people see your passion, feel your love, sense your belief. This is the great need in church today. Let's dare to simply BELIEVE God's Word, and if we are in need let us join with the apostles in asking, "Lord, increase our faith!" (not our knowledge)
Blessings,
Darren
Christianity is a message to be believed not dissected. The power of Christianity is not found in sharp intellect or quick whit but rather a burning heart.
Ever find yourself trying to explain the Word of God, hoping you can make people understand, only to finish feeling frustrated??? So often we start with the head (endless attempts at explanation and convincing) and it never moves to the heart (faith and belief), therefore it doesn't manifest into obedience in their life. We live for Christ from our heart. Perhaps this is why Jesus told us that so often our barrier to receiving from him is our need to become like children. Children live from their heart (belief). So often as adults we try to live from our head (knowledge).
The ability to quote scripture, teach without error, move in religious motion does not mean there is BELIEF. You can believe without fully understanding but you can understand and not believe! There are many things I still do not fully understand about God but believe - such as His grace in my life, the work of the Holy Spirit, His sovereignty, the list is endless!!! If I can only believe what I can explain I won't have faith for most of what God wants to do in my life!
I don't think the woman with the issue of blood understood how God would heal her but she believed. I don't think Peter really understood how Christ would turn him from a fisher of fish to a fisher of men but he believed. I don't think the thief on the cross understood how he would see Jesus in paradise that day but he believed. Don't misunderstand me we have a logic, we have a knowledge, but it is not from our head, but rather birthed from the Spirit of God in us (I Cor 2)
I encourage you...let open your heart. Let people see your passion, feel your love, sense your belief. This is the great need in church today. Let's dare to simply BELIEVE God's Word, and if we are in need let us join with the apostles in asking, "Lord, increase our faith!" (not our knowledge)
Blessings,
Darren
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
WIN / WIN
Dan 3:16-18
16 Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. 18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up." –NIV
We all know the story. Nebuchadnezzar has demanded that everyone bow down and worship the image of gold he has set up. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego flatly refuse. Things went from bad to worse. The furnace is heated up seven times hotter than normal and then the gauntlet is laid down – worship or burn.
How can this be a win / win situation?
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego’s priority wasn’t their circumstances but their faith. Regardless of circumstances, whether good or bad, their determination was to honor, love and serve God. If that meant being delivered from the fire...wonderful, but if it meant being thrown into the flames, then so be it. Either way these young men had made up their mind what the priority of their lives would be…honoring God. Nothing or no one could take that away from them. No matter what, they could not lose. Miraculously delivered…we will declare the power of our God. Thrown in the furnace…we will testify to the faithfulness of our God. Either way…Win / Win.
Paul states it this way to the Philippians…
Phil 4:12-13
12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
I encourage you today as a believer to remember that your priority is to honor God. Nothing or no one can keep you from that so no matter what you face today, miraculous deliverance or a burning furnace, remember its WIN / WIN!
Blessings,
Darren
16 Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. 18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up." –NIV
We all know the story. Nebuchadnezzar has demanded that everyone bow down and worship the image of gold he has set up. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego flatly refuse. Things went from bad to worse. The furnace is heated up seven times hotter than normal and then the gauntlet is laid down – worship or burn.
How can this be a win / win situation?
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego’s priority wasn’t their circumstances but their faith. Regardless of circumstances, whether good or bad, their determination was to honor, love and serve God. If that meant being delivered from the fire...wonderful, but if it meant being thrown into the flames, then so be it. Either way these young men had made up their mind what the priority of their lives would be…honoring God. Nothing or no one could take that away from them. No matter what, they could not lose. Miraculously delivered…we will declare the power of our God. Thrown in the furnace…we will testify to the faithfulness of our God. Either way…Win / Win.
Paul states it this way to the Philippians…
Phil 4:12-13
12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
I encourage you today as a believer to remember that your priority is to honor God. Nothing or no one can keep you from that so no matter what you face today, miraculous deliverance or a burning furnace, remember its WIN / WIN!
Blessings,
Darren
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
In Love with a Man
1 Peter 1:8-9
8 Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy,-NIV
I’m a grown man in love with a man. Crazier than that is that it is a man I have never seen! It baffles my mind at times. He is more real to me than anything that I can physically see, touch or smell. He consumes my thoughts, fills my dreams and stirs my soul. Paul writes of his passion for Christ…
Phil 3:8-10
8 What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9 …10 I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, -
Both Paul and Peter write to remind us that Christ is the message of Christianity. To have any other focus is to miss the mark completely. Jesus himself made it clear.
John 15:5-6
5 "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.- NIV
One day I will see this man that saved my soul nearly 20 years ago, has filled my heart everyday since and guides my path into tomorrow. What a day that will be…
Rev 22:12-13
12 "Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. 13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. - NIV
For today, I remain in love with a man I have not seen. Yet this love is more real than anything thing else in my life. While I wait patiently, I also join in prayer with the Apostle John…
Rev 22:20
Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. –NIV
How about you?
Blessings,
Darren
8 Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy,-NIV
I’m a grown man in love with a man. Crazier than that is that it is a man I have never seen! It baffles my mind at times. He is more real to me than anything that I can physically see, touch or smell. He consumes my thoughts, fills my dreams and stirs my soul. Paul writes of his passion for Christ…
Phil 3:8-10
8 What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9 …10 I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, -
Both Paul and Peter write to remind us that Christ is the message of Christianity. To have any other focus is to miss the mark completely. Jesus himself made it clear.
John 15:5-6
5 "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.- NIV
One day I will see this man that saved my soul nearly 20 years ago, has filled my heart everyday since and guides my path into tomorrow. What a day that will be…
Rev 22:12-13
12 "Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. 13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. - NIV
For today, I remain in love with a man I have not seen. Yet this love is more real than anything thing else in my life. While I wait patiently, I also join in prayer with the Apostle John…
Rev 22:20
Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. –NIV
How about you?
Blessings,
Darren
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Boomerang Effect
Ex 32:1
32 When the people saw that Moses was so long in coming down from the mountain, they gathered around Aaron and said, "Come, make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we don't know what has happened to him." -NIV
It takes longer to get the Egypt out of people than the people out of Egypt! The Lord had delivered His people. They were no longer physical slaves of Egypt. They were out of Egypt physically but Egypt was not yet out of them. Each time the Israelites were in trouble, afraid or challenged their natural tendency was to revert back to their old ways, old habits, old mindsets.
Paul dealt with this same situation as he instructs the believers in Galatia
Gal 4:9-10
9 But now that you know God — or rather are known by God — how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable principles? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again? NIV
Change has a boomerang effect. Unless you keep on top of change, refusing to revert back, continuing to push forward the natural pull of change will draw you back to the beginning. Change isn’t change until it is change. Change is more than a decision; it is a process of transformation. You can get out of Egypt but it takes a while to get Egypt out of you.
Rom 12:2
2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will. –NIV
Don’t retreat. Press forward. Don’t let the boomerang bring you back. Let Christ form in you until there is permanent, life giving change
Gal 4:19-20
19 My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you,- NIV
Remember…
Gal 5:1
5 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. – NIV
Blessings,
Darren
32 When the people saw that Moses was so long in coming down from the mountain, they gathered around Aaron and said, "Come, make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we don't know what has happened to him." -NIV
It takes longer to get the Egypt out of people than the people out of Egypt! The Lord had delivered His people. They were no longer physical slaves of Egypt. They were out of Egypt physically but Egypt was not yet out of them. Each time the Israelites were in trouble, afraid or challenged their natural tendency was to revert back to their old ways, old habits, old mindsets.
Paul dealt with this same situation as he instructs the believers in Galatia
Gal 4:9-10
9 But now that you know God — or rather are known by God — how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable principles? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again? NIV
Change has a boomerang effect. Unless you keep on top of change, refusing to revert back, continuing to push forward the natural pull of change will draw you back to the beginning. Change isn’t change until it is change. Change is more than a decision; it is a process of transformation. You can get out of Egypt but it takes a while to get Egypt out of you.
Rom 12:2
2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will. –NIV
Don’t retreat. Press forward. Don’t let the boomerang bring you back. Let Christ form in you until there is permanent, life giving change
Gal 4:19-20
19 My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you,- NIV
Remember…
Gal 5:1
5 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. – NIV
Blessings,
Darren
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
God's Ingredients for a Miracle
Heb 11:1-2
11 Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. -NIV
We are called to be a people of faith. Faith is what God wants us to have in Him. So much so that the book of Hebrews goes on to say that without faith it is impossible to please God. Faith is to be rooted in God’s ability to work for good in our lives according to His plan and purposes. Faith in the provision and power of our God to do in us and through us exactly what He desires.
Are you in need of a miracle? Are you in a circumstance or situation beyond your control, beyond your ability, beyond your power? Guess what…you may have all the ingredients necessary for God to do a miracle. What are the ingredients?
Heb 11:3
3 By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. –NIV
NOTHING.
What does God need to create something miraculous in our life…NOTHING. In fact, often times I believe we still have too much; to many options, to many opinions, to many alternative solutions left that get in the way of God’s miraculous provision in our life.
Are you at rock bottom? Are you out of options? Are you beyond your resources or your wisdom? Are you at NOTHING? Guess what, you have everything God needs for a miracle!
2 Cor 4:18
18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. - NIV
Remember, our faith is in God, nothing else. With God you have all things, even if you have nothing. With all things, you have nothing without God.
2 Cor 5:7-8
7 We live by faith, not by sight. –NIV
Blessings,
Darren
11 Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. -NIV
We are called to be a people of faith. Faith is what God wants us to have in Him. So much so that the book of Hebrews goes on to say that without faith it is impossible to please God. Faith is to be rooted in God’s ability to work for good in our lives according to His plan and purposes. Faith in the provision and power of our God to do in us and through us exactly what He desires.
Are you in need of a miracle? Are you in a circumstance or situation beyond your control, beyond your ability, beyond your power? Guess what…you may have all the ingredients necessary for God to do a miracle. What are the ingredients?
Heb 11:3
3 By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. –NIV
NOTHING.
What does God need to create something miraculous in our life…NOTHING. In fact, often times I believe we still have too much; to many options, to many opinions, to many alternative solutions left that get in the way of God’s miraculous provision in our life.
Are you at rock bottom? Are you out of options? Are you beyond your resources or your wisdom? Are you at NOTHING? Guess what, you have everything God needs for a miracle!
2 Cor 4:18
18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. - NIV
Remember, our faith is in God, nothing else. With God you have all things, even if you have nothing. With all things, you have nothing without God.
2 Cor 5:7-8
7 We live by faith, not by sight. –NIV
Blessings,
Darren
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
By My Spirit
Zech 4:6
6 So he said to me, "This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: 'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the Lord Almighty. – NIV
Though this message was spoken to Zerubbabel, it applies to all believers (2 Tim 3:16). As a follower of Christ we are to resist trying to do things in our own strength and instead rely on and depend upon God’s Spirit through us. Keen intellect, political maneuvering, or human strength cannot accomplish God’s work; we can only do His work if we are enabled by the Holy Spirit.
Jesus entered his ministry in the power of the Spirit (Lk. 4:1, 18) and the church was empowered by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 1:8). Only if the Spirit continues to govern and empower our lives will we accomplish God’s will for us; this is why Jesus baptizes his followers in the Holy Spirit
Luke 3:16-17
16 John answered them all, "I baptize you with water. But one more powerful than I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. – NIV
For most believers the greatest need is NOT to try harder, do more or plan better. These are human endeavors done with human power. The greater need is a FRESH outpouring and infilling of God’s Spirit in their lives.
Resist the temptation to pursue Spiritual matters by mere human effort. Instead, get away for seasons of prayer, renew yourself in God’s Word and wait for God’s presence fresh and new in your life.
Acts 3:19
19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, - NIV
Remember, God wants to do MORE in you than you can ask or imagine BUT it is through HIS POWER by HIS SPIRIT, not yours…
Eph 3:20-21
20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, - NIV
Have a GREAT week!
Blessings,
Darren
6 So he said to me, "This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: 'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the Lord Almighty. – NIV
Though this message was spoken to Zerubbabel, it applies to all believers (2 Tim 3:16). As a follower of Christ we are to resist trying to do things in our own strength and instead rely on and depend upon God’s Spirit through us. Keen intellect, political maneuvering, or human strength cannot accomplish God’s work; we can only do His work if we are enabled by the Holy Spirit.
Jesus entered his ministry in the power of the Spirit (Lk. 4:1, 18) and the church was empowered by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 1:8). Only if the Spirit continues to govern and empower our lives will we accomplish God’s will for us; this is why Jesus baptizes his followers in the Holy Spirit
Luke 3:16-17
16 John answered them all, "I baptize you with water. But one more powerful than I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. – NIV
For most believers the greatest need is NOT to try harder, do more or plan better. These are human endeavors done with human power. The greater need is a FRESH outpouring and infilling of God’s Spirit in their lives.
Resist the temptation to pursue Spiritual matters by mere human effort. Instead, get away for seasons of prayer, renew yourself in God’s Word and wait for God’s presence fresh and new in your life.
Acts 3:19
19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, - NIV
Remember, God wants to do MORE in you than you can ask or imagine BUT it is through HIS POWER by HIS SPIRIT, not yours…
Eph 3:20-21
20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, - NIV
Have a GREAT week!
Blessings,
Darren
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Faith is a Verb
FAITH IS A VERB
"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him" Heb 11:6
Faith is a verb not a noun. Faith is an action not a possession. There is a world of difference between those who talk faith and those who take action. God desires us to step out in faith (or action) for His kingdom and His purposes. In fact, scripture says if we want our life to be pleasing to God we must be stepping out in faith.
This means that you and I can be a good moral person, do what is expected - read our Bible, go to church, mind our P's and Q's, and even serve our community...but if we are not living by faith, you and I may not be very pleasing to God.
I believe everyone's Christian life is marked by windows of opportunity that demand a radical step of faith in order to follow Christ and fulfill His purpose. Our walk with Christ is defined by our response to such opportunities - will we step out in faith or shrink back?
"But my righteous one will live by faith. And if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him" Heb 10:38
Where do you sense God challenging you to step out in faith? There is no "diet" Christianity. God wants us, expects us, to break out of our comfort zones and take radical steps of faith that bring Him glory and build His Kingdom.
Remember, risk is different for everyone. What one calls risk may mean little to someone else or vice versa. Faith can not be defined by measuring ourselves to others.
I encourage you to make a decision to please God. Be willing to take a risk for God's Glory and step out of your comfort zone for His Kingdom.
Remember, Faith is a verb, not a noun!
Blessings,
Darren
"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him" Heb 11:6
Faith is a verb not a noun. Faith is an action not a possession. There is a world of difference between those who talk faith and those who take action. God desires us to step out in faith (or action) for His kingdom and His purposes. In fact, scripture says if we want our life to be pleasing to God we must be stepping out in faith.
This means that you and I can be a good moral person, do what is expected - read our Bible, go to church, mind our P's and Q's, and even serve our community...but if we are not living by faith, you and I may not be very pleasing to God.
I believe everyone's Christian life is marked by windows of opportunity that demand a radical step of faith in order to follow Christ and fulfill His purpose. Our walk with Christ is defined by our response to such opportunities - will we step out in faith or shrink back?
"But my righteous one will live by faith. And if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him" Heb 10:38
Where do you sense God challenging you to step out in faith? There is no "diet" Christianity. God wants us, expects us, to break out of our comfort zones and take radical steps of faith that bring Him glory and build His Kingdom.
Remember, risk is different for everyone. What one calls risk may mean little to someone else or vice versa. Faith can not be defined by measuring ourselves to others.
I encourage you to make a decision to please God. Be willing to take a risk for God's Glory and step out of your comfort zone for His Kingdom.
Remember, Faith is a verb, not a noun!
Blessings,
Darren
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Inward Strength
Eph 3:14-19
14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge - that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
One of God’s greatest promises is to strengthen our inner being. The core, or foundation, of our life becoming firmly rooted in Him. A deep foundation gives strength to face and overcome any and all storms in life.
Matt 7:24-27
24 "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash." - NIV
God may not remove all our storms but He will ALWAYS strengthen our foundation! Rest assured God wants to INCREASE our grip on Him. Weary? Stressed? Weak? Ready to give up? Lost and looking for direction? Determine to strengthen your grip on CHRIST!
Set aside time for PRAYER. Read and MEDITATE on God’s Word.
The provision, promises and resources from God’s Word and Spirit stand ready to strengthen you today in your inner being!
Have a great week!
Blessings,
Darren
14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge - that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
One of God’s greatest promises is to strengthen our inner being. The core, or foundation, of our life becoming firmly rooted in Him. A deep foundation gives strength to face and overcome any and all storms in life.
Matt 7:24-27
24 "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash." - NIV
God may not remove all our storms but He will ALWAYS strengthen our foundation! Rest assured God wants to INCREASE our grip on Him. Weary? Stressed? Weak? Ready to give up? Lost and looking for direction? Determine to strengthen your grip on CHRIST!
Set aside time for PRAYER. Read and MEDITATE on God’s Word.
The provision, promises and resources from God’s Word and Spirit stand ready to strengthen you today in your inner being!
Have a great week!
Blessings,
Darren
Monday, June 6, 2011
Simple...but not easy
1 Thess 5:16-18
16 Be joyful always; 17 pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
Some of the most profound things God prescribes in His Word for His Children are the most simple. Not simple as in easy, but practical. Be Joyful, Pray Continually, Give Thanks in all circumstances. Simple…but not easy!
Paul understands that the devil’s number one weapon against believers is their mind. What we think on, dwell on, how you perceive yourself, others, your circumstances has a direct impact on your faith and life. A mind focused on the negative will produce fear, doubt and confusion. All of which moves us away from faith and away from God’s will for our lives.
Consider the words of Jesus…
John 16:33
33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
The point? Even Jesus himself has told us that in this life there will always be something to complain about.
Paul’s instructions to us are not because everything is perfect BUT because everything is not perfect. Giving Thanks reminds you & I to keep our minds on what is good and positive which for all of us is a whole lot more than what is bad! I encourage you to begin and end your day with the practice of Giving Thanks for all the blessings in your life. Resist the tendency to complain.
One more encouraging verse from Paul (which he wrote while in prison!)…
Phil 4:4-7
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Stay in God’s Will…be joyful, pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances!
Blessings,
Darren
16 Be joyful always; 17 pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
Some of the most profound things God prescribes in His Word for His Children are the most simple. Not simple as in easy, but practical. Be Joyful, Pray Continually, Give Thanks in all circumstances. Simple…but not easy!
Paul understands that the devil’s number one weapon against believers is their mind. What we think on, dwell on, how you perceive yourself, others, your circumstances has a direct impact on your faith and life. A mind focused on the negative will produce fear, doubt and confusion. All of which moves us away from faith and away from God’s will for our lives.
Consider the words of Jesus…
John 16:33
33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
The point? Even Jesus himself has told us that in this life there will always be something to complain about.
Paul’s instructions to us are not because everything is perfect BUT because everything is not perfect. Giving Thanks reminds you & I to keep our minds on what is good and positive which for all of us is a whole lot more than what is bad! I encourage you to begin and end your day with the practice of Giving Thanks for all the blessings in your life. Resist the tendency to complain.
One more encouraging verse from Paul (which he wrote while in prison!)…
Phil 4:4-7
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Stay in God’s Will…be joyful, pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances!
Blessings,
Darren
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Begin Again
Phil 2:1-2
2 If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.
Perhaps often the main problem in the Christian life is not that we don’t try hard enough to be good but that we haven’t believed the Gospel and received its finished reality into all parts of our life. To often, we miss understand the Gospel by spending to much time thinking about ourselves and what we need to do rather than Jesus and what He has already done.
Oftentimes we misunderstand spiritual progress by measuring our own effort or lack there of. Focusing on the quality of our works or our stand against sin places the focus off of Christ and on to ourselves. The focus of the Gospel, the beauty of the Gospel, the power of the Gospel is not in us and our efforts but in Christ and His finished work!
Believing again and again the Gospel of God’s free justifying grace everyday is the spiritual progress we are called to. Spiritual growth is returning to the beginning over and over again! Meditating on, thinking on, and receiving the fullness of Christ and His Work in your life.
Martin Luther wrote, “It is not imitation that makes sons; it is sonship that makes imitators.” Once the Gospel frees you from having to do anything for Jesus, you will want to do everything for Jesus.
Desire spiritual progress in your life? Go back to the beginning. Meditate on Christ –His life, His message, His work. Marvel at His grace, the power of His name, the completeness of His work. Believe and receive all that Christ has done, that is the Gospel.
Once you have done that again and again, what are you going to do now that you do not have to do anything? That is Spiritual Progress!
Blessings,
Darren
2 If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.
Perhaps often the main problem in the Christian life is not that we don’t try hard enough to be good but that we haven’t believed the Gospel and received its finished reality into all parts of our life. To often, we miss understand the Gospel by spending to much time thinking about ourselves and what we need to do rather than Jesus and what He has already done.
Oftentimes we misunderstand spiritual progress by measuring our own effort or lack there of. Focusing on the quality of our works or our stand against sin places the focus off of Christ and on to ourselves. The focus of the Gospel, the beauty of the Gospel, the power of the Gospel is not in us and our efforts but in Christ and His finished work!
Believing again and again the Gospel of God’s free justifying grace everyday is the spiritual progress we are called to. Spiritual growth is returning to the beginning over and over again! Meditating on, thinking on, and receiving the fullness of Christ and His Work in your life.
Martin Luther wrote, “It is not imitation that makes sons; it is sonship that makes imitators.” Once the Gospel frees you from having to do anything for Jesus, you will want to do everything for Jesus.
Desire spiritual progress in your life? Go back to the beginning. Meditate on Christ –His life, His message, His work. Marvel at His grace, the power of His name, the completeness of His work. Believe and receive all that Christ has done, that is the Gospel.
Once you have done that again and again, what are you going to do now that you do not have to do anything? That is Spiritual Progress!
Blessings,
Darren
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
It's Not What is Happening, It's What's Really Going On
What do you do when you are struggling to understand? When life has more questions than answers? Times where the present is trying and the future is unclear? During a long period of drought, extended time of confusion? In short, what do you do when you do not know what to do? Gain insight and strength today from Job’s progression through difficult circumstances…
Job 6:29
29...for my integrity is at stake.
-Job was careful to realize that what we do when we do not understand speaks volumes about the character of our life.
-Guard yourself. Guard your heart and your tongue. God is watching.
Job 23:10
10 But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.
-Job reminded himself that God sees me even when I do not see Him.
-Though you may feel far from God, He is near to you. Take comfort.
Job 34:10,12
10 “… Far be it from God to do evil, from the Almighty to do wrong.
12 It is unthinkable that God would do wrong, that the Almighty would pervert justice.
-Job resisted the temptation to question the character of God in his frustration with his circumstances.
-This is a slippery slope…do not go there!
Job 42:3
3…Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know.
-After God spoke to Job, Job was reminded…it’s not what’s happening, it’s what’s really going on!
-There is more to the story when we see through eternal eyes!
Hear Paul’s advice when facing disheartening and difficult circumstances…
2 Cor 4:16-18
16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Want to hear more? Visit our website at www.rockag.org and click on the sermon tab to listen to the message It’s Not What’s Happening, But What’s Really Going On
Have a GREAT week!
Blessings,
Pastors Darren & Toyie
Job 6:29
29...for my integrity is at stake.
-Job was careful to realize that what we do when we do not understand speaks volumes about the character of our life.
-Guard yourself. Guard your heart and your tongue. God is watching.
Job 23:10
10 But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.
-Job reminded himself that God sees me even when I do not see Him.
-Though you may feel far from God, He is near to you. Take comfort.
Job 34:10,12
10 “… Far be it from God to do evil, from the Almighty to do wrong.
12 It is unthinkable that God would do wrong, that the Almighty would pervert justice.
-Job resisted the temptation to question the character of God in his frustration with his circumstances.
-This is a slippery slope…do not go there!
Job 42:3
3…Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know.
-After God spoke to Job, Job was reminded…it’s not what’s happening, it’s what’s really going on!
-There is more to the story when we see through eternal eyes!
Hear Paul’s advice when facing disheartening and difficult circumstances…
2 Cor 4:16-18
16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Want to hear more? Visit our website at www.rockag.org and click on the sermon tab to listen to the message It’s Not What’s Happening, But What’s Really Going On
Have a GREAT week!
Blessings,
Pastors Darren & Toyie
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Beyond the Big Event
1 Kings 8:63
63 Solomon offered a sacrifice of fellowship offerings to the Lord: twenty-two thousand cattle and a hundred and twenty thousand sheep and goats. So the king and all the Israelites dedicated the temple of the Lord. –NIV
Wow! It is hard for me to even imagine this scene in my mind. Over a two week period Solomon offered 144,000 sacrifices. Indulge me for a minute as I process this…that is 10,286 sacrifices every day, or 429 sacrifices every hour or 7 sacrifices every minute of every hour of every day for two whole weeks!
What an event. What a sight. What an incredible experience that must have been. A powerful moment and I am sure an incredibly emotional encounter. As humans we tend to migrate to the grandiose, to the spectacular to the big event. Yet, the event was just that – 2 weeks. What happened after the event?
Like many believers today, Solomon burst on the scene shining bright and full of passion. However, like a falling star that shines brightest in the sky for a moment before fading away, so Solomon’s faithfulness diminished after the Big Event. For Solomon it was his lack of consistency that became his downfall. Solomon neglected to put the everyday effort necessary to honor God. He ignored God’s Word, married foreign wives, allowed false worship to creep in and got distracted with worldly pursuits.
Big events, spiritual mountain tops, are great but it is the small decisions, the everyday stuff; the day in, day out consistency of honoring God that determines the legacy of our life. Reflecting back on his life it wasn’t the big events Solomon remembered but rather it was his lament that he wished he would have been consistent with his life…
Eccl 12:13-14
13 Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole [duty] of man. 14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil. – NIV
I encourage you, look beyond the big events of your Christian experience, the spiritual mountain tops, to the small things of your life. Develop consistency in honoring God and there lies the blessings of God!
Blessings,
Darren
63 Solomon offered a sacrifice of fellowship offerings to the Lord: twenty-two thousand cattle and a hundred and twenty thousand sheep and goats. So the king and all the Israelites dedicated the temple of the Lord. –NIV
Wow! It is hard for me to even imagine this scene in my mind. Over a two week period Solomon offered 144,000 sacrifices. Indulge me for a minute as I process this…that is 10,286 sacrifices every day, or 429 sacrifices every hour or 7 sacrifices every minute of every hour of every day for two whole weeks!
What an event. What a sight. What an incredible experience that must have been. A powerful moment and I am sure an incredibly emotional encounter. As humans we tend to migrate to the grandiose, to the spectacular to the big event. Yet, the event was just that – 2 weeks. What happened after the event?
Like many believers today, Solomon burst on the scene shining bright and full of passion. However, like a falling star that shines brightest in the sky for a moment before fading away, so Solomon’s faithfulness diminished after the Big Event. For Solomon it was his lack of consistency that became his downfall. Solomon neglected to put the everyday effort necessary to honor God. He ignored God’s Word, married foreign wives, allowed false worship to creep in and got distracted with worldly pursuits.
Big events, spiritual mountain tops, are great but it is the small decisions, the everyday stuff; the day in, day out consistency of honoring God that determines the legacy of our life. Reflecting back on his life it wasn’t the big events Solomon remembered but rather it was his lament that he wished he would have been consistent with his life…
Eccl 12:13-14
13 Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole [duty] of man. 14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil. – NIV
I encourage you, look beyond the big events of your Christian experience, the spiritual mountain tops, to the small things of your life. Develop consistency in honoring God and there lies the blessings of God!
Blessings,
Darren
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Living FREE
Living FREE
James 3:1-2
2 We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check. –NIV
This past Sunday I spoke on the subject of SHAME. How the devil loves to use shame to keep us from a loving God. Shame distorts our view of ourselves. Shame wrongly says that we ARE what we did. I haven’t made a mistake, I am a mistake. I haven’t done something wrong, I am wrong. I didn’t make a bad decision, I am bad. Shame tries to attach our identity to what has happened.
Shame goes beyond conviction and convinces us we do not deserve to be free. Shame leaves you feeling guilty, terrible, humiliated, embarrassed, unforgiveable, unwanted.
I have news for you today…YOU ARE NOT YOUR SIN! You are God’s Child and as such you are FORGIVABLE, CHANGEABLE, CAPABLE and MOLDABLE!
What is God’s solution to break shame off our life?
1 John 1:9-10
9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. – NIV
COME CLEAN –
Fess up. No denying, no hiding, no blaming others. Fess up…to yourself, to God and to others if necessary. Accept the past. What is done is done. You can not change the past, but God can change the future.
RECEIVE FORGIVENESS
Yes, God loves us that much…more than you love yourself! Here is something else…God knows you are not perfect!. We serve a God that forgives sin
Ps 103:12
12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.
Christ came and died that we might be FORGIVEN. Now that is the Good News of the Gospel!
Blessings,
Darren
James 3:1-2
2 We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check. –NIV
This past Sunday I spoke on the subject of SHAME. How the devil loves to use shame to keep us from a loving God. Shame distorts our view of ourselves. Shame wrongly says that we ARE what we did. I haven’t made a mistake, I am a mistake. I haven’t done something wrong, I am wrong. I didn’t make a bad decision, I am bad. Shame tries to attach our identity to what has happened.
Shame goes beyond conviction and convinces us we do not deserve to be free. Shame leaves you feeling guilty, terrible, humiliated, embarrassed, unforgiveable, unwanted.
I have news for you today…YOU ARE NOT YOUR SIN! You are God’s Child and as such you are FORGIVABLE, CHANGEABLE, CAPABLE and MOLDABLE!
What is God’s solution to break shame off our life?
1 John 1:9-10
9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. – NIV
COME CLEAN –
Fess up. No denying, no hiding, no blaming others. Fess up…to yourself, to God and to others if necessary. Accept the past. What is done is done. You can not change the past, but God can change the future.
RECEIVE FORGIVENESS
Yes, God loves us that much…more than you love yourself! Here is something else…God knows you are not perfect!. We serve a God that forgives sin
Ps 103:12
12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.
Christ came and died that we might be FORGIVEN. Now that is the Good News of the Gospel!
Blessings,
Darren
Monday, April 4, 2011
Small Details
15 Again the Israelites cried out to the Lord, and he gave them a deliverer — Ehud, a left-handed man, the son of Gera the Benjamite. - Judges 3:15
I love the fact that I serve a big God. A God that holds the world in His hand. A God large enough to oversee all the works of mankind without the slightest limitation. A God that knows the beginning from the end. A God that always has a plan that He is working through mankind for His glory and His purpose.
This is what is happening here in our text. God hears the cries of his people as a nation and rises up a leader to deliver them. I love that.
But there is something else that I love about God. He is a God that cares about the small details. He knows us individually. He concerns Himself with even the smallest matters of our lives. Ehud wasn’t just a man, any man, generic in man or personality or individuality. He was a man that God knew personally and took note of. A left handed man.
Remember something today. Yes, God is big. Big enough to handle any and every situation that could ever arise. But God is also personal enough to care about the small details of your life. He knows you. Your heart, your feelings, your preferences, your circumstances, your name. Nothing is too big for Him but neither is anything to small.
Feeling insignificant? Unnoticed among the crowd? Unimportant in this big world?
Not to God. He notices it all and cares deeply about you…about me.
Matt 10:30-31
30 And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
NIV
Blessings,
Darren
Thursday, March 31, 2011
The Unexpected Adventure
1 Peter 3:15
15 But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. –NIV
Today was one of those days that involved running errands. Like most people who have “to do” lists that never seem to get completely done the errands felt more like an irritation to me rather than a break away.
As I was walking down the aisle I saw someone who I had not seen in a while. We stopped and visited. Life has been tough on this person lately and the few words of encouragement lifted his spirit, reminding him of God’s love and reassured him that he was cared about. Supplies picked up, it was time to head to the check out register. There sat a gentleman retirement age, leather skin and tough outer shell. Within a couple minutes of conversation his soft heart was exposed and his story emerged - working a part time job to help support the grandkids now living with him and his wife while his own children and sister’s children are struggling. A familiar story in our day. Some friendly words, an invite to our upcoming Easter Outreach as an opportunity for his family to connect together and an exchange of smiles later I was headed to my car.
On the way to the car I looked at my friend who was with me. We smiled at each other as he said…God sent us here. I set out to run inconvenient errands, God had an UNEXPECTED ADVENTURE.
Now it is late (nearly 7pm) as I prepare to leave the office for the night. As I reflect on my “done list” for the day I can’t help but smile at God’s UNEXPECTED ADVENTURE for my day. Thank you, Lord. Life is best in the UNEXPECTED ADVENTURES.
Blessings,
Darren
15 But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. –NIV
Today was one of those days that involved running errands. Like most people who have “to do” lists that never seem to get completely done the errands felt more like an irritation to me rather than a break away.
As I was walking down the aisle I saw someone who I had not seen in a while. We stopped and visited. Life has been tough on this person lately and the few words of encouragement lifted his spirit, reminding him of God’s love and reassured him that he was cared about. Supplies picked up, it was time to head to the check out register. There sat a gentleman retirement age, leather skin and tough outer shell. Within a couple minutes of conversation his soft heart was exposed and his story emerged - working a part time job to help support the grandkids now living with him and his wife while his own children and sister’s children are struggling. A familiar story in our day. Some friendly words, an invite to our upcoming Easter Outreach as an opportunity for his family to connect together and an exchange of smiles later I was headed to my car.
On the way to the car I looked at my friend who was with me. We smiled at each other as he said…God sent us here. I set out to run inconvenient errands, God had an UNEXPECTED ADVENTURE.
Now it is late (nearly 7pm) as I prepare to leave the office for the night. As I reflect on my “done list” for the day I can’t help but smile at God’s UNEXPECTED ADVENTURE for my day. Thank you, Lord. Life is best in the UNEXPECTED ADVENTURES.
Blessings,
Darren
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Finish the Work
Josh 13:1,6
13 When Joshua was old and well advanced in years, the Lord said to him, "You are very old, and there are still very large areas of land to be taken over..6 "As for all the inhabitants of the mountain regions from Lebanon to Misrephoth Maim, that is, all the Sidonians, I myself will drive them out before the Israelites. Be sure to allocate this land to Israel for an inheritance, as I have instructed you,- NIV
Joshua led the people of Israel over into the Promise Land and they completed a tremendous military campaign – conquering 31 ungodly kings, claiming their territory for God’s people. They have paused to divide the land and God reminds them that there is still land to conquer and not to grow complacent. Yes they have had 31 victories but unless they conquer ALL of the ungodly kingdoms it will come back to hinder them.
What happened? They grew comfortable with their partial success and spoils. They settled into their new land and did not fully conquer the remaining ungodly kingdoms. The rest of the Old Testament reveals the story – God’s people constantly dealing with the consequences of not finishing what they started. Fighting needless wars, dealing with needless controversy and being influenced by needless godlessness.
A little procrastination can do a lot of damage! Most people live life full of good intentions & broken promises. Don’t put of today’s work or responsibility.
Prov 24:30-34
30 I went past the field of the sluggard, past the vineyard of the man who lacks judgment;
31 thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins. 32 I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw: 33 A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest — 34 and poverty will come on you like a bandit
and scarcity like an armed man. NIV
I encourage you to DO IT NOW. There is tremendous power in starting something – get moving! Don’t stop, don’t stop half way, see it to completion!
Things left undone pile up. Too many undone items invites needless discouragement, irritation and depression. Has God been speaking to you about something? An area of your life to address, a situation to confront, a project to complete and promise to fulfill?
I encourage you, do today’s work today and you’ll feel better about tomorrow!
Blessings,
Darren
13 When Joshua was old and well advanced in years, the Lord said to him, "You are very old, and there are still very large areas of land to be taken over..6 "As for all the inhabitants of the mountain regions from Lebanon to Misrephoth Maim, that is, all the Sidonians, I myself will drive them out before the Israelites. Be sure to allocate this land to Israel for an inheritance, as I have instructed you,- NIV
Joshua led the people of Israel over into the Promise Land and they completed a tremendous military campaign – conquering 31 ungodly kings, claiming their territory for God’s people. They have paused to divide the land and God reminds them that there is still land to conquer and not to grow complacent. Yes they have had 31 victories but unless they conquer ALL of the ungodly kingdoms it will come back to hinder them.
What happened? They grew comfortable with their partial success and spoils. They settled into their new land and did not fully conquer the remaining ungodly kingdoms. The rest of the Old Testament reveals the story – God’s people constantly dealing with the consequences of not finishing what they started. Fighting needless wars, dealing with needless controversy and being influenced by needless godlessness.
A little procrastination can do a lot of damage! Most people live life full of good intentions & broken promises. Don’t put of today’s work or responsibility.
Prov 24:30-34
30 I went past the field of the sluggard, past the vineyard of the man who lacks judgment;
31 thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins. 32 I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw: 33 A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest — 34 and poverty will come on you like a bandit
and scarcity like an armed man. NIV
I encourage you to DO IT NOW. There is tremendous power in starting something – get moving! Don’t stop, don’t stop half way, see it to completion!
Things left undone pile up. Too many undone items invites needless discouragement, irritation and depression. Has God been speaking to you about something? An area of your life to address, a situation to confront, a project to complete and promise to fulfill?
I encourage you, do today’s work today and you’ll feel better about tomorrow!
Blessings,
Darren
Monday, March 21, 2011
Tell Your Stories
Josh 4:5-7
5…. Each of you is to take up a stone on his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the Israelites, 6 to serve as a sign among you. In the future, when your children ask you, 'What do these stones mean?' 7 tell them that the flow of the Jordan was cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord. When it crossed the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off….NIV
The children of Israel are crossing over into the Promise Land. On their way across Joshua tells them to pick up some stones and build a memorial. WHY? So that in the future when their children and grandchildren asked they could tell them the STORY of how God supernaturally parted the waters and delivered them.
STORIES, not theological treaties. STORIES, not academic knowledge. God’s work in mankind is not detached and theoretical it is deeply personal and intimate. It is the story of God moving through and in mankind that the Bible tells, not some abstract doctrine that is removed, cold and callous. It is alive, with all the ups and downs, victories and failures and real life circumstances that help make a very big and sovereign God suddenly feel very close and personal.
What are your STORIES with God? Real life stuff that He has brought you through, things He has taught you and ways He has made Himself known. Stories of victory, stories of doubt, stories of faithfulness, stories of courage. Stories of answered prayer and God’s miraculous power. Stories of God’s grace, His love, His mercy and His patience. Stories already experienced and stories you are still waiting to unfold.
I encourage you to TELL YOUR STORIES. It is your stories that your children, grandchildren, co-workers and friends need to hear. Stories bring God present, stir our faith and draw us close to Him. Stories touch our heart. Just like the stones in Joshua’s times, your STORIES also do something else…they bring God glory.
Josh 4:24
24 He did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the Lord is powerful and so that you might always fear the Lord your God." NIV
I encourage you, tell your STORIES. This is what those who do not know our awesome God need to hear!
Blessings,
Darren
5…. Each of you is to take up a stone on his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the Israelites, 6 to serve as a sign among you. In the future, when your children ask you, 'What do these stones mean?' 7 tell them that the flow of the Jordan was cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord. When it crossed the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off….NIV
The children of Israel are crossing over into the Promise Land. On their way across Joshua tells them to pick up some stones and build a memorial. WHY? So that in the future when their children and grandchildren asked they could tell them the STORY of how God supernaturally parted the waters and delivered them.
STORIES, not theological treaties. STORIES, not academic knowledge. God’s work in mankind is not detached and theoretical it is deeply personal and intimate. It is the story of God moving through and in mankind that the Bible tells, not some abstract doctrine that is removed, cold and callous. It is alive, with all the ups and downs, victories and failures and real life circumstances that help make a very big and sovereign God suddenly feel very close and personal.
What are your STORIES with God? Real life stuff that He has brought you through, things He has taught you and ways He has made Himself known. Stories of victory, stories of doubt, stories of faithfulness, stories of courage. Stories of answered prayer and God’s miraculous power. Stories of God’s grace, His love, His mercy and His patience. Stories already experienced and stories you are still waiting to unfold.
I encourage you to TELL YOUR STORIES. It is your stories that your children, grandchildren, co-workers and friends need to hear. Stories bring God present, stir our faith and draw us close to Him. Stories touch our heart. Just like the stones in Joshua’s times, your STORIES also do something else…they bring God glory.
Josh 4:24
24 He did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the Lord is powerful and so that you might always fear the Lord your God." NIV
I encourage you, tell your STORIES. This is what those who do not know our awesome God need to hear!
Blessings,
Darren
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Do Your Own Dishes
1 Tim 4-8
8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. NIV
Many want, or believe, spiritual maturity is something mystical or supernatural –
that it just happens – perhaps through osmosis, time, one special moment/service... That may sound spiritual – but honestly beneath it all usually lies the real reason – spiritual laziness – we want, expect, God to do all the work. Great Christians grasp the fact that Spiritual Maturity is INTENTIONAL. Like all things in life – our spiritual maturity will be shaped by the HABITS we form and dictate our life. The kind of Christian you are 5, 10, 20 years from now will be determined by the spiritual growth habits you form TODAY.
Let me share one point from our message this Sunday…Develop Great Habits as we continue our series Good to GREAT.
Principle of Responsibility – Do Your Own Dishes
We live in a victim mentality and blame game society. Always looking to pass responsibility for the decisions we have made or circumstances we are in or attitudes we have to someone or something else, anywhere but ourselves.
As a Christian, if you have a performance based faith it will often keep you from accepting responsibility for your decisions and circumstances as well. Afraid to admit to God your imperfections, need for help or short comings rather than trusting in His grace to forgive and transform you.
The bottom line however is…people who do not take responsibility for their own life & actions will NEVER change.
Luke 16:10-11
10 "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. NIV
However, when you accept responsibility for your life you UNLEASH God’s grace to transform you!
Blessings,
Darren
8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. NIV
Many want, or believe, spiritual maturity is something mystical or supernatural –
that it just happens – perhaps through osmosis, time, one special moment/service... That may sound spiritual – but honestly beneath it all usually lies the real reason – spiritual laziness – we want, expect, God to do all the work. Great Christians grasp the fact that Spiritual Maturity is INTENTIONAL. Like all things in life – our spiritual maturity will be shaped by the HABITS we form and dictate our life. The kind of Christian you are 5, 10, 20 years from now will be determined by the spiritual growth habits you form TODAY.
Let me share one point from our message this Sunday…Develop Great Habits as we continue our series Good to GREAT.
Principle of Responsibility – Do Your Own Dishes
We live in a victim mentality and blame game society. Always looking to pass responsibility for the decisions we have made or circumstances we are in or attitudes we have to someone or something else, anywhere but ourselves.
As a Christian, if you have a performance based faith it will often keep you from accepting responsibility for your decisions and circumstances as well. Afraid to admit to God your imperfections, need for help or short comings rather than trusting in His grace to forgive and transform you.
The bottom line however is…people who do not take responsibility for their own life & actions will NEVER change.
Luke 16:10-11
10 "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. NIV
However, when you accept responsibility for your life you UNLEASH God’s grace to transform you!
Blessings,
Darren
Monday, March 14, 2011
Period or Comma?
“The things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others” 2 Tim 2:2
Good Christians live the Christian life. They love God, walk with integrity, read the Word and spend time in prayer. They tithe, volunteer to serve, go on mission trips and do what God calls them to do. GREAT Christians on the other hand, do all that and then PASS IT ON.
What did Paul tell Timothy? Equip Others.
You can be a good Christian by obeying God and loving people but if you haven’t poured your life into others your life ends with a period. Great Christians end their life with a comma. Our ultimate service to others is to help them become all God intends for them to be. Great Christians empower other people.
A lot of Christians are very active doing a lot of things and attending a lot of meetings. Some are actually quite productive bearing fruit. But few Christians are reproducing their life – leaving a legacy by developing a spiritual lineage.
Who can you pour yourself into so that your ceiling becomes their floor? Your end becomes their beginning? Ask God to help you discover those you can invest your life in. I encourage to first look under your own roof (family) and then for F.A.T people. Not overweight. Faithful, Available and Teachable people. Help many but train a few.
Remember, good Christians serve the Lord well. Great Christians serve Him well and empower others to do the same.
Blessings,
Darren
Good Christians live the Christian life. They love God, walk with integrity, read the Word and spend time in prayer. They tithe, volunteer to serve, go on mission trips and do what God calls them to do. GREAT Christians on the other hand, do all that and then PASS IT ON.
What did Paul tell Timothy? Equip Others.
You can be a good Christian by obeying God and loving people but if you haven’t poured your life into others your life ends with a period. Great Christians end their life with a comma. Our ultimate service to others is to help them become all God intends for them to be. Great Christians empower other people.
A lot of Christians are very active doing a lot of things and attending a lot of meetings. Some are actually quite productive bearing fruit. But few Christians are reproducing their life – leaving a legacy by developing a spiritual lineage.
Who can you pour yourself into so that your ceiling becomes their floor? Your end becomes their beginning? Ask God to help you discover those you can invest your life in. I encourage to first look under your own roof (family) and then for F.A.T people. Not overweight. Faithful, Available and Teachable people. Help many but train a few.
Remember, good Christians serve the Lord well. Great Christians serve Him well and empower others to do the same.
Blessings,
Darren
Monday, March 7, 2011
Slim Down
“Joy is the serious business of heaven” C.S. Lewis
This statement makes some people uncomfortable, as if joy, especially fun, is illegal, or at least unspiritual. Yet, the Bible is full of reminders and reasons for us to rejoice! In this broken, sinful world we have been given the promises and life of God – we have both reason and permission to enjoy God’s promises and provision!
Here is a question? Are you enjoying your life? Most people are not. Most are waiting to enjoy life. After the to-do list is completed…after retirement…after raise kids…when circumstances change, when have more money…after, later, someday…
Jesus said He came that we may have life and life more abundantly. I ask again – are you deeply enjoying the life God has given you? If life is a gift to enjoy, why are so many discouraged and weighed down all the time? Why so much depression, stress and anxiety?
Let me offer 5 suggestions to help you go against the grain of our American culture and rediscover JOY.
SLOW DOWN
– Speed kills joy. Spiritual development and intimacy with Christ are impossible in a hurried life.
“Be still and know that I am God” Ps 46:10
SLIM DOWN
-Not your diet, you schedule. Simplify your schedule, commitments and goals. Do not get over extended – Learn the word NO. Don’t live other people’s expectations for your life. Ask God where you may need to subtract.
SIT DOWN
-Live in today. Not tomorrow (what may be), not yesterday (what already happened).
LOOK AROUND
-What blessings can you celebrate today? Take time to notice beauty, people, blessings in your life. Grab a pen and paper and make a list. You’ll be surprised and refreshed!
PLAN IN
-Make FUN a priority. Schedule it. Time off, vacations, date night, meals with friends, family time, walk in the morning…other wise life will always be go…go…go. Be intentional about how you spend your time or you will never have any to spend!
Remember, BALANCE is key. To experience abundant life requires us to examine our unhealthy behavior and habits and ask God to help us change them. People who plan time for family, friends, and enjoyment will have a much closer walk with Christ and others. Be different, defy the American culture, live your life to a different beat and ENJOY!
Blessings,
Darren
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Initiative
Gen 41:32-35
32 The reason the dream was given to Pharaoh in two forms is that the matter has been firmly decided by God, and God will do it soon. 33 "And now let Pharaoh look for a discerning and wise man and put him in charge of the land of Egypt. 34 Let Pharaoh appoint commissioners over the land to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt during the seven years of abundance…NIV
Joseph has been drug out of prison, cleaned up and presented to Pharaoh because the cupbearer has finally remembered him after two years as the one who interpreted his dream while in prison. Pharaoh presents both dreams to Joseph and asks for an interpretation. Joseph reminds Pharaoh that only God gives interpretations and then commences to give Pharaoh the interpretation of the coming 7 years of plenty followed by 7 years of famine.
Joseph has done what he was asked to do. Interpret Pharaoh’s dreams. BUT the story doesn’t stop there…Joseph takes INITIATIVE and offers Pharaoh a solution. Appoint a man; take a fifth of each year’s provision…
What is Pharaoh’s response? You be that man! Joseph moves from prison to second in command of all of Egypt. God used Joseph’s INITIATIVE as a platform to advance him.
Initiative – the action of taking the first step or move. Ability in originating new ideas or methods.
Does this define you? What would you have done in Joseph’s position? Are you a go to person? At work, at home, at church…are you known as the person who gets things done, does more than required, offers more than expected???
If you and I want to be all that God has for us to be we must be people of INITIATIVE.
God uses those who want to do more than just the minimum.
Blessings,
Darren
32 The reason the dream was given to Pharaoh in two forms is that the matter has been firmly decided by God, and God will do it soon. 33 "And now let Pharaoh look for a discerning and wise man and put him in charge of the land of Egypt. 34 Let Pharaoh appoint commissioners over the land to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt during the seven years of abundance…NIV
Joseph has been drug out of prison, cleaned up and presented to Pharaoh because the cupbearer has finally remembered him after two years as the one who interpreted his dream while in prison. Pharaoh presents both dreams to Joseph and asks for an interpretation. Joseph reminds Pharaoh that only God gives interpretations and then commences to give Pharaoh the interpretation of the coming 7 years of plenty followed by 7 years of famine.
Joseph has done what he was asked to do. Interpret Pharaoh’s dreams. BUT the story doesn’t stop there…Joseph takes INITIATIVE and offers Pharaoh a solution. Appoint a man; take a fifth of each year’s provision…
What is Pharaoh’s response? You be that man! Joseph moves from prison to second in command of all of Egypt. God used Joseph’s INITIATIVE as a platform to advance him.
Initiative – the action of taking the first step or move. Ability in originating new ideas or methods.
Does this define you? What would you have done in Joseph’s position? Are you a go to person? At work, at home, at church…are you known as the person who gets things done, does more than required, offers more than expected???
If you and I want to be all that God has for us to be we must be people of INITIATIVE.
God uses those who want to do more than just the minimum.
Blessings,
Darren
365 Challenge - SERVE
365 CHALLENGE – Pray, Give, Serve
March Emphasis – SERVE
It is impossible to separate the message of Christianity from the good works that must follow as a result. Jesus constantly challenged his followers to use their life and deeds as a means to glorify God.
Matt 5:14-16
14 "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. -NIV
Every believer has both the privilege and responsibility to use their time, talents and gifting to promote and advance God’s Kingdom
1 Peter 4:10-11
10 Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. - NIV
Here Are Some Thoughts On SERVING:
1. Serving is ESSENTIAL to Spiritual Growth
-our motto is “Growing Upwards, Serving Outwards”
-Spiritual maturity only comes as we grow UP in our relationship to the Lord
and OUT in service towards others
2. You Have a PURPOSE
Eph 2:10
10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. – NIV
-You have a divine design. Until you figure it out, life will not make sense
3. Only What is Done For ETERNITY Will Last
-Don’t buy the lie of giving your best time, best talent, best resources
for this world and its toys and accolades. Don’t waste your life, make an
eternal difference!
4. EVERYONE has a Part
-God has designed His Kingdom so that everyone is needed! Christianity is
NOT a spectator sport. Participation is required! Every believer needs to
be both receiving and giving to be spiritually healthy.
If you & I want to experience all that God has for us. If we want God’s Kingdom to be our priority. If we want to make a difference in this world for God’s glory. WE HAVE TO GET INVOLVED. God isn’t looking for perfect people, talented people, super spiritual people…No, God is looking for AVAILABLE people. People ready and willing to make their lives available to serve Him
How Do You Make Yourself Available?
1. Be Spiritually prepared…not perfect, but open to Christ.
2. Listen & Open Your Heart
3. Obey when the Lord Prompts You
4. Volunteer – Find a Need and Fill It
Make a decision in 2011 to SERVE God with greater priority and greater capacity. After all, who knows what God can do in your life in ONE YEAR! Our Church in ONE YEAR!
Take the Challenge!
Blessings,
Darren
March Emphasis – SERVE
It is impossible to separate the message of Christianity from the good works that must follow as a result. Jesus constantly challenged his followers to use their life and deeds as a means to glorify God.
Matt 5:14-16
14 "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. -NIV
Every believer has both the privilege and responsibility to use their time, talents and gifting to promote and advance God’s Kingdom
1 Peter 4:10-11
10 Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. - NIV
Here Are Some Thoughts On SERVING:
1. Serving is ESSENTIAL to Spiritual Growth
-our motto is “Growing Upwards, Serving Outwards”
-Spiritual maturity only comes as we grow UP in our relationship to the Lord
and OUT in service towards others
2. You Have a PURPOSE
Eph 2:10
10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. – NIV
-You have a divine design. Until you figure it out, life will not make sense
3. Only What is Done For ETERNITY Will Last
-Don’t buy the lie of giving your best time, best talent, best resources
for this world and its toys and accolades. Don’t waste your life, make an
eternal difference!
4. EVERYONE has a Part
-God has designed His Kingdom so that everyone is needed! Christianity is
NOT a spectator sport. Participation is required! Every believer needs to
be both receiving and giving to be spiritually healthy.
If you & I want to experience all that God has for us. If we want God’s Kingdom to be our priority. If we want to make a difference in this world for God’s glory. WE HAVE TO GET INVOLVED. God isn’t looking for perfect people, talented people, super spiritual people…No, God is looking for AVAILABLE people. People ready and willing to make their lives available to serve Him
How Do You Make Yourself Available?
1. Be Spiritually prepared…not perfect, but open to Christ.
2. Listen & Open Your Heart
3. Obey when the Lord Prompts You
4. Volunteer – Find a Need and Fill It
Make a decision in 2011 to SERVE God with greater priority and greater capacity. After all, who knows what God can do in your life in ONE YEAR! Our Church in ONE YEAR!
Take the Challenge!
Blessings,
Darren
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Optimism
10 Plagues, Passover, parting of the Red Seas, manna from heaven, water from a rock, cloud by day, fire by night…all miracles from God’s hand…all in the past.
Ever notice how hard it can be to trust God for today, even though you just watched His powerful hand move yesterday? We are human, aren’t we???
The spies sent to the Promise land have returned and given their report. All 12 spies agree the land is plentiful and the promises of God are as good as promised. However, 10 see only struggles – enemies to conquer, problems to solve, giants to face. 2 spies, Joshua and Caleb see OPPORTUNITY.
Num 14:9
9 Only do not rebel against the Lord. And do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will swallow them up. Their protection is gone, but the Lord is with us. Do not be afraid of them." –NIV
Where does this OPTIMISM come from? Our verse in clear, focused on the promises and character of God, Joshua and Caleb were fully confident they would succeed.
The world teaches positive thinking. That is good to a small extent but still has it basis in dependence on self. As Christians our faith is not in self, but Christ. Now that is OPTIMSIM. Paul said it this way…
Phil 1:6
6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. – NIV
If you want to live life to its fullest you will have to face it with OPTIMISM. Not human positive thinking, but Christ centered optimism.
Are you facing a battle against sin, feeling overcome with situations or circumstances, needing fresh faith for your next challenge??? Be reminded…
“Their protection is gone, but the Lord is with us…”
Blessings,
Darren
Ever notice how hard it can be to trust God for today, even though you just watched His powerful hand move yesterday? We are human, aren’t we???
The spies sent to the Promise land have returned and given their report. All 12 spies agree the land is plentiful and the promises of God are as good as promised. However, 10 see only struggles – enemies to conquer, problems to solve, giants to face. 2 spies, Joshua and Caleb see OPPORTUNITY.
Num 14:9
9 Only do not rebel against the Lord. And do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will swallow them up. Their protection is gone, but the Lord is with us. Do not be afraid of them." –NIV
Where does this OPTIMISM come from? Our verse in clear, focused on the promises and character of God, Joshua and Caleb were fully confident they would succeed.
The world teaches positive thinking. That is good to a small extent but still has it basis in dependence on self. As Christians our faith is not in self, but Christ. Now that is OPTIMSIM. Paul said it this way…
Phil 1:6
6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. – NIV
If you want to live life to its fullest you will have to face it with OPTIMISM. Not human positive thinking, but Christ centered optimism.
Are you facing a battle against sin, feeling overcome with situations or circumstances, needing fresh faith for your next challenge??? Be reminded…
“Their protection is gone, but the Lord is with us…”
Blessings,
Darren
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Wait
Ex 24:15-17
15 When Moses went up on the mountain, the cloud covered it, 16 and the glory of the Lord settled on Mount Sinai. For six days the cloud covered the mountain, and on the seventh day the Lord called to Moses from within the cloud. –NIV
Did you notice that??? SIX DAYS Moses waited and on the seventh day God showed up. Not six minutes, not six hours…six days.
If you are like me, it can be difficult to wait and scriptures like this can make you uncomfortable. Yet time and again I am reminded that God does not feel the need nor pressure to conform to our microwave society but rather often prefers to make me slow down and use the crock pot!
Delayed gratification is not highly valued in our now society. Quick, fast, easy is our motto. Yet quick is not always most effective, fast is not always most efficient and easy is not always excellence.
I am convinced that often times the answer to our hurried pace and frantic schedule is exactly what God made Moses do…WAIT. Wait until our mind quits racing, our bodies relax and our spirits are open so that we can HEAR what God has to say.
God will answer, just remember that His answers sometimes requires us to WAIT FIRST.
Isa 40:31
31 But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. –NKJV
Blessings,
Darren
15 When Moses went up on the mountain, the cloud covered it, 16 and the glory of the Lord settled on Mount Sinai. For six days the cloud covered the mountain, and on the seventh day the Lord called to Moses from within the cloud. –NIV
Did you notice that??? SIX DAYS Moses waited and on the seventh day God showed up. Not six minutes, not six hours…six days.
If you are like me, it can be difficult to wait and scriptures like this can make you uncomfortable. Yet time and again I am reminded that God does not feel the need nor pressure to conform to our microwave society but rather often prefers to make me slow down and use the crock pot!
Delayed gratification is not highly valued in our now society. Quick, fast, easy is our motto. Yet quick is not always most effective, fast is not always most efficient and easy is not always excellence.
I am convinced that often times the answer to our hurried pace and frantic schedule is exactly what God made Moses do…WAIT. Wait until our mind quits racing, our bodies relax and our spirits are open so that we can HEAR what God has to say.
God will answer, just remember that His answers sometimes requires us to WAIT FIRST.
Isa 40:31
31 But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. –NKJV
Blessings,
Darren
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Follow the Directions
Prov 8:17
17 I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me. -NIV
As part of the 365 Challenge (reading through the Bible in one year) I am currently reading the book of Leviticus. Leviticus is a difficult read for many because of the seemingly endless tedious details of the offerings and civil laws given to the people of God to obey. It is certainly easy to get lost in the details but in the big picture God is setting the stage for His newly delivered people from Egypt to have relationship with Him and receive blessing from Him. The key was of course their obedience to His Way of doing things.
Isn’t that often our struggle with God? We love the relationship and blessings part, but on our terms, not His. There is something stubborn within the human race that constantly tries to domesticate God. Bring God down to our terms. Tame God until He fits our plans rather than us fitting into His. The truth is that we cannot use God – God is not a tool, or appliance or credit card. God’s singular purpose in delivering the Israelites out of Egypt was to establish a relationship with them where he could bless them and display His goodness through them. But that purpose could only be accomplished as the Israelites conformed to God, not God conforming to them.
How about you? Do you realize that God desires to have a relationship with you? God desires to fulfill His will in your life. Display His glory through you. Through Jesus Christ the door has been opened to a relationship with God. Here is the kicker…the relationship must be on God’s terms. The Good News is that just like to the Israelites in the book of Leviticus, God has given us ALL the directions we need…His Word.
The instructions are available. The path has been shown. God won’t conform to us – can’t be used or manipulated for our convenience BUT can always be found…if we will follow the instructions!
Jer 29:13-14
13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. - NIV
Have a GREAT week!
Blessings,
Darren
17 I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me. -NIV
As part of the 365 Challenge (reading through the Bible in one year) I am currently reading the book of Leviticus. Leviticus is a difficult read for many because of the seemingly endless tedious details of the offerings and civil laws given to the people of God to obey. It is certainly easy to get lost in the details but in the big picture God is setting the stage for His newly delivered people from Egypt to have relationship with Him and receive blessing from Him. The key was of course their obedience to His Way of doing things.
Isn’t that often our struggle with God? We love the relationship and blessings part, but on our terms, not His. There is something stubborn within the human race that constantly tries to domesticate God. Bring God down to our terms. Tame God until He fits our plans rather than us fitting into His. The truth is that we cannot use God – God is not a tool, or appliance or credit card. God’s singular purpose in delivering the Israelites out of Egypt was to establish a relationship with them where he could bless them and display His goodness through them. But that purpose could only be accomplished as the Israelites conformed to God, not God conforming to them.
How about you? Do you realize that God desires to have a relationship with you? God desires to fulfill His will in your life. Display His glory through you. Through Jesus Christ the door has been opened to a relationship with God. Here is the kicker…the relationship must be on God’s terms. The Good News is that just like to the Israelites in the book of Leviticus, God has given us ALL the directions we need…His Word.
The instructions are available. The path has been shown. God won’t conform to us – can’t be used or manipulated for our convenience BUT can always be found…if we will follow the instructions!
Jer 29:13-14
13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. - NIV
Have a GREAT week!
Blessings,
Darren
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Partly Cloudy or Partly Sunny?
****In light of the snow the last two weeks, I thought I would repost this devotion from a couple months ago...ENJOY!****
Partly Cloudy or Partly Sunny?The other day a friend of mine on Facebook made this statement. My comment was simply…partly sunny!
Much of life is about PERSPECTIVE.
To determine the effects of media on how people think, in a recent research study, individuals were divided into two groups. One group heard 5 minutes a day of negative news stories: car bombs, death, earthquakes, riots, etc. The other group heard more positive and uplifting stories. The results?
After listening to only five minutes of negative news the first group experienced four discernable effects:
1. they were more depressed than before
2. they believed the world was a negative place
3. they were less likely to help others
4. they began to believe what they heard would soon happen to them
What we think will determine the course of our life. Wrong thinking produces negative emotions which produces unwise behavior which results in devastating consequences. Likewise right thinking produces positive emotions which produces wise behavior resulting in fruitful consequences. The old adage is so often true…you are what you think!
Listen to Paul’s advice…
Phil 4:6-9
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me — put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. NIV
Each day we must choose what we will feed our mind. God wants us to have a POSITVIE mental diet! Thinking great thoughts means taking the incredible ability to focus on negatives and using it for more positive and truthful purposes.
In light of Paul’s advice, listen to the words of a prayer a friend sent me this week…
Jesus, in accordance with your Word, I choose to lay aside all my anxiety and take up your mind-bending peace instead. Supernatural tranquility will pervade my thoughts throughout this day as your Living Word renews my mind and way of thinking. I will purposefully and willfully choose to deliberate and ponder on things that are true, pure, noble, right, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy. As a result, your peace will rule my heart and mind in Christ Jesus.
Never forget…It is always PARTLY SUNNY!
Blessings,
Darren
Partly Cloudy or Partly Sunny?The other day a friend of mine on Facebook made this statement. My comment was simply…partly sunny!
Much of life is about PERSPECTIVE.
To determine the effects of media on how people think, in a recent research study, individuals were divided into two groups. One group heard 5 minutes a day of negative news stories: car bombs, death, earthquakes, riots, etc. The other group heard more positive and uplifting stories. The results?
After listening to only five minutes of negative news the first group experienced four discernable effects:
1. they were more depressed than before
2. they believed the world was a negative place
3. they were less likely to help others
4. they began to believe what they heard would soon happen to them
What we think will determine the course of our life. Wrong thinking produces negative emotions which produces unwise behavior which results in devastating consequences. Likewise right thinking produces positive emotions which produces wise behavior resulting in fruitful consequences. The old adage is so often true…you are what you think!
Listen to Paul’s advice…
Phil 4:6-9
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me — put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. NIV
Each day we must choose what we will feed our mind. God wants us to have a POSITVIE mental diet! Thinking great thoughts means taking the incredible ability to focus on negatives and using it for more positive and truthful purposes.
In light of Paul’s advice, listen to the words of a prayer a friend sent me this week…
Jesus, in accordance with your Word, I choose to lay aside all my anxiety and take up your mind-bending peace instead. Supernatural tranquility will pervade my thoughts throughout this day as your Living Word renews my mind and way of thinking. I will purposefully and willfully choose to deliberate and ponder on things that are true, pure, noble, right, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy. As a result, your peace will rule my heart and mind in Christ Jesus.
Never forget…It is always PARTLY SUNNY!
Blessings,
Darren
Friday, February 4, 2011
To busy to ENJOY?
I have lived in Oklahoma my whole life and this week is the largest snow fall that I can remember. To top it off it is February! I find myself asking this question…Ever think God is not as interested in our schedule as we are?
Have you been able to enjoy the “down time” that this snow fall has brought? Time inside, break from the routine, opportunity to do others things or even nothing at all? Time to enjoy today, unworried about tomorrow.
James 4:13-15
13 Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.- NIV
I submit there is something wrong if our lives and schedules are so busy that we can not pause for a few days. It is easy to live life so fast and furious that there is never time to enjoy the NOW. As I sit looking outside my office window, it is snowing again and I am in awe at the beauty. This marks the fifth day of snow and the first day I have made it back to the office. What have I been doing? Watching movies with my family, sledding with the kids, eating too much, odd and end projects.
Who told us that we cannot stop to enjoy the NOW? How long will it last? When will things be back to normal? Will we get more next week? I do not know. But this I do know…I am going to enjoy the MOMENT. Why? Because now is what there is to ENJOY.
Blessings,
Darren
Have you been able to enjoy the “down time” that this snow fall has brought? Time inside, break from the routine, opportunity to do others things or even nothing at all? Time to enjoy today, unworried about tomorrow.
James 4:13-15
13 Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.- NIV
I submit there is something wrong if our lives and schedules are so busy that we can not pause for a few days. It is easy to live life so fast and furious that there is never time to enjoy the NOW. As I sit looking outside my office window, it is snowing again and I am in awe at the beauty. This marks the fifth day of snow and the first day I have made it back to the office. What have I been doing? Watching movies with my family, sledding with the kids, eating too much, odd and end projects.
Who told us that we cannot stop to enjoy the NOW? How long will it last? When will things be back to normal? Will we get more next week? I do not know. But this I do know…I am going to enjoy the MOMENT. Why? Because now is what there is to ENJOY.
Blessings,
Darren
365 CHALLENGE - Pray, Give, Serve
In January we began the challenge of spending time with God every day in PRAYER and BIBLE READING in 2011! Now we look to the next step...
February Emphasis- GIVING
The heart of God is GIVING not getting. The life of a GIVER is completely different from the life of a taker. GIVERS take control of their life, become conduits of God’s blessings and are motivate by eternal rewards.
Matt 6:24
24 "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money. - NIV
GIVING breaks the tyranny of things off our life. How serious is Jesus about setting us FREE from the tyranny of money? 16 out of 38 of Jesus’ parables involved our use of money, over 2,000 verses of scriptures deal with money and 2 out of the 10 commandments deal with greed
Our heart in 2011 is to get serious about what God says in His Word! Reject the American Dream mentality that enslaves and experience the FREEDOM that Christ offers!!
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE TEACH ABOUT MONEY?
EVERYTHING IS GOD’S
Ps 24:1
The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;
-We are stewards NOT owners. Stewardship is the principle behind the TITHE (10%), obeying God to return back to Him what is HIS.
*We RETURN the tithe to God, we GIVE offerings
GOD USES MONEY AS A TEST
Luke 16:11
11 So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?
-Faithfulness in the area of finances opens up our spiritual life to TRUE Blessings.
*Many believers struggle with heaven and eternal values because all their treasures are
stored up on earth and temporal things
GOD BLESSES THOSE HE CAN TRUST
2 Cor 9:10-11
10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed…You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion,
-God looks for people who will SOW seeds of giving not hoard His blessings
Get serious about GIVING this year and EXPERIENCE FREEDOM. Freedom from this world and its standards in exchange for RADICALLY VALUING God’s Kingdom above all things!
HOW?
1. Make a decision to begin faithfully and consistently GIVING to God’s Kingdom with the goal of returning back to God a full TITHE
2. Take control of the other 90% - reduce debt, set a budget, seek help…BREAK FREE from bondage
3. Ask God where you can SOW seeds above the tithe to bring Him glory and build His Kingdom…this is where the real FUN begins!
JOIN the Challenge…YOU will never regret it!
Blessings,
Darren
February Emphasis- GIVING
The heart of God is GIVING not getting. The life of a GIVER is completely different from the life of a taker. GIVERS take control of their life, become conduits of God’s blessings and are motivate by eternal rewards.
Matt 6:24
24 "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money. - NIV
GIVING breaks the tyranny of things off our life. How serious is Jesus about setting us FREE from the tyranny of money? 16 out of 38 of Jesus’ parables involved our use of money, over 2,000 verses of scriptures deal with money and 2 out of the 10 commandments deal with greed
Our heart in 2011 is to get serious about what God says in His Word! Reject the American Dream mentality that enslaves and experience the FREEDOM that Christ offers!!
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE TEACH ABOUT MONEY?
EVERYTHING IS GOD’S
Ps 24:1
The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;
-We are stewards NOT owners. Stewardship is the principle behind the TITHE (10%), obeying God to return back to Him what is HIS.
*We RETURN the tithe to God, we GIVE offerings
GOD USES MONEY AS A TEST
Luke 16:11
11 So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?
-Faithfulness in the area of finances opens up our spiritual life to TRUE Blessings.
*Many believers struggle with heaven and eternal values because all their treasures are
stored up on earth and temporal things
GOD BLESSES THOSE HE CAN TRUST
2 Cor 9:10-11
10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed…You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion,
-God looks for people who will SOW seeds of giving not hoard His blessings
Get serious about GIVING this year and EXPERIENCE FREEDOM. Freedom from this world and its standards in exchange for RADICALLY VALUING God’s Kingdom above all things!
HOW?
1. Make a decision to begin faithfully and consistently GIVING to God’s Kingdom with the goal of returning back to God a full TITHE
2. Take control of the other 90% - reduce debt, set a budget, seek help…BREAK FREE from bondage
3. Ask God where you can SOW seeds above the tithe to bring Him glory and build His Kingdom…this is where the real FUN begins!
JOIN the Challenge…YOU will never regret it!
Blessings,
Darren
Monday, January 31, 2011
20 Minutes a Day...
Today marks the beginning of our 365 CHALLENGE to read through God’s Word in one year! I hope you will take the challenge. Don’t make it a legalistic journey but rather a journey of JOY and ANTICIPATION of meeting with God every day in His Word and prayer.
Listen to the words of the Psalmist as he describes the benefits to those who READ, MEDITATE ON and OBEY the Word of God.
Ps 1
1 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or
stand in the way of sinners or
sit in the seat of mockers.
2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.
3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers.
4 Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away. 5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
6 For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked will perish. –NIV
Every journey begins with one step! Reading the entire Bible may seem a formidable task but it is not. It only takes 3 chapters of the Old Testament and ½ chapter of the New Testament…20 minutes a day.
3 ways to join the JOURNEY:
1. Follow the Bible Reading listed in the bulletin each week. This week is Genesis 1-15 and Matthew 1-5:26
2. Google “Bible Reading Plan” and sign up for on the many online resources available
3. Follow your own path, just make sure to read at least 3 OT chapters and ½ NT chapter
Enjoy the JOURNEY and have a GREAT WEEK!
Blessings,
Darren & Toyie
Listen to the words of the Psalmist as he describes the benefits to those who READ, MEDITATE ON and OBEY the Word of God.
Ps 1
1 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or
stand in the way of sinners or
sit in the seat of mockers.
2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.
3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers.
4 Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away. 5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
6 For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked will perish. –NIV
Every journey begins with one step! Reading the entire Bible may seem a formidable task but it is not. It only takes 3 chapters of the Old Testament and ½ chapter of the New Testament…20 minutes a day.
3 ways to join the JOURNEY:
1. Follow the Bible Reading listed in the bulletin each week. This week is Genesis 1-15 and Matthew 1-5:26
2. Google “Bible Reading Plan” and sign up for on the many online resources available
3. Follow your own path, just make sure to read at least 3 OT chapters and ½ NT chapter
Enjoy the JOURNEY and have a GREAT WEEK!
Blessings,
Darren & Toyie
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Think Great Thoughts
As you head into the weekend here are some AREAS in your life to CULTIVATE Great Thinking…
-Think Great Thoughts about God
Isa 55:8-9
8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. 9 "As the heavens are higher than the earth ,so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. NIV
*A High View of God will lift your faith, enlarge your heart and expand
your expectations
-Think Great Thoughts about Yourself
*Insecurity and Low Self Esteem in pandemic in our culture
-our whole society/economy is based on making you feel inferior
1 John 4:18
18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. -NIV
*I've said often 2nd only to love for Christ, the greatest work of God's Spirit in my life has been finding peace with myself - I am OK, I am loved
-Think Great Thoughts about Others
*How would our attitude change if we would learn to look beyond the externals and tried to see people as God sees them???
1 Sam 16:7
The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." -NIV
*Our love and compassion for others greatly increases as we look to the inside of people rather than the outside - dress, appearance, behavior, status
-Think Great Thoughts about Life
-Eph. 2:10 - Life has a HIGH purpose - bringing God glory through Good Works
*not stuff, status, possessions, accomplishments,
-Solomon in Ecclesiastes "meaningless" is life not focused on God
-Think Great Thoughts about the Future
*worry and anxiety ROB Peace & Joy
Jer 29:11
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. - NIV
*God has a plan for your life & you can TRUST Him
-Think Great Thoughts about the Past
*God is not 3 strikes and you are out
-a lot of people struggle letting go of the past
Ps 103:12
12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. NIV
-Think Great Thoughts about the Challenges
*You are NOT a victim, you are not powerless
James 1:2-4
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4 Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. -NIV
*Nothing you are facing can keep you from growing in God's GRACE &
PROVISION
Blessings,
Darren
-Think Great Thoughts about God
Isa 55:8-9
8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. 9 "As the heavens are higher than the earth ,so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. NIV
*A High View of God will lift your faith, enlarge your heart and expand
your expectations
-Think Great Thoughts about Yourself
*Insecurity and Low Self Esteem in pandemic in our culture
-our whole society/economy is based on making you feel inferior
1 John 4:18
18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. -NIV
*I've said often 2nd only to love for Christ, the greatest work of God's Spirit in my life has been finding peace with myself - I am OK, I am loved
-Think Great Thoughts about Others
*How would our attitude change if we would learn to look beyond the externals and tried to see people as God sees them???
1 Sam 16:7
The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." -NIV
*Our love and compassion for others greatly increases as we look to the inside of people rather than the outside - dress, appearance, behavior, status
-Think Great Thoughts about Life
-Eph. 2:10 - Life has a HIGH purpose - bringing God glory through Good Works
*not stuff, status, possessions, accomplishments,
-Solomon in Ecclesiastes "meaningless" is life not focused on God
-Think Great Thoughts about the Future
*worry and anxiety ROB Peace & Joy
Jer 29:11
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. - NIV
*God has a plan for your life & you can TRUST Him
-Think Great Thoughts about the Past
*God is not 3 strikes and you are out
-a lot of people struggle letting go of the past
Ps 103:12
12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. NIV
-Think Great Thoughts about the Challenges
*You are NOT a victim, you are not powerless
James 1:2-4
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4 Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. -NIV
*Nothing you are facing can keep you from growing in God's GRACE &
PROVISION
Blessings,
Darren
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
What's Your MENTAL DIET?
What do you spend your time thinking on, meditating on, listening to, talking about…what kinds of things feed your mind??? Our culture can be so smart and deliberate about physical nutrition and health. Watching fat, counting calories, monitoring blood pressure, limiting salt, watching what is eaten, intentional about exercise. However, most people are completely careless about what enters their mind, giving little thought to what they hear, see, watch or listen to.
1 Tim 4:8
8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. -NIV
Paul’s words to young Timothy were a powerful reminder that while physical health is important we cannot be mindless about the spiritual, intellectual and emotional content of the ideas we consume!
Wrong Thinking > negative emotions > unwise behavior > devastating consequences
Right Thinking > positive emotions > wise behavior > fruitful consequences
If you want to cultivate the kind of thinking that will unleash God’s greatest potential in your life you will need to learn to pay attention to your Mental Diet! Where Do Great Thoughts Come From?
START WITH SCRIPTURE –
-Not just reading the Word but letting it GET INTO YOU. Spend time thinking on scripture, not just when you are reading but throughout the day. Worry (rehearsing negative thoughts over and over) is a form of meditation. Use that same energy to meditate on Scripture instead!
DWELL ON GREAT TRUTHS-
-Great thoughts challenge us, ignite us, and stir us. Lift us above the mundane, simple, materialistic and mindlessness. I read this quote this morning
“Life is not measured by longevity but quality” – Martin Luther King
-Your mind is going to be filled with something. Why not great thoughts instead of gossip, sitcoms, CNN, youtube or facebook!
TAKE TIME TO NOTICE BEAUTY-
-I’ve noticed something since moving back to the city…the stars don’t shine as bright.
Ps 19:1
19 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. NIV
-Get outside the borders on concrete and street lights: strip malls and flat screen TVs
-Spend some time outdoors, God will speak to you through His creation
MEDITATE ON SPIRITUAL TRUTHS-
-What spiritual insights or truths has God revealed to you by His Spirit? The more you dwell on God’s promises for you the more they become apart of you.
-Spiritual Truths have incredible transforming power in the lives of those who reject the world’s view or opinion and instead meditate on what God has said to them
Remember, thinking great thoughts is a matter of practice and developing healthy habits. INTENTIONALLY decide seek God’s highest and best purposes for your life.
Blessings,
Darren
1 Tim 4:8
8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. -NIV
Paul’s words to young Timothy were a powerful reminder that while physical health is important we cannot be mindless about the spiritual, intellectual and emotional content of the ideas we consume!
Wrong Thinking > negative emotions > unwise behavior > devastating consequences
Right Thinking > positive emotions > wise behavior > fruitful consequences
If you want to cultivate the kind of thinking that will unleash God’s greatest potential in your life you will need to learn to pay attention to your Mental Diet! Where Do Great Thoughts Come From?
START WITH SCRIPTURE –
-Not just reading the Word but letting it GET INTO YOU. Spend time thinking on scripture, not just when you are reading but throughout the day. Worry (rehearsing negative thoughts over and over) is a form of meditation. Use that same energy to meditate on Scripture instead!
DWELL ON GREAT TRUTHS-
-Great thoughts challenge us, ignite us, and stir us. Lift us above the mundane, simple, materialistic and mindlessness. I read this quote this morning
“Life is not measured by longevity but quality” – Martin Luther King
-Your mind is going to be filled with something. Why not great thoughts instead of gossip, sitcoms, CNN, youtube or facebook!
TAKE TIME TO NOTICE BEAUTY-
-I’ve noticed something since moving back to the city…the stars don’t shine as bright.
Ps 19:1
19 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. NIV
-Get outside the borders on concrete and street lights: strip malls and flat screen TVs
-Spend some time outdoors, God will speak to you through His creation
MEDITATE ON SPIRITUAL TRUTHS-
-What spiritual insights or truths has God revealed to you by His Spirit? The more you dwell on God’s promises for you the more they become apart of you.
-Spiritual Truths have incredible transforming power in the lives of those who reject the world’s view or opinion and instead meditate on what God has said to them
Remember, thinking great thoughts is a matter of practice and developing healthy habits. INTENTIONALLY decide seek God’s highest and best purposes for your life.
Blessings,
Darren
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Which Train are YOU On?
What you spend your time thinking on has a direct effect on your life.
Prov 23:7
"For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he" -KJV
Our concept of reality is shaped by our thought life. Billions of dollars is spent each year on counseling, medication, training groups, teaching materials, to try to get our moods, feelings and/or behavior back on course.
Over nearly 20 years of ministry I can attest that most of the time beneath the behavior or emotions, lies the greater need…a PATTERN OF THINKING THAT NEEDS CHANGED!
Picture a TRAIN. Our thinking is the Engine, which pulls the car of emotions, which connects to the car of behavior which ends with the caboose of consequences.
Wrong Thinking > negative emotions > unwise behavior > devastating consequences
Right Thinking > positive emotions > wise behavior > fruitful consequences
Where ever your thought life leads, your emotions and behavior will follow! DO NOT underestimate the power of your thought life. Choose wisely which train you will get on!
God invites us to a life of higher thinking! God invites us to a life of RADICAL TRANSFORMATION through the power of His Spirit and His Word RENEWING our mind (Rom 12:1-2).
A renewed mind comes by filling it with Great Thoughts!
Phil 4:6-9
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. NIV
A spiritually trained mind will TRANSFORM our emotions and behavior in line with God's will and desire for our life. Are you struggling with your emotions or behavior??? Take a look at your thought life. What is your mental diet??? Which train are you on???
Trade in your train ticket. Exit off Wrong Thinking and HOP ON BOARD Right Thinking. The destination is life-changing!
Find out more this Sunday as we continue our series…GOOD TO GREAT.
Have a great week!
Blessings,
Darren
Prov 23:7
"For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he" -KJV
Our concept of reality is shaped by our thought life. Billions of dollars is spent each year on counseling, medication, training groups, teaching materials, to try to get our moods, feelings and/or behavior back on course.
Over nearly 20 years of ministry I can attest that most of the time beneath the behavior or emotions, lies the greater need…a PATTERN OF THINKING THAT NEEDS CHANGED!
Picture a TRAIN. Our thinking is the Engine, which pulls the car of emotions, which connects to the car of behavior which ends with the caboose of consequences.
Wrong Thinking > negative emotions > unwise behavior > devastating consequences
Right Thinking > positive emotions > wise behavior > fruitful consequences
Where ever your thought life leads, your emotions and behavior will follow! DO NOT underestimate the power of your thought life. Choose wisely which train you will get on!
God invites us to a life of higher thinking! God invites us to a life of RADICAL TRANSFORMATION through the power of His Spirit and His Word RENEWING our mind (Rom 12:1-2).
A renewed mind comes by filling it with Great Thoughts!
Phil 4:6-9
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. NIV
A spiritually trained mind will TRANSFORM our emotions and behavior in line with God's will and desire for our life. Are you struggling with your emotions or behavior??? Take a look at your thought life. What is your mental diet??? Which train are you on???
Trade in your train ticket. Exit off Wrong Thinking and HOP ON BOARD Right Thinking. The destination is life-changing!
Find out more this Sunday as we continue our series…GOOD TO GREAT.
Have a great week!
Blessings,
Darren
Monday, January 3, 2011
TOP 10 Predictions for 2011
10. The Bible will still have all the answers
9. Prayer will still be the most powerful thing on Earth
8. The Holy Spirit will still move
7. God will still honor the praises of His people
6. There will still be God-anointed preaching
5. There will still be singing of praise to God
4. God will still pour out blessings upon His people
3. There will still be room at the Cross
2. Jesus will still love you
1. Jesus will still save the lost when they come to Him
Isn't it great to remember who is really in control and that "the Word of the Lord endures forever" (1 Pet 1:25)
In a world of uncertainty, be encouraged, some things NEVER CHANGE!!!
Blessings,
Darren
PS. A friend sent me this top 10 last week. Enjoy!
9. Prayer will still be the most powerful thing on Earth
8. The Holy Spirit will still move
7. God will still honor the praises of His people
6. There will still be God-anointed preaching
5. There will still be singing of praise to God
4. God will still pour out blessings upon His people
3. There will still be room at the Cross
2. Jesus will still love you
1. Jesus will still save the lost when they come to Him
Isn't it great to remember who is really in control and that "the Word of the Lord endures forever" (1 Pet 1:25)
In a world of uncertainty, be encouraged, some things NEVER CHANGE!!!
Blessings,
Darren
PS. A friend sent me this top 10 last week. Enjoy!
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