thursday 8/26/2010
david e. : prayer for david, julie, olivia, and baby number two elmore.
tim b. : over a month ago, i was involved in a car accident. the repairs to the car cannot be completed due to a part that cannot be found in the country. i ask that God intervene and that this part be found quickly and be delivered to the body shop.
ruth cooper i dont have the $ yet that i need for school. one week till classes start. the Lord is my Provider. may i know and walk in faith in this truth.
christina p. : praise: continue to pray for the mental health of my mom, mary helen. she is back on track with her former medicines, and taking her new ones. she has improved greatly over the past week. :)
prayer for confirmation of me substitute teaching spanish at my children's school. i know it's a gift from God and i desire to use it for His purposes; just want to make sure the time is now.
prayer for my children: i pray they begin to have an understanding each time they choose selfishness over love and patience for one another.
for our finances while we are in these small beginnings. i pray i focus in the "not yet" instead of the "now," and trust with joy and peace that my heavenly Father will always provide for my needs.
carly: "may You give my ex husband wisdom, in Jesus' Name-"
SLC: prayer for unity and agreement in all our decisions as we grow and move forward. prayer for provision as we prepare to move from a tent to a temple- there will be many small expenses in moving that could add up to a lot. may individuals be moved by the Spirit to help with these expenses as well as volunteering their bodies to do the work. finally, prayer that as we prepare to begin our fall Bible studies, hearts and minds will be focused on the Lord and His purposes in each of our lives. "Father, touch our hearts and Holy Spirit burn away the chaff so we can hear from you. in Jesus' Name, amen."
more of You, Jesus. more of You. all these requests come before Your throne humbly, yet expectantly! thank You for the gift of Life- Jesus. :))
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Added Prayer Request plus Sunday Sermon Notes
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Christina P - on behalf of my spiritual mentor, Michelle Eldridge:
I just wanted to drop you all a line, and ask you to be praying for me, I leave for KC here in a very short time, and will head up to spend the weekend with my mother. My mother is not doing well, since being released from the hospital; her pneumonia has not subsided, but increased – making her breathing difficult. Her Pleurisy is also a real issue causing her continued pain, which makes her turn to pain meds that just only add to her already, confused state. She is not eating well or sleeping well. I am really asking God for divine wisdom to either pray for total healing or for wisdom on what we need to do to make her last days/months here on earth more comfortable. Her clarity of thought is so diminished right now which effects her ability to take her meds and track her pain meds properly, so much so that I feel her present living situation may not be the place for her much longer, this discussion will not be one she will like, but I plan to try to have it with her this weekend. Also, she is so depressed and feeling hopeless, wanting to just go be with Jesus and my dad, I am not sure I should even be convincing her to fight this and remain here with us, since I think I would fee the exact same way.
Christina P - on behalf of my spiritual mentor, Michelle Eldridge:
I just wanted to drop you all a line, and ask you to be praying for me, I leave for KC here in a very short time, and will head up to spend the weekend with my mother. My mother is not doing well, since being released from the hospital; her pneumonia has not subsided, but increased – making her breathing difficult. Her Pleurisy is also a real issue causing her continued pain, which makes her turn to pain meds that just only add to her already, confused state. She is not eating well or sleeping well. I am really asking God for divine wisdom to either pray for total healing or for wisdom on what we need to do to make her last days/months here on earth more comfortable. Her clarity of thought is so diminished right now which effects her ability to take her meds and track her pain meds properly, so much so that I feel her present living situation may not be the place for her much longer, this discussion will not be one she will like, but I plan to try to have it with her this weekend. Also, she is so depressed and feeling hopeless, wanting to just go be with Jesus and my dad, I am not sure I should even be convincing her to fight this and remain here with us, since I think I would fee the exact same way.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
HAGGAI - The Consuming Presence of God
Establishing the Temple of God begins with a choice…
- “Walking in God’s presence or living in worldly prominence is your choice.”
- That is the tension of life on earth.
· Jesus, “Lay down your nets and follow me.”
· Jesus, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasure on earth… but rather in heaven.”
· Jesus, “we will either seek the honor that comes from men… or seek the honor that comes from God.”
- That is the PASSION of Christ = the breaking down of worldly prominence for GODS presence, manifested.
- In truth by choosing God’s presence you are building your life, but it not with brick and mortar.
What I desire is where I will position my heart…
- I will be in the proximity of the thing that my heart desires.
- My spouse – drugs – fishing – family
- My mind, will and emotions are near to whatever I desire.
- Olympic Gold medal… I will think about it, work towards it and invest emotionally to accomplish that desire.
· People who received from Jesus positioned themselves close to him.
The position of me heart determines where I give my affection…
- I voluntarily come into agreement with what I desire.
- Affection cannot be coerced.
- I cannot “force” myself to desire – desire is an act of volition.
- I am free to choose what I desire.
- So… where my heart is placed is what I will give my affection to.
What I have affection towards is what I will reflect…
- If you are a fan of a particular team – you reflect that.
- If you are a runner – you reflect that.
- If you are a husband or wife – you reflect that.
- You will “be able to see” what I have affection towards.
That which I reflect is what I take delight in…
- Whatever I take delight in will be reflected in my life.
- If I take delight in a race – my actions will reflect that desire.
- If I delight in possessions – it will be reflected.
- I don’t “labor” for something I delight in.
· that is not to say it does not take effort…
- Training to run the race… I take delight in it.
What I take delight in is what I will give myself to…
- Regardless of how I “place” compared to others I can find delight in my affection.
- When I give myself to something it is joyful. I give without expecting anything.
- Giving without delight cancels out the giving.
· If I expect something in return for my offering – it is not an offering out of delight… it is an offering duty (short life span).
· If my offering is out of duty (obligation… I have removed love (eternal in nature – “love remains’)… I have removed God.
What I give myself to is what consumes me….
- If it costs me everything… it is worth it.
- No matter what others think… I will present my life as an offering.
- If it consumes me I do everything to maintain it – I apply myself to it.
- Faith takes effort… it is not easy.
Matthew 11:12-17
· The kingdom of God is taken with violence (effort)
· Faith is not like children playing.
What consumes you this morning?
- “Walking in God’s presence or living in worldly prominence is your choice.”
- That is the tension of life on earth.
· Jesus, “Lay down your nets and follow me.”
· Jesus, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasure on earth… but rather in heaven.”
· Jesus, “we will either seek the honor that comes from men… or seek the honor that comes from God.”
- That is the PASSION of Christ = the breaking down of worldly prominence for GODS presence, manifested.
- In truth by choosing God’s presence you are building your life, but it not with brick and mortar.
What I desire is where I will position my heart…
- I will be in the proximity of the thing that my heart desires.
- My spouse – drugs – fishing – family
- My mind, will and emotions are near to whatever I desire.
- Olympic Gold medal… I will think about it, work towards it and invest emotionally to accomplish that desire.
· People who received from Jesus positioned themselves close to him.
The position of me heart determines where I give my affection…
- I voluntarily come into agreement with what I desire.
- Affection cannot be coerced.
- I cannot “force” myself to desire – desire is an act of volition.
- I am free to choose what I desire.
- So… where my heart is placed is what I will give my affection to.
What I have affection towards is what I will reflect…
- If you are a fan of a particular team – you reflect that.
- If you are a runner – you reflect that.
- If you are a husband or wife – you reflect that.
- You will “be able to see” what I have affection towards.
That which I reflect is what I take delight in…
- Whatever I take delight in will be reflected in my life.
- If I take delight in a race – my actions will reflect that desire.
- If I delight in possessions – it will be reflected.
- I don’t “labor” for something I delight in.
· that is not to say it does not take effort…
- Training to run the race… I take delight in it.
What I take delight in is what I will give myself to…
- Regardless of how I “place” compared to others I can find delight in my affection.
- When I give myself to something it is joyful. I give without expecting anything.
- Giving without delight cancels out the giving.
· If I expect something in return for my offering – it is not an offering out of delight… it is an offering duty (short life span).
· If my offering is out of duty (obligation… I have removed love (eternal in nature – “love remains’)… I have removed God.
What I give myself to is what consumes me….
- If it costs me everything… it is worth it.
- No matter what others think… I will present my life as an offering.
- If it consumes me I do everything to maintain it – I apply myself to it.
- Faith takes effort… it is not easy.
Matthew 11:12-17
· The kingdom of God is taken with violence (effort)
· Faith is not like children playing.
What consumes you this morning?
Sunday 08/15/10 Prayer Requests
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
CG: Please pray for God's presence to be felt and always considered and His will to be done in all that we do at 4G. As we try to improve His world, we seek to understand His weill...at all times.
Please pray for Leo Merkow (Summer's former father in law, Autumn's grandfather) who has been afflicted with leukemia and emphesyma simultaneously last Friday and the prognosis is not very good. He is 80 years old and is in great shape but this illness looks to get the best of him. Pray for his soul and for hi loved ones to understand.
Carly: May you, Lord, give my ex husband wisdom. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Molly Jo: Praise- Cousin Katie - saved and clean from meth addiction! Nephew Austin (12 yrs old) - prayers for salvation, breaking of his hard little heart to love Jesus and be filled with hope!
Please pray for Emily Ullrich's sister and brother in law while they are going through a tough time trying to have a baby. They have been trying for almost a year and have had two miscarraiges. Please be with them and help them through this time.
SLC: Thank you Lord for your apparent presence during Sunday's service! We cry out to you for more of you and less of us. Fill us with your thoughts, your ways, your heart for the lost and the hurting. May you continue to speak to our Pastor in such powerful ways...so many minds are being transformed by your word and the truth that is understood from it. Guide us as we continue to negotiate for a possible new space at 14240 Midway. Knock at the door and we will open and walk through it. Thank you for the wonderful leaders that you have surrounded us with. May we be beacons of light everywhere we go. Amen!
CG: Please pray for God's presence to be felt and always considered and His will to be done in all that we do at 4G. As we try to improve His world, we seek to understand His weill...at all times.
Please pray for Leo Merkow (Summer's former father in law, Autumn's grandfather) who has been afflicted with leukemia and emphesyma simultaneously last Friday and the prognosis is not very good. He is 80 years old and is in great shape but this illness looks to get the best of him. Pray for his soul and for hi loved ones to understand.
Carly: May you, Lord, give my ex husband wisdom. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Molly Jo: Praise- Cousin Katie - saved and clean from meth addiction! Nephew Austin (12 yrs old) - prayers for salvation, breaking of his hard little heart to love Jesus and be filled with hope!
Please pray for Emily Ullrich's sister and brother in law while they are going through a tough time trying to have a baby. They have been trying for almost a year and have had two miscarraiges. Please be with them and help them through this time.
SLC: Thank you Lord for your apparent presence during Sunday's service! We cry out to you for more of you and less of us. Fill us with your thoughts, your ways, your heart for the lost and the hurting. May you continue to speak to our Pastor in such powerful ways...so many minds are being transformed by your word and the truth that is understood from it. Guide us as we continue to negotiate for a possible new space at 14240 Midway. Knock at the door and we will open and walk through it. Thank you for the wonderful leaders that you have surrounded us with. May we be beacons of light everywhere we go. Amen!
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
8.8.10 When "Right" is "Wrong"
ZEPHANIAH
“When right is Wrong”
Have you ever asked yourself, “Is this the right thing to do and is it the right time ?” I’ve heard it said, "It is always “right” to do “right” and always “wrong” to do “wrong” and never “right” to do “wrong”. While I understand the intent of this statement is… it is lacking… but more about that later.
For now let’s consider one of the minor prophets that speaks for God during a time where a King choose to do the right thing – at the right time in humility and because of that a nation was transformed.
THE FULL STORY… 2 Kings 22:1-20
Zephaniah prophesied during the spiritual reforms of Josiah. Josiah’s grandfather Manasseh and Father Amon had turned away from worshipping God. At the age of 26 (became king at 8) Josiah ordered the High Priest to use the tax money to renovate the temple of God. It was during this renovation that the Book of the Law was discovered.
These were the sacred writings that Joshua had received from Moses. Josiah came to recognize what was RIGHT and while he made personal adjustments to his life (tore his robe) he did not act upon the RIGHT THING until he “inquired to the LORD.”
2 Kings 22:13 – “go inquire of the LORD for me, and for the people, and for all Judah, concerning the words of this book that has been found…”
From this inquiry Josiah encouraged exclusive worship of Yahweh and outlawed all other forms of worship. He destroyed the pagan objects related to the worship of Baal and Asherah. He also, had the living pagan priests executed and even had the bones of dead priests of Bethel exhumed from their graves and burned on alters.
He reinstituted the Passover celebrations and had the Ark of the Covenant returned to the Temple. It is within this context that Zephaniah speaks with the words of God. Remember the atmosphere – Josiah had independently decided to renovate the temple – he took responsibility as King. Then discovered what was “RIGHT” through the reading of God’s word.” Finally, he humbled himself and inquired to the LORD in regard to what should be done – and from that knew what had been read was TRUE.
So is it always right to do right? Is it never right to do wrong?
If I could start with one thought… “It’s not about doing what is right or not doing what is wrong – it’s about doing what is true.”
PROVING WHAT IS RIGHT:
They way I determine what is “right” is quite simple.
Romans 12:2 – “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind that by testing you may discern (test = ‘prove’) what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
What this says is that I am to “give approval to” what the will of God is… my “Amen!” I “PROVE” what is “RIGHT” by comparing it to the WORD of God. I come to know the “will of God” as I transform my mind, so as to have the mind of Christ. The ‘will of God’ becomes manifest as I understand truth through the renewal of my mind.
- A renewed mind is able to “APPROVE” something by holding it up to the light of God’s word.
- The renewed mind discovers the RIGHT (through God’s word) and prepares to be obedient.
- The renewed mind, because it is transformed through God’s Spirit, is able to validate the will of God.
This asks that I become an ‘expert’ in the things of God. I am able to recognize the “real”.
For example; two different words from people – one (of a dream) that an illness was given by the LORD so that family members will come to know Christ. The other is that of a vision of my life in which I walked into a service and the presence of God fell and the disease was removed.
Which on these two scenarios is the will of God, which one is “real” (what did Jesus demonstrate)?
• Did Jesus ‘give disease’?
• Did He deliver and heal?
The decree from the LORD had gone out from Josiah and Zephaniah was telling the people to get it “right” TODAY! There is still time to humble themselves and seek righteousness and humility (2:3)
- if the king has said it
- A prophet has declared it
- God’s word displays it
- It’s most likely “right”
But even when I am able to recognize the “right” and am confident that something is within the will of God – I am never at a place where I can presume upon the LORD. Simply because it is “right” does not make it “true”.
STORY>>>>>
• This past Thursday I was having lunch in the mall with a friend. As we were leaving I noticed a little girl that was in walking braces. We were going to go our separate ways when I thought to myself – “You need to go and pray for that girl” so I approached her mom and asked if I could pray for her daughter. Her mom was not rude but it was obvious that she did not want me to draw attention to her daughter – she gave me her name and I prayed for her privately.
• I learned something about doing the right thing – what I intended to do was not outside of the lines of God. My problem was that “I” thought it was a good idea… the question was – did God? I was confident it was the “right thing” but neglected to ask the LORD if it was the right TIME.
My responsibility is to, come to know “RIGHT” and when prompted manifest that “before the day passes away like chaff”.
KNOWING RIGHT and WRONG (through testing and proving) is only the START.
There is MORE than knowing RIGHT and WRONG – we must be able to know if it is TRUE.
A factor inknowing what is TRUE is your ability to recieve correction. Are you able to receive correction? WHY? Let me ask you – can a proud person receive correction?
RECEIVING the WHEN: When you are corrected to the truth (3:1-2)
Knowing the RIGHT positions us for breakthrough however, simply because it is RIGHT does not mean it is TRUE.
PROVBERS 30:5 – “Every word of God proves true…
• Meaning that while God’s word is always “right” it requires TIME to be proven TRUE.
Josiah found the RIGHT and was then able to be corrected into the TRUTH. He waited on the LORD and inquired.
If I demonstrate a life that will not receive correction I develop a spirit that is independent of God. With this mind-set I am able to determine what is RIGHT but am not able to receive instruction to make the RIGHT TRUE. I “have the appearance of godliness but am denying its power.”
I’ve seen spiritual abuse from people who demonstrate the “RIGHT” but neglect the compassion associated with HUMILITY from being CORRECTED.
When my heart is receptive to correction I am able to broker the “right” and apply it so that it becomes true.
Determining what is “right or wrong” is easy. We have the Holy Spirit = “…he convicts the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment…” John 16 God is not so much concerned about us “doing right” or “doing wrong” (that is legalism) he is more concerned about our Heart – is it humble so as to receive correction? God says we are "to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with Him."
Honestly, “right and wrong” are laden with grey. God deals with darkness and light – there is no shadow in Him so He would not create a system in which there are variations.
That is why people get so confused in life – they are constantly chasing after “doing right” and not “doing wrong” - it’s not about “right and wrong” it is about what is true.
Jesus says, “Everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. But whoever does what is __true___ comes to the light so that it may be clearly seen that his deeds have been carried out by God.” (John 3:20-21)
Truth is independent of consequences = TRUTH stands alone. With a heart that knows the RIGHT by giving approval and is willing to receive correction – TRUTH becomes evident.
The world can create a system in which we are able to determine what is RIGHT = but it cannot systematically determine what is TRUE. It is antithetical to determine spiritual truth with a worldly system.
• What did Jesus demonstrate – That what seems “wrong” (to the world) is actually “right” (according to God). His death would turn out to be life for the world!
• Jesus left towns where there were still people who needed healing… why? Because He knew the TRUTH and was able to be CORRECTED – He sought the Father and chose to do what is true over what the world considered “right”.
Jesus NEVER contradicted God’s word. He was able to receive correction from the Father – through the Holy Spirit - and because of that everything He did was not only RIGHT… it was TRUE.
“I am the way the TRUTH and the life…”
1. So – if I examine scripture to determine what is “RIGHT” and “PROVE” it,
2. Then in a posture of humility am able to receive “CORRECTION” to do what is TRUE.
3. I search for God’s presence…
- SEARCHING for GODS PRESENCE: When the presence of God is in your midst (3:17)
The Hebrew word used here for “quiet” is “charash” which is translated 73 times and has 22 various interpretations. I have yet to receive revelation on that – other than to say seeking God’s presence is not limited to “one” method.
As you SEEK HIM remember:
- God’s presence often manifests itself contrary to the surrounding influence; fire at night, cloud by day.
- This is not to say that we are to look for weirdness and go in that direction – what it does say is that if God is leading in a particular direction… it often appears “abnormal”, illogical, beyond basic reasoning. It is not “normal” to have peace in the midst of trauma except for the Presence of God resting on you.
Jesus words and actions were contrary to the thinking and methods of the day. The whole “You must eat my flesh and drink my blood thing… yeah, not a ‘normal’ thing to say. Yet, His life demonstrated the fullness of God’s presence.So much so… just moments before His crucifixion he asked if anyone would charge him with sin… no one had any accusations against Him.
Jesus sought God’s presence – Jesus looked to the Father and did what He told him to do.
God’s presence is always available for those who seek Him in TRUTH and HUMILITY – since God is present everywhere, including within us, we are really talking about recognizing His presence.
In God’s presence there is a sense of “peace and stillness”. This is not to say that there is not activity that surrounds God’s presence – I’ve experienced it running by myself or in the midst of a concert with 10,000 people.
So… back to our original statement; can right be wrong? Yes, unless...
- You have proven it to be RIGHT by examining God's word.
- You take a position of HUMILITY to be CORRECTED into TRUTH.
- You have sought GOD’S PRESENCE?
“When right is Wrong”
Have you ever asked yourself, “Is this the right thing to do and is it the right time ?” I’ve heard it said, "It is always “right” to do “right” and always “wrong” to do “wrong” and never “right” to do “wrong”. While I understand the intent of this statement is… it is lacking… but more about that later.
For now let’s consider one of the minor prophets that speaks for God during a time where a King choose to do the right thing – at the right time in humility and because of that a nation was transformed.
THE FULL STORY… 2 Kings 22:1-20
Zephaniah prophesied during the spiritual reforms of Josiah. Josiah’s grandfather Manasseh and Father Amon had turned away from worshipping God. At the age of 26 (became king at 8) Josiah ordered the High Priest to use the tax money to renovate the temple of God. It was during this renovation that the Book of the Law was discovered.
These were the sacred writings that Joshua had received from Moses. Josiah came to recognize what was RIGHT and while he made personal adjustments to his life (tore his robe) he did not act upon the RIGHT THING until he “inquired to the LORD.”
2 Kings 22:13 – “go inquire of the LORD for me, and for the people, and for all Judah, concerning the words of this book that has been found…”
From this inquiry Josiah encouraged exclusive worship of Yahweh and outlawed all other forms of worship. He destroyed the pagan objects related to the worship of Baal and Asherah. He also, had the living pagan priests executed and even had the bones of dead priests of Bethel exhumed from their graves and burned on alters.
He reinstituted the Passover celebrations and had the Ark of the Covenant returned to the Temple. It is within this context that Zephaniah speaks with the words of God. Remember the atmosphere – Josiah had independently decided to renovate the temple – he took responsibility as King. Then discovered what was “RIGHT” through the reading of God’s word.” Finally, he humbled himself and inquired to the LORD in regard to what should be done – and from that knew what had been read was TRUE.
So is it always right to do right? Is it never right to do wrong?
If I could start with one thought… “It’s not about doing what is right or not doing what is wrong – it’s about doing what is true.”
PROVING WHAT IS RIGHT:
They way I determine what is “right” is quite simple.
Romans 12:2 – “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind that by testing you may discern (test = ‘prove’) what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
What this says is that I am to “give approval to” what the will of God is… my “Amen!” I “PROVE” what is “RIGHT” by comparing it to the WORD of God. I come to know the “will of God” as I transform my mind, so as to have the mind of Christ. The ‘will of God’ becomes manifest as I understand truth through the renewal of my mind.
- A renewed mind is able to “APPROVE” something by holding it up to the light of God’s word.
- The renewed mind discovers the RIGHT (through God’s word) and prepares to be obedient.
- The renewed mind, because it is transformed through God’s Spirit, is able to validate the will of God.
This asks that I become an ‘expert’ in the things of God. I am able to recognize the “real”.
For example; two different words from people – one (of a dream) that an illness was given by the LORD so that family members will come to know Christ. The other is that of a vision of my life in which I walked into a service and the presence of God fell and the disease was removed.
Which on these two scenarios is the will of God, which one is “real” (what did Jesus demonstrate)?
• Did Jesus ‘give disease’?
• Did He deliver and heal?
The decree from the LORD had gone out from Josiah and Zephaniah was telling the people to get it “right” TODAY! There is still time to humble themselves and seek righteousness and humility (2:3)
- if the king has said it
- A prophet has declared it
- God’s word displays it
- It’s most likely “right”
But even when I am able to recognize the “right” and am confident that something is within the will of God – I am never at a place where I can presume upon the LORD. Simply because it is “right” does not make it “true”.
STORY>>>>>
• This past Thursday I was having lunch in the mall with a friend. As we were leaving I noticed a little girl that was in walking braces. We were going to go our separate ways when I thought to myself – “You need to go and pray for that girl” so I approached her mom and asked if I could pray for her daughter. Her mom was not rude but it was obvious that she did not want me to draw attention to her daughter – she gave me her name and I prayed for her privately.
• I learned something about doing the right thing – what I intended to do was not outside of the lines of God. My problem was that “I” thought it was a good idea… the question was – did God? I was confident it was the “right thing” but neglected to ask the LORD if it was the right TIME.
My responsibility is to, come to know “RIGHT” and when prompted manifest that “before the day passes away like chaff”.
KNOWING RIGHT and WRONG (through testing and proving) is only the START.
There is MORE than knowing RIGHT and WRONG – we must be able to know if it is TRUE.
A factor inknowing what is TRUE is your ability to recieve correction. Are you able to receive correction? WHY? Let me ask you – can a proud person receive correction?
RECEIVING the WHEN: When you are corrected to the truth (3:1-2)
Knowing the RIGHT positions us for breakthrough however, simply because it is RIGHT does not mean it is TRUE.
PROVBERS 30:5 – “Every word of God proves true…
• Meaning that while God’s word is always “right” it requires TIME to be proven TRUE.
Josiah found the RIGHT and was then able to be corrected into the TRUTH. He waited on the LORD and inquired.
If I demonstrate a life that will not receive correction I develop a spirit that is independent of God. With this mind-set I am able to determine what is RIGHT but am not able to receive instruction to make the RIGHT TRUE. I “have the appearance of godliness but am denying its power.”
I’ve seen spiritual abuse from people who demonstrate the “RIGHT” but neglect the compassion associated with HUMILITY from being CORRECTED.
When my heart is receptive to correction I am able to broker the “right” and apply it so that it becomes true.
Determining what is “right or wrong” is easy. We have the Holy Spirit = “…he convicts the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment…” John 16 God is not so much concerned about us “doing right” or “doing wrong” (that is legalism) he is more concerned about our Heart – is it humble so as to receive correction? God says we are "to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with Him."
Honestly, “right and wrong” are laden with grey. God deals with darkness and light – there is no shadow in Him so He would not create a system in which there are variations.
That is why people get so confused in life – they are constantly chasing after “doing right” and not “doing wrong” - it’s not about “right and wrong” it is about what is true.
Jesus says, “Everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. But whoever does what is __true___ comes to the light so that it may be clearly seen that his deeds have been carried out by God.” (John 3:20-21)
Truth is independent of consequences = TRUTH stands alone. With a heart that knows the RIGHT by giving approval and is willing to receive correction – TRUTH becomes evident.
The world can create a system in which we are able to determine what is RIGHT = but it cannot systematically determine what is TRUE. It is antithetical to determine spiritual truth with a worldly system.
• What did Jesus demonstrate – That what seems “wrong” (to the world) is actually “right” (according to God). His death would turn out to be life for the world!
• Jesus left towns where there were still people who needed healing… why? Because He knew the TRUTH and was able to be CORRECTED – He sought the Father and chose to do what is true over what the world considered “right”.
Jesus NEVER contradicted God’s word. He was able to receive correction from the Father – through the Holy Spirit - and because of that everything He did was not only RIGHT… it was TRUE.
“I am the way the TRUTH and the life…”
1. So – if I examine scripture to determine what is “RIGHT” and “PROVE” it,
2. Then in a posture of humility am able to receive “CORRECTION” to do what is TRUE.
3. I search for God’s presence…
- SEARCHING for GODS PRESENCE: When the presence of God is in your midst (3:17)
The Hebrew word used here for “quiet” is “charash” which is translated 73 times and has 22 various interpretations. I have yet to receive revelation on that – other than to say seeking God’s presence is not limited to “one” method.
As you SEEK HIM remember:
- God’s presence often manifests itself contrary to the surrounding influence; fire at night, cloud by day.
- This is not to say that we are to look for weirdness and go in that direction – what it does say is that if God is leading in a particular direction… it often appears “abnormal”, illogical, beyond basic reasoning. It is not “normal” to have peace in the midst of trauma except for the Presence of God resting on you.
Jesus words and actions were contrary to the thinking and methods of the day. The whole “You must eat my flesh and drink my blood thing… yeah, not a ‘normal’ thing to say. Yet, His life demonstrated the fullness of God’s presence.So much so… just moments before His crucifixion he asked if anyone would charge him with sin… no one had any accusations against Him.
Jesus sought God’s presence – Jesus looked to the Father and did what He told him to do.
God’s presence is always available for those who seek Him in TRUTH and HUMILITY – since God is present everywhere, including within us, we are really talking about recognizing His presence.
In God’s presence there is a sense of “peace and stillness”. This is not to say that there is not activity that surrounds God’s presence – I’ve experienced it running by myself or in the midst of a concert with 10,000 people.
So… back to our original statement; can right be wrong? Yes, unless...
- You have proven it to be RIGHT by examining God's word.
- You take a position of HUMILITY to be CORRECTED into TRUTH.
- You have sought GOD’S PRESENCE?
Prayer Requests from 8/8/10 & 8/1/10
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
REQUESTS FROM SUNDAY, AUGUST 8:
R: Kingdom friends- That God will open the store houses in heaven!
Cp: Father, I pray that you would hold my friend, Ida, close to your heart; like a new born baby being comforted in the warm arms of his mother or father. I stand in the gap for my sister, that through Jesus we realize we have authority to silence the actions, word, and plots of the enemy. May she "Xchange" her fears with your love, and her abandonment for security in you. Daily, be with her, cover her with your peace - help her to continue in her surrendering to your will. Remind her that you are using her hands, feet, heart & strength to serve others in her current circumstances at home. When this season of her life is over, may she realize that these "children" of hers will rise up and call her blessed. (Psalm 31 vs. 8-31) Thank you Lord for this time of "transformation" and this time of "stripping and restoring" of this precious vessel. Remind her in little ways that she was created by you and that she is beautiful to you inside and out. Silence the enemy that tells her lies about herself. May she remain humble, teachable and malleable during this time, and restore her joy daily!
Cp: For a former member of SLC that is living in Las Vegas now. We pray for James that you would heal his body and help him get his feet back on the ground. May he return to Dallas soon to be with his family and his church family as he so desires.
Kimberly L: Small tumor found on throat - doctors want to lance and biopsy. Asking for prayer, healing, wisdom for God's direction in this matter.
Anonymous: Prayer needed for Erica- that she would turn to God and come to SLC! Cary- continue sobriety and for salvation - John P- continued sobriety and salvation. God, pour out your love through us into others by our actions.
Carly L: "Lord, please give my ex husband wisdom- In Jesus name."
Christina P: For mom's health (Mary Helen) - physically she is strong, but mentally she is failing. She is 85 and has lived a beautiful life, but watching her deteriorate is difficult. Doctor has removed driving priveleges; she has lost a lot of weight; and we will have a home health care specialist in the home to evaluate next week. Please pray for wisdom and strength for me, my mom, and my 2 brothers.
Summit Life Church: For our upcoming Pancakes and Pencils in the Park event, August 14th at 9am. May those that attend experience God's love through his Saints! Keep the children safe and may they enjoy all the activities provided. We pray that the supplies needed by Metrocrest Social Services will be collected that day and they would not lack for kid's school supplies after this event. Thank you Lord for all those that have committed their time and effort to making this a success. Continued financial provision to be able to move to 14240 Midway Rd. We are currently waiting for the space planner to review the square footage. Be with us God, every step of the way...lead us to where you want us to be, that we would be a beacon of light, honoring and loving those around us in Addison. In Jesus name, Amen
REQUESTS FROM SUNDAY, AUGUST 1:
Debbie P: Pray for my children, Nathan and Lauren, as they go off to summer camp Aug 8-14 - to keep them safe but have a lot of fun; pray they grow ever closer to God during the week.
Jeff F: Thank you Lord for providing. Thank you Lord for LTF achieving our July's goal! I pray a spirit f repentance over all that come through the door or other locations of LTF. For Clint= salvation and sobriety. Trey- provide clients and confirmation. Ryan- Totally yield to God's commands. For Molly and I- a baby.
Carly L: Lord, give my ex wisdom- In Jesus name.
REQUESTS FROM SUNDAY, AUGUST 8:
R: Kingdom friends- That God will open the store houses in heaven!
Cp: Father, I pray that you would hold my friend, Ida, close to your heart; like a new born baby being comforted in the warm arms of his mother or father. I stand in the gap for my sister, that through Jesus we realize we have authority to silence the actions, word, and plots of the enemy. May she "Xchange" her fears with your love, and her abandonment for security in you. Daily, be with her, cover her with your peace - help her to continue in her surrendering to your will. Remind her that you are using her hands, feet, heart & strength to serve others in her current circumstances at home. When this season of her life is over, may she realize that these "children" of hers will rise up and call her blessed. (Psalm 31 vs. 8-31) Thank you Lord for this time of "transformation" and this time of "stripping and restoring" of this precious vessel. Remind her in little ways that she was created by you and that she is beautiful to you inside and out. Silence the enemy that tells her lies about herself. May she remain humble, teachable and malleable during this time, and restore her joy daily!
Cp: For a former member of SLC that is living in Las Vegas now. We pray for James that you would heal his body and help him get his feet back on the ground. May he return to Dallas soon to be with his family and his church family as he so desires.
Kimberly L: Small tumor found on throat - doctors want to lance and biopsy. Asking for prayer, healing, wisdom for God's direction in this matter.
Anonymous: Prayer needed for Erica- that she would turn to God and come to SLC! Cary- continue sobriety and for salvation - John P- continued sobriety and salvation. God, pour out your love through us into others by our actions.
Carly L: "Lord, please give my ex husband wisdom- In Jesus name."
Christina P: For mom's health (Mary Helen) - physically she is strong, but mentally she is failing. She is 85 and has lived a beautiful life, but watching her deteriorate is difficult. Doctor has removed driving priveleges; she has lost a lot of weight; and we will have a home health care specialist in the home to evaluate next week. Please pray for wisdom and strength for me, my mom, and my 2 brothers.
Summit Life Church: For our upcoming Pancakes and Pencils in the Park event, August 14th at 9am. May those that attend experience God's love through his Saints! Keep the children safe and may they enjoy all the activities provided. We pray that the supplies needed by Metrocrest Social Services will be collected that day and they would not lack for kid's school supplies after this event. Thank you Lord for all those that have committed their time and effort to making this a success. Continued financial provision to be able to move to 14240 Midway Rd. We are currently waiting for the space planner to review the square footage. Be with us God, every step of the way...lead us to where you want us to be, that we would be a beacon of light, honoring and loving those around us in Addison. In Jesus name, Amen
REQUESTS FROM SUNDAY, AUGUST 1:
Debbie P: Pray for my children, Nathan and Lauren, as they go off to summer camp Aug 8-14 - to keep them safe but have a lot of fun; pray they grow ever closer to God during the week.
Jeff F: Thank you Lord for providing. Thank you Lord for LTF achieving our July's goal! I pray a spirit f repentance over all that come through the door or other locations of LTF. For Clint= salvation and sobriety. Trey- provide clients and confirmation. Ryan- Totally yield to God's commands. For Molly and I- a baby.
Carly L: Lord, give my ex wisdom- In Jesus name.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)