God Made You-You for a reason.
One of the best-kept secrets in the church today is that God had a very special purpose for everyone in His church. Its not really a secret it is just one that is ignored. He made each one unequaled and with special talents that only they possess. He then placed positions in the church that only that person could handle. Each and every person God made has a reason and a mission in life. He fully expected for us to use what He gave us in His service. Should we decide not to follow what God has planned for us to do then someone will miss out on a blessing and a very important area of God’s work will go undone. God did not make pew warmers He made people with specialized talents to reach a lost and dieing world for Jesus Christ.
Every one was given natural talents at birth that no one else in the universe has. God then designed places for each to use those talents for His glory and to provide a blessing for someone else. Not every one can preach, not everyone can sing nor can everyone plan direct or teach. Yet we seem to place that burden on those who are not gifted to do those activities because we don’t want to get involved.
Often we hear the excuse for not serving God, “I just don’t have any abilities to offer.” This is ludicrous. That would be like telling God He made a mistake. Every ability can and should be used for God. It is the churches responsibility to identify and release your abilities for serving God. It is your responsibility to put your talents to use.
For some strange reason we have gotten hung up on only a very few gifts God has given to only a few. And we feel we should have received one of those special talents so we try to show God we have developed the talent we want. I feel the reason for this is that many of the churches of today are man made and man controlled, and driven for entertainment rather that serving God.
We should all say,” What I’m able to do, God wants me to do.” He never intended for us to do something He did not equip us to do. You are the only person on the planet who has your talents and abilities and you are the only one who can use those abilities. We each have a special mission and God expects us to accomplish that mission. I expect that will cause many thoughts to rush through your mind. ‘Oh I am not cut out to go to the mission field.” Or “I am just not a person who can teach or preach.” May I suggest you speak to God before you determine what you can’t do?
Your abilities and talents were not given simply to make a living. God gave them to you to be used in the ministry He designed for you. Others may appear to have similar ministries but only you can do what God wanted you to do. Only you are you there is not another like you on the entire planet. Maybe just maybe there is one person God is seeking to turn this world upside down and your mission is to tell them about Jesus. Who will miss the blessing if you don’t do your job?
No matter what you are good at that is what you should be doing for God in His church.
There is an old saying,” It is not work if you love doing it.” The problem today we have lost our first love.
We should each take time and look God square in the eye and ask, “What can I do for you today?” Instead of asking God, “ I need you to give me something.”
If you are serious about doing this be ready for the answer.
As we prepare for the New Year let us stop and reflect on what God has done. As God was preparing to carpet the fields with clover, to give flight to eagles and to sculpt mountains He was thinking about each of us, and what we were to do. He placed the detailed design for the mighty oak in the tiny acorn. At the same time He placed within each of us a complete design for our purpose and mission. Nothing was left to chance. He thought of everything; gave us the tools only we can use. Every one was custom made by God. Each has a special purpose and mission that only they can accomplish. He gave each the necessary talents and gifts at birth so as to be able to accomplish the mission. Custom tailored talents crafted prior to our birth and lovingly given so that the designed purpose could be accomplished.
The Psalmist had this to say, “For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works and that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee when I was made in secret, and couriously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.” Psalms 139:13-16
As we look into the New Year let us seek our purpose and mission as God designed. The design is within and we must look there to see all the plans He made for us.
A new day is dawning and along with it is a new year. There is much work to do to prepare for the coming of our Lord. The fields are white unto harvest and the laborers are few. Let me leave you with this question who would you want to leave behind?
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
What really matters
This will be the last post before Christmas. I wish all a Merry Christmas and my prayer is Jesus is your reason for the season.
As we approach the Christmas event of the year let us stop for a moment to consider what all this is about. Surely we aren’t serious about a peasant boy being born in a stable some 200 years ago. We had better be serious. For that was the greatest Christmas gift ever given to this entire world. The creator of heaven and earth just gave this world His only begotten son. He gave him to us knowing full well some 33 years later he would be hung on a cruel cross giving us a second gift of greater magnitude. There this carpenters’ boy son of the living Go would give his life so that we might be saved. He also knew that gift of the life of His son was the only way we would ever be able to come into His presence. So that was the reason for the season. God gave a life so we might have life and that life more abundantly.
Somehow we have managed to twist that into something that I am not sure even God recognizes any more. Originally the name Christmas meant Christ Mass or a religious ceremony to celebrate the birth of the Christ child by the Catholic church. It was a church service not a political event. I was a solemn event and one of great joy and celebration.
For today's Christian, the origin of Christmas is, and should be, the birth of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Bible. Nothing more and nothing less. However, most of what we witness on December 25th each year has absolutely nothing to do with that blessed day, which probably occurred in late summer or early fall about 2,000 years ago. In fact, most of the customs and traditions of Christmas actually pre-date the birth of Jesus, and many of them are downright deceptive in their meaning and origin. . Here are a few examples:
The date of December 25th probably originated with the ancient "birthday" of the son-god, Mithra, a pagan deity whose religious influence became widespread in the Roman Empire during the first few centuries A.D. Mithra was related to the Semitic sun-god, Shamash, and his worship spread throughout Asia to Europe where he was called Deus Sol Invictus Mithras. Rome was well-known for absorbing the pagan religions and rituals of its widespread empire. As such, Rome converted this pagan legacy to a celebration of the god, Saturn, and the rebirth of the sun god during the winter solstice period. The winter holiday became known as Saturnalia and began the week prior to December 25th. The festival was characterized by gift-giving, feasting, singing and downright debauchery, as the priests of Saturn carried wreaths of evergreen boughs in procession throughout the Roman temples.
Variations of this pagan holiday flourished throughout the first few centuries after Jesus Christ, but it probably wasn't until 336 AD that Emperor Constantine officially converted this pagan tradition into the "Christian" holiday of Christmas.
The question now arises: How did all of these customs find their way into contemporary Christianity, ranging from Catholicism to Protestantism to fundamentalist churches?
The word "Christmas"itself reveals who married paganism to Christianity.
The word "Christmas" is a combination of the words "Christ" and "Mass.
The word "Mass" means death and was coined originally by the Roman Catholic Church, and belongs exclusively to the church of Rome.
The ritual of the Mass involves the death of Christ, and the distribution of the "Host", a word taken from the Latin word "hostiall" meaning victim!
In short, Christmas is strictly a Roman Catholic word.
A simple study of the tactics of the Roman Church reveals that in every case, the church absorbed the customs, traditions and general paganism of every tribe, culture and nation in their efforts to increase the number of people under their control.
In short, the Roman church told all of these pagan cultures, "Bring your gods, goddesses, rituals and rites, and we will assign Christian sounding titles and names to them.
When Martin Luther started the reformation on October 31st, 1517, and other reformers followed his lead, all of them took with them the paganism that was so firmly imbedded in Rome.
These reformers left Christmas intact.
In England, as the authorized Bible became available to the common people by the decree of King James the II in 1611, people began to discover the pagan roots of Christmas, which are clearly revealed in Scripture.
The Puritans in England, and later in Massachusetts Colony, outlawed this holiday as witchcraft.
Near the end of the nineteenth century, when other Bible versions began to appear, there was a revival of the celebration of Christmas.
We are now seeing ever-increasing celebrating of Christmas or Yule, its true name, as we draw closer to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ!
In both witchcraft circles and contemporary Christian churches, the same things are going on.
As the Bible clearly states in Jeremiah 10:2-4, "Thus saith the Lord, learn not the way of the heathen; and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven. For the heathen are dismayed at them. For the customs of the people are vain. For one cutteth a tree out of the forest. The work of the hands of the workman with the axe. They deck it with silver and with gold. They fasten it with nails and with hammers that it move not."
What Really Matters?
The true origin of Christmas is filled with controversy and compromise. A quick study will reveal a number of disturbing roots that we haven't been able to cover in this brief article. In short, the Christmas holiday we celebrate today is indicative of Christianity's willingness to absorb the world's customs and traditions, and forget its simple roots in the historical reality of Jesus Christ. Christmas should be nothing more than a simple, yet wonderful reminder of Christ's humble beginning as a human child in this world. His birth merely set the stage for the power, glory, and salvation that would be revealed in His life, death, and resurrection! Whether it's December 25th, sometime in late September, or any other day of the year, we should use each and every opportunity to reflect on Jesus Christ and His message of hope for all of us.
Let us reflect on the manger that shows humility. Jesus had a humble beginning and his life was one that taught humility and caring. The story told to the shepherds on the hill side shows God was excited about His son and the gift He was giving to the world. The host of heaven proclaimed his birth and the heavens rang with their song. God’s gift was given to all. Kings and common alike came to see the Christ child. Each brought gifts to give to Jesus. Each brought their very best. The bible says they opened their treasures; the Kings brought gold, frankincense and myrrh. Notice one very important thing each person who came to see the baby in the manger did before they gave their gifts. The all fell down and worshipped him. For each knew who he was and why he came. God placed that on each heart. He in effect gave each a gift that night a gift of love and hope for a better world to come.
So then we have a picture of what and how we are to give gifts this Christmas. On His birthday we are to fall down and worship Him as King of Kings and Lord of Lords the savior of the world and our eternal souls. Then we are to offer the best we have to give. We should give Jesus ourselves for that is what he came for to save. What will you give Jesus this Christmas day?
As we approach the Christmas event of the year let us stop for a moment to consider what all this is about. Surely we aren’t serious about a peasant boy being born in a stable some 200 years ago. We had better be serious. For that was the greatest Christmas gift ever given to this entire world. The creator of heaven and earth just gave this world His only begotten son. He gave him to us knowing full well some 33 years later he would be hung on a cruel cross giving us a second gift of greater magnitude. There this carpenters’ boy son of the living Go would give his life so that we might be saved. He also knew that gift of the life of His son was the only way we would ever be able to come into His presence. So that was the reason for the season. God gave a life so we might have life and that life more abundantly.
Somehow we have managed to twist that into something that I am not sure even God recognizes any more. Originally the name Christmas meant Christ Mass or a religious ceremony to celebrate the birth of the Christ child by the Catholic church. It was a church service not a political event. I was a solemn event and one of great joy and celebration.
For today's Christian, the origin of Christmas is, and should be, the birth of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Bible. Nothing more and nothing less. However, most of what we witness on December 25th each year has absolutely nothing to do with that blessed day, which probably occurred in late summer or early fall about 2,000 years ago. In fact, most of the customs and traditions of Christmas actually pre-date the birth of Jesus, and many of them are downright deceptive in their meaning and origin. . Here are a few examples:
The date of December 25th probably originated with the ancient "birthday" of the son-god, Mithra, a pagan deity whose religious influence became widespread in the Roman Empire during the first few centuries A.D. Mithra was related to the Semitic sun-god, Shamash, and his worship spread throughout Asia to Europe where he was called Deus Sol Invictus Mithras. Rome was well-known for absorbing the pagan religions and rituals of its widespread empire. As such, Rome converted this pagan legacy to a celebration of the god, Saturn, and the rebirth of the sun god during the winter solstice period. The winter holiday became known as Saturnalia and began the week prior to December 25th. The festival was characterized by gift-giving, feasting, singing and downright debauchery, as the priests of Saturn carried wreaths of evergreen boughs in procession throughout the Roman temples.
Variations of this pagan holiday flourished throughout the first few centuries after Jesus Christ, but it probably wasn't until 336 AD that Emperor Constantine officially converted this pagan tradition into the "Christian" holiday of Christmas.
The question now arises: How did all of these customs find their way into contemporary Christianity, ranging from Catholicism to Protestantism to fundamentalist churches?
The word "Christmas"itself reveals who married paganism to Christianity.
The word "Christmas" is a combination of the words "Christ" and "Mass.
The word "Mass" means death and was coined originally by the Roman Catholic Church, and belongs exclusively to the church of Rome.
The ritual of the Mass involves the death of Christ, and the distribution of the "Host", a word taken from the Latin word "hostiall" meaning victim!
In short, Christmas is strictly a Roman Catholic word.
A simple study of the tactics of the Roman Church reveals that in every case, the church absorbed the customs, traditions and general paganism of every tribe, culture and nation in their efforts to increase the number of people under their control.
In short, the Roman church told all of these pagan cultures, "Bring your gods, goddesses, rituals and rites, and we will assign Christian sounding titles and names to them.
When Martin Luther started the reformation on October 31st, 1517, and other reformers followed his lead, all of them took with them the paganism that was so firmly imbedded in Rome.
These reformers left Christmas intact.
In England, as the authorized Bible became available to the common people by the decree of King James the II in 1611, people began to discover the pagan roots of Christmas, which are clearly revealed in Scripture.
The Puritans in England, and later in Massachusetts Colony, outlawed this holiday as witchcraft.
Near the end of the nineteenth century, when other Bible versions began to appear, there was a revival of the celebration of Christmas.
We are now seeing ever-increasing celebrating of Christmas or Yule, its true name, as we draw closer to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ!
In both witchcraft circles and contemporary Christian churches, the same things are going on.
As the Bible clearly states in Jeremiah 10:2-4, "Thus saith the Lord, learn not the way of the heathen; and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven. For the heathen are dismayed at them. For the customs of the people are vain. For one cutteth a tree out of the forest. The work of the hands of the workman with the axe. They deck it with silver and with gold. They fasten it with nails and with hammers that it move not."
What Really Matters?
The true origin of Christmas is filled with controversy and compromise. A quick study will reveal a number of disturbing roots that we haven't been able to cover in this brief article. In short, the Christmas holiday we celebrate today is indicative of Christianity's willingness to absorb the world's customs and traditions, and forget its simple roots in the historical reality of Jesus Christ. Christmas should be nothing more than a simple, yet wonderful reminder of Christ's humble beginning as a human child in this world. His birth merely set the stage for the power, glory, and salvation that would be revealed in His life, death, and resurrection! Whether it's December 25th, sometime in late September, or any other day of the year, we should use each and every opportunity to reflect on Jesus Christ and His message of hope for all of us.
Let us reflect on the manger that shows humility. Jesus had a humble beginning and his life was one that taught humility and caring. The story told to the shepherds on the hill side shows God was excited about His son and the gift He was giving to the world. The host of heaven proclaimed his birth and the heavens rang with their song. God’s gift was given to all. Kings and common alike came to see the Christ child. Each brought gifts to give to Jesus. Each brought their very best. The bible says they opened their treasures; the Kings brought gold, frankincense and myrrh. Notice one very important thing each person who came to see the baby in the manger did before they gave their gifts. The all fell down and worshipped him. For each knew who he was and why he came. God placed that on each heart. He in effect gave each a gift that night a gift of love and hope for a better world to come.
So then we have a picture of what and how we are to give gifts this Christmas. On His birthday we are to fall down and worship Him as King of Kings and Lord of Lords the savior of the world and our eternal souls. Then we are to offer the best we have to give. We should give Jesus ourselves for that is what he came for to save. What will you give Jesus this Christmas day?
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Are You ready for Christmas?
In this one of the busiest times of the year we are hurriedly trying to get ready for the holidays. People are frantic to select just the right gift. Trying to give what will please others. Make the decorations look just right. Make sure all is in readiness for Christmas. The question you always hear is, “Are you ready for Christmas?” Most answer, “No I may never be ready?”
As we prepare for the Lord’s birthday let us not lose sight of what we must prepare.
We must prepare our gifts. Each selected with the utmost care and thought. We select gifts for all our loved ones. We give to each a gift selected and given with love. God is no different. He looked all over heaven and selected the most perfect gift He cold find. In the book of John we get a glimpse of what God found to give to us. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. “ John 3:16
Now that is a gift worth giving. God gave his very best. What kind of gift are you going to give to the Lord on his birthday? As I looked into God’s Word I found in First Corinthians 3:10-13 “According to the grace of God which is the master builder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood hay, stubble; every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be tried by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.”
On the Lord’s birthday many will give him precious stones—for they are shining lights to a world of darkness. These stones may look like service, testimony, talent, time, love one for another, just to mention a few.
Others will give gold, and silver. For they love the Lord and want to share with others what they have received. This may be in the form of spiritual or material gifts.
But the majority will give the Lord a box of sticks. Boxes filled with wood hay and stubble, the leftovers and the most worthless with only superficial value. This is evidenced by their lack of concern for the lost, needs of others, or for the Lord’s church. They love sin too much. There is pleasure in sin for a season then we must pay the price. Most just love themselves too much they only want what is in it for me. Sounds a lot like vanity and pride is coming before the Lord.
You can’t just go out to Wal-Mart and buy Christ a gift. You do have something he wants and would love to get on his birthday. You have the power to give Jesus you soul. Are you saved do you know Jesus as savior? “For by grace ye are saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works lest any man should boast.” Eph 2:8-9. You can give him your heart. How much do you really love God? How about your talent? God gave each of us special talents that only we can use. He would like to have you use those talents for him. It has been said if we don’t use the talents we have we stand a chance to loose those talents. What about your time? Oh wait now…. I am way too bust to give any of my time. Ok, but could you simply study to show yourself approved, pray for those who are in need of God’s help and guidance, how about telling someone about Jesus. How much time would that take?
Do we give God our best or is God last on our list? Is He even on our list? While you are making a list and checking it twice make sure Jesus is on your list. It is His birthday after all. On that first Christmas God gave the very best He had to offer. The best gift he owned. What will we give him?
Why does God only get the seconds, thirds the unwanted? Why never the newest and best? We give our family and friends our best. We search every store to find the perfect gift. How come we leave God out?
If you knew Jesus was coming to your house Christmas morning what would He find under your tree with His name on it? Would he find his name on any gift? If there is a gift there would it be fit for a king or a pauper?
Jesus is coming one day how have you prepared for His coming? Jesus said, “In My fathers house there are many mansions if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. He is preparing for you are you preparing for Him?
People today are busy preparing for many things. We all have plans to make and places we want to go and things we want to do. There is one thing we fail to do we fail to prepare for Christ’ return. We must prepare and be ready.
Our hearts must be ready. “Prepare to meet thy God.” Amos 4:12 Are you saved? Is there hidden sin in your life? Are you where God would have you to be serving Him?
We must prepare our minds “Let this mind be in you which also was in Christ Jesus.” Philip 2:5 What kind of mind was that? One that loves thy neighbor and you love yourself. Forgive those who wronged you and love those who used you.
In the book of Matthew 5:23-24 I find what and how we are to present our gift. “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the alter, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother and then come and offer thy gift.”
When Jesus comes how will He find you? Will He even know who you are?
As you are preparing your gifts does Jesus have one? What kind is it? Is it gold, silver precious stones or a box of sticks?
There is no better way to start this New Year than to have Jesus in your heart, mind and life.
Something to think about:
The old man came and stood outside in the snow.
Though he knocked no one came to open the door.
Through the window he saw gifts or every size.
Each one containing a very special prize.
Many there were gathered all singing joyfully.
Decorations were hung skillfully.
The news spread around the world of this special day.
A time to reflect, to share and to play.
The word went out the celebration to begin.
All the guest anxiously waited warm within.
For each one a gift they would raise.
Singing songs of royal birth and Holy praise.
The old man watched as each gift was in sight.
Each name checked to be sure it was right.
Though he tried to see, and searched in vain.
Not one gift did bare his name.
As all the guest left not one stopped to ask.
Where in this world was the honored guest.
The old man turned and again walked away.
Shoulders shook and tears filled his eyes.
Another celebration for him was complete
And once again he was left out in the street.
“ Behold I stand at the door and knock.”
Did you leave Jesus out in the cold again this year?
As we prepare for the Lord’s birthday let us not lose sight of what we must prepare.
We must prepare our gifts. Each selected with the utmost care and thought. We select gifts for all our loved ones. We give to each a gift selected and given with love. God is no different. He looked all over heaven and selected the most perfect gift He cold find. In the book of John we get a glimpse of what God found to give to us. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. “ John 3:16
Now that is a gift worth giving. God gave his very best. What kind of gift are you going to give to the Lord on his birthday? As I looked into God’s Word I found in First Corinthians 3:10-13 “According to the grace of God which is the master builder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood hay, stubble; every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be tried by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.”
On the Lord’s birthday many will give him precious stones—for they are shining lights to a world of darkness. These stones may look like service, testimony, talent, time, love one for another, just to mention a few.
Others will give gold, and silver. For they love the Lord and want to share with others what they have received. This may be in the form of spiritual or material gifts.
But the majority will give the Lord a box of sticks. Boxes filled with wood hay and stubble, the leftovers and the most worthless with only superficial value. This is evidenced by their lack of concern for the lost, needs of others, or for the Lord’s church. They love sin too much. There is pleasure in sin for a season then we must pay the price. Most just love themselves too much they only want what is in it for me. Sounds a lot like vanity and pride is coming before the Lord.
You can’t just go out to Wal-Mart and buy Christ a gift. You do have something he wants and would love to get on his birthday. You have the power to give Jesus you soul. Are you saved do you know Jesus as savior? “For by grace ye are saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works lest any man should boast.” Eph 2:8-9. You can give him your heart. How much do you really love God? How about your talent? God gave each of us special talents that only we can use. He would like to have you use those talents for him. It has been said if we don’t use the talents we have we stand a chance to loose those talents. What about your time? Oh wait now…. I am way too bust to give any of my time. Ok, but could you simply study to show yourself approved, pray for those who are in need of God’s help and guidance, how about telling someone about Jesus. How much time would that take?
Do we give God our best or is God last on our list? Is He even on our list? While you are making a list and checking it twice make sure Jesus is on your list. It is His birthday after all. On that first Christmas God gave the very best He had to offer. The best gift he owned. What will we give him?
Why does God only get the seconds, thirds the unwanted? Why never the newest and best? We give our family and friends our best. We search every store to find the perfect gift. How come we leave God out?
If you knew Jesus was coming to your house Christmas morning what would He find under your tree with His name on it? Would he find his name on any gift? If there is a gift there would it be fit for a king or a pauper?
Jesus is coming one day how have you prepared for His coming? Jesus said, “In My fathers house there are many mansions if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. He is preparing for you are you preparing for Him?
People today are busy preparing for many things. We all have plans to make and places we want to go and things we want to do. There is one thing we fail to do we fail to prepare for Christ’ return. We must prepare and be ready.
Our hearts must be ready. “Prepare to meet thy God.” Amos 4:12 Are you saved? Is there hidden sin in your life? Are you where God would have you to be serving Him?
We must prepare our minds “Let this mind be in you which also was in Christ Jesus.” Philip 2:5 What kind of mind was that? One that loves thy neighbor and you love yourself. Forgive those who wronged you and love those who used you.
In the book of Matthew 5:23-24 I find what and how we are to present our gift. “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the alter, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother and then come and offer thy gift.”
When Jesus comes how will He find you? Will He even know who you are?
As you are preparing your gifts does Jesus have one? What kind is it? Is it gold, silver precious stones or a box of sticks?
There is no better way to start this New Year than to have Jesus in your heart, mind and life.
Something to think about:
The old man came and stood outside in the snow.
Though he knocked no one came to open the door.
Through the window he saw gifts or every size.
Each one containing a very special prize.
Many there were gathered all singing joyfully.
Decorations were hung skillfully.
The news spread around the world of this special day.
A time to reflect, to share and to play.
The word went out the celebration to begin.
All the guest anxiously waited warm within.
For each one a gift they would raise.
Singing songs of royal birth and Holy praise.
The old man watched as each gift was in sight.
Each name checked to be sure it was right.
Though he tried to see, and searched in vain.
Not one gift did bare his name.
As all the guest left not one stopped to ask.
Where in this world was the honored guest.
The old man turned and again walked away.
Shoulders shook and tears filled his eyes.
Another celebration for him was complete
And once again he was left out in the street.
“ Behold I stand at the door and knock.”
Did you leave Jesus out in the cold again this year?
Saturday, December 11, 2010
You Have Not Passed This Way Before
Thus far we have seen how paths are chosen; fires are built and heard God speaking. We have seen how Moses gave final instructions on how to cross the river.
The book of Joshua records the trip taken by the Jews into the land God promised and prepared for them.
You have not passed this way before is the understatement of the decade.
There comes a time when we all must go to new ground. How we get there can be a story in its own right. The experiences we encounter and the problems we face could be the stuff movies are made of.
Nothing could be truer than the story of the children of Israel. As the story goes several million people had camped by the Jordan River. This was the jumping off place after forty years of going in circles in the desert. Forty years of rebellion, lack of trust whining complaining and the loss of an entire generation of people. As we look at this setting we see a remarkable picture. The river was at flood stage nobody had a boat. As far as the eye could see in either direction no bridges could be seen. All the news reports were gloomy. In the land across the river were giants, walled cities and hostile crowds. No banners or welcoming committees had been prepared. After three days of rest and preparation Joshua tells his captains. “Ok its time. Tell all the people we will cross the river in the morning. Tell them 12 members of the tribe of Levy will carry the ark. All the rest of the people are to follow two thousand cubits behind. (That’s about 972 yards.) Tell them to pay close attention to where the ark goes cause they have not passed this way before. “
To say the least this statement caused no small stir among the nation of Israel. Many may have wondered if Joshua had spent too much time on the wine.
Sleep was a lost commodity that night.
God had told Joshua he was to lead Israel after Moses‘ death. Keep one thing in mind God is only speaking to Joshua. Israel did not want God to talk directly to them. God is giving Joshua instructions as to how where and when things are to happen. Joshua was to take Israel to the Promised Land and there they were to live. God would drive out the current residents and He would open the river for them to pass. All they had to do was to go and possess the land. They had been through a lot. Forty years of hot dry desert, deadly snakes, unmarked graves not to mention blisters and sunburn. Yet God had done what He said He would do. He has brought them to the Promised Land, a land flowing with milk and honey. As they all stared across the river that night truly they had not been this way before.
Joshua had one final instruction all the people had to do before any could cross the river. Joshua 3:5 “Sanctify yourselves. For tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.” In other words they were to clean themselves of sin, dedicate themselves wholly to God, for His purpose. Do exactly what He told them to do the way He told them to do it. They were not to call a meeting, establish a committee to question if Joshua was crazy or not. They were to follow where the Ark of the Covenant led.
At daylight the Ark of the Covenant was to be carried into the river by 12 members of the tribe of Levy. Then the people were to follow by 972 yards. To cross the flooded river many things had to be done. Each and every person had to sanctify him or herself. You have not passed this way before they were told.
They had to pack not only their physical belongings but they had to make sure their spiritual life was in order.
On the surface no one could see how this river crossing was going to have a good outcome. No bridges, no boats, the river was at flood stage. It is a good bet some said or at least thought, “Let’s just stay here.” Fortunately for Israel God had gotten rid of all the old mosey horns that refused to follow any of God’s instructions. Remember an entire generation had to die before the nation of Israel could cross the river.
God did not want them to stay there it was not home. What were they to do? Well first each person had to dedicate his or her life wholly to God for His purpose. They must trust God to do what He said He would do. They were to walk into the river by faith. Keep that thought clear in your mind. They were to walk boldly into a flooded river that led into a land they had never seen. Inhabited by giants and a whole lot of mean tempered people that did not want to give up what they owned. Logic said if you do you will die. God said if you don’t you will die. What a dilemma. What a place to be! Yes we have never been here before.
God told Joshua He would part the river and make a way for them. The people not only had to trust God they had to trust Joshua. Trusting God is a difficult thing for people to do. But are we sure Joshua knows what he is doing. It is difficult to be submissive to God’s will. People have no problem trusting God with their eternal soul. When it comes to time, talent, and physical possessions trust seems to go out the window.
Had Israel felt that way many would not have survived the crossing with their worldly possessions. Many more would have lost their lives.
This is an amazing picture of what can happen when people completely and totally trust God.
Let’s take a look at the crossing. Who had to go first? Why the priest carrying the ark of course. Remember the water did not part until the first foot of the first priest touched the water. Only then did God open the path. God’s chosen men who were to carry the Ark of the Covenant had to boldly walk into a raging swollen river with complete trust that they would not get wet or drown. They had to boldly go where none had gone before.
These 12 men could only carry the ark, each trusting and working together. Each had to have total faith in God. Who carried their belongings? Someone following behind, a family member or a friend they were to support God’s men. God’s men today are to step boldly into the river; God’s people are to carry their things. This requires unity. This is how a church should be pictured.
These 12 men six on each side lifted the ark and stepped into what could not be seen with physical eyes. They stepped boldly into the righteousness of God. As they did and the sole of the first foot touched the water the water parted and the sole landed on dry ground. Each succeeding step likewise fell on dry ground. These 12 men walked with God and God provided the way. Could they see the path? Only after they took that first step!
Standing 1000 cubits behind in the early morning light a multitude of people watched and waited, each scared and excited all at the same time. Nerves must have been on edge just as the priest stepped into the river. Now it is time for each to take that first step and follow the 12. They had to keep their eyes on the ark, for they had not passed this way before. No one had ever seen the waters part before. That generation had died in the desert. No one knew what to expect. All they knew if they did as God directed they would be given a wonderful new land in which to live and raise families. If they did not, history reminded them of all that had been lost when they disobeyed God. 3 million Hebrews took a deep breath, locked their eyes on the ark, put one foot in front of the other and walked into history.
I wonder what would happen today if Americans were asked to stand together and take a step into history like Israel did. Best I can imagine we would first have to take a vote to see if it was possible. Then we would have to form a committee and investigate all the possible ways not to do it. Wale and lament about having to share with our neighbor, work with them and stand shoulder to shoulder in a raging flood. Somebody might get wet! As a whole nation we are asked to step forward for the glory of God. But no we must first consult the ACLU to make sure no ones feelings get hurt. Who is to be first? Who is to go last? Who cares so long as all get across? Not America! Trust God! That surely goes against the church/ state convention.
No I doubt America could step out like God asked Israel to do.
The book of Joshua records the trip taken by the Jews into the land God promised and prepared for them.
You have not passed this way before is the understatement of the decade.
There comes a time when we all must go to new ground. How we get there can be a story in its own right. The experiences we encounter and the problems we face could be the stuff movies are made of.
Nothing could be truer than the story of the children of Israel. As the story goes several million people had camped by the Jordan River. This was the jumping off place after forty years of going in circles in the desert. Forty years of rebellion, lack of trust whining complaining and the loss of an entire generation of people. As we look at this setting we see a remarkable picture. The river was at flood stage nobody had a boat. As far as the eye could see in either direction no bridges could be seen. All the news reports were gloomy. In the land across the river were giants, walled cities and hostile crowds. No banners or welcoming committees had been prepared. After three days of rest and preparation Joshua tells his captains. “Ok its time. Tell all the people we will cross the river in the morning. Tell them 12 members of the tribe of Levy will carry the ark. All the rest of the people are to follow two thousand cubits behind. (That’s about 972 yards.) Tell them to pay close attention to where the ark goes cause they have not passed this way before. “
To say the least this statement caused no small stir among the nation of Israel. Many may have wondered if Joshua had spent too much time on the wine.
Sleep was a lost commodity that night.
God had told Joshua he was to lead Israel after Moses‘ death. Keep one thing in mind God is only speaking to Joshua. Israel did not want God to talk directly to them. God is giving Joshua instructions as to how where and when things are to happen. Joshua was to take Israel to the Promised Land and there they were to live. God would drive out the current residents and He would open the river for them to pass. All they had to do was to go and possess the land. They had been through a lot. Forty years of hot dry desert, deadly snakes, unmarked graves not to mention blisters and sunburn. Yet God had done what He said He would do. He has brought them to the Promised Land, a land flowing with milk and honey. As they all stared across the river that night truly they had not been this way before.
Joshua had one final instruction all the people had to do before any could cross the river. Joshua 3:5 “Sanctify yourselves. For tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.” In other words they were to clean themselves of sin, dedicate themselves wholly to God, for His purpose. Do exactly what He told them to do the way He told them to do it. They were not to call a meeting, establish a committee to question if Joshua was crazy or not. They were to follow where the Ark of the Covenant led.
At daylight the Ark of the Covenant was to be carried into the river by 12 members of the tribe of Levy. Then the people were to follow by 972 yards. To cross the flooded river many things had to be done. Each and every person had to sanctify him or herself. You have not passed this way before they were told.
They had to pack not only their physical belongings but they had to make sure their spiritual life was in order.
On the surface no one could see how this river crossing was going to have a good outcome. No bridges, no boats, the river was at flood stage. It is a good bet some said or at least thought, “Let’s just stay here.” Fortunately for Israel God had gotten rid of all the old mosey horns that refused to follow any of God’s instructions. Remember an entire generation had to die before the nation of Israel could cross the river.
God did not want them to stay there it was not home. What were they to do? Well first each person had to dedicate his or her life wholly to God for His purpose. They must trust God to do what He said He would do. They were to walk into the river by faith. Keep that thought clear in your mind. They were to walk boldly into a flooded river that led into a land they had never seen. Inhabited by giants and a whole lot of mean tempered people that did not want to give up what they owned. Logic said if you do you will die. God said if you don’t you will die. What a dilemma. What a place to be! Yes we have never been here before.
God told Joshua He would part the river and make a way for them. The people not only had to trust God they had to trust Joshua. Trusting God is a difficult thing for people to do. But are we sure Joshua knows what he is doing. It is difficult to be submissive to God’s will. People have no problem trusting God with their eternal soul. When it comes to time, talent, and physical possessions trust seems to go out the window.
Had Israel felt that way many would not have survived the crossing with their worldly possessions. Many more would have lost their lives.
This is an amazing picture of what can happen when people completely and totally trust God.
Let’s take a look at the crossing. Who had to go first? Why the priest carrying the ark of course. Remember the water did not part until the first foot of the first priest touched the water. Only then did God open the path. God’s chosen men who were to carry the Ark of the Covenant had to boldly walk into a raging swollen river with complete trust that they would not get wet or drown. They had to boldly go where none had gone before.
These 12 men could only carry the ark, each trusting and working together. Each had to have total faith in God. Who carried their belongings? Someone following behind, a family member or a friend they were to support God’s men. God’s men today are to step boldly into the river; God’s people are to carry their things. This requires unity. This is how a church should be pictured.
These 12 men six on each side lifted the ark and stepped into what could not be seen with physical eyes. They stepped boldly into the righteousness of God. As they did and the sole of the first foot touched the water the water parted and the sole landed on dry ground. Each succeeding step likewise fell on dry ground. These 12 men walked with God and God provided the way. Could they see the path? Only after they took that first step!
Standing 1000 cubits behind in the early morning light a multitude of people watched and waited, each scared and excited all at the same time. Nerves must have been on edge just as the priest stepped into the river. Now it is time for each to take that first step and follow the 12. They had to keep their eyes on the ark, for they had not passed this way before. No one had ever seen the waters part before. That generation had died in the desert. No one knew what to expect. All they knew if they did as God directed they would be given a wonderful new land in which to live and raise families. If they did not, history reminded them of all that had been lost when they disobeyed God. 3 million Hebrews took a deep breath, locked their eyes on the ark, put one foot in front of the other and walked into history.
I wonder what would happen today if Americans were asked to stand together and take a step into history like Israel did. Best I can imagine we would first have to take a vote to see if it was possible. Then we would have to form a committee and investigate all the possible ways not to do it. Wale and lament about having to share with our neighbor, work with them and stand shoulder to shoulder in a raging flood. Somebody might get wet! As a whole nation we are asked to step forward for the glory of God. But no we must first consult the ACLU to make sure no ones feelings get hurt. Who is to be first? Who is to go last? Who cares so long as all get across? Not America! Trust God! That surely goes against the church/ state convention.
No I doubt America could step out like God asked Israel to do.
Monday, December 6, 2010
How Do You Spend Your Time?
I wanted to post this as I am preparing for next weeks post. "You Have Not Passed This Way Before." Just some food for thought.
How Do You Spend Your Time?
Time is a thing most of us take for granted. It seems we believe there will always be plenty of it. To go back beyond time is an almost impossible thing for us to do. Yet we must realize there was a time (and this sounds strange), when time did not exist, as we know it today. Likewise it is difficult for us to realize that time will one day run out, and that eternity shall begin.
An unknown author once said:
Life itself cannot give you joy,
Unless you really will it;
Life just gives you time and space—
It’s up to you to fill it.
Time wasted can never be regained. Once gone, it is gone forever. How many people have you known who often wished they could call back past opportunities, or who had the privilege of making time count, but did not do so? We constantly find ourselves wishing we had certain times to live over. This happens because we misused the time we had. One has said, “Four things come not back, the spoken word, the sped arrow, the past life and the neglected opportunity.”
How true this is, it behooves each of us to make the very most of each fleeting minute.
I like to picture life as if I were standing on a bridge above a river. I can stand on side of the bridge and watch opportunities disappear down river. Wishing I could but touch but one and reclaim its potential. This is the crowded side of the bridge where most people spend their lives. Yet there are those that stand on the opposite side of the bridge looking up river. There they see great and wonderful things that they can take full advantage of. This is the side of hope and challenge and fulfillment.
Where you stand is your choice. Someone told me once that you can only touch the same water in a river but once.
Time spent in prayer, Bible study and doing good to others may seem wasted to some, but to those who have engaged in such services find time spent this way is most profitable. Some people seem to “just exist looking down river,” while others, looking up river, seek to fill moments with something worthwhile. Possibly the best time you could spend today would be to sit down for a few minutes and ask yourself, “How do I spend my time?” “Which side of the bridge am I looking?”
How Do You Spend Your Time?
Time is a thing most of us take for granted. It seems we believe there will always be plenty of it. To go back beyond time is an almost impossible thing for us to do. Yet we must realize there was a time (and this sounds strange), when time did not exist, as we know it today. Likewise it is difficult for us to realize that time will one day run out, and that eternity shall begin.
An unknown author once said:
Life itself cannot give you joy,
Unless you really will it;
Life just gives you time and space—
It’s up to you to fill it.
Time wasted can never be regained. Once gone, it is gone forever. How many people have you known who often wished they could call back past opportunities, or who had the privilege of making time count, but did not do so? We constantly find ourselves wishing we had certain times to live over. This happens because we misused the time we had. One has said, “Four things come not back, the spoken word, the sped arrow, the past life and the neglected opportunity.”
How true this is, it behooves each of us to make the very most of each fleeting minute.
I like to picture life as if I were standing on a bridge above a river. I can stand on side of the bridge and watch opportunities disappear down river. Wishing I could but touch but one and reclaim its potential. This is the crowded side of the bridge where most people spend their lives. Yet there are those that stand on the opposite side of the bridge looking up river. There they see great and wonderful things that they can take full advantage of. This is the side of hope and challenge and fulfillment.
Where you stand is your choice. Someone told me once that you can only touch the same water in a river but once.
Time spent in prayer, Bible study and doing good to others may seem wasted to some, but to those who have engaged in such services find time spent this way is most profitable. Some people seem to “just exist looking down river,” while others, looking up river, seek to fill moments with something worthwhile. Possibly the best time you could spend today would be to sit down for a few minutes and ask yourself, “How do I spend my time?” “Which side of the bridge am I looking?”
Saturday, December 4, 2010
How To Build A Fire
Before the church can walk in old paths or possess the land one essential element must be present, a fire. Once a bright glowing fire is burning in the heart of every believer, there will also be a burning desire to serve God. In the book of Acts I find a story of a shipwreck. It is also a story of caring people who took the strangers in and gave them shelter and warmth. Acts 28:2 “And the barbarous people showed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold.” If that had happened today you would have probably heard, “Be ye warmed”. With little or no effort to render aid. I fear there is too much of the “Be ye warmed” attitude and very little of let’s see if we can build a fire.
There are two kinds of cold, the spiritual kind and the physical kind. Spiritual cold goes deep and is long lasting. Physical cold while dangerous can be driven away by the simple act of building a fire. Each type of cold requires a special kind of kindling to build a warming fire. I want to explore the spiritual cold rather than the physical. We are all apt to be cold at some time or another. Let’s face it we live in a cold cruel world. Our world is unforgiving for the most part. It is a place where gracious men are not welcome. I think this is due to the inbred sin of mankind. Because of this inbred sin we are apt to be lukewarm or frozen. Nature has a means of purging the natural world. This is done with the winter season when the cold icy winds come and the temperatures drop causing all plant life to die. Unfortunately, many churches experience this same kind of atmosphere. I have been in some churches where the service at a funeral was more alive and warmer than services on Sunday morning. In fact I have felt a warmer welcome at some funerals than I have felt at some Sunday morning services. Because the church is made up of people it is only natural that the church should undergo some period of coldness. In fact I think it is needed and healthy. However, that condition is not to remain. Someone should go out and gather some kindling and build a fire.
All around us there are buildings with cold corners where the sun never shines. In those shadows live people, good people who need the warmth Jesus can provide. But for some reason many in the church think the warmth Jesus has to offer is only for them, and they are not going to share it. In the physical world when we get cold three things happen if we don’t seek shelter and warmth. First we become uncomfortable, next we become inactive, and then we die. In the spiritual world there is a parallel. If we go away from the warmth of God we first become uncomfortable when we hear about church and the Lord. Then we become inactive and a deep cold starts to creep into our soul. We might as well be dead if our spirit is cold. In the spiritual as it is in the physical there are ways to build a fire. With a physical fire you first gather small twigs and tender grass. With a match you ignite the grass and slowly add the twigs. As the fire begins to catch you add larger twigs and chunks of wood. As the fire continues to grow more wood is added until you have a roaring fire giving off life saving warmth. In the spiritual realm a fire is started much the same way. The match is the Word of God. When applied to a tender receptive heart the coals begin to smolder. As prayer is added to the life the coals begin to glow brighter. Meditation and communion with Jesus caused the fire to come to life giving off the much-needed warmth. This spiritual warmth is life saving, live sustaining, and life protecting, much like the physical fire. The 12 apostles said that their hearts burned within them as Jesus talked with them. As we fellowship with other Christians, on fire for the Lord, we add to the fire burning within our souls.
I know first hand how one can get cold when they get away from Christian people. That is good caring Christian people. If the church would return to her first love the old fires of revival would soon be burning all over this nation and around the world. As the physical body is warmed circulation is restored. Color comes back to the skin and movement establishes circulation. Now that is a strange concept in the church. Most don’t think they are to move, except to go home. The Bible very plainly states we are to go into the highways and hedges. Note the word go. This little word means to move from one spot to another. Most church members have rewritten their bibles to read the pastor is to go into the highways and hedges and bring them in so that we might fellowship with them. Now, unless I am badly mistaken the book also plainly states that if you change or add to, you are in big trouble.
There should be fires built for others. Revival fires are needed today. So many are being washed up on our shores and are dying. A revival should not be a time when only the church members are warmed. Remember our story about Paul. Why did the inhabitants of the coast give them shelter? Because of the rain and storm. They were having a hard time building a fire, as the wood was wet. Water was falling and the air was damp. Under these conditions it is not easy to build a fire, yet a fire had to be built for the people to survive. Today we live in a cold wet environment, spiritually speaking. Spiritual fires are hard to kindle, but there must be a fire or all are going to die. Barbarians cannot kindle the fire we need in the church today. It must come from God, brought to the heart of the Christian by the Holy Spirit, and stoked by Jesus. Once the fire is started it spreads not all at once but to one heart at a time. The spiritual fire spreads a little at a time first to one, then to another until all are on fire. The warmth and the light given off is something to behold. If you have a small flame started in your heart you then need to nourish it by going down on your knees and breathing on the flame. Prayer is the breath, which causes the fire to grow. Fuel is then needed to keep the fire going. The Great Apostle Paul is seen carrying bundles of wood to help keep the fire growing. We should all take example from this man. If he could carry wood so that others could be warm, who are we to set by the fire while others are freezing? The fire is for everyone we must not be content until all those who are shivering are warm and comfortable. We must feed the fire until it is big enough to give warmth to all those around its border.
The world is shipwrecked. People are wet and cold. What chance do they have without a fire? What can each of us do to build a fire? Can we not each carry sticks to kindle the flame? Maybe we can feed the flame with prayer, or with movement can restore circulation. The fire we seek is from God not from a denomination, assembly association or government. Let no one dampen the flame by indifference. Let all come and warm themselves by the Lord’s fire. Keep building the fire until all those who are cold can be warm, for to be spiritually cold is to be dead.
There is danger with building a fire. It not only warms but it will draw those unwanted creatures as well. If we awaken the serpent the fire must be large enough and hot enough to destroy them. The flame may not only bring life back into the frozen people it will also restore life into the viper. Thank God the fire that revived the viper is also able to destroy it.
Are you a fire builder or a fire fighter?
There are two kinds of cold, the spiritual kind and the physical kind. Spiritual cold goes deep and is long lasting. Physical cold while dangerous can be driven away by the simple act of building a fire. Each type of cold requires a special kind of kindling to build a warming fire. I want to explore the spiritual cold rather than the physical. We are all apt to be cold at some time or another. Let’s face it we live in a cold cruel world. Our world is unforgiving for the most part. It is a place where gracious men are not welcome. I think this is due to the inbred sin of mankind. Because of this inbred sin we are apt to be lukewarm or frozen. Nature has a means of purging the natural world. This is done with the winter season when the cold icy winds come and the temperatures drop causing all plant life to die. Unfortunately, many churches experience this same kind of atmosphere. I have been in some churches where the service at a funeral was more alive and warmer than services on Sunday morning. In fact I have felt a warmer welcome at some funerals than I have felt at some Sunday morning services. Because the church is made up of people it is only natural that the church should undergo some period of coldness. In fact I think it is needed and healthy. However, that condition is not to remain. Someone should go out and gather some kindling and build a fire.
All around us there are buildings with cold corners where the sun never shines. In those shadows live people, good people who need the warmth Jesus can provide. But for some reason many in the church think the warmth Jesus has to offer is only for them, and they are not going to share it. In the physical world when we get cold three things happen if we don’t seek shelter and warmth. First we become uncomfortable, next we become inactive, and then we die. In the spiritual world there is a parallel. If we go away from the warmth of God we first become uncomfortable when we hear about church and the Lord. Then we become inactive and a deep cold starts to creep into our soul. We might as well be dead if our spirit is cold. In the spiritual as it is in the physical there are ways to build a fire. With a physical fire you first gather small twigs and tender grass. With a match you ignite the grass and slowly add the twigs. As the fire begins to catch you add larger twigs and chunks of wood. As the fire continues to grow more wood is added until you have a roaring fire giving off life saving warmth. In the spiritual realm a fire is started much the same way. The match is the Word of God. When applied to a tender receptive heart the coals begin to smolder. As prayer is added to the life the coals begin to glow brighter. Meditation and communion with Jesus caused the fire to come to life giving off the much-needed warmth. This spiritual warmth is life saving, live sustaining, and life protecting, much like the physical fire. The 12 apostles said that their hearts burned within them as Jesus talked with them. As we fellowship with other Christians, on fire for the Lord, we add to the fire burning within our souls.
I know first hand how one can get cold when they get away from Christian people. That is good caring Christian people. If the church would return to her first love the old fires of revival would soon be burning all over this nation and around the world. As the physical body is warmed circulation is restored. Color comes back to the skin and movement establishes circulation. Now that is a strange concept in the church. Most don’t think they are to move, except to go home. The Bible very plainly states we are to go into the highways and hedges. Note the word go. This little word means to move from one spot to another. Most church members have rewritten their bibles to read the pastor is to go into the highways and hedges and bring them in so that we might fellowship with them. Now, unless I am badly mistaken the book also plainly states that if you change or add to, you are in big trouble.
There should be fires built for others. Revival fires are needed today. So many are being washed up on our shores and are dying. A revival should not be a time when only the church members are warmed. Remember our story about Paul. Why did the inhabitants of the coast give them shelter? Because of the rain and storm. They were having a hard time building a fire, as the wood was wet. Water was falling and the air was damp. Under these conditions it is not easy to build a fire, yet a fire had to be built for the people to survive. Today we live in a cold wet environment, spiritually speaking. Spiritual fires are hard to kindle, but there must be a fire or all are going to die. Barbarians cannot kindle the fire we need in the church today. It must come from God, brought to the heart of the Christian by the Holy Spirit, and stoked by Jesus. Once the fire is started it spreads not all at once but to one heart at a time. The spiritual fire spreads a little at a time first to one, then to another until all are on fire. The warmth and the light given off is something to behold. If you have a small flame started in your heart you then need to nourish it by going down on your knees and breathing on the flame. Prayer is the breath, which causes the fire to grow. Fuel is then needed to keep the fire going. The Great Apostle Paul is seen carrying bundles of wood to help keep the fire growing. We should all take example from this man. If he could carry wood so that others could be warm, who are we to set by the fire while others are freezing? The fire is for everyone we must not be content until all those who are shivering are warm and comfortable. We must feed the fire until it is big enough to give warmth to all those around its border.
The world is shipwrecked. People are wet and cold. What chance do they have without a fire? What can each of us do to build a fire? Can we not each carry sticks to kindle the flame? Maybe we can feed the flame with prayer, or with movement can restore circulation. The fire we seek is from God not from a denomination, assembly association or government. Let no one dampen the flame by indifference. Let all come and warm themselves by the Lord’s fire. Keep building the fire until all those who are cold can be warm, for to be spiritually cold is to be dead.
There is danger with building a fire. It not only warms but it will draw those unwanted creatures as well. If we awaken the serpent the fire must be large enough and hot enough to destroy them. The flame may not only bring life back into the frozen people it will also restore life into the viper. Thank God the fire that revived the viper is also able to destroy it.
Are you a fire builder or a fire fighter?
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