Defining a Preferred Future

SCRIPTURE
"these lay a multitude of those who were sick, blind, lame, and withered, waiting for the moving of the waters; (John 5:3)

OBSERVATION
A certain man has been sick for 38 years, and when he was asked about the longevity of his condition, he replied that there was no one to toss him into the water when the angel stirred it. For over 38 years! That must have been many missed opportunities waiting for someone to toss him in!

With one simple question, Jesus asked if he wanted to be healed. "Arise, take up you pallet and walk." That was it. His life was forever changed in an instant. He got up and walked.

I wonder how many times I have waited for the moving of the waters, and in doing so, I miss the opportunity for change. I have waited on the circumstances to get favorable, people to like me, and all the stars to line up in the heavens before I act.

I know that there is something called, "buy in," that is important, but there is also something called the fear of man and also the tendency to blame others for you coming up short.

Jesus gave the lame man the direction to having his dreams fulfilled. It wasn't waiting on someone to toss him into the water. Instead, it was to move in the direction of Jesus first, to ask Him, then act on His answer! The solution wasn't necessarily to get in to the water. The solution was to get in to what he really needed: to walk!

APPLICATION
I need to come to Jesus on a daily basis. Ask Him directly what I need. And then move on it. I hesitate too much. Over the last few weeks, I week have been writing down a preferred picture of what is best for mission of Radiant Life and for my life. I've been fortunate to be able to hammer out portions of this preferred future in community with Jenny Thompson, Bob Adams, Rafael Hernandez, Steve Dickert, Gary Eaker, Brian Hines, John Allen, Christine Allen, Jacob Collins, Debbie Eaker and others.

I don't need to wait for the moving of the waters and for someone to throw me in. If I do, I will find that they will jump in before me. People will always look out for themselves first of all, and that is a given. So I must hear what is best for the ministry and Kingdom, my family and future.

Picture of a preferred future is what vision is all about. I need to renew my vision, often.

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for reminding me that I must come to you, and not wait for man. I must hear your promises and then move. Grab my pallet and start to walk. Jesus is asking me, "Do you want to get well?" My answer is "YES!" so now I will straighten my back and stand up, even though others around me are waiting for the moving of the waters. Thank you, Jesus, for the LIFE You give me.

Life is Magnified through Death

SCRIPTURE
"Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?" (John 11:25-26)

OBSERVATION
The Gift of life is magnified through death. That's what Jesus speaks to Mary and Martha concerning their brother Lazurus - life happens when we believe and follow Jesus.

APPLICATION
The gift of CHRISTmas for me today and everyday is the gift of living as if Jesus is my Resurrection - the One who has made me alive! He has opened my heart to see, believe, receive Him and the desire to live a resurrected, changed life.

Today I desire to grow in:
Giving God worship, singing to Him from my heart, thinking thoughts of gratefulness for an inner life of peace and joy I can hardly describe!!!!

Reminding my self in challenging moments when I don't' "feel" His presence, that my anchor is in the revelation of this passage in John 11. I believe His Word when my mind and emotions waver.

PRAYER
May I be a great son who lives out a resurrected life that makes you smile. I want to honor you from the inside out - so my family, friends, world would know and believe that YOU ARE the RESURRECTION and LIFE!

Putting My Faith in Jesus

SCRIPTURE
"This, the first of his miraculous signs, Jesus performed in Cana of Galilee. He thus revealed his glory, and his disciples put their faith in him." (John 2:11)

OBSERVATION
It seems to be for me that when God reveals Himself, His presence, to me in various ways that my faith grows. When I see it, I believe it.

Through hearing that our cousin's friend Mechae Tentor (who was so close to death several months ago...had said her goodbyes to her own family) is now living and experiencing life. -- Miracle

Watching someone go from distance and opposition to God, to a place where they are willing to give their life to Jesus. -- Miracle

Through the ways our Radiant Life people continually amaze me. That we even have a Radiant Life Fellowship. -- Miracle

Through my family who consistently inspires me to be more. -- Miracle

Jesus' glory (revealed in various ways) increases my faith and trust in Him.

APPLICATION
I constantly make decisions to put my faith in Him. There are moments throughout a day that my faith gets hit, attacked, weakened... I must train my heart and eyes to look for His presence.

My take home this day...
1. Keep my faith growing by hearing the Word of God...
Through my devotions
Through those who challenge me to be more
Through my time with those I help challenge to be more.
Through time in prayer

2. Keep my faith growing through obedient acts of service...
Telling others about Christ with my words and my life
Giving of myself to serve those who would not call themselves Jesus followers
Through serving and giving. Serving with a grateful heart of honor when it goes beyond my comfort zone...

BE AVAILABLE! Just be There!

PRAYER
Dear Lord -
I'm going to press in and on when it comes to growing my faith. But I need you, your revelation, your life that is revealed through people, obedient acts of service... May my life be a scent of worship that makes you smile.

My life is like a vapor

SCRIPTURE
"Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away." (James 4:14)

OBSERVATION
There is a popular song, "Live Like You Were Dying," that poses a question we see being answered everyday in the news - "do we really know how much time we have to live?" From facing death's door on the battlefields of war, to the daily risks of driving on our local roads...living on the edge of life isn't as far away as we may think. Whether we're consciously aware of it or not, each new day takes us one step closer to the line that separates life from death. And it's a line that we cannot control, neither can it be negotiated or compromised.

The truth of reality spoken by James says it all: no one really knows what life will be like tomorrow. In many respects we all suffer from a "terminal illness," the only difference being that the "terminally ill" understand the urgency of the moment, to make the best use of their limited time. We, on the other hand, when we live presumptuously believing that our time left is unlimited, we place ourselves at a disadvantage. We miss out.

APPLICATION
So, here's the questions I must answer each day:
"Am I living my life like I'm dying?"
"How should I live differently, knowing that my time is limited?"

How would I love differently?
How would it affect the depth of my forgiveness towards others?
How am I preparing myself for eternity and to stand face to face with God?
Am I engaging myself in the things that matter most?
Would I worship differently?
Would I risk more? Laugh more? Serve more? Give more?
Who would I spend more time with?
Would I finally live fully present in every moment?

As I ponder the upcoming year, let there be a sense of urgency running through my veins. I am given this moment as a gift. What will I do with this gift?

PRAYER
Father, thank You for the time You have already given to me. Forgive me for not taking full advantage of that time and for squandering the opportunities You sent my way. May I live each new day for You.

Discipline

SCRIPTURE
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith."

"No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening-it's painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way. So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong." (Hebrews 12:1-2, 11-13)

OBSERVATION
Soldiers, athletes, children - what do these have in common? They all need discipline.
Soldiers need it to protect their squad and themselves.
Athletes need it to compete at the highest level.
Children need it to excel in life and stay out of trouble.

Discipline is rarely fun and games. It's usually uncomfortable, painful and tough. But it's best when it comes from someone who really cares for us. It's best when it's motivated out of love. If I want the very best for someone that I oversee, I need to care for them enough that I will discipline them - I don't enjoy it or look forward to it. It would be so much easier for me to ignore it and move on. But if I really want the best for that person, then I need to graciously confront and correct. I need to bring some things to their attention and help them make the appropriate corrections. If I ignore it, I'm contributing to the undisciplined life.

APPLICATION
A coach who really cares about his team will go the extra mile to correct mistakes and bad habits in order to play their very best. Parents who are fully involved in their child's life will take the time and effort to correct attitudes and behavior that will affect their maturity, learning and personal growth. As leaders, we need to care so much about our people that we will take the extra effort to discipline those that we serve.

Our Heavenly Father loves us that much and more. He wants the very best for us. He wants us to succeed in the most important things in life. When He disciplines us, we mustn't try to justify or defend our behavior. We need to submit to His wisdom. Comply with the consequence and learn for the future.

We need TO discipline, but we must also BE disciplined. As the scripture says, discipline leads to a peaceful harvest of right living.

PRAYER
Dear Heavenly Father,
Give me the strength and courage to discipline others when needed. And may I be open to Your discipline with the knowledge that it comes in Your love.
In Jesus Name, Amen

Leave _______ and go on to ___________

SCRIPTURE
"Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity..." (Hebrews 6:1)

OBSERVATION
What would "maturity" look like?

Here's some of my perceptions about Christian maturity. First phase of (maturity) being a Christian has certain markings, a certain lifestyle, specific habits that they do such as praying when you are in need and attending church on Sundays. That's the basic program. A second, more intermediate phase may be reading the Bible when troubles are near. Then the third, and seemingly most advanced stage is to have memorized a few Scriptures, do devotions, they tithe, and they get involved in a few church activities. Those five habits would for the most part, be the defining of "maturity." Even Jesus followers would define Christian maturity as such.

But for me, it must go beyond that. It is not just the basic five. It has to be a life fully lived within the Kingdom of God. It has to be a glow rather than a task, something natural rather than something of duty.

A mature Christian is one who becomes known, no longer for what he (she) does but for who he (she) is. It is when the things he has believed have been so sifted into his innermost being that he lives with a grace, a love, a wisdom that even non Jesus followers can recognize.

Like Daniel in the Old Testament, he served four kings who didn't follow the God of the Hebrews yet they all wanted Daniel to be their top counselor. I am sure it wasn't because of his use of religious clichés or him constantly reminding others of his belief system. Rather, it was that he was so valuable to the King's purposes. He used great insight; he didn't require constant supervision; he did above and beyond his duties, he fulfilled his tasks, showed up on time, and was loyal more than the rest. Daniel was someone with leadership gifts that were honed and a character that was dependable. He possessed an "excellent" spirit and when he was around, people were glad.

But it is not like that today. There are those who proclaim Christianity but their lifestyle is only tolerable at best. They want people to value them because of their beliefs rather than for the reality of what they contribute.

It is often immature Christians and underdeveloped leaders that hurt the cause of Christ.As Hebrews says, these immature ones just stick with the elementary teachings. But the mature ones are the Daniels.

APPLICATION
I want to tuck away the elementary principles, allow them to influence everything I do, but move onward to greater things so that in some way, even non-Jesus followers will see the value and benefit from not only the things I do but from the person I am.

PRAYER
Lord Jesus, YOU were like that. It was simply who You were, not just what You did. People sensed heaven when they were in Your presence. Help me to shift my mind so that I understand that what I do is great, but I must get comfortable in who I am and simply LIVE OUT LOUD.

Ready to do Good

SCRIPTURE
"Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men." (Titus 3:1-2)

OBSERVATION
The challenge to Titus (and the Christians he taught) was to be ready and willing to do whatever is good, peaceable, considerate in humilty. Having a readiness of mind and heart to do good is so important to understanding and learning how to submit to authority.

I've found that submission is a vital quality to be lived out in my heart - lived out and expressed, as Paul writes, to all men.

ADVENT CONSPIRACY REMINDERS
Spend Less
Give more of yourself relationally
Worship Jesus Fully
Love Wins

APPLICATION
Submission and Serving go hand in hand. In order to serve our Lord, I need to first submit to our Lord. Submission comes down to my attitude. It's as much submission with authority as it is submission with those whom I don't agree with or care for. I certainly need the Lord's help in this area.

So if I'm going to submit to Jesus (as a Jesus follower), then I need to guard how I talk about other people.

Being peaceable, considerate and humble are characteristics that oppose my self centeredness. I can live this out with those I like and get along with - but there are some that test these characteristics. Maybe testing is what I need in order to move forward another click in my maturity in Christ in this area.

PRAYER
Lord -
Help me to live out true humility to all people. To be submitted to You in a way that reflects Your peace, and heart - ready to serve. Thanks for being so willing to always help me - may I be and live like You!

More Christmas Conspiracy

SCRIPTURE
"So we tell others about Christ, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all the wisdom God has given us. We want to present them to God, perfect in their relationship to Christ." (Colossians 1:28)

"Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony." (Colossians 3:12-14)

OBSERVATION
Christmas is here. There are just a couple of weeks until the birth of Christ and the big blow-up Santa is up at the car dealership on Hwy21. It's cold and rainy, wrapping paper has materialized in the house. The malls are packed and Christmas parties are in full swing.

It's a wonderful and exciting season that's also hectic and stressful. Yesterday, I heard a story about a person who was standing in line at Starbucks behind a guy who was buying a few gift cards for Christmas - The stranger turned around, handed her a card and said "Merry Christmas," smiled and walked away. A caring word, a smile, letting someone cut in on the road, holding an elevator or opening a door - little gestures that remind people that there is a peace that overflows from a place much deeper than exchanging gifts.

SPEND LESS,
GIVE MORE RELATIONALLY,
WORSHIP JESUS FULLY,
LOVE WINS

How are you doing on these?

APPLICATION
We need to celebrate the powerful opportunities that Christmas brings! Let's thank God for the chance to partner with Him in this season. In the midst of all of the busy-ness, let's all take the time to reflect on Paul's words in Colossians 3 and ask God for a double portion of patience, kindness and humility. We have the ability to positively influence our neighbors, co-workers, friends and family with a friendly and inspiring spirit.

PRAYER
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the gift of everlasting life through Your Son, Jesus Christ. In this precious Christmas season please pour out Your spirit on us so that we experience it in the way that You'd like us to - to see past just the lights, music, gifts and events, but to see it from Your eyes, to give thanks and celebrate the birth, life and mission of our Lord and Savior.
In Jesus name, Amen

A gift I need

SCRIPTURE
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." (Ephesians 4:29)

OBSERVATION
I love the book of Ephesians! I am encouraged in my heart, mind and soul! The image of who I am in Christ is inspiring!

Chapter 4 is full of Paul's commands to the church to live according to the "new man." There is a new way of living, talking and relating to people that reflects a changed heart and life. It's all as a result of following Jesus. Jesus brings change in my heart and wants that change to affect the way I live. And Jesus wants to do the same for you.

APPLICATION
My mouth needs help! I know my challenge or problem stems from what's going on in my heart - but I must learn to control my tongue better! It's not just the words I say, it's also the tone in which I say my words. It's my non-verbals that sometimes speak so much louder than my verbals. I know my wife and children can pick up on my non-verbals that communicate that I'm irritated, mad, frustrated, tired. All those external communications are tied directly to my heart.

If my heart was reflecting God's heart, building others up (encouraging people) and brining life them life - according to their needs - would be as natural as breathing. That's what I need and that's what I want. What a gift that would be to me and others this Christmas...my transformed heart.

PRAYER
Lord - I need your help again! Thanks for Your patience with me. How enduring You are - how loving and faithful. Help me to build up my family Lord - with words that will build their relationship with You.

When I think I'm Right, I might be Wrong

11-19-08

SCRIPTURE
"And Joseph awoke from his sleep and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him, and took Mary as his wife, but kept her a virgin until she gave birth to a Son; and he called His name Jesus." (Matthew 1:24-25)

OBSERVATION
Have you ever wondered what if Joseph had never followed through with the instructions the Lord had been revealed to him in a dream? What if he insisted on standing his ground as a "righteous man" and refused to marry a woman who was already "with child?" After all, no one could blame him for dissolving a relationship that had gone "bad." He had done nothing wrong and wasn't she the "guilty" party? What if Joseph had walked away ... then, he would have missed the miracle. He would have forfeited his role in the unfolding of plans of God for him, and for the rest of the world. But, Joseph set aside his own "righteousness" and obediently followed through with what the Lord had asked of him. Sounds like something Jesus dad for us…hmmm.

APPLICATION
Sometimes we can't be more wrong than when we think we're so right. One of the greatest roadblocks that sit in the path to obedience seem to be when I believe that I am so righteous. I’m blinded by my own righteousness. When we're right, it's easy to find blame, to generate an excuse, to point the finger at the other person's failure. But, we will miss the miracle that God may just be showing us, yet we refuse to see. This is what the Lord meant when He referenced the Pharisees who had eyes, but couldn't see, ears that couldn't hear. When we stand so right before others, we fail to see the unseen, and hear the unheard that God may be revealing to us. We're never more wrong, than when we think we're so right.

It's been a path I've found myself walking many times in my life. I wonder how many miracles I may have missed along the way simply because I thought I was so right in my reasons, yet so blinded by my own eyes? I wonder how many wrong corners I've turned because my pride’s voice was just a little louder than the Lord's voice of instructions to lead me a different way? My heart needs to be more like Joseph and my eyes and ears need to be open and willing to obey, regardless how "right" I may see myself in my own eyes. It means removing my blinders of pride and setting aside reasons that may seem to justify my positions and be open to whatever the Lord may be asking of me, in whatever I do, wherever He asks me to go.

PRAYER
Lord, forgive me for times that I've thought of myself as being so right, yet I was so wrong. Thank you for your amazing grace, for I once was blind, but now I see. Keep my heart open and my eyes and ears available to hear your voice and to obey every word that proceeds from your heart.

My intentions and my words

11-17-08
SCRIPTURE
"Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else." (2 Corinthians 9:13)

"Such people should realize that what we are in our letters when we are absent, we will be in our actions when we are present." (2 Corinthians 10:11)

OBSERVATION
These verses are strung together in my heart and mind, realizing that I have great intentions to obey, act out my love for God and serve people. But I find myself struggling with following through in the little ways with people - when I make little statements of what I desire to do or be to make things better. My intentions are great and noble. But many times, my actions (follow through) comes up short.

Paul's challenge to the church and myself this morning is for me to put my money where my mouth is - or better yet, for my actions to speak louder than my great intentions.

APPLICATION
This morning I want to think and behave differently in the area of being more generous with my resources. I’m going to go through my closet and garage (the last time I did this was several months ago) and generously give lots of my stuff away. I don’t use it all. And in many cases I won’t use it. It’s just taking up space

I also want to make sure I follow through with even the small things that I verbally (or through emails) tell people I will do. I do have great intentions. But have I burned others because I communicate my great-godly intentions with sincerity but lack the follow through in actions? Yes.

These actions should help me to be the kind of person Paul is talking about “…what we are in our letters when we are absent, we will be in our actions when we are present.”

PRAYER
Lord as
2 Corinthians 8:24 says,
"Therefore show these men the proof of your love and the reason for our pride in you, so that the churches can see it."

Help me to show my family the proof of my love, to be obedient to You - through my great intentions turned into actions. Help me to follow through. I NEED YOUR HELP!

I'm so stinkin selfish

11-11-08

SCRIPTURE
"Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others." (1 Corinthians 10:24)

OBSERVATION
Paul addresses an important topic with Christians in Corinth - the barrier of being so religious in life that they can't reach others for Jesus. While being taught to live according to the Covenant law, the Jews who were converted couldn't accept the fact that their do's and don'ts according to the law became a steep tradition.

Do I have a set of standards that turn others off and away from pursuing Jesus? My own set of "Christian" standards can be for "my own good" and not for the good of others.

APPLICATION
This verse, among others, challenges me to evaluate the way I live my Christianity out among my neighbors. Am I authentically seeking after the good of “those” others? The people that are not like me…don’t believe the way I believe…don’t live the way I live…don’t value what I value???

To seek my own good is to talk and hang with those who I like and are like me. I'm comfortable with that. But that’s seeking after my own good, isn’t it? I'm so stinkin selfish - I repent Lord!!

TODAY Chris...
Seek the good of others - especially those you don't know yet. And those who are different that me.

Love the ones you wouldn't want to hang out with - and show it through spending some time getting to know them.

PRAYER
Papa!
Thanks for seeking me out - seeking my good. You are so-o-o-o unselfish - so Good to Me and to Your creation! I want to change my selfish ways. Help me to take off my Christian mask and really live an authentic life before You and others... especially the ones I'm not naturally drawn to. I really do love You Lord. I know what You are thinking... "Show it, Live it son." I say yes to You. All In!

Conflict among Jesus followers

11-09-08

SCRIPTURE
"Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, appoint as judges even men of little account in the church! I say this to shame you. Is it possible that there is nobody among you wise enough to judge a dispute between believers?" (1 Corinthians 6:4-5)

OBSERVATION
First of all, the reality is that when you get a group of people together over a period of time, there is going to be opportunity for disputes. Even in churches. As followers of Jesus, God expects us to resolve the disputes among ourselves with great care. If we cannot do this among ourselves, what hope has the world? If we cut ourselves off from our relationships that go sideways or marginalize those who disagree with us, why should those who don’t yet follow Jesus want to even consider joining us as Jesus followers? If we have schisms and splits, slanders and unresolved disputes, why then do we preach that others should “become Christians”?

If our marriages are filled with anger and distrust and if we tolerate relational distances between believers as if it were normal, then how can God use us? See what Paul says in 1 Corinthians 3 ...

"I gave you milk to drink, not solid food; for you were not yet able to receive it. Indeed, even now you are not yet able, for you are still fleshly. For since there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not fleshly, and are you not walking like mere men?"

Here we find that our ability to receive will be determined by our maturity in Christ. And our maturity in Christ will be determined by how much of our “old self” still lives ...Do we retain jealousy? Is there unresolved conflict among believers? These mile markers will mark our ability (or inability) to receive spiritual gifts, blessings, or resources from God.

I’ve been a part of churches that emphasize certain “sins” that they have taken a stand against. And in the same church, ongoing conflict between believers was never addressed as an issue. It killed our witness in the community and sidetracked the mission of God in the church.

I'm so thrilled to be a part of a church (Radiant Life Fellowship) where healthy relationships are expressed and trust is such a high value. That is so freeing.

APPLICATION
In my relationships, I will “be wise as serpents but harmless as doves” (Matt. 10:16) for God has sent us out as “sheep in the midst of wolves”. However, I will not make myself a wolf in order to protect or defend myself. I will choose the high road. I will choose peace, as much as it depends on me.

Why? Because I have so much more I need and want to receive from God! As Paul said in 1 Corinthians, if we tolerate these character deficiencies, we will be unable to receive. I cannot afford that. I must remain biblical (in my relationships) regardless of the circumstances. Even now, I will ask God to search my heart to remove any residual remains of any unresolved contention. I cannot make room for these things that will reduce my capacity to receive from God.

PRAYER
Lord Jesus, may I model my life and my heart after yours. You were attacked, but it didn't twist You into someone who would later resemble Your attackers. You kept a heart of redemption. Please make me more like you today! Bring to my attention any unresolved, sideways, relationship that might be plaguing me and keeping me from receiving from You. I desire to (as best as it depends on me) live at peace with all people. Thank you, Jesus, for restoring my relationship with You.

My Inheritance, My Mentor and My Counsellor

11-06-08

SCRIPTURE
"So the law was put in charge to lead us to Christ that we might be justified by faith. Now that faith has come, we are no longer under the supervision of the law." (Gal 3:24).

"What I am saying is that as long as the heir is a child, he is no different from a slave, although he owns the whole estate. 2He is subject to guardians and trustees until the time set by his father." (Gal. 4:1).

OBSERVATION
Until the child had matured, he would not be able to receive the inheritance left by His wealthy father. He was too young when his father left, so he was put under the care of another. A mentor of sorts. Laws of conduct and rules of living were taught in order to train the youngster up in the way that he should go. And when he accrued the inheritance, he would steward the vast fortune well and not squander it.

So the mentor trained him, disciplined him, and worked hard with him to develop and cultivate the character, wisdom, attitudes, perspective, and skills necessary. And the mentor knew that his sole responsibility to the master was to prepare his child. He had no other purpose in life. And he must not fail in this, so he was serious about his charge.

The mentor? It’s the Law.
Unswerving (and at times rigid) it was designed to lead us to our inheritance. But now that we, through Jesus Christ, have inherited it we need a daily counselor.

And our Counselor? The one who is called alongside us to help? It’s the Holy Spirit.
He now guides us daily.

The Law brought us to our inheritance in Christ, but the Holy Spirit leads us forward into maturity and how to steward our inheritance. What a fascinating concept, huh?

APPLICATION
One of the things I need now is not "more inheritance" but more courage to step forward in the wise use of my inheritance. I must be led by the Spirit of God. I must see how my inheritance can be used for the furtherance of the Gospel without self-promotional methods.

I will continue to ask God to give me deeper wisdom on how to influence the Body of Christ. I know that we must cultivate self-feeding saints if we are to be ambassadors for Christ in these days. I will continue to think through ways to build leaders who depend on the Word of God. This is the best way for people to capture and be captivated by their inheritance in Christ ... by knowing it! It is revealed in the Word of God. Join the growing list of us (Radiant Life Fellowship) who are digging into God’s Word on a daily basis through the Life Journals. Check out today's reading online.

PRAYER
Dear Father:
I have so much further to go! Please ignite me anew and refresh me. Take me further than I have ever gone before. You died to give me my inheritance in Christ, so now may I be faithful in what you died for! I will proclaim Your Word and teach the saints. I will build leaders and reach the lost with Your Good News of Salvation until you come to receive us back home! I am grateful to You for so much…including my inheritance.

I need to die!

11-05-08

SCRIPTURE
"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." (Galations 2:20)

OBSERVATION
The Gentiles were being taught to live by Jewish customs that measured their spirituality and relationship with God by rituals unique to Jews – circumcision, for one. Hypocrisy among the Jews contradicted what Paul’s message was to the Gentiles. This verse seems to be a summary life verse for Paul and all of us to live (or die) by.

APPLICATION
How can I be crucified with Christ and at the same time life? These 1st Christians understood that they were powerless against these forces that rage war within me and want to destroy me. They believed that the only hope was that you had to die (identifying with Jesus’ death) in order for Jesus to live in me. They believed that the other me (the me that is self-centered, disobedient, impatient, unkind, lustful, anxious, greedy and lazy) could, and should, die. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says that if anyone is in Christ, he/she is a new creature, the old self is gone (dead) the new self has come, and is alive. That’s one of the reasons why baptism is such a great picture that illustrates this truth for us. The only hope for the battle is to kill the old me. You can’t have the life God’s given you unless you are born again. Your old self has to die again and again and again until it is completely dead. And the new self (the “in Christ” renewed, forgiven, restored, love-filled self) has to be lived out daily. This kind of transformation takes place again and again.

At Radiant Life Fellowship, we observe/celebrate communion weekly, because how else am I going to make it if I don’t daily/weekly remind myself that the OLD ME has died.
Jesus said in Luke 9 to “take up your cross, daily, and follow me.” I need to crucify my sinful thoughts, attitudes and ways daily.

This morning, knowing that He still gives Himself for me in love, faithfulness, patience, forgiveness and constant grace - I am confident to make my goal to no longer live! No longer live for my ways, self, goals (which still get in the way) but to live crucified with Christ - to live as if I'm no longer my own boss, leader and director...Jesus is.

PRAYER
Jesus - Thanks for living in me! For giving Your life for me. For loving me unconditionally and faithfully. I am humbled by Your constancy and persistence to pursue me. I really love You!

What? Me? Envy?

11-04-08

SCRIPTURE
"Do you want me to release to you the king of the Jews?" asked Pilate, knowing it was out of envy that the chief priests had handed Jesus over to him. But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have Pilate release Barabbas instead." (Mark 15:9-11)

OBSERVATION
The main religious dudes of Jesus’ time (Jewish teachers, Priests and the Sanhedrin Council) were envious of Jesus and wanted Him killed. Envy is a powerful motivator. Pilate's predicament was that he knew these leaders were envious and was pressured to release another criminal in place of the innocent Jesus.

Envy - what a strong, wicked, attitude. A self-defeating and debilitating sin that will brew trouble to the point of ruining lives. Envy will destroy you. The difficulty is that envy is so easy to hide and justify. How do I know? I've hid behind the cruel attitude of envy and it’s almost ruined me time and time again. It messes up my thoughts and my perspective on life and others.

APPLICATION
When envy strikes my thoughts, I try not to let it sink in to my heart. Envy comes when I feel insecure. It plays with my mind. Envy leads me to an inaccurate view of myself. I usually end up not wanting what's best for others. When others achieve or are better at something than I am. Envy creeps in. It puts distance between me and others.

Envy is defined as: a discontent or resentment aroused by wanting something others possess. I not only want what they have, but envy wishes they did not have it (what I want) to begin with. It creates a dissatisfaction in me – and discontent will ruin me. I've been there and been crippled by that monster called envy.

Envy will deceive me to hand the favor of Jesus, His gifts or character in me, over to compromise to be crucified. I see this happening with many leaders - secure and confident on the outside, plagued with envy on the inside.

How do I conquer envy?
1. I change thoughts of envy to thoughts of gratefulness for who I am and what I have. Thoughts of contentment feels go-o-o-o-od!
2. I repent when I allow envy to slip into my heart - then I choose the attitude of encouraging myself and others in the Lord.
3. I recite Scripture in my heart and thoughts. The Word disintegrates the spirit of envy.
4. I regularly and intentionally need to rub shoulders with the poor in order to rid myself of envy. It resets my envy clock that kicks in and sets destruction into motion in my life. I go to Urban Restoration on Tuesdays. I serve. I spend time with my family and create fun memories.

PRAYER
Lord - I love you more than the envy that seeps into my mind at times. Thanks for Your strength to always help me overcome thoughts of envy. It can be such a battle, especially when my flesh wants or craves what others have. Thank You for the power of grace - Your Spirit of strength that lives in me! I love you so much! I pray for the election process in our country and all those involved. May Your will be done here on earth as it is in Heaven and may it begin with me, submitting to Your will in my life. In Jesus name, Amen.

I give you my word.

11-03-08

SCRIPTURE
"But Peter kept saying insistently, "Even if I have to die with You, I will not deny You!" And they all were saying the same thing, too." (Mark 14:31)

OBSERVATION
It wasn't just Peter who was trying to make a point here of his loyalty to the Lord. All of the disciples (Jesus followers) were expressing the same thing. But, just a few moments later, they all fell asleep in the Garden, and they all left Him when confronted with His arrest.

Talk is cheap, isn't it? I’ve learned that lesson over and over again. When getting ready to plant Radiant Life Fellowship, I had lots of people indicate their support and willingness to help us plant this church. But when the rubber met the road and we launched out…some of the most vocal supporters vanished. It was too hard. Too different. Or whatever the excuse…it hurt. I was hurt, confused and angry. I’m realizing now, that some of my trust was in people…who are fickle and fragile themselves. My trust should always be in my God. And in Him alone.

We can often talk the talk, but are we willing to walk the talk, especially when pressures mount against us, when we're confronted by the unexpected, or when we've been blind-sided by circumstances that have caught us off-guard. How strong is our commitment then to what we said we would do?

Commitments, it seem, can be much like toys that we see for sale, especially during the Christmas season. They seem so easy to make, and yet, so easy to break. Regardless of the promises and assurances of being "satisfied, or your money back," they often turn out to be nothing more than cheap guarantees.

APPLICATION
Talk is cheap and when we fail to live up to the commitments we've made, it depreciates the value of our word, our marriages, of our families, and of our friendships. We see it revealed in the divorce rates and failed families of today's society. And we see it often in our own failure to follow through with commitments we've made to the Lord.

I believe one of the best and most valuable gifts that I can give this holiday season is the gift of my word; not just a commitment expressed in word, but a promise lived out in my actions. And it won't be just an expression of love for my wife and family, but my affection expressed through active engagement and acts of kindness. And it should be the same with my commitment to Christ; not just through words of my love for Him, but a commitment expressed through my actions, even when the world may seemed stacked up against me. Talk is cheap; but not if my actions speak louder than my words.

PRAYER
Father, forgive me for the times that I have wandered away from my word. May my lifestyle be the ultimate expression of the commitments that I've made to You, to my marriage, and to my family. May my life speak louder than my words…and may the message my life speaks be that
“God is good”
“God is here, now”
“God is love”
“God is enough”
“God restores, heals, forgives, redeems and gives us a life that radiates Jesus”
In Jesus name, Amen.

Does Jesus Ignore Some People?

10-30-08

SCRIPTURE
While Jesus was still speaking, some men came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. "Your daughter is dead," they said. "Why bother the teacher any more?" Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, "Don't be afraid; just believe." (Mark 5:35).

OBSERVATION
Jesus has always been known as the One who hears us all. He is the One knows us individually and cares. But sometimes He ignores certain ones.

"Is it I Lord?"

Jairus was a church leader with a sickly daughter. Having requested of Jesus to pray, they began making their way toward the house. But in route, some men intercepted Him with news that the daughter was dead.

"Why bother the teacher anymore? It's over. Accept it."

The Bible then tells us that Jesus ignored them!

Instead of giving up the chase, Jesus reassures Jairus that he needs to keep Plan A and move forward. It wouldn't be long before people would see a little girl arise and astonishment and amazement would fill the house.

I've done that. I've ignored a rude comment, an off-the-cuff remark that was not worth arguing over. Or a poorly timed or off color joke that was better left unnoticed than dealt with.

I wonder if Jesus has ever had to ignore me because of something I said or did? Maybe when I threw cold water over someone's zeal and excitement? Or I wonder if I have ever diminished someone's faith by settling for second best? We all can be too much like the men from the synagogue by minimizing something that means nothing to us but a great deal to another.

APPLICATION
I am realizing that I need to bolster the faith of others. I must be careful of my words and be sure that I am encouraging others' desire to follow God's best. Radiant Life Fellowship shouldn’t just be another church. Instead, it is a place where people can find solutions to their problems. I know that there are times where we will not be able to change circumstances, but still, I can help people to rise above them.

I don't ever want Jesus to have to ignore me in order to give faith a chance.

I want God to marvel at my faith and my willingness to see things change. How easy it is to slide into mediocrity until it becomes "normal" and even "religious." I will choose to take the higher road and challenge people toward their best so God will never have to turn to an angel and say, "Just ignore what Chris Thompson just said."

Instead, my prayer is that I be, according to Jeremiah 15:19, a spokesman for God!

"If you return, then I will restore you - before Me you will stand; and if you extract the precious from the worthless, you will become My spokesman."

PRAYER
Lord Jesus, Thank you for teaching me Your ways by allowing me to shadow You through the Gospels. Help me to see you as You are, and then pattern my life after Yours. In Jesus' name, Amen!

Called out or Choked out

10-29-08

SCRIPTURE
"Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop - thirty, sixty or even a hundred times what was sown." (Mark 4:18-20)

OBSERVATION
In our prosperous society or shall I say prosperous "minded" society, we are up against the epidemic of worldliness and materialistic gain. The epidemic is a self-centered heart issue pressed by commercialism and marketing of goods. We are all bombarded with the inner struggles of wanting more and the outer pressures of keeping up with the pace of worldliness.

Jesus addresses this epidemic and the outcome of our fruitfulness based on how His Word is received and applied.

APPLICATION
I feel caught between the tensions of being choked out and called out.

What can choke me out?

Worries of this life; There's so much to worry about or is there? I don't want to allow worry to choke out who I'm called to be and what I'm called to do. I'm worrying too much in certain areas of my life.

Deceitfulness of wealth; I don't think I'm deceived in thinking that money is the focus of my heart and life. I do deal with wanting to be richer, to make more money so I can____...? So I can what? I need to be content and wise as a steward of the BLESSINGS He has provided. I am blessed!

Desires for other things; Ouch...here it is! I've got to be sure that I can control the appetite of my desires for things. Oh yes...there's an appetite -a craving to acquire more - it's the bigger, better, newer, latest, greatest syndrome. HELP ME JESUS!

The Spirit of the Lord is saying to me; "Chris, I have called you to Myself - setting you apart to be different, to think and live differently, to want and desire differently. I see your struggle and hear your hearts cry to be like Me. You know I am Your provider - your Blesser! I am your Rewarder so trust Me and keep longing to be like Me. Don't cave in to your earthly cravings - be watchful, serious and prayerful about your spending. I will give you strength to be a wise steward and then watch. Watch Me bless you. Stay near to Me and I will commune with you - satisfying your longings and exceeding your expectations."

PRAYER
All I can say is WOW God... Thanks for speaking to me this morning. May I heed Your warnings and abide in Your promises. I love You with all my heart, soul, mind and strength!

My Friends, the tax collectors

10-27-08

SCRIPTURE
"While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many tax collectors and "sinners" were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him." (Mark 2:15)

OBSERVATION
I love Mark’s account of this situation with Jesus dining with sinners. He affirms that sinners need help. Jesus didn't come to make friends with the popular and highly esteemed. He came to make healthy, those who are sick in heart and separated from God. And those were the kind of people that were attracted to Jesus, anyway.

APPLICATION
It's not the size of my bank account, home, stature or brains that should attract people to Jesus. It will be dependent upon my willingness to hang out with those who are far from God. To share life with them, Love them, Serve them and attract them to Jesus.

This morning my heart is stirred to love those whom God has placed in my life who are not Christians. I have family members and people I meet with weekly who need Jesus. I want my life to attract them to the One who desires to dine with them.

To attract them to Jesus, I need to:
Pray for my friends who live their lives far from God
Reach out through acts of kindness and love
Be ready and bold to share my faith with them.
I need to keep looking for the open doors...and step in what prompted by the Holy Spirit.

PRAYER
LORD - Please help me to live in such a way that attracts people to Jesus. May my words and actions be a reflection of who You would be to them. I love You and need You.

What is my mission?

10-24-08
SCRIPTURE
"And now, behold, bound in spirit, I am on my way to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit solemnly testifies to me in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions await me. But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, in order that I may finish my course, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God." (Acts 20:22-24)

OBSERVATION
What is your mission? Paul knew his. And along with it came a willingness to sacrifice ... his safety, his comfort, his life. Regardless of the warnings signs that shouted out the dangers that stood in his way, he relentlessly pursued the assignment the Lord placed on his heart.

Sometimes I think we have a tendency to misunderstand what "sacrifice" really looks like. We surrender ourselves, if and only if there is a return for our sacrifice. Only if I get something out of the deal – attention, reward, pleasure, money, etc. Sometimes the response ends with this: “…and all I get in return is this?"

But, Paul provides us with a picture of unconditional sacrifice. It's not about receiving, but it's giving of ourselves:
regardless of the dangers,
regardless of the risks,
regardless of the rewards, or lack thereof.

It's giving without any expectation of returns. And it all hinges upon our understanding of our mission. When the mission is clear, we will give of ourselves no matter what the costs. Is my mission clear and compelling enough?

APPLICATION
What's my mission, my life-long mission? This is a question I need to ask myself daily. Each day will present me with choices that I need to make as to where I direct my time, my energy, my attention and resources. But, my decisions can't be based upon what I think I will get out of it. Each choice that I make must be based upon what I can give towards fulfilling my life-long mission as a husband, father and servant-leader. A sacrifice isn't truly a sacrifice, unless it costs. What am I willing to pay towards fulfilling my mission today?

PRAYER
Father, thank you for once again adjusting the focus of life for me. You reminded Paul "it is more blessed to give than to receive," let that reminder resonate in my ears and life as true for me today in all that I choose to do.

bald headed vow

10-23-08

SCRIPTURE
Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchrea because of a vow he had taken. (Acts 18:18).

OBSERVATION
I wonder what the vow was that Paul had taken. In those days, a person would shave his head to remind him of the vow. This would be a daily reminder for as long as it would take for his hair to grow back. One month? Maybe two months? But daily, he'd rehearse that vow each time he would look into a mirror or scratched his head.

I wonder. I wonder what that vow was.

I know that Paul was being persecuted in every town he'd come to. It began as soon as he landed on Grecian soil. The Thessalonians drove him to Berea, and from there, he'd be escorted to the coast to avoid the Jewish lynch mobs. No sooner did he reach the coast, he would flee to Athens, and then onto Corinth. It would be here that the Jews would turn abusive, and Paul would leave a last time. And just before embarking for Syria, he made a vow.

What kind of vow? Why now? What was he so concerned about that needed a daily reminder?

It is never disclosed, it could be a vow not to quit, no matter how difficult life got. A vow to stay connected to God in such a way that he could stay engaged in life and advance the causes of Christ. Maybe it was a vow to remind him of God's promise in the night: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent..." Was it to remind him to stand fast and not cave into the demands of the Jews? Was it a promise he made to stay faithful to his assignment even unto death?

I think I'd have that tendency to quit, anyway! To let someone else share Christ with my neighbors. To stop preaching for a season. To hide myself away. In fact, didn't Job feel like that? In Job 13:21. He asks God of only two things: to remove the sufferings he'd been experiencing and to stop the threats that have been barraging his life.

I wonder if the vow was an internal covenant he made to stay true to who he was and to keep pressing forward regardless of the setbacks, discouragements, and non-receptivity.

The vow? I wonder.

APPLICATION
I need to hear from God about my future…And I need to make vows too. There will be many down turns in the road where I would like to bail out, to quit, or just to be involved on a more cautious, distant level. Keep it safe. Risk less. But it will need to be either all in, or all out for me. I cannot be lukewarm.

I don't know if I will cut my hair or shave my head or anything like that. Although I’m willing. But I want to write down what I sense the Lord asking of me in this season, and stick with it no matter what. I know the enemy would love to derail me, as he would anybody. But I will cut the covenant, make the vow, to remain true to His calling and assignment for me: To be a godly husband, dad, friend, son, brother, neighbor and pastor in such a way that God gets all the glory and is well pleased.

PRAYER
Dear Father,
Thank you for the vow you made to me. I choose to do the same with you. I want to serve You with a whole heart and a completely sold-out soul. Please help me to plot my next season out according to Your guidance and I will commit to following that while walking daily with You and dying daily to myself. Please send me a mentor to help encourage and admonish me to keep my vow.

How to Agree to Disagree

10-22-08
SCRIPTURE
"They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches." (Acts 15:39-41)

OBSERVATION
This is juicy stuff. People love to watch a conflict unfold…especially if they are not involved in it. That’s why some of the reality TV shows are so popular. This just happens to be a real life conflict among distinguished, anointed, reputable leaders - Christian leaders that is. And in the Bible. Wow. I would've loved to have been on the scene when this "sharp disagreement" took place. I wonder what tone of voice, intensity of conviction and heart of love was being displayed? Did they resolve their conflict? Were they straight up real with each other? Did they sugar-coat their words? Paul and Baranabas definitely parted ways with their pick of companions.

APPLICATION
How often I've seen this in church life among Christians - leaders, servants - great hearted, well intentioned people who love God and are committed to His calling. Let's face it - tensions and sharp disagreements are real in our relationships and ministries at times. It’s not pretty. It’s messy.

In the passage above, it makes a reference to Paul being commended by brothers to the grace of the Lord and he went on strengthening churches. I'm not sure about what kind of resolve occurred but I do believe that one healthy key to agreeing to disagree, is to be commended by brothers in the Lord, held accountable and blessed by the grace of the Lord.

Couple of thoughts for me this morning:
When I'm in a disagreement with someone, get some accountability to hear God through my mentors. I can get dangerous when I'm in a "sharp disagreement." My tendency is to withdraw and paint the other person as worse than they really are. I start second guessing everything they do and say. I lose trust.

Don't lose sight of the calling and vision. It's easy to get side tracked from moving on into God's purposes when we deal with conflict. Paul moved on to strengthen churches and didn't neglect his assignment.

Maintain a pure, humble, gentle, truthful heart. Without compromising God's conviction, I must work through disagreements with a Christ-like heart.

Understand that the end result does not always mean that we end up with the same type of relationship going forward. Paul says in Romans 12:18 “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Not everyone wants to live at peace with me. So I’ve got to do everything in my power to do what’s right…but understand that the other person may have no interest in peace and reconciliation.

PRAYER
Dear Jesus. Thanks for speaking to me through Your Word. I ask for wisdom to hear Your voice whenever I encounter disagreeing situations. May I recognize that my enemy is not my brother or sister in Christ. Remind me that there is another battle going on and it’s not a battle against people…but a spiritual battle. The spirit of the enemy wants to divide relationships and devour our church. You are Lord of my life and I desire that you be Lord of my conflicts, too!

Make me Contagious

10-21-08

SCRIPTURE
The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. Acts13:49

OBSERVATION
I live in a region of North Carolina. The region includes much of Mecklenburg county, some of Iredale county, some of Lincoln county and some of Catawba county. That’s my region, essentially. So when Acts 13:49 says that the Word of the Lord spread through the whole region what does that look like today in the region I live in? What kind of environment would need to be in place for the Word of God to spread through such a vast territory? The word spread makes me think of a contagious strand of virus that is caught and moves quickly through families, neighborhoods, schools and work places. So this Word of God – the Good News that Jesus has come, lived among us, died and came back to life in order to give us LIFE should spread through our whole region. What’s my role in this contagious spreading of the Word of the Lord?

APPLICATION
I should be so contagious that whatever is inside of me that is of God, would spread like a virus. If that is going to be true of me, then I need to daily make sure that what is inside of me is in fact of God and should include: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, self-control, faithfulness, contentment, forgiveness, generosity, and gentleness…to name a few. If that is actually growing inside me…then that will spread “through the whole region” without effort. That’s part of the reason why I do the daily Life Journal. That’s why I weekly gather with the church on Sundays. That’s why I live with a trust and dependence on God. All of these exercises help me to live a contagious life that infects others with the Word of the Lord.

PRAYER
God. I want to be a part of a movement that spreads Your Word (which includes Your love) throughout this region I live in today. I can’t do it without You. I need You. Use me in such a way that would only point people to You. I also ask that You would somehow make the people of Radiant Life Fellowship just as contagious. Bless and multiply this effort to spread You throughout this region.

PRAY

10-20-08

SCRIPTURE
"So Peter was kept in the prison, but prayer for him was being made fervently by the church to God." (Acts 12:5)

"And when she recognized Peter's voice, because of her joy she did not open the gate, but ran in and announced that Peter was standing in front of the gate. And they said to her, "You are out of your mind!" But she kept insisting that it was so. And they kept saying, "It is his angel." But Peter continued knocking; and when they had opened the door, they saw him and were amazed." (Acts 12:14-16)

OBSERVATION
I can so relate to this. I have great intentions to pray fervently…but after a while, my prayers become mundane... repeating phrases I was taught as a kid “Thank you for this day” “Help me to…” type prayers. It’s really interesting, here, how in just a few short verses the "fervent prayers" of the saints for Peter's release turned into such an apathetic response. James had just been executed and it seemed that Peter was next. The urgency of the moment prompted a call for some desperate prayers and so they did. But, when the urgent became the mundane, apparently so did their faith. Their fervency faded. Their passion dissipated into one of disbelief. And I am so much like them.

What surprises me is how quickly they seemed to change in their attitude and belief about God's ability to answer their prayers. There was almost an unbelief to their belief much like the father in Mark 9:24, who when pleading with Jesus to heal his son, confessed "I do believe, help my unbelief."

But aren't we the same in many respects when it comes to our prayers to God – when the situation calls for desperate prayers, we cry out. But, when the urgency has passed, we fall back into our mundane prayer life…repeating the same sentences out of habit. It’s almost an unbelieving belief that God will answer our requests.

Our tendency is to do the same when it comes to our prayers for our finances, for physical healings, for restoration of relationships that haven't yet resolved themselves. It seems time has a way of washing away our passion for that which we initially petitioned before the Lord with urgency.

But, our prayers and the fervency by which we pray shouldn't be dictated by our circumstances, or by the passing of time. When we pray, shouldn't it be based on a faith that God will indeed answer? And when He does answer, shouldn't we be thankful rather than amazed?

APPLICATION
Today, I created a FACEBOOK page that will hopefully help connect prayer requests of people with pray-ers. Feel free to check it out and let the prayers flow. In the mean time, there are times when my unbelieving belief gets in the way of standing firm on the faithfulness of my God. The greatest opposition to my prayers isn't necessarily Satan, or anyone else; it's my unbelief that God can do exactly what He says He will do. It really comes down to my belief that God is good. So, even if my prayers don’t get the answer I was looking for from God…can I still believe that God is good? I cannot allow my faith to be dictated by my circumstances. I must trust in an unfailing, faithful and good God with all my heart, and lean not on my own understanding.

PRAYER
Father, forgive me for allowing my circumstances to dictate the level of my faith in my prayers to you. I do believe; help my unbelief. Just as You have instructed, to "ask, seek and knock" I will keep believing. Thank you for being my faithful Father.

integrity and honor under pressure

10-17-08

SCRIPTURE
Job 1:9-11 9"Does Job fear God for nothing?" Satan replied. 10 "Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. 11 But stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face."

Acts 7:59-60 "As they stoned him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." He fell to his knees, shouting, "Lord, don't charge them with this sin!" And with that, he died."

OBSERVATION
This morning we read about 2 men who both suffered for doing the right thing. Both Job and Stephen loved God and lived lives in service to Him, but ultimately they paid a huge price for their beliefs. We're taught that God is love and that He protects us, but often we have the wrong definition of love and protection - we imprint the world's definition of these traits on to God and expect that He operate in a way that we are familiar and comfortable.

God didn't love them any less because He allowed them to suffer. Quite the opposite, as we see in the conversation between God and Satan. Job was a sterling example of someone who loved and worshiped God for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer. He understood the relationship between man and an all-powerful God, Creator of the universe - he understood that we must simply submit to our Creator's will.

Stephen also understood the reason for his persecution and attack. His response, like Job's was admirable and inspiring. He knew the possible consequences of his bold words to the council and yet he didn't back down or compromise the message and in the chaos of the riot that broke out, his faced shined with the brightness of an angel and he prayed to God that these murderers be forgiven of their actions.

APPLICATION
What can I learn from these 2 extraordinary men? I need to ask the Lord to strengthen my character. When I'm tested and stressed, what comes out of me? Do I have integrity and honor under pressure? Would I worship and praise my Lord and God under mental, spiritual or physical suffering or pain? I must have an understanding and a faith that can withstand temporal ups and downs, while not losing my compassion for those around me. These are qualities that will help me be a better husband, dad, leader and a better servant.

PRAYER
Dear Heavenly Father,
May I praise you in blue skies and in storms. In the desert and in the garden times of life. Please create in me a depth of character that will please You. Thank You for the many blessings. May I represent You well in my family, neighborhood and church.
In Jesus name,
Amen

Prayers of Boldness

10-15-08

SCRIPTURE
"Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness." (Acts 4:29)

OBSERVATION
Peter and John had been roughed up and threatened by the big wig rulers of Israel. The message of Jesus was their goal to make known among people but they were met with heavy resistance. Peter and John's courage rubbed off on other believers – and they prayed boldly. They didn’t do a preemptive strike or slander the resistance. They prayed. Taking to God became their courage and strength.

APPLICATION
Peter, John and the prayer above is rubbing off on my heart. I feel the Lord calling me out to "bring it!" To bring the great message of salvation and Life found in Jesus to those around me.

It’s not easy.

To what degree am I willing to be a bold witness? Internally, it seems that my fear of failure or rejection is a motivating factor to be a wimp in witnessing for the Lord.

This morning, I place my heart before the Lord – the desire to be a bold witness, not shaken or rattled by my own internal threats. I'm not even being persecuted for witnessing – probably because I'm not witnessing enough. I want to do more – say more – I want to be more than I am in the area of sharing my faith in public. I used to be so much more bold – forgive me Lord! Give me more chances to be bold for you.

Please challenge the people of Radiant Life Fellowship to pray prayers of great boldness.

PRAYER
Dear Lord,
Help me to bring Your message (with courage and love) to others. Help me not just to live out my Christianity, but to speak it out, being a bold witness for You. Help me to be led by Your Spirit as I relate to people who need You. I need You in order to do this.

A Covenant

10-14-08

SCRIPTURE
"In view of all this, we are making a binding agreement, putting it in writing, and our leaders, our Levites and our priests are affixing their seals to it." (Nehemiah 9:38)

OBSERVATION
Even in our culture, it is wise to bring people back to covenant, through accountability, signing off on binding agreements and sealing our commitment with one another.

APPLICATION
When I complete forms, put my signature on documents making a commitment to a contract, letter, consent form --- even email, I am extending my hearts commitment. My intentions and follow through are now in writing. When Jenny & I signed off on our mortgage, we are held completely responsible, accountable to its agreement. We signed our marriage certificate together committing our lives to each other “for better of worse, in good times and bad, sickness and health, in times of great wealth and in times of poverty keeping myself for her only, as long as we both shall live.

At Radiant Life Fellowship, we covenant together to pursue LIFE in 6 Directions. It's a simple covenant. But it's a way we commit to be the church. Anyone is welcome to check out our covenant and decide to join us on this journey.

How much more as I write in this journal this morning, unto You Lord - I commit my thoughts, heart and life to live by Your commands.

This morning I feel Your prompting to commit my heart to:
1) Consistently evaluate my life by asking You more often during the day –
"How am I doing with You?" “Am I looking and acting and living more and more like You each day?”
2) To call leaders (people I shepherd and lead) to a stronger, greater accountability to spiritual disciplines. I want to lead by example and by bringing out the best in those leaders around me.
3) I renew my covenant with my wife and kids to be fully present and disciple them in this season of change.

PRAYER
Dear Jesus...How I long to be transformed - to look, act, talk, think and be like You! Help me to follow through with the covenant I've made with You this morning.

Rise above your Past

10-13-08

SCRIPTURE
"But Peter, taking his stand with the eleven, raised his voice and declared to them: "Men of Judea, and all you who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give heed to my words." (Acts 2:14)

OBSERVATION
Is it any surprise that it was Peter who stepped forward to become the spokesman for the others? After all, wasn't it Peter who seemed to suffer from Attention Deficit Disorder as he stepped out of the boat, but couldn't keep his focus on Jesus and nearly drowned?
Wasn't this the same Peter who fell asleep in the garden with his fellow disciples, when they were supposed to keep watch for the Lord, who was suffering through His toughest challenge? Wasn't this the same Peter who, although proclaimed his allegiance to Jesus, denied any association with Him three times?

Yet Peter, empowered by the Holy Spirit, was able to rise above and beyond his past.

APPLICATION
I can relate with Peter in many respects. To see his radical reversal from all his mess-ups and failures, to becoming one of the greatest leaders of the New Testament church. This assures me of the promises that God is indeed "a God of forgiveness, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness" (Neh. 9:17), which gives me hope.

After all, like Peter, there have been occasions where my surrounding circumstances have drawn my attention away from Him I’ve lost focus. I found myself drowning in my own fears, worries, and insecurities. There have been occasions where I have "fallen asleep"-- my sensors have been dulled by busyness, poor time management, tiredness. Where I've failed to keep my spirit refreshed and attentive to be able to fulfill what He's asked of me in my marriage, with my family, with my responsibilities in ministry. And there have been times where I failed to heed His warnings and failed to trust the promptings He's placed on my heart, just to do it my way, and finding myself discouraged and disheartened.

But, Peter gives me hope. Just as he was able to rise above his past, so must I. And just as the Holy Spirit empowered him to do so, my reliance must also be upon the strength and power of Him to move past my past and into the future that He has for me.

PRAYER
Lord, thank you for your lovingkindness that never gives up on me. Forgive me for my past-- for times that I have neglected you and failed to trust in your ways. Forgive me for failing to keep my eyes away from distractions that have surrounded me. Empower me to become all that you desire me to be. Refresh me in your Holy Spirit today. Give me LIFE, here and now and COURAGE to point my friends to You: the Life Giver.

Teaching Series @ Radiant Life Fellowship

Here's a peak at our latest teaching series @ Radiant Life Fellowship.

SUNDAY’S IN OCTOBER: “FOOD”
October 5th – Food Part 1 (1 Thes. 4:14)
“death brings life”

October 12th – Food Part 2 (Genesis 3)
“lust promises what it can’t deliver”

October 19th – Food Part 3 (Romans 7)
“what you consume matters”

October 26th – Food Part 4 (Genesis 25)
“birthright and the bowl of red soup”

Sunday's
5-6:30PM
412 Armour Street
Davidson, NC 28036

An Invitation to YOU

I’d like to invite you to come check out Radiant Life Fellowship for yourself.

SUNDAY’S
5-6:30PM (We’re the church that meets on Sunday nights)
412 Armour St.
Davidson, NC 28036

We are a community of
the broken, the messy
the hopeful, the doubters
the desperate
the seekers
and the followers.

Step in and look closely.
Step in—but step and turn to the right or to the left now,
whichever is opposite your standard routine.

Look closely.

Next to the teenager [wearing shorts and flip flops] is a man [starched collar with an executive air]; just a few seats away from them is another man [tattoos on his arms and neck], and a few seats back is a couple [older, grayer]. Across the room from them is a couple [not married] sitting at the same table with another couple [celebrating their 23rd wedding anniversary next month]. A bunch of kids [with lots of energy] sit anticipating their time at THE GROVE.

A single mom [shiny high heels] is directly across the room from another couple who are unable to have children [jogging pants and tennis shoes], and between them a child [blinking sneakers] swings his feet above the floor in the place where he sits among the blue chairs set up around our facility, outfitted to host a church.

Step in. Look closely and see: all of us are covered in the same dust.

We are a community of people with ordinary differences and eccentricities, with gaps and divisions, with doubts, fears and insecurities—but what unites us is our common pulse of need. We all need food to eat, water to drink, a roof overhead. We need a purpose and a place to be; we need truth and meaning; we need rest and relief and saving. We need people around us who can look and see like Jesus did, who can notice and stand alongside us, who can give of themselves.

The need is what makes us human. Sharing the need is what makes us church.

Our weekly gathering for worship (Sunday's from 5-6:30PM) simply a piece of who we are called to be. As disciples of Jesus, church is what happens as we serve each other and serve side by side throughout the week. We learn together how to love and live as the body of Christ. Consider covenanting with us along this journey.

Serve; and carry a Sword?

SCRIPTURE
"Those who carried materials did their work with one hand and held a weapon in the other, and each of the builders wore his sword at his side as he worked" (Nehemiah 4:18).

OBSERVATION
This has got to be one of my favorite verses in Nehemiah!

So here they are ... working with a trowel of cement in one hand and a sword in the other. Sanbalat and Tobiah stationed themselves against them. They opposed the work of rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem. Why? Their anger was ignited because they saw progress! Now that's about as malicious as you can get! But jealousy and envy are twins in the subtle war that destroys people and relationships. Envy is so powerful that even though you see something as good, you will be unable to benefit from it. Envy sucks the Joy & Gratitude right out of your life. It will debilitate your growth and stunt your future. It will withhold from you anything good ... especially if it gives credit to another. Envy demands credit and jealousy will not share it with anyone else. And if it cannot get the credit, no one else will either.

Ezekiel 8:5 defines jealousy, not as an emotion, but as an idol. It is a spirit that attacks us all.

"Then He said to me, "Son of man, raise your eyes now toward the north." So I raised my eyes toward the north, and behold, to the north of the altar gate was this idol of jealousy at the entrance."

APPLICATION
And I wonder if sometimes that enemy is within me ... it could have infiltrated my own soul and I must be aware of the vices of my own heart. Jealousy can destroy me from within. Read what Nehemiah records about their enemy's strategy: "Also our enemies said, 'Before they know it or see us, we will be right there among them and will kill them and put an end to the work.'" The enemy's subtle, and hides well. It could be lurking within us even now! Observe and be aware.

We must learn to build with a trowel in one hand and a sword in the other. Peter reminds us to be on the alert, for the devil is like a prowling lion seeking those he may devour. Solomon weighs in and reminds us that the "woman of folly" sits by the way ... "Calling to those who pass by, who are making their paths straight." No, she doesn't go after the crooked ones. It's the ones trying to straighten their paths out that becomes allures her.

It would sure be nice if, as soon as we decide to serve God and rebuild a marriage, our relationships, our consciences or our faith, that life just immediately smoothed out. There would be such a vote of confidence from heaven that we'd hit no air pockets, no dropped calls, everyone says "Good morning" to you, everyone likes you, it's my birthday, and I win the lottery.

Ain’t gonna happen like that.

Instead, the enemy goes on the warpath. Jealous people get mad and envious eyes begin to squint in your direction. It’s just a part of rebuilding.

So rebuild
your marriage,
your finances,
your broken relationships,
your family,
your integrity,
with a trowel in one hand and a sword in the other.
It can be done.
The temple was magnificent for the Jews, and it can be the same for us.

PRAYER
God. I thank you for allowing us opportunities to rebuild what’s been broken.