Sunday, November 15, 2009
Thankful in 09
I am thankful most of all for Jesus Christ, my Savior. I am so glad that He is the one who gives strength and courage to face all the problems of life. I am also thankful for the second great gift God has given me after my salvation, and that is my wife of nearly 21 years Lisa. This has been a hard year for her with health and loss of her mother and other family members. Yet through it all she has not only remained faithful to God but she has also been a bigger blessing to me than ever. I am also thankful for the dad God has given to me. What a blessing to see how God is still using him at 80 years of age, and a widower of 4 years. I again thankful for Pastor Rick. I pray that God gives him the strength and restored health to continue to be the shepherd of our church.
In 2009 we faced a hard winter, the moving away of the Klings, the surprise death of Lorenzo, and other trials, and yet God is still good. As we move into 2010 we can be confident that God will be still working in our lives that we may become for accepted (well pleasing) to Him. Praise the Lord for His mercies endure forever.
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
We WILL Miss You
Proverbs 31:29 Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all. (ESV)
My mother-in-law passed away last Friday night. She did not have a flamboyant personality and yet anyone who would meet her would probably not forget her. Words like kind, gracious, joyful, caring are the most common of her first impressions. As one got to know her better words like godly, faithful, prayer warrior, servant, and even bible student and scholar. Funny there does not seem to be anything negative.
When we had the visitation before the funeral, folks who knew her (family,church members, neighbors, childhood friends, etc...) were saying the above descriptions over and over again. Laverne Cooper did not always have an easy life. WWII and the depression were especially hard the Tennessee south. But whether good times or bad you could alway count on her faith in the Lord and His Word.
Before the funeral I had chance to talk to the preacher, Charles Pratt. I told him that I envied him because this is the type of funeral that every preacher dreams of doing. The opportunity to proclaim a life that loved and honored God, and the hope of seeing that saint in Heaven again.
There are three thing that we who knew Mrs. Cooper could all agree with:
1) That she was a woman who loved God with all her soul, mind, and strength, loved her neighbor as herself. Both evidence of true salvation.
2) That no matter how long you knew her, you were in some way influenced by her for God.
3) That you are going to miss her. And that is a good thing both in never forgetting her and in seeing her again in Heaven.
My mother-in-law passed away last Friday night. She did not have a flamboyant personality and yet anyone who would meet her would probably not forget her. Words like kind, gracious, joyful, caring are the most common of her first impressions. As one got to know her better words like godly, faithful, prayer warrior, servant, and even bible student and scholar. Funny there does not seem to be anything negative.
When we had the visitation before the funeral, folks who knew her (family,church members, neighbors, childhood friends, etc...) were saying the above descriptions over and over again. Laverne Cooper did not always have an easy life. WWII and the depression were especially hard the Tennessee south. But whether good times or bad you could alway count on her faith in the Lord and His Word.
Before the funeral I had chance to talk to the preacher, Charles Pratt. I told him that I envied him because this is the type of funeral that every preacher dreams of doing. The opportunity to proclaim a life that loved and honored God, and the hope of seeing that saint in Heaven again.
There are three thing that we who knew Mrs. Cooper could all agree with:
1) That she was a woman who loved God with all her soul, mind, and strength, loved her neighbor as herself. Both evidence of true salvation.
2) That no matter how long you knew her, you were in some way influenced by her for God.
3) That you are going to miss her. And that is a good thing both in never forgetting her and in seeing her again in Heaven.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Overwhelming Praise
Psalm 103:1 Bless the Lord, O my soul,and all that is within me,bless his holy name!
Praise the Lord! Oh praise God! These were the words of an older female customer when I use to work for RadioShack some time back. I must confess that I was somewhat uncomfortable with this woman. Especially since all I did was change her watch battery. I want to say to her "let it go, ma'm. This is the real world."
That would have been a shameful mistake if I did. Why shouldn't I be just as thrilled with the works of God in the "real" world? Why should I be embarrassed by another Christian who not only obedient to God, also showing amazing love towards Him.
Because of that, I believe there are at least three reasons (oh there's a lot more) why we should overwhelmingly praise God.
First, He deserves it. That's so obvious it needs to be mentioned and re mentioned. We forget, neglect, excuse, and maybe even rebell. How ungrateful and sinful to not praise the Creator, and Redeemer. These titles only begin to justify God's praise.
Second, others need to hear it. At the time of this writing, I have just received a rheeming from my boss that was painful. Justified or not, he would probably expect to receive some type of negetive feedback. What he needs to hear someone who is thankful to God even for the tough events of life. Would that not make God more real to others around us?
Lastly, we need it. Sometimes we get discouraged, or we may get cocky. Either way we need the reminder that God is in control watching and protecting
Praise the Lord! Oh praise God! These were the words of an older female customer when I use to work for RadioShack some time back. I must confess that I was somewhat uncomfortable with this woman. Especially since all I did was change her watch battery. I want to say to her "let it go, ma'm. This is the real world."
That would have been a shameful mistake if I did. Why shouldn't I be just as thrilled with the works of God in the "real" world? Why should I be embarrassed by another Christian who not only obedient to God, also showing amazing love towards Him.
Because of that, I believe there are at least three reasons (oh there's a lot more) why we should overwhelmingly praise God.
First, He deserves it. That's so obvious it needs to be mentioned and re mentioned. We forget, neglect, excuse, and maybe even rebell. How ungrateful and sinful to not praise the Creator, and Redeemer. These titles only begin to justify God's praise.
Second, others need to hear it. At the time of this writing, I have just received a rheeming from my boss that was painful. Justified or not, he would probably expect to receive some type of negetive feedback. What he needs to hear someone who is thankful to God even for the tough events of life. Would that not make God more real to others around us?
Lastly, we need it. Sometimes we get discouraged, or we may get cocky. Either way we need the reminder that God is in control watching and protecting
Friday, June 19, 2009
Try It You'll Like It!
Psalm 34:8 Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him
When I go to a resturant I usually like to look at the menu and the most exotic food. I have picked out frog's legs, squid, and even cow brains. Now anyone can order chicken, hamburger, or steak. But, I learned no one really has to be told or persuaded to eat what they already like. But it becomes an act of faith to not only risk one's tastebuds, but also "someone's" money on a meal that may not be a delight.
When David writes "taste and see" was not meant for food. He was challenging the reader to step out and choose the more unfamiliar events from life's menu. Maybe there is a need for a Sunday School teacher and someone is afraid of the call. Taste and see. Maybe there is a task at work that needs to be done and no one is stepping up. It could be time to learn a new responsibility that may or may not lead to higher position later. Either way it is a great time to trust God.
The ordinary life lives from day to day avoiding, fearing, and ignoring trials, challenges, and hardships. The Everyday Christian eagerly looks for the next event to be encouraged to grow for Christ.
How are you doing with the menu of life? When was the last time you tasted to see that the Lord is good?
When I go to a resturant I usually like to look at the menu and the most exotic food. I have picked out frog's legs, squid, and even cow brains. Now anyone can order chicken, hamburger, or steak. But, I learned no one really has to be told or persuaded to eat what they already like. But it becomes an act of faith to not only risk one's tastebuds, but also "someone's" money on a meal that may not be a delight.
When David writes "taste and see" was not meant for food. He was challenging the reader to step out and choose the more unfamiliar events from life's menu. Maybe there is a need for a Sunday School teacher and someone is afraid of the call. Taste and see. Maybe there is a task at work that needs to be done and no one is stepping up. It could be time to learn a new responsibility that may or may not lead to higher position later. Either way it is a great time to trust God.
The ordinary life lives from day to day avoiding, fearing, and ignoring trials, challenges, and hardships. The Everyday Christian eagerly looks for the next event to be encouraged to grow for Christ.
How are you doing with the menu of life? When was the last time you tasted to see that the Lord is good?
Friday, May 22, 2009
For Anyone Who Has Screwed Up
Proverbs 24:16 for the righteous falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked stumble in times of calamity. ESV
If I could I would ask for a raise of hands right now of those who have made a nobody else to blame, self created mess at home, church, work, or school. For my own sanity I hope that at least one person reading this would be raising their hand.
Time and pride keep me from giving example. Let's just say that it would not be hard for those around me to quickly retell of events. It would be one thing if there was someone to ligitimently to blame. But, saddly no.
It is very easy to want to runaway from our disasters. Even if we do not run physically, we fantize about another job, church, or mythical environment where we are happy and successful
Maybe that is where you are. You wish you did most if not all things well. Never mixup an order, fail a test, or break a tool. The bad news is in this life that day will never come. The good news is that you really are not the worst or only one who messes up. You may have to stop focusing on yourself all the time to notice.
The great news is God can and will use your messes. God is so powerful, wise and loving that He is worthy to be trusted and followed even in our failures.
The key is to not focus on staying on the ground. I use to have a kids blowup punching bag when I was I in grade school. I think it was Captain America or Iron Man. Anyway it was the one where hit it, it would fall back and then stand right back. No matter how hard I hit or kicked it, it came right back.
If we fall and stay down (mentally or physically) our true joy is gone and the life story is just about over. But if we get up (seek God's help and maybe forgivence) we are ready to show others God is still ready, willing, and able to use us for His glory.
How about you tired of falling into messes of your own making? Don't stay on the ground! Look up and get up. True humility admits mistakes, sins, and need for help. Staying down gives into pride and selfishness.
If I could I would ask for a raise of hands right now of those who have made a nobody else to blame, self created mess at home, church, work, or school. For my own sanity I hope that at least one person reading this would be raising their hand.
Time and pride keep me from giving example. Let's just say that it would not be hard for those around me to quickly retell of events. It would be one thing if there was someone to ligitimently to blame. But, saddly no.
It is very easy to want to runaway from our disasters. Even if we do not run physically, we fantize about another job, church, or mythical environment where we are happy and successful
Maybe that is where you are. You wish you did most if not all things well. Never mixup an order, fail a test, or break a tool. The bad news is in this life that day will never come. The good news is that you really are not the worst or only one who messes up. You may have to stop focusing on yourself all the time to notice.
The great news is God can and will use your messes. God is so powerful, wise and loving that He is worthy to be trusted and followed even in our failures.
The key is to not focus on staying on the ground. I use to have a kids blowup punching bag when I was I in grade school. I think it was Captain America or Iron Man. Anyway it was the one where hit it, it would fall back and then stand right back. No matter how hard I hit or kicked it, it came right back.
If we fall and stay down (mentally or physically) our true joy is gone and the life story is just about over. But if we get up (seek God's help and maybe forgivence) we are ready to show others God is still ready, willing, and able to use us for His glory.
How about you tired of falling into messes of your own making? Don't stay on the ground! Look up and get up. True humility admits mistakes, sins, and need for help. Staying down gives into pride and selfishness.
Saturday, May 09, 2009
The Power to Divide
2Samuel 15:3-4 Absalom would say to him, "See, your claims are good and right, but there is no man designated by the king to hear you." 4Then Absalom would say, "Oh that I were judge in the land! Then every man with a dispute or cause might come to me, and I would give him justice."(ESV)
It has been said that Absalom had it all. A rich, powerful, and spiritual family heritage. Physically, he was probably a handsome man with a good amount of educated intelligence. By some he may even have been in line for the throne. God had promised his father David a long line of rule for his descendants. What great potential he had and probably alot of people watching him as he grew up and seemed to follow in his dad's footsteps.
But, Absalom just could not wait. He knew he had influence on people already. Maybe that boosted his esteem, or fed his desire for power. Maybe he just was tired of being taken for granted or unappreciated for his talents. Whatever the motivation, he was now on a path of usurping his father's authority in subtle an not so subtle ways.
Sowing discord, or doubt in the loyalty toward leadership is the most common of methods of division. I have been the "Second man" for over 22 years under 3 different pastors. Plus I have had more bosses in more jobs than I can remember. There is one common threat to all these leaders and that is ease of distrust, disunity, and discouragement just by a few reckless, or destructive words. I wonder how many church splits could have been averted or at least minimized if the assistant stood with the pastor instead of standing with preference. The workplace believer, just as the assistant pastor must be on guard not to say or agree with statements like: If I were leader I would..., the leader is okay, but...., nobody listens to me... etc.
Sometimes we walk a fine line. I once coined a saying "an assistant pastor (or workplace believer) should not be a yes person, but he/she should be accused of it once in a while." We should never sacrifice principle for unity, but we should never sacrifice unity for pride.
It has been said that Absalom had it all. A rich, powerful, and spiritual family heritage. Physically, he was probably a handsome man with a good amount of educated intelligence. By some he may even have been in line for the throne. God had promised his father David a long line of rule for his descendants. What great potential he had and probably alot of people watching him as he grew up and seemed to follow in his dad's footsteps.
But, Absalom just could not wait. He knew he had influence on people already. Maybe that boosted his esteem, or fed his desire for power. Maybe he just was tired of being taken for granted or unappreciated for his talents. Whatever the motivation, he was now on a path of usurping his father's authority in subtle an not so subtle ways.
Sowing discord, or doubt in the loyalty toward leadership is the most common of methods of division. I have been the "Second man" for over 22 years under 3 different pastors. Plus I have had more bosses in more jobs than I can remember. There is one common threat to all these leaders and that is ease of distrust, disunity, and discouragement just by a few reckless, or destructive words. I wonder how many church splits could have been averted or at least minimized if the assistant stood with the pastor instead of standing with preference. The workplace believer, just as the assistant pastor must be on guard not to say or agree with statements like: If I were leader I would..., the leader is okay, but...., nobody listens to me... etc.
Sometimes we walk a fine line. I once coined a saying "an assistant pastor (or workplace believer) should not be a yes person, but he/she should be accused of it once in a while." We should never sacrifice principle for unity, but we should never sacrifice unity for pride.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Submission: God's Cure for Crisis Part 4
Paul's Submission to God's Promises
Acts 27:29-38 And fearing that we might run on the rocks, they let down four anchors from the stern and prayed for day to come. And as the sailors were seeking to escape from the ship, and had lowered the ship’s boat into the sea under pretense of laying out anchors from the bow, Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, "Unless these men stay in the ship, you cannot be saved." Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the ship’s boat and let it go.
Acts 27:29-38 And fearing that we might run on the rocks, they let down four anchors from the stern and prayed for day to come. And as the sailors were seeking to escape from the ship, and had lowered the ship’s boat into the sea under pretense of laying out anchors from the bow, Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, "Unless these men stay in the ship, you cannot be saved." Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the ship’s boat and let it go.
As day was about to dawn, Paul urged them all to take some food, saying, "Today is the fourteenth day that you have continued in suspense and without food, having taken nothing. Therefore I urge you to take some food. For it will give you strength, for not a hair is to perish from the head of any of you." And when he had said these things, he took bread, and giving thanks to God in the presence of all he broke it and began to eat. Then they all were encouraged and ate some food themselves. (We were in all 276 persons in the ship.) And when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship, throwing out the wheat into the sea.
Nothing shows true submission to any authority than trust and obedience to that authority's promises. Here Paul showed his submission to God best when in the mist of dangerous circumstances and the discouragement of others he boldly says he believes God.
Notice when all others were exhausted, hungry and fearful Paul remains positive concerning God's promise of safety. This was not an attitude that promoted Paul's positive thinking, but a genuine belief that God would perform His promise in face of all that seemed hopeless. Imagine being layed off from your occupation with no human guarantee of return any time soon. When all you co-workers are fearful about how the bills will be payed and food will be put on the table for the family. Those are real concerns and from a human view defiantly hopeless. Now comes the hard part for you as the workplace Christian. The need of the hour is for someone to express and live out Philippians 4:19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Like Paul, even though there will be resistance and even contempt, there will be those who will be encourage towards God at least in the long run and you may never in this world see that happen. But we will all be surprised as to who really was influence in that crisis.
With the down turn of the world economy, God's people have an opportunity not seen since the 70's and early 80's to shine in darkness. There are co-workers, neighbors and even family members who may never know how to navigate through the crisis of life until they see and hear someone who is submitting to God's promises. Not when it is easy but when it is the most difficult.
Saturday, April 04, 2009
Real Men Don't Use Manuals?
2Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.
An employee was asked by his boss to change a taillight on one of the trucks in the company fleet. This employee has changed taillights before, even on large vans. However, he had a question about the placement of the lights. So he searched the user manual of that truck. His boss found out and chewed out the employee for not knowing how to do the task ahead of time.
When I heard the above event I was reminded of a series of radio spots on sports radio about a year or two back. The add campaign was a highlighting of what were called manlaws. Now I found this to be humorous to listen to at the time. The one that stuck out in my mind was real men don't ask for direction nor use user manuals. All humor aside this was a message that real men are self sufficient. To ask such help is a sign of weakness and lacking in true manhood.
How sad this philosophy is when applied to the trials and troubles of life. It is a cruel and frightful thing if we are to fend for ourselves in our pitiful earthly knowledge against the tumult that we face from within and without. That's why the bible, God's Word is not only essential, but is also relevant and sufficient to all the events of life. If we face money troubles, God has the answer. If we face parent child conflict the bible is the only true source to depend on. If we have sinful habit the bible gives counsel for that.
I am so glad that God does not leave defenseless. But we may handicap ourselves by ignorance, rebellion, laziness, or pride.
An employee was asked by his boss to change a taillight on one of the trucks in the company fleet. This employee has changed taillights before, even on large vans. However, he had a question about the placement of the lights. So he searched the user manual of that truck. His boss found out and chewed out the employee for not knowing how to do the task ahead of time.
When I heard the above event I was reminded of a series of radio spots on sports radio about a year or two back. The add campaign was a highlighting of what were called manlaws. Now I found this to be humorous to listen to at the time. The one that stuck out in my mind was real men don't ask for direction nor use user manuals. All humor aside this was a message that real men are self sufficient. To ask such help is a sign of weakness and lacking in true manhood.
How sad this philosophy is when applied to the trials and troubles of life. It is a cruel and frightful thing if we are to fend for ourselves in our pitiful earthly knowledge against the tumult that we face from within and without. That's why the bible, God's Word is not only essential, but is also relevant and sufficient to all the events of life. If we face money troubles, God has the answer. If we face parent child conflict the bible is the only true source to depend on. If we have sinful habit the bible gives counsel for that.
I am so glad that God does not leave defenseless. But we may handicap ourselves by ignorance, rebellion, laziness, or pride.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Submission: God's Cure for Crisis Part 3
Paul's Submission to God's Love
Acts 27: 21-26 Since they had been without food for a long time, Paul stood up among them and said, "Men, you should have listened to me and not have set sail from Crete and incurred this injury and loss. Yet now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. For this very night there stood before me an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I worship, and he said, 'Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before Caesar. And behold, God has granted you all those who sail with you.' So take heart, men, for I have faith in God that it will be exactly as I have been told. But we must run aground on some island."
Do you believe love is a feeling? What do you feel like when you are "in love" Have you ever considered love to be more to be an action verb rather than a description of of emotion? I suspect Paul was not leaning on emotion or feeling to determine his next course of action. Paul would have probably felt betrayed, belittle, and bewildered, but that does not seem to effect his behavior to those on the ship in crisis.
When we think of the love of God assume some kind of all covering warm feeling of security. Submission to God's love has to be shown to others to be genuine love of God. Paul's submission in this crisis shows God's love by his focus on others rather than himself and his comfort.
Paul's submission was shown by his stay close to God during the crisis. Unlike Jonah who was also in a ship in crisis, he ran from God's presence and he had to be compelled to even to pray. What selfishness to rest, sleep and seek one's own comfort the priority. Paul on the other hand made prayer for others and guidance of service. He was not afraid to reveal to others about his relationship to an all powerful God who is up close and personal. Many times all that we do is complain, blame, and fight for survival. When we face hardship God should be the first and only destination for the telling of grief and seeking of wisdom.
Paul's submission was shown by his meeting the physical needs of his shipmates. When facing stress and conflict the natural response is to seek one's own welfare. To horde all resources, and work for number one. The world would tell us if we don't care for ourselves, who will? Again Paul does just the opposite. When he sees that the others have been so distraught by disaster he appears ready, willing and able to meet the need of food and comfort to them above his own. When it is easier to run and self-protect, God is well pleased when His love to us is transferred to serving others when all others do not.
Paul's submission is shown by his meeting the spiritual needs of his ship mates. It is all well and good to strive for the physical comfort of others. However, that is an incomplete mission at best. What good is it to comfort in this life and leave eternity of hell and suffering in that persons future. Paul bravely mixed the Gospel and worship of God with the meat that he dispensed. It is certainly more desirable to present the God to the lost by first showing the concern for their physical comfort. It was the way Jesus did his ministry. But as Jesus is heal and comfort He also made sure He never neglected what His true purpose was to "seek and to save..."
Love is without a doubt and action verb, that when performed God's way can lead to good feelings. Truly the Love from God was not meant for our security alone but to be channeled from God through us out to others around us. And there is no better time to do this than when others are complaining, hurting, and even rebelling authority.
Next: Paul's Submission to God's Promises
Acts 27: 21-26 Since they had been without food for a long time, Paul stood up among them and said, "Men, you should have listened to me and not have set sail from Crete and incurred this injury and loss. Yet now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. For this very night there stood before me an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I worship, and he said, 'Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before Caesar. And behold, God has granted you all those who sail with you.' So take heart, men, for I have faith in God that it will be exactly as I have been told. But we must run aground on some island."
Do you believe love is a feeling? What do you feel like when you are "in love" Have you ever considered love to be more to be an action verb rather than a description of of emotion? I suspect Paul was not leaning on emotion or feeling to determine his next course of action. Paul would have probably felt betrayed, belittle, and bewildered, but that does not seem to effect his behavior to those on the ship in crisis.
When we think of the love of God assume some kind of all covering warm feeling of security. Submission to God's love has to be shown to others to be genuine love of God. Paul's submission in this crisis shows God's love by his focus on others rather than himself and his comfort.
Paul's submission was shown by his stay close to God during the crisis. Unlike Jonah who was also in a ship in crisis, he ran from God's presence and he had to be compelled to even to pray. What selfishness to rest, sleep and seek one's own comfort the priority. Paul on the other hand made prayer for others and guidance of service. He was not afraid to reveal to others about his relationship to an all powerful God who is up close and personal. Many times all that we do is complain, blame, and fight for survival. When we face hardship God should be the first and only destination for the telling of grief and seeking of wisdom.
Paul's submission was shown by his meeting the physical needs of his shipmates. When facing stress and conflict the natural response is to seek one's own welfare. To horde all resources, and work for number one. The world would tell us if we don't care for ourselves, who will? Again Paul does just the opposite. When he sees that the others have been so distraught by disaster he appears ready, willing and able to meet the need of food and comfort to them above his own. When it is easier to run and self-protect, God is well pleased when His love to us is transferred to serving others when all others do not.
Paul's submission is shown by his meeting the spiritual needs of his ship mates. It is all well and good to strive for the physical comfort of others. However, that is an incomplete mission at best. What good is it to comfort in this life and leave eternity of hell and suffering in that persons future. Paul bravely mixed the Gospel and worship of God with the meat that he dispensed. It is certainly more desirable to present the God to the lost by first showing the concern for their physical comfort. It was the way Jesus did his ministry. But as Jesus is heal and comfort He also made sure He never neglected what His true purpose was to "seek and to save..."
Love is without a doubt and action verb, that when performed God's way can lead to good feelings. Truly the Love from God was not meant for our security alone but to be channeled from God through us out to others around us. And there is no better time to do this than when others are complaining, hurting, and even rebelling authority.
Next: Paul's Submission to God's Promises
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Submission: God's Cure for Crisis Part 2
Paul’s Submission to God’s Leadership
Act 27:9-12 Since much time had passed, and the voyage was now dangerous because even the Fast was already over, Paul advised them, saying, “Sirs, I perceive that the voyage will be with injury and much loss, not only of the cargo and the ship, but also of our lives.” But the centurion paid more attention to the pilot and to the owner of the ship than to what Paul said. And because the harbor was not suitable to spend the winter in, the majority decided to put out to sea from there, on the chance that somehow they could reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete, facing both southwest and northwest, and spend the winter there.
As we continue to explore the Christian response to crisis, we look again at Paul's behavior during a disastrous trip in the Mediterranean Sea. We see Paul sharing with the Centurion and the captain of the ship about the trip that they plan to proceed. In this event we see at least four aspects about the Christian's view to leadership in crisis and what to do when one disagrees with the leadership one serves. First, Paul submits to leaders who are not as spiritual as he is. It seems to be part of the American way of thinking to distrust leadership. We seem to especially distrust it if the leader is not a Christian, or at least as "separated" as we are. If the leader does not fit into our preference view of what a leader should be then we think we are less accountable to him/her. If anyone could claim a high spiritual plain it would be Paul. Here was the writer of most of the New Testament, a builder of local churches, and a winner of souls to Christ. He even told his followers to follow him as he followed Christ. He did not throw his spiritual weight around. He did not even fuss when his advice was not heeded. Many today get all frustrated with leaders and claim a better way, but Paul shows the better way is submission of spiritual status.
Second, Paul was submissive to the leaders even when he may know more. Paul was no stranger to sailing. As a matter of fact, this would not be his first ship wreck. Although, he was treated like an ignorant novice, Paul could see the physical signs of bad weather. He knew by experience what could take out a ship, and leave it's crew for dead. Yet as I mentioned before, Paul did not fuss, fight, or gossip about how inept the leaders were for not listening to him. At the time that I am writing this entry, a commercial aircraft had crashed into the Hudson River. The miraculous part about this that no one died nor seemed badly injured. The main reason for this is given to the captain and crew for their quick thinking and action. Very true! However, let's also give credit to the submissive passengers who did not second guess, rebel, or get offended in the ordeal. Just one rebellious passenger could have caused alot of damage and maybe loss of life. Many a crisis can be overcome by this submission.
Finally third, Paul was submissive to leadership just because God put them there as his leaders. If God is sovereign like I wrote in the previous entry, then the leaders we have are not accidental, or unfortunate. God has place that boss, that husband, father/mother, and even president in that position for His purpose. The bible teaches that unless the leader is violating scripture, follow ship is mandatory. Paul himself taught in Romans 13 that God takes submission to leadership seriously. yo the next time we feel like the boss is unqualified, or that husband is an idiot, or that parent doesn't understand, remember God put them there for you and how you will respond is not only accountable to the leader but also to God Himself.
God just does not seem to be a big fan of rebellion. Too many times in the bible we are commanded to obey Him through obeying our leaders. Nothing overcomes, and glorifies God in an crisis more then when submission is shown to the leadership.
To be Continued: Paul's Submission to God's Love
Act 27:9-12 Since much time had passed, and the voyage was now dangerous because even the Fast was already over, Paul advised them, saying, “Sirs, I perceive that the voyage will be with injury and much loss, not only of the cargo and the ship, but also of our lives.” But the centurion paid more attention to the pilot and to the owner of the ship than to what Paul said. And because the harbor was not suitable to spend the winter in, the majority decided to put out to sea from there, on the chance that somehow they could reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete, facing both southwest and northwest, and spend the winter there.
As we continue to explore the Christian response to crisis, we look again at Paul's behavior during a disastrous trip in the Mediterranean Sea. We see Paul sharing with the Centurion and the captain of the ship about the trip that they plan to proceed. In this event we see at least four aspects about the Christian's view to leadership in crisis and what to do when one disagrees with the leadership one serves. First, Paul submits to leaders who are not as spiritual as he is. It seems to be part of the American way of thinking to distrust leadership. We seem to especially distrust it if the leader is not a Christian, or at least as "separated" as we are. If the leader does not fit into our preference view of what a leader should be then we think we are less accountable to him/her. If anyone could claim a high spiritual plain it would be Paul. Here was the writer of most of the New Testament, a builder of local churches, and a winner of souls to Christ. He even told his followers to follow him as he followed Christ. He did not throw his spiritual weight around. He did not even fuss when his advice was not heeded. Many today get all frustrated with leaders and claim a better way, but Paul shows the better way is submission of spiritual status.
Second, Paul was submissive to the leaders even when he may know more. Paul was no stranger to sailing. As a matter of fact, this would not be his first ship wreck. Although, he was treated like an ignorant novice, Paul could see the physical signs of bad weather. He knew by experience what could take out a ship, and leave it's crew for dead. Yet as I mentioned before, Paul did not fuss, fight, or gossip about how inept the leaders were for not listening to him. At the time that I am writing this entry, a commercial aircraft had crashed into the Hudson River. The miraculous part about this that no one died nor seemed badly injured. The main reason for this is given to the captain and crew for their quick thinking and action. Very true! However, let's also give credit to the submissive passengers who did not second guess, rebel, or get offended in the ordeal. Just one rebellious passenger could have caused alot of damage and maybe loss of life. Many a crisis can be overcome by this submission.
Finally third, Paul was submissive to leadership just because God put them there as his leaders. If God is sovereign like I wrote in the previous entry, then the leaders we have are not accidental, or unfortunate. God has place that boss, that husband, father/mother, and even president in that position for His purpose. The bible teaches that unless the leader is violating scripture, follow ship is mandatory. Paul himself taught in Romans 13 that God takes submission to leadership seriously. yo the next time we feel like the boss is unqualified, or that husband is an idiot, or that parent doesn't understand, remember God put them there for you and how you will respond is not only accountable to the leader but also to God Himself.
God just does not seem to be a big fan of rebellion. Too many times in the bible we are commanded to obey Him through obeying our leaders. Nothing overcomes, and glorifies God in an crisis more then when submission is shown to the leadership.
To be Continued: Paul's Submission to God's Love
Saturday, January 03, 2009
Submission: God's Cure for Crisis Part 1
Acts 1:1 And when it was decided that we should sail for Italy, they delivered Paul and some other prisoners to a centurion of the Augustan Cohort named Julius.
Welcome to 2009!! What a year 2008 was. For me the year dealt in change of job, rearrangement of schedule, loss and gain of church members, and even an addition of a second car. For all of us a new president, disappointment in the Chicago sports teams, higher and lower gas prices, and an economy that ended the year worse than it started. Albert Molher's blog capsulizes 2008 best with "Ten for the History Books from 2008"
For most people, entering into the new year is dominated by the old pocketbook issues: what is the economy going to do? will I be able to keep up with rising prices? will I be able to pay for health care? will I keep my job? I am certainly not a prophet able to predict the future, nor an economist, who probably can't predict it either. Will this year be a economic crisis? Or even a national security crisis like 9/11? We certainly not only ponder these things but it is echoed by tv, radio and those around us.
So what's a Christian living the everyday life to do? This entry is part 1 of a 5 part series about what to do in crisis. The Apostle Paul in Acts 27 could not have been in anymore crisis. Being on a ship for over 2 weeks in storm and stillness. Helpless in every possible physical way. Yet victorious in the midst of crisis. In this entry we are going to look at:
Paul's Submission to God's Sovereignty
First we see Paul submitted as a prisoner. The Apostle Paul, the greatest missionary evangelist, church planter, and problem solver a prisoner. If there ever was a man could brag, and project himself to higher prestige it was Paul. I believe he was an ambitious man who submitted his goals, dreams and desires to the will of God. Sometimes people base comfort and security in a lifestyle, or status rather than how God will lead a life. Is God powerful and concerned enough to lead your life? Paul thought so.
Second, Paul submitted to God's timetable. This trip to Rome that Paul was on must have been taking forever. One ship to another to a long stay in a particular city. If Paul was an American he would have been pulling his hair out. We as American are so weak in this area. We want instant gratification in almost all areas of life. But God does not work that way. This crisis was going to play out on God's time not Paul's or any one else. Maybe the economy will be a problem all year. Maybe the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan will last long than President Obama promises, only God knows because He is in control.
Third, Paul submitted to whatever conditions he live in. Whether in prison or on a ship I have to believe it got really hot, cold, wet, dry, and overall uncomfortable. Hunger, sickness, and insects were probably more common than steak, soft sheets, and heating/air conditioning. Paul was not as concerned about how comfortable he was as to what God was doing at particular time. We love material comforts and confuse them with needs. And even if we are concerned with needs, we are still forgetting about not just what God is able to for us, but also we forget what God is expecting from us.
Finally, Paul submitted to the fact that God just might know more than he. Paul did not spend much time trying to second guess God on what He should be doing. Paul believed and submitted to God being smarter. And if smart then know best. And if knowing best, then doing best.
Yes submission ( the deliberate yielding of rights) is the key to handling the crisis for the Christian.
Next: Paul's Submission to God's Leadership
Welcome to 2009!! What a year 2008 was. For me the year dealt in change of job, rearrangement of schedule, loss and gain of church members, and even an addition of a second car. For all of us a new president, disappointment in the Chicago sports teams, higher and lower gas prices, and an economy that ended the year worse than it started. Albert Molher's blog capsulizes 2008 best with "Ten for the History Books from 2008"
For most people, entering into the new year is dominated by the old pocketbook issues: what is the economy going to do? will I be able to keep up with rising prices? will I be able to pay for health care? will I keep my job? I am certainly not a prophet able to predict the future, nor an economist, who probably can't predict it either. Will this year be a economic crisis? Or even a national security crisis like 9/11? We certainly not only ponder these things but it is echoed by tv, radio and those around us.
So what's a Christian living the everyday life to do? This entry is part 1 of a 5 part series about what to do in crisis. The Apostle Paul in Acts 27 could not have been in anymore crisis. Being on a ship for over 2 weeks in storm and stillness. Helpless in every possible physical way. Yet victorious in the midst of crisis. In this entry we are going to look at:
Paul's Submission to God's Sovereignty
First we see Paul submitted as a prisoner. The Apostle Paul, the greatest missionary evangelist, church planter, and problem solver a prisoner. If there ever was a man could brag, and project himself to higher prestige it was Paul. I believe he was an ambitious man who submitted his goals, dreams and desires to the will of God. Sometimes people base comfort and security in a lifestyle, or status rather than how God will lead a life. Is God powerful and concerned enough to lead your life? Paul thought so.
Second, Paul submitted to God's timetable. This trip to Rome that Paul was on must have been taking forever. One ship to another to a long stay in a particular city. If Paul was an American he would have been pulling his hair out. We as American are so weak in this area. We want instant gratification in almost all areas of life. But God does not work that way. This crisis was going to play out on God's time not Paul's or any one else. Maybe the economy will be a problem all year. Maybe the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan will last long than President Obama promises, only God knows because He is in control.
Third, Paul submitted to whatever conditions he live in. Whether in prison or on a ship I have to believe it got really hot, cold, wet, dry, and overall uncomfortable. Hunger, sickness, and insects were probably more common than steak, soft sheets, and heating/air conditioning. Paul was not as concerned about how comfortable he was as to what God was doing at particular time. We love material comforts and confuse them with needs. And even if we are concerned with needs, we are still forgetting about not just what God is able to for us, but also we forget what God is expecting from us.
Finally, Paul submitted to the fact that God just might know more than he. Paul did not spend much time trying to second guess God on what He should be doing. Paul believed and submitted to God being smarter. And if smart then know best. And if knowing best, then doing best.
Yes submission ( the deliberate yielding of rights) is the key to handling the crisis for the Christian.
Next: Paul's Submission to God's Leadership
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