T'was The Night After Christmas

The kids slept after Christmas all at Grandmas house,
not a creature was stirring not even a keyboard mouse.
Grandmas ugly Christmas sweater put away with a tear.
She won the contest with Grandma got ran over by a reindeer
Down thru the hallway there arose such a clatter.
Grandpa had knocked down a picture, Christmas cookies had made him fatter.
"Why is the Christmas tree smashed in that box?"
"Where are the Christmas decorations and socks?"
They hugged in terror when GiGi picked up the robot St. Nick
 placed him in the plastic tub & locked the lid; click,click, click.
dash away, dash away, dash away all!
The gift pile next year... will be very small.

                                                         Ho! Ho! Ho!

Joseph Had A Problem

T'was The Night Before Christmas.....

My younger days were magical.  That means they quickly disappeared.  The great memories I often mention, are still alive, some in black and white, some color.  The Christmas recollections are as if they happened yesterday.  The sounds and colors, church, people, school, home, Christmas T.V. shows and  popular music of the day

Christmas Eve included a family get together and  food.  Usually we could open a gift before we left for the party.  Usually I would be hoping for a toy!  Usually it was the shirt my mother bought and wanted me to wear to the Christmas celebration.

Before going to bed and trying to sleep, the night would be topped off with Andy Williams special and late night: "The Christmas Carol" followed by, "It's a Wonderful Life"  movies on television.  Preceded by a month of Christmas sermons, plays at church. I went to sleep with the proper perspective about Christmas (later in life, at least).

My poor parents would have to stay up or awaken early to put together bikes or just sit out a microscope set or a doll for my sister as well as all the wrapped gifts under the tree.  "Mom! Dad!  You should see what Santa brought!" I remember them one time, looking at each other and now realize it was the look of; "mission accomplished, we made "Christmas" real again."  My night before Christmas was spent dreaming about reindeer on the roof.  For my parents it was some unselfish speed and effort in order that someone else could enjoy the season and create a special event for the family.

 I remember knowing that Christmas was all about the birth of Jesus, (I still do) that He came to live a Holy life and even die a sacrificial death. It wasn't as a martyr, but as a savior to pay for sins, in order that believers would be reconciled to God. A gift from God in that He "so loved the world that He gave His one and only begotten Son that whoever Believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life!"   Merry Christmas!

"And to all a good night!"

Decide to Decide!

 You never know if you are preparing a Daniel!

In Daniel Chapter one we see Daniels commitment to God and His Word.  In a time where they were big on beheading, Daniel placed himself in harms way to obey God's dietary laws.

I can imagine Daniel in Children's Church or vacation Bible school making the decision then, to purpose in his heart not to defile himself with any thing that would be sin against God!

They say they might have been around fourteen to nineteen years of age.  That would be very frightening to be taken away into a far unGodly land.  To bad ol' devil, Daniel had a Biblical worldview, and an

unshakeable faith.
 
The Persian Empire defeated the Babylonian empire and Daniel was still Standing for God and God for him!

Here I Stand

I gave God my soul,
I then take my role.

Fight the good fight,
walking by faith, not sight.

On His truth I stand and sit,
standing fast no thought to quit.

Blast the past.
the vision cast.

He's my shield,
to Him I yield.

He's not the latest rave,
He shed His blood for all, to save!

The Reason for the Season

I can remember receiving great gifts. School activities that celebrated Christmas. Many a family get together Christmas Eve, were highlights of a lifetime.  These and more make up the list of special moments that are a part of that most wonderful time of the year.

Church Christmas plays as simple as some were, painted the picture of that Nativity that is ever etched on my mind, portraying the birth of Jesus. We had Santa all around, but that was merely a fun, mythical part of Christmas.  The reality of my life was that Jesus came from Heaven to Bethlehem born to die.

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given."

Jesus born in a manger and growing in wisdom and stature, came living a sinless life, dying a sacrificial death on that cross that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

We are not celebrating the birth of a mere man, even a president or earthly king, or a person with great teachings. We celebrate the birthday of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! The Son of God!

He is the reason for the season.

Christmas 24/7

It is sad, there are only a few weeks out of the year that we all treat others with kindness and compassion. There is that "Spirit" during the Christmas Holiday that enters the minds and hearts of children and adult alike.

Never forget the story about Christmas in "no mans land" in World War one even in Part two where enemies stopped shooting at one another and joined together in "Silent Night."  This season can bring the worse out of people (can you say Tickle me Elmo doll).  It is famous for softening the heart and and the transformation of Scrooges everywhere.

The birthday of Jesus actually shows us that this spirit and attitude could/should carry through, all year long. God gave us a gift .."For God so loved the world that He gave..."  This Christ child in the manger came to live and die for the sins of the world.  "God demonstrated His love toward us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us." For the believer and follower of Jesus Christ,  every day is Easter and Christmas 24/7!!

We've heard of Christmas in July.  Don't let the light the season brings, flicker out. let's celebrate it all year long.  Maybe a church group, even an office at work can wrap and give someone gifts throughout the year. (E mail me in August and wish me a Merry Christmas). Most of all, we can share the good news of Jesus being born to die sacrificially for our sins and that those who believe will not perish but have everlasting life!  Love God. Love Others.

"Come let us adore Him"

 GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST AND PEACE ON EARTH !

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So, This is Christmas?

There seems to be something missing this Christmas.  Oh the stockings are hung with care and cookies are being made for Santa.  There is this disappointing numb emotion that creates in many,  a zombie like feeling this year.

The magic has dissipated into a soon evaporated mist.  Selfishness is under the tree as well a judging eye for an eye, you must apologize to me, vote for me and I'll set you free!  Holier than thou, criminals shouting they are the victims.  Parents want A's for Jr's failing indifferent efforts.  Not only is it black vs. white but also white against white,  black on black.  It is all in color on the flat screen t.v. she beat someone up for on Black Friday!

One segment out of touch, while another is out of reach.  Evil is called good and good evil.  Everyone is quoting the Good Book without knowing the author.  Some sing the anthem as their neighbors are burning the flag.  Masses curse the country while refugees insist on being here.

Not as many battles for Cabbage patch dolls or Tickle me Elmo.  Instead there is a choking polluting cancer called mistrust and hatred.  It would be a Wonderful Life but Potter is selling and we're buying. and we will all soon be in the emotional slums of Pottersville. USA.

That's why true Christmas is only found in Christ.   God sending His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life spent with God.

 Hallelu jah! Hallelu jah!

11/24/17

Spiritual Combat

The battle rages
devil stages war
ambushed your trail
efforts fail
self help loses
pleasure cruises
battleship tosses
count the losses
Call in the  big gun
 sin you shun
in the foxhole you pray
Holy Spirit power
comes your way
Love and power within
Christ has got the win.
                                                

         

Connect, Celebrate, Community!

In that famous scripture, about the Church in Act 2: 40-47, we see connection, celebration and community. I believe, that should be the description and heart of the Church today!

We can connect to God through prayer and His Word.  "Seek me and you will find me, when you seek me with all of your heart."  We also connect with other believers during worship, dinners and care.

We celebrate what God has done and who He is.  It says they praised God.  We are to do the same with our lips, heart and actions!

They of course went to the community to evangelize and service.  In there persecution, though they lived  in the culture, they were not of the culture, rather they (like Christ) lived for the culture.  Jesus said:  "When you have done it to the least of these you have done it to me."

We can be all about;  Connection, Celebration and Community!

⁴⁰ And with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation.” ⁴¹ Then those who gladly^[a] received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. ⁴² And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. ⁴³ Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. ⁴⁴ Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, ⁴⁵ and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need.
⁴⁶ So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, ⁴⁷ praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church^[b] daily those who were being saved.

A Well Amongst the Flowers.

Sitting still with memories.
A well amongst the flowers,
containing thoughts of a family drawing
life giving water.
Containing cold drink
for a passing stranger.
Children dropping stones
to hear the echo,
while they picnic nearby.

When the family moved on,
Ol' well cried 'til it was dry.
Farm house is gone now,
once in a while the children visit,
speaking, while the well.. echoes
their hello's and goodbyes.

To you and I,
it's just a well amongst the flowers.
To some it's buckets full of memories.

Perhaps you and I have been useful
to provide God's comfort even gave others...
memories and will leave a legacy.
Allow the Lord to develop you
into a well amongst the flowers.

Preaching the Word

                                     Back after knee replacement.  It won't be business as usual!

Moses, Give up!

Moses, give up. Can't you see?
Pharaoh will never set you free.
Give up? No I've seen the burning bush.

Moses, give up.  The seas to large. You'll never get around.
Quiet and follow me we're going through on dry ground!
Don't lose heart. God will tear this sea apart.

Moses, give up.  You could have had pleasure.
You could've taken part in Pharaohs treasure.
This calling of yours is impossible.
Give up? No! I've seen Him who is invisible.

Has God given you, something good to do?
Never give up! Stand on The Word, that  is true.

Issues and Circumstances

Watching TV in the late 1950's and 60's one phrase I heard on cowboy shows was; "Let's cut 'em off at the pass!"  The good guys would take a different trail.  It was more difficult but more direct and stopping the bad guys before they could arrive at the stagecoach they had planned to rob.

Parents (most, well some) know that discipline at an early age curbs some behavior problems in later years.  The child is to immature to see that it is for their own good, as well as for future relationships. The development of children and in changing adult behavior will be a "cutting the issues off at the pass."  Deleting many of the issues and circumstances of  an untrained lifestyle.

In our own lives we hope to be growing and maturing.  On the other hand we have, or know someone that stopped investing in themselves much less others.  The result often is to flow through life later bouncing off one circumstance to another.

                                                                 Floating aimlessly

The Bible calls it being tossed to and fro.  A Christians lifestyle can be ordered and submitted to the loving teachings/doctrines of God's Word.  Many a Christian either untrained or distracted from quiet time of prayer and reading God's word soon find themselves throwing toddler like tantrums or falling for an incorrect teaching or secular worldview. The term "selfie" comes to mind.

So let us draw near to God and He will draw near to us. The Bible also directs us to have our minds set on the things above because our citizenship is in His kingdom!  Then we will shine in a dark world, giving God glory!

"As you therefore have received Christ the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving." Colossians 2:6,7.

"Chasten your son while there is still hope, and do not set your heart on his destruction." Proverbs 19:18.

"Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.  Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others."  Philippians 2:3,4.

"He who keeps instruction is in the way of life, but he who refuses instruction goes astray." Proverbs10: 17.

TobyMac - Lose My Soul

DLMoody web

The Way

Now is the time to start, maybe restart our reading God's word.  Peter said to like a baby desire the pure milk of the word, that we can grow spiritually.  The alternative is to walk this journey led by my emotions.  Many do not grow in maturity, we merely grow taller.  You and I are selfish throwing tantrums. I want it my way, could be I desire all the attention.

Whether you know someone like this or you are the one.  We can begin a methodical. discipline of love reading the Word of God and applying it to our lives. "I don't understand Revelation."  Well then go back to Mathew or the letter to Ephesians.  In Ephesians there are three chapter of doctrine and the next three tells us then how shall we live.

When the divorce comes or doctor report, or maybe the washing machine breaks down.
we can stand on the Biblical principles that lead us to the shadow of the most high. Let's follow the guiding light and react by what God suggests or even commands.

The Bible declares the Gospel of eternity spent with God through faith in Christ.  Also God's will for the here and now!  Let's disciples now go and make disciples.
                                                                                                                         Tim.

Quick and Easy reads for young teens on Amazon

Exalting, Equipping, Engaging. : Decide to Decide!

Exalting, Equipping, Engaging. : Decide to Decide!:  You never know if you are preparing a Daniel! In Daniel Chapter one we see Daniels commitment to God and His Word.  In a time where th...

Truth or Consequences.

The Apostle John said it gave him joy to see his spiritual children walk in truth.  He and Peter, in their letters said something like;

"We are not following fables or mythology. We have seen Him and touched Him and saw the love and compassion and the miracles.  We knew Him in the flesh,  now in the Spirit!" They were all about living the truth, and sharing the truth.  Why?!  so that the listeners and observer's joy would be complete as they applied that truth to their lives as well.

Are we listening to the father of lies, the Devil?  Are we listening to the scripture that has been twisted to make us comfortable in our zones of comfort?  Many follow their emotions and live on the roller coaster of life that always ends in derailment!

  "This Book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein;  for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success."  Joshua 1:8

Stormy Life.

Occasionally off in the distance, you see storms clouds rolling in. Other times you are caught in the middle of nowhere, rowing as fast as you can, knowing you will not make shore in time.

Emotional, financial, mental, storms arise.  These storms can be a result of our lifestyle or no fault of our own.  The wrong or even sinful decisions of friends and family, can effect the every day of someone else.

The Word of God assures us we can experience peace, while being smack dab in the middle of a storm.

"Peace I give you. Not the peace the world gives, but my peace."-Jesus.

Paul wrote "Let your requests be made to God and the peace of God that passes all understanding, will keep (guard) your heart and mind, through Christ Jesus our Lord."

You can read Acts 27 for starters.  I believe it will encourage you or someone you know, that hasn't seen the Sun for days.

Thy Word is a lamp...

Before I closed my eyes for sleep last night, I read the last part of Psalm 118 and some of 119... I found my self desiring God the way David did.

He loved Gods Word.  He read, memorized, applied etc, etc. He made me envious for that passion. We can be realistic and know we are on different rungs of the ladder or level of maturity. While David had this divine friendship with God. He was like you and I.  He sinned.

Take away;
 1.  Endure like a good soldier
 2.  Faithful like a farmer
 3.  Disciplined as an athlete

Desire the pure milk of the word that you may grow by it.  When we sin we can quickly repent and continue to run the race. Quiet time with God in the morning is huge, enabling you to go live out loud and demonstrate the love you have for the Lord!

Man You Were Dead!

Can you imagine the readers of the Apostle Paul's letter, being read when it first arrived in Ephesus?  I can imagine the cocked heads or looks of relief .  He wrote they were once spiritually dead.  How could that be? Some of them might have been Doctors keeping people alive or even Jewish; Children of God!

By the time the reader completed  reading to the group, there might have been tears of joy.  Some men may have shouted "Amen" or Praise the Lord!"  They had once again heard the gospel from the quill of Paul.   They might have been experiencing persecution, false teaching, even temptation to return to religion. When they heard the phrase "Having done all, to stand..." they may have broke out in singing about "Victory IN JESUS."

Paul wrote: " And you He made alive, who were dead in sins..." and later... "even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit in the heavenly places.. In Christ"

Remember when he wrote this?  "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest any should boast."
   ............................................................................................................................................................
Don't forget when ol' Lazarus died.  Jesus said to Martha; "I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in me, though he may die, he shall live. and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die.  Do you believe this."

Well do you believe?   We would hopefully answer like some of those at the Columbine school shooting did: "Yes I believe."  How then shall I live?  We hear later about some of those at Columbine had died to this world long before that day.  How's that?

"Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord". -Romans chapter 6:11.

Response time;

Would you pray or begin to talk to God this very minute.

You can't get there from Here.

Where are we headed? What's the "destination?"  What's our plan? What adjustments will we have to make? If we want to receive, or be in education, business or sport, what classes or creativity will we have to acquire now, to get there?  If you and I have a mission we will have to consider the smaller tasks to arrive at completion.  

1. Pray.
2. develop a core group.
3. set a time table and plan
4. inform public.
5. Pray.

Starting a business would have related plans, as in; permits, payroll and performers and prayer.

Desiring numerical and Spiritual growth in your church would require; group prayer, Bible studies and community engagement. Wanting more money in the bank at the end of the year, would require a weekly or monthly deposit. When we made our New Year resolutions we decided to remember and commit to intentionally, performing  minute tasks to achieve the grander objective.

When distracted from approaching the goal, remember to stay at the ready with wisdom and discernment, in time to make the proper adjustments.   PLAN YOUR WORK AND WORK YOUR PLAN! Have a great year and let's go through it together.

Proverbs 3:5,6.

Between two Worlds

 Ambassadors represent their country in an official way.  It is a great system of relationship, accountability and dialogue.  An ambassador;  can be that nation  "in the flesh" instead of only, an Email or fax and phone call away.  The office also displays a desire of co-habitation and peace.

We have read on the internet or television evening news, that an Ambassador has been asked to leave a country, because of the behavior of his country, family or personal life and comments.

We would be proud and look forward to be appointed, chosen or voted to become an Ambassador.  The danger of being an Ambassador comes into play, such as Benghazi, or Afghanistan.

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Followers of Christ have heard Jesus call, as the disciples in the New Testament, as He says: "Follow Me."  We do, and drop our nets to follow, trusting His work on the cross, as our only hope to spend eternity with God. Receiving forgiveness and covering of sin and receiving the Spirit of God becoming Born again spiritually!

As believers and followers of Christ immediately we are citizens of  "Another country."  We are very much in this world but not of it.  We are viewed that way as well, by this world because our conversation,  lifestyle, home is new and different.

Christ from His Authority,  has commissioned us to go into these communities as His Ambassadors and actually building His "Kingdom."  He appoints us to be great representatives and letting people see your good deeds so that He might receive the glory. This is not the seeking of world domination as a world religion, but guiding to a personal relationship with God, in Christ!

Paul writes to the Philippians Church and us; "Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among who you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life..."

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In 2 Corinthians:  "Therefore from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet we know him thus no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things are passed away; behold, all things have become new.  Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not  imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.  Now then we are Ambassadors  for Christ, as though God were pleading through us; we implore you on Christ's behalf, to be reconciled with God. For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him."

NEW LIFE!!

Seasons are changing, Easter has come and gone bringing New Life.  During the long, cold and snowy winter, we still had hope remembering that this flower, was over here, that rose bush over there.  Though it was miserable and barely any life outside, we had hope.

With the strum on an invisible harp, even this morning the Sun woke up and the daffodils miraculously appeared!  Talk about a peaceful feeling.  We all enjoy something new; new clothes, car, house, babies.

Paul wrote many times in the Bible about old things passing away all things made new.  He said to renew your mind! This is a great time to start a new relationship with God, maybe renewing our commitment to the relationship.

Jesus said:  "Marvel not, that you must be born again." Later He said: "I came that you might have LIFE."

Again Paul wrote to Christians:  "Therefore we do not lose heart.  Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day." This is not just repair or rehab this is new life!!

Those that are followers and believers in Christ can say "Amen."

(pic is from 2014)

Is Church Membership Really Necessary?

"Are you Crazy?!"

   How many times have you received that look, (like you had escaped from the asylum), when you begin talking about God's love and eternity through faith in Jesus.  The better question might be;  How many times have we been silent, so that we don't receive that look?

   We coolly say we don't want to scare anyone away or make them angry,  never to speak to us again.  I  suspect more believers are scared of embarrassment.  It can be an awkward.  I know we have to be wise during that conversation.  Regardless, there has to be a conversation. No one spends eternity with God, because you were polite or we let them borrow a yard tool.   Where are you going to scare them away to?  Hell #2.or #3?  Let them now,  see and hear the sermon as well. Talk the talk and walk the walk. We don't have to be weird, just a light in the darkness.

   "For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the Gospel, not with wisdom of words. lest the cross of Christ should be made of no effect.  For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God....For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.    1Corinthians 1: 17,18, 25

Three Positively Negative Reasons

Our churches have values written on the wall, or tucked away in a folder in the filing cabinet.  Many times the only person knowing the vision of the church is the secretary that had to type them.  We say one purpose yet in our ministries, display another. Lukewarm or closing the doors, many in the church don't see it and don't want to, having their head in the sand!

There are reasons why our church bodies are either ineffective or spinning their wheels in muddy denial of spiritual dis ease. 

HERE ARE THREE:  (AT LEAST)

1. UNINTENTIONAL
     There have been decades, where Christians have just "shown up" at Worship and lukewarm in our love for God's Kingdom in evangelism and service in/to/with the community.  There is a lack of intention and focus. You can lead the way by determining to focus on God's direction consistently!

2.  UNFAITHFUL
       We have a great start.  New greeters, but now, the list of greeters is thinning. there are no small group leaders, or Sunday school teachers present during worship service. Once excited leaders have now exited!   Church attenders have "other things to do." Shame on us leaders and church members!

3.  COMMUNICATION
     Often;  There aint none.  We often don't speak face to face in the church lobby. There is never the attempt toward building relationships, while saying they know no one. We never inform or brief, "the troops".  Leaders drop the ball, never communicating with one another our issues or problems. Many times the dangerous act of no discipleship or leadership training communicates that we are merely a social club.

We can make that difference when we accomplish goals, as well as God's vision for our Church body.
Let's turn it around with intentional living, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

ACTS 2: 40-47.

Plan to;  Pray,  share God's vision, begin an intentional Bible study and discipleship meetings/classes, develop leaders, pray.

Be intentional,  faithful and communicate!

Day By Day

Trust God!

When you pass through deep waters I Will be with you; And the rivers shall Not overwhelm you." ~Isaiah43:2

Called by God

Seasons

  The seasons of course come and go.  I have my favorite two ; Spring and Summer.  The Fall season is a time of new shades of green, yellow and red.  For me though it is the introduction of a cold, windy, winter season of course that includes ice and snow.  I ask for Spring time and the warmer temperatures that give me the encouragement that Summer will soon be here.

  Life... (in case you were wondering where I was going with all of that).  Life also has it's "seasons" that are more enjoyable and desiring. Some "seasons" I would rather not arrive.  They will arrive and as in Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall we must be prepared mentally, physically and spiritually. Great times are ahead for many, depression for others, employment and unemployment, a birth maybe a death. It is not if trials will come but when.

  Along with the weather seasons come years of maturity and age. Hopefully that is the case with the seasons of life.  I find time spent with some others will be a great help for the both of us as we can carry or encourage one another. Let me suggest not to go through the "winter" times of this world alone and make sure someone else doesn't as well.

  I find all this possible from the overflow of my relationship with God.  There is no time right now to debate theology. One thing I know that "seasons" of good times as well as bad times are certain.  Bible says "Let your request be made known to God (prayer) and the peace of God that passes all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus our Lord.

Meet God in whatever season you find yourself.

Jesus Christ the Same Yesterday, Today and Forever!

Three Areas of Discipleship

 

 Disciples study the teacher/leader and desire to imitate the paradigms/actions and obviously teaching.  Apostle Paul encourages us to have the mind of Christ.  The disciples followed Christ and did not initially comprehend the teachings and spiritual application. Following the death and resurrection of Jesus, the disciples made disciples, transforming hearts and lives of many in the known world!  Those men, remaining faithful, taught Christ's teaching in the face of persecution.

   Taking consideration for space and time, I will not place it here but I encourage you to read; Acts 2:42-47.  The focus of my blogs, videos and books is to encourage spiritual maturity and to develop disciples that make disciples. (that is what we are commissioned to do).

                                                   amazon.com/author/timflener

   Followers of Jesus Christ live focused and intentional. I read an acronym once; L.I.F.E.= Living Intentionally Focused Eternally.

                                                         Three areas for true disciples?

EXALT -  The disciple worships God in Spirit and in Truth.  We worship with our mouths and our DAILY behavior.  The follower knows the worthiness and majesty/Holiness of our Lord and desires to exalt Him.  Though none is needed, we are an "advertisement" for God. Our worship and joy are testimonies and proof that what we have is real!  Good times and bad we are not under the circumstances.  While at work, school, home and play, we live a life of thanksgiving and praise to God.  Others are watching as well.

EQUIP - You've heard we are to use the right tools for the right job.  Putting on the whole armor of God Paul described in Ephesians 6:10-20 makes us strong in the Lord.  Peter wrote to desire the pure milk of the Word that we might grow by it.  Ephesians 4: 11 indicates we are to be under teachers that will equip us for the work of the ministry.  We then after our own growth begin to equip others.    Being a born again Christian doesn't end at new birth.  The disciple spends much time in prayer and in the Word of God while reading other books and commentaries, to come along side. This all must be done under the submission and empowerment of God's Holy Spirit!

ENGAGE -  The New Testament followers of Christ were scattered by persecution but planted churches and engaged the communities they entered.  Christianity is a personal relationship with God.  We have peace with God through faith in Christ Jesus our Lord.  It is personal but as Jesus and Paul displayed it is something to be shared.  Since the fall of mankind, God is a going God ("Adam where are you?") We are to be a going church, spiritually as well as socially. It is; "Come and see." then "Go and tell."  Whether it is in building relationships through service or spontaneous conversation we engage again; at Work, home school, home schooled or play, we are to go and make disciples and share the good news of Jesus Chris in our action AND in speech.  We engage not in order to get rewarded with eternity spent with God, but because we know we already are!

Blessing Your Community

We may have our physical limitations, that hinder us from being out in the neighborhood, doing good. Financial situations might hinder us from donating large sums of money.  Like everything else it is your attitude and heart, accompanying the effort that counts.

You may be in a wheel chair or bed ridden, but you can be a great member of your community and body of Christ, as you pray for others.

You may not be able to walk long distances to fight the ol' devil, but you can be mighty through God. Crossing the globe, empowered by the Holy Spirit, you and your key board are mightier than the sword!

You can do all thing through Christ which strengthens you.  In my weakness He is strong!

Takin' it to the Street!

This has been a divided few months. The causes and solutions must be addressed by the government and it's people.  Maybe in your house or personal life, even your thoughts and relationships have been divided.

Do you want to know the reason for this terrible season in our country and day to day lives?  You can look into the Bible initially; Genesis chapters 1-11 and find the answer, moving onto the letter to the Romans, then Ephesians.
                                                       WHAT IS THE SOLUTION?!

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." -Jesus  (John 3:16-18).

This heart type transformation/revolution, most likely will not be televised!

"Go into all the world making disciples."-Jesus.  It's time to take it to the streets.

God's peace is not the absence of a storm and unrest, but here smack dab in the middle of the storm as well.

Christmas in July? Easter in January?

  Many people  love Christmas.  Even non believers in Christ know Christmas has a great feeling.  It's a time of family and sharing gifts with friends as well as being kind to strangers.  They may not ever enter church any other time but will enjoy attending this one occasion for the warm fuzzy, the music or Christmas play.  We use December 25th to remember the birthday of Jesus Christ.  It's when He, GOD the SON, leaves the Glory of Heaven and enters  a manger. Many children have been born before and since but an Angel said:  "I bring good news of great joy that will be for all people.  Today in the town of  David a Savior has been born to you; He is CHRIST the LORD!"  Man, that's why I will celebrate Christmas every day of the year.

  Many don't know what it's all about but if they are offered it;  they'll take  Good Friday off .  It's when we remember why this Holy Jesus was born in the first place.. Jesus came at the right time for it is when  the religious leaders and government would kill Him for His claims. When they did....Christ died for the world  (that God loved)  that whoever believes in Him would never perish but have eternal life.  Many had died on a cross before and after but because of who He was; made this a Holy cross, a terrible cross, a saving cross!  Man, I will remember that everyday of the year.

 

  They used to say;  " Everybody goes to church on Easter". Today..not so much.  Many will go and listen to the cantata or experience the big Easter presentation.  Original pagan Holiday or not. We use this day to celebrate the Resurrection from the dead of Jesus Christ.  Sacrifice accepted! great victory over sin, the grave and death.  Paul wrote: "For what I received I passed onto you as of first importance; that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the scriptures..." Paul wrote: "God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God."   and now He sits on the right hand of God.  Man, I will praise and worship as well as celebrate that everyday of the year.

  Bible says:  "That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord and believe in you heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved."
  Paul wrote: "therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." and  he said: "Therefore, there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."

Man, I will worship Christ and celebrate Christmas, Good Friday and Easter everyday of the year!

How about you?

WallBuilders - Issues and Articles - America’s Most Biblically-Hostile U. S. President

WallBuilders - Issues and Articles - America’s Most Biblically-Hostile U. S. President

How in the World!?!

How in the world are we going to help and fill so many needs!?

Pray.
Know and share the Good news of God's love.
Make disciples.
Volunteer.
Donate; time, energy, finances.  (all inclusive)
communicate with/get to know;  neighbors and even fellow worshipers.(build relationships).
Pray.

Connect with Christ.
Connect with The Church
Connect with the Community .

Matthew 28:18-20,  Acts 1:8,

"When you have done these things to these, you have done these things to me." -Jesus

Luke 10:29-37New King James Version (NKJV)

²⁹ But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
³⁰ Then Jesus answered and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. ³¹ Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. ³² Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. ³³ But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion. ³⁴ So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. ³⁵ On the next day, when he departed,^[a] he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you.’ ³⁶ So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?”
³⁷ And he said, “He who showed mercy on him.”
Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”

DO OVER!?

When you play a game or sport and if their was a mistake foul or miss, and a decision can't be made, we breathe a sigh of  relief when we hear "Okay, DO OVER!"  Especially when we know we've messed up.

We head into a new year giving ourselves a clean slate, a fresh start.  "This is going to be my year!" That usually means to me "Do Over."  In reality there are no do overs we cannot go back to the 6th grade or as a 12 yr old and start over.  We are pretty much stuck at our present age with all the debt, marriages, failures, etc.

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I'm already praying and educating myself to accomplish more (which would be anything), hitting the ground running January first! I can't "do over" life, but on the First day of  next year, I'll wake up...."Unproductive year for me"?  "Do Over"!  I'm going to focus on consistently reading more books, maybe even write one. I'll get out and volunteer more etc.

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There was the fall of man, and sin entered the world and mankind broke the relationship and heart of God.  "Do Over" can't be accomplished on our own.  You're not able to turn over a new leaf and act like things are all right.  We do not have that authority.

The Apostle Paul wrote "Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through faith in Christ Jesus." That is how the slate is clean and we become justified, even guilt feeling erased.  We then have our faith in Jesus as our only hope to spend eternity with God.   "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only begotten Son, that whoever BELIEVES IN HIM shall not perish but have eternal life."   It is simply ; By Grace alone, thru Faith alone in Christ alone.  The Bible says:  Old thing are passed away, all things made new.  Then pertaining to our relationship with God it's like a ..."Do Over."

How Do They See You?

People in our family see us through glasses of love. Even though they may be told the dark truth about us.  They fight back "knowing" it is not true.  Many times making excuses, telling a lie themselves to cover for the parent or child's life blemish.

The Word of God turns on the light and says we all have sinned and fallen short.  There are those that see themselves very good and nice.  While others don't believe that Word is true anyway.

Nevertheless the Bible says "Not by WORKS of righteousness that we have done but according to His mercy He saved us."  and "For by grace you are saved it is the gift of God, not of Works lest anyone should boast."

Paul writes: "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
and  "Whoever call on the Lord will be saved."  (prayer)


Have you received that gift?  It's not important how others see you, what matters is how God sees us!