Friday, April 30, 2010

2 Corinthians 3 DEVO: Grace = "The New Covenant"

Chapter 3:
Does it seem to you like Paul is always having to defend his ministry? Well that is what he is doing again in these next few chapters. Specifically in this chapter he defends the ministry of the “new covenant.” Ok, it’s somewhat of a churchy term. “Covenant” is a promise, a contract, a way of doing things. The “old covenant” was the 10 commandments, the law, works. Their intended purpose was to get us to see that we break them all, fall short and that we need God to provide a way to be made right with Him! And He did that in Jesus, the “new covenant” and it’s by God’s GRACE, not works!
After telling the Corinthian people that THEY are his resume, Paul states that God has made him a “minister of the new covenant.” God called Paul to preach Jesus – God’s gracious offer of reconciliation to all who believe! This “new covenant” is greater and Paul compares them:
OLD -------- NEW
On stone ---- On hearts
Fading away ---- Permanent
Condemns ---- Brings Righteousness
Glorious ---- Surpassing Glory
Covers sin ---- Removes sin
The ministry of GRACE is greater because our “veil” can be removed, yet the Spirit is the key! “Veil” is equal to unbelief. The Jewish people refused to believe that Jesus was and is the Messiah. As a result, “…to this day the same veil remains… It has not been removed, because only in Christ is it taken away.” There is only one way to be made right with God – through Jesus Christ (John 14:6). “But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.”
SO WHAT?!
*When was the last time that you and I thanked God for His AMAZING Grace?! (the New Covenant) Why not take a moment right now and express that to Him?!
*Do you believe in Jesus personally, or are you still “veiled”? Remember, it’s not knowing “about” God (facts) that matters. It is knowing Him personally that counts. Ha – it truly isn’t WHAT you know but WHO you know that counts when it comes to eternity!
*In what ways does your life and mine reflect God’s glory? Why not list them out and give thanks!

Thursday, April 29, 2010

2 Corinthians 2 DEVO: Forgiveness & Relationships

Chapter 2:
Life is about people, not stuff, relationships not accumulations. And where two or three are gathered, there will be conflict! That is why forgiveness is so important. Paul had an intimate relationship with the people of Corinth. As a result, he could share both his incredible joy with them as well as his deep concerns.
In the first 11 verses we see that true forgiveness addresses sin, helps people change, restores relationships, keeps us humble and helps us from sinning even more. Apparently someone had said or done something to Paul and it really upset the Corinthian believers. They confronted that person (vs 6) so that he wouldn’t negatively affect others (Gal 6:1-2). Because the tendency is to hurt people back when they hurt us, Paul writes “instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.” In other words, forgive them, and don’t make them jump through hoops, God’s forgiveness has no restrictions! Living like this will help against the schemes of the devil, who wants us to fight with each other and be divided!
Verses 12-17 teach us the priority of relationships over tasks, even ministry. Paul put Titus before a ministry opportunity! Apparently he had planned to meet Titus in Troas and get a report. Even though the Lord opened a great door for him and people were coming to Christ - No Titus = No Peace – so he left. Yet he looked beyond his personal troubles andd thanked God, “But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him.” And finally, Paul was in ministry for the people, not for the money: “…we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, like men sent from God.”
SO WHAT?
*Which is harder for you – to give forgiveness or to ask for it? Whichever one we say, it is pride that makes it difficult. Who do you need to forgive today? Is there someone whom you need to ask forgiveness of? Let me encourage you, the longer you wait, the harder it is and the more damage it does. Make things right today., and “as far as you can, live at peace with all men.”
*How are you doing with balancing family, work, ministry, etc…? There are times we need to say no to “tasks” and spend time with people. Jesus did it, Paul did it, and you & I need to do it now or we probably never will. Where our treasure is, our heart will be also. Lord please help me to treasure relationships above tasks!

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

2 Corinthians 1 DEVO: Compassion & Troubles

Introduction:
Paul invested a lot of time and energy into the church people of Corinth:
He first visited there on his 2nd missionary (discipleship) journey (Acts 18:1-18) and spent 18 months there. After leaving, he heard of the immorality and wrote a letter (lost) to confront their sin (1 Cor. 5:9) While ministering in Ephesus, heard more reports about divisions (1 Cor. 1:11) and they wrote him a letter (1 Cor. 7:1) asking for clarifications on certain issues. Paul responded by writing what we call 1 Corinthians (which we just read).
Disturbing news reached Paul about false prophets and an assault on his character/credibility.
Paul left the ministry at Ephesus and went immediately to Corinth. This was his “painful visit” (2 Cor. 2:1) – because they didn’t stand up for Paul. So Paul returned to Ephesus discouraged and instead of making another visit (2 Cor. 1:23) he wrote a “severe” letter (2 Cor. 2:4) and sent it with Titus (2 Cor. 7:5-16). Paul later was encouraged to hear back from Titus that most had taken his “severe” letter well and had repented (7:7). But sin always likes to creep in and so Paul wrote what we call 2 Corinthians (from Macedonia) to: Defend his apostleship (1-7), Exhort them to continue to collect for poor at Jerusalem (8-9) and Confront false apostles (10-13)
This is an intensely personal letter written in the heat of a battle against those attacking his character and credibility! No letter of Paul’s is more personal, bares more of his soul or professes more continuing love to the Corinthians (despite their unfaithful feelings toward him) than this one.

Chapter 1:
I am soooo thankful for the first part of this chapter (not that I’m not thankful for the whole thing….geeeesh). Over and over again I come back to this section when the storms of life come my way. God is the God of “compassion” and literally it means “coming alongside.” Now how cool is that?!~ It is amazing to think that the God of all coming alongside, comes alongside me when I’m going thru stuff. I don’t know about you but there is nothing I want more than to not go thru stuff alone! And that IS the promise! And for a purpose too – so that I can come alongside others when they are going thru stuff and offer them God’s comfort! Combine this passage with Psalm 46:1 and 1 Peter 5:7 and you’ve got my “Trifecta for Peace!” Wow – I should write that one down.
Paul had been thru a lot, “far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life.” It caused him to rely on God, for that circumstance and for his ultimate future. We need to do the same.
Then Paul defends his actions, his character and his heart. Paul was being accused of acting wrong, of being insincere, and so he calls his first witness – his conscience. It’s the right & wrong warning system of the soul and Paul says he acted appropriately. He was also being accused of being fickle and not keeping his word. Paul’s “plan A” was to visit them after Macedonia. God changed his plans and so they thought Paul’s word was now untrustworthy. Paul assures them it wasn’t for selfish interests or because he didn’t care for them that he was re-routed on a “plan B.” Finally, Paul gives his reason for not coming, “it was in order to spare you that I did not return to Corinth.” They were in sin and Paul could have come and confronted them but wanted to give them time to repent!
SO WHAT?!
*If you had a personal tragedy today, to whom would you turn for comfort? Would anyone turn to you? We all need to go to God, but we also need someone here, on this earth, that we can go to. Who’s your “go to” person?
*Maybe you’re facing something right now and feel like you’re gonna’ lose it. That’s how Paul felt too. Why not ask God right now to come alongside and help – He will!
*How is you “walk”? Is the way you are living attractive to others? Or does it cause others to view you as a hypocrite? Do you keep your word? And how’s your attitude? You’ve heard it said that actions speak louder than words. Well I say to you, then attitudes speak louder still!

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

1 Corinthians 16: Giving & Serving

Chapter 16:
As we come to the end of this letter, Paul addresses our responsibility & privilege to give, as well as some final commands & reminders.
GIVING: (1-4): From Paul’s statements here, we can learn a lot about giving to the Lord:
1. It should be regular: “On the first day of every week…”
2. It should be planned: “…set aside…”
3. It should be financial: “…a sum of money…”
4. It should be proportional: “…in keeping with his income…”
5. It should be a priority: “…saving it up…”
SERVING: (5-18) Paul’s life was constant ministry. His love for Jesus and for believers motivated him. So much so, that he was willing to face hard times in order to know Jesus and make Him known. He was a constant encourager to Timothy toward boldness. And as he served, he took people along with him who would be devoted and serve as well (discipleship). “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.” These final commands must have left a stamp on the reader’s hearts.
SO WHAT?
*How is your giving? Did you notice that there is nothing said about age?! Often times we think this is written to those with regular jobs or those who are finished with college, or those……well…….you fill in the blank. But it is written to all of us who come across any form of finances. Did you know that the second biggest spending group of peeps in the USA is the 14-19 year olds?! (20-25 is largest) So whether we work for it or our parents give it to us, we are making choices of how to spend it. Amazing how a $50 bill looks small at the mall, but to put it in the offering on Sunday – we can think “wow, that’s a lot.” And of course, we all need that 4th pair of jeans. Let’s ask God to help us prioritize our finances so we can invest in “treasures in heaven.”
*How are you & I involved in ministry? Maybe you’re thinking “yeah, you get paid to serve” – which is true. But there are a lot of things I do that are not part of my “job” and it’s a joy to serve. God has great plans to use us (Ephesians 2:10)! If you’re not involved in a regular ministry right now, talk with your parents and pastor and see how you can be! The body of Christ needs you!

Monday, April 26, 2010

1 Corinthians 15 DEV): The Gospel & The Resurrection!

Chapter 15:
What is the Gospel? The word gospel means “good news”, but what is that good news? Is it that God loves us? Is it that He has a wonderful plan for our lives? Is it that He will help us through our tough times? While all of these are true of God, Paul in this chapter clearly defines what the Gospel is. It is the gospel that he preached to them, that they received and the gospel that they stand by and “By this gospel you are saved…” Paul writes: “For what I received I passed on to 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…” The GOSPEL is the death, burial & resurrection of Jesus Christ as the payment for our sins! It is foundational!
The rest of the chapter is devoted to the truth of the resurrection – which is key to the “good news” of the Gospel! You can go to the graves of every founder of every other religion and, as my Dare 2 Share friends say, “Unless someone dug them up and sold them on E-Bay, they will still be there.” The tomb where Jesus was buried has been empty for nearly 2000 years. No one has ever found His body and no one ever will because HE IS ALIVE!
Paul writes that after Jesus rose from the dead that “He appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. After that, He appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles, and last of all He appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.” Acts 1:3 says “After his suffering, He showed himself to these men and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.” The Resurrection of Jesus was no flash in the pan, hey did this really happen kind of thing. Tons of peeps literally saw Jesus alive again and they saw Him as He hung out for over a month! It was real – He was dead, and now He’s alive.
Then Paul explains how important the resurrection is to our faith. Some denied the resurrection – the Sadducees (that’s why they’re “sad you see”….he, he). Anyway, Paul then gives some deductions: Ok, if there’s no resurrection, then Jesus is dead. And if Jesus is dead, then what I’m preaching to you is worthless and so is your faith. And we’re false witnesses. AND – Big one here – if Jesus is not alive, “Houston, we still have a sin problem!~” We’d still have a sin issue that somebody needs to pay for! Conclusion: “If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men. But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead…” Easter is true! We serve a LIVING God!
Finally, Paul anticipates some questions concerning what our resurrection will be like: Our bodies will be real bodies but with one big difference – no sin. Now, how all of that works out, we have fewer details. But you’ll be you and I’ll be me, only without sin! Paul’s conclusion: “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
SO WHAT?!
*After today’s reading, could you explain what the Gospel is to a friend? Have you ever done this? Is there anything that is keeping you from doing this today? Go for it – and I will too!!!
*What close friend or relative do you know who has died recently? IMAGINE FOR A MOMENT that hey are looking over your should as you read this!~ You’d turn around and be totally freaked out that they are alive! That’s how it must have been for those who saw Jesus! AND THEN He hung out with them for a month! How would remembering this each day affect the way you live? The way you witness to others? Lord help us to daily remember Easter, to daily remember YOU ARE ALIVE!
*Verse 58 tells us that living for Jesus is not a waste. Want your life to count? Give up the things of this world for the treasures of heaven. Cool God Stuff!!!

Friday, April 23, 2010

1 Corinthians 14 DEVO: Spiritual Gifts & Order

Chapter 14:
After presenting LOVE as the “most excellent way” above all ministries & gifts, Paul now corrects their misuse and misunderstanding of the gift of tongues. And yeah, if you read thru this chapter and get confused, join the club, it is a much abused and misunderstood chapter. Tongues was a language, not jibberish like was being practiced, so Paul both confronts this wrong practice and explains the correct usage. 2 points:
1) Prophecy is actually of greater benefit: (1-19) – Why? Because it builds up the whole church. In our selfish, independent culture, the tendency is not to be a team player, but an individual. Paul reminds us that we are part of the body of Christ – a team. He illustrates this with musical instruments – which recently I can totally relate to. Jessica’s 4th grade class just started playing the recorder. At first, I had no idea what she was playing (so I just smiled and said good job). But now I can recognize tunes and I am truly encouraged. (side note – the only thing I can play is the mp3). Tongues encourage those speaking, but prophecy encourages everyone!
2) The Purpose of Tongues – A Sign to Unbelievers: (20-28) – Paul tells us to be mature in our thinking. Picture this – an unbeliever comes to a church and “jibberish” is going on, they think we’re freaks. But if they come in and hear the Word of God in their language – a preacher or tongues with an interpreter – he “…will be convinced by all that he is a sinner…” and believe! So, if tongues is to be used, you have to have an interpreter – there needs to be order in worship. So, use your gifts for the Lord, but in a “fitting and orderly way.” And oh, I wouldn’t go around quoting verse 34 guys……out of context and very dangerous!
SO WHAT?!
*In what areas has God gifted you spiritually? Are you using them? If not and you’d like to, talk with your parents or your pastor about ways to make that happen. Remember, we, the body of Christ, NEED you! (12:21-26)
*In what ways are you involved in encouraging the body of Christ? Take some time today to send some encouragement!
*What is one way you could “prophesy” (proclaim the Word of God) this week?

Thursday, April 22, 2010

1 Corinthians 13 DEVO: Love is....

Chapter 13:
Ok, you fill in the blank. How would you define “Love”? It’s a lot of things isn’t it?! And what is this chapter doing in the middle of spiritual gifts? I believe it is because Paul is explaining the realm in which spiritual gifts are to operate – Through Love – “And now I will show you the most excellent way.” (12:31b) This chapter is considered by many Paul’s best literary writings. John MacArthur writes, “…it has been called the hymn of love, a lyrical interpretation of the Sermon on the Mount and the Beatitudes set to music. Studying it is somewhat like taking apart a flower; part of the beauty is lost when the components are separated. When each part is understood more clearly, the whole can become even more beautiful.” I’ll break it down into three sections:
First, Without Love We’re Nothing (1-3): There was a selfishness of these believers to want the “showy” gift of tongues. Yet right here Paul points implies so what if you speak in tongues, if it’s not done in love, it’s nothing. Or speaking for God or giving to the poor = nothing without love!
Secondly, Paul describes What Love Is and Is Not (4-7): “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” Ok, maybe we should stop here and pray about this list. Living out these would keep us challenged for the rest of our lives!
Paul’s final point is that Love Never Fails (8-13): Spiritual gifts are temporary and eventually will pass, BUT LOVE will never pass away! We can also know a lot right now, but not like we’re gonna’ fully know when we get to be with Jesus!
SO WHAT?!
*Take a survey of you activities for today – How many of these were truly motivated by love? How many by selfishly looking out for “me”?
*Of the “is” and “is not” descriptions of love, which one do you need God to help you with today?
*Love always hopes, always perseveres. When are you most vulnerable to giving up? What are you facing right now that need God’s strength for? Why not stop right now and ask Him – He wants to mightily work in you and thru you!
*Who do you know who needs to be shown the Love of Jesus today? Go for it!

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

1 C orinthians 12 DEVO: Spiritual Gifts & Spiritual Peeps

Chapter 12:
When I was a new believer and someone mentioned spiritual gifts to me, I imagined twilight zone music in the background as I did wild things for Jesus! And YES, you can pray for me! 28 years later it is still one of the most controversial and misunderstood teachings among believers. And nearly 2000 years ago they had the same problem.
“Now about spiritual gifts…” – Paul continues to answer the questions these believers had. He begins by giving some background on spiritual gifts. He reminds them that before they believed in Jesus, they used to believe all kinds of crazy supernatural stuff: chants, mutilation, Nirvana, penance, etc… - don’t be led back into these!
Paul then defines GOD as the source: “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men.” How cool to see the trinity involved here!
Then we see the purpose of these gifts: “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” Spiritual gifts make the Holy Spirit known & clear and benefit the church & God’s peeps! Paul then goes on to list some of these gifts and their varieties. Whether we believe all of these still exist or not, we know that at one time they all did and God used them all to show Himself.
In verses 12-31 Paul makes three points to believers regarding gifts:
1. We All are part of the Body of Christ: (12-13) One body, many parts = unity in diversity. I mean come on, the human body works so incredibly as one unit. a GREAT illustration! The Corinthian church was divided where it should have been unified (“I follow Paul, I follow…) and unified where it should have been divided (they all wanted the “showy” gifts).
2. We All Have Different Roles: (14-20) Yep – and many of these believers were unhappy with their gifts – they were envious (Proverbs 14:30)! They all wanted the gift of tongues because it got all the attention – ha! The idea is that if we were all eyes, how would we hear, etc… Every part is important and Paul points out that “…God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be.” We are not to question God’s wisdom. Imagine a body controlled by numerous wills – talk about a crazy seizure!
3. We All Need each Other: (21-31) Independence may be the American way, but INTERdependence is God’s way! Self-sufficiency is an idea from the devil! God wants us to remember we need each other! And hey, this passage even says “God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it…” Why? “…so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.” Cool God Stuff!
SO WHAT?!
*Spiritual gifts are different than natural talents. We can be good at basketball, math, etc… but those are not what Paul is addressing. God gave each one of us at least one spiritual gift to use for Him! Have you discovered what yours is? Maybe it’s one of the ones mentioned in 8-10 or vs 28. Other lists are found in Romans 12:6-8 and 1 Peter 4:11. If you don’t know, ask your parents or spiritual leaders to help you find out! Then USE your gift(s) for Jesus!
*Do you see yourself as a VITAL part of the church body? God Does! So ask how you can serve in your church if you don’t currently have a regular ministry!
*Do you wish you had a different gift? I’ve done this one, trying to be like other youth pastors, and failed big time. Why? Because God made me to be Mr Bill, not someone else!~ UBU (You be you!)
*Do you truly see your need for other believers? I totally love the body of Christ! I need worship leaders (I only play the iPod), I need a senior pastor (a Paul in my life), I need my AIM & A-E teams because we can accomplish more together with students than I can on my own! I could go on & on & on & on….. Thank a fellow believer today for who they are and what they add to your church body!

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

1 Corinthians 11 DEVO: Roles, Relationships and Communion

Chapter 11:
When it comes to God’s call on men & women, we need to remember God Word teaches that men & women are both equal in value & worth and unequal in role/function.
After praising the Corinthians for remembering him and God’s Word, Paul addresses properness in worship. Men prayed uncovered (like taking your hat off today). Jewish women had always covered their heads in worship, not to do so in public was a disgrace and a sign of loose morals. Gentile women worshipped without covering their heads. Result - two cultures collide. So what is the solution? God-given roles and properness. The disgrace comes from dishonoring those roles = “dishonors their head.” “No other practice”: female rebellion (or any rebellion) is condemned in scripture. Therefore, in this culture, women were to have distinctively feminine hairdos, and where culture dictated, were to wear a covering. It’ was mainly a sign of submission, and when we are not submissive, we offend others, and we are not to even offend the angels!
Paul then goes on to address properness in worship – specifically during communion. Apparently some were not waiting on others (this is one reason we take communion together). Others were taking way to much wine, getting g drunk and eating everything while others were left out – total selfishness! So Paul writes these words that may sound familiar: “For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.’ In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.’ For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes.”
What were the results of improperness in worship? “Sinning against the body & blood of the Lord.”
Some got weak, sick and even died! So before we “rush” into this reverent time, we are to take a moment & examine our hearts! And hey, if you’re hungry, eat at home before you come! And Paul ends with “I fill you in more later…”
SO WHAT?!
*Whether you’re a guy or a gal, it’s most important to demonstrate your submission to the Lord by fulfilling His God-given role for your life! So – how we doin’?
*Ok, so head coverings….. ummmm……. do we tell every lady to wear a bonnet each week?!~ Tell guys to cut their hair short? I don’t think so, but I do believe we should demonstrate submission to our God-given authorities. So again, how we doin’?
*How is our worship & reverence of the Lord? Are we talking or texting during church or student ministry? Worship is to an audience of ONE – Jesus! If there is anything that pulls us from that it needs to be addressed. And yep, you guessed it, how we doin’?
*Finally, communion is a time to remember our Lord and what He has done for us – to remember His body being broken and His blood being shed (instead of mine) for our sin. Why not stop right now and do that?!~

Monday, April 19, 2010

1 Corinthians 10 DEVO: Overconfidence

Chapter 10:
Ever see an athlete excel and then become “cocky” and fall? Have you ever gotten overconfident and fell? This is the issue Paul addresses in chapter 10. Three times he uses the word “example” – twice in a negative, the final one as positive. Here are the 3:
1) “Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did.” – vs 6. This is referring to the previous five verses. Paul explains that even though their forefathers were given incredible privileges and blessings from God, they still became overconfident and fell into temptation & sin. The result? “God was not pleased with most of them…”
2) “These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us…” – vs 11. Again, this refers to the previous verses: 7-10. They participated in idolatry, in sexual immorality, in grumbling and even in testing the Lord….and they died, were killed and were killed! What is Paul’s point? Verse 12: “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!” In other words, the temptation to become overconfident is great BUT GOD is greater! He will “not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.” If we’ll Go to the Lord during trials & temptations He will “provide a way out.” Now I used to think that this meant I could go to God and He would get me out of stuff. But in reality, the verse goes on to say “so that you can stand up under it.” This means that the way “out” is by going “thru.” I don’t like that as much, but I do know it’s true and God has helped me thru things more than He’s bailed me out!
Paul goes on to talk address allegiances – to idols or to God. He speaks about freedom again, and not causing others to stumble. His finishes with this mindset: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
3) “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” – 11.1. Ok, ok….. I know this third uses of example is actually in chapter 11, but it’s a great transitional verse that goes here. Paul writes, instead of following the examples of those who got overconfident and fell into sin, follow my example – with this disclaimer: “…as I follow the example of Jesus!”
SO WHAT?!
*Is there anything you feel overconfident of? “I would never__________ … is a dangerous place to be. (see vs 12) Let’s ask God to make/keep us humble!
*To whom or what do you give your greatest allegiance? Jesus? Work? $$$? Want to find out? Ask your kids/students?
*You & I reap benefits from the faithful in Christ who have gone before us. What benefits will those following us reap from you & me?
*How’s your example? Could you say to others “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ”? If not, what needs to change and are you willing to make it happen?

Friday, April 16, 2010

1 Corinthians 9 DEVO: God’s Servant & His “Rights”

Chapter 9:
Ok, so today’s passage has to do with pastors, of which I am one. I’m always humbled, sobered and grateful for God’s call on my life to work with students. I believe there are two messages here from Paul:
Message to the Congregation: Support Your Pastor! Paul represented God. He had every “right” to be supported by those whom he ministered to, though he chose not to. Paying workers is appropriate. Soldiers don’t work another job, are provided food, clothing shelter, weapons, shields, etc. at our expense! Farmers plant and get paid for it. Even shepherds get milk! God tells us to pay them as they earn their living from the Gospel. The Corinthians supported others (12) why not Paul? Finally, Jesus tells us to pay our pastors (14).
Message to the Pastor: Be a Joyful, Servant Leader! Servants don’t demand things, and Paul didn’t. He should have been getting paid, but he didn’t write these things to get paid but to teach a responsibility. And Paul was glad to preach the Gospel, whether it be for money or not. I’ve always told everyone, if I didn’t have bills to pay, I’d do what I do for free – and I did do it for free for a lot of years before Katy, Texas. Pastors (& everyone) are called to be a “slave to everyone” so that we can see people come to Christ (20-23)! We are also called to discipline, to training, to run strong in this Christian life with goals and purpose, and to lead other to Jesus! I am so grateful for the privilege and I can truly say it is and has been a Great Adventure!
SO WHAT?!
*So, how are you involved in supporting your pastor(s)? $$$, encouragement, speaking highly of him, praying for him, obeying him? Do you pay them enough so that their spouse doesn’t have to work outside the home? (Hebrews 13:7,17) Yeah, yeah, I’m sure this sounds self-serving. You should know that in my nearly 20 years of student ministry in Katy, I’ve only asked sought financial help two times – both after we had cashed in all our savings. And both times the church helped. If I were in this to get rich I’m an idiot. I’m just echoing Paul, take care of your pastor.
*What “rights” are you giving up for the sake of being used by God? We like to call ourselves servants , at least until we get treated like one! Becoming a servant will cost you & me but if we do it for the Lord, it’s an investment for eternity! Give it up for the Lord today!
*Finally, how is your spiritual training going? Is it lame or is it truly a work out? Always remember we are in the race of life, eternal life, and it takes training to run well! Spending time with the Lord regularly in prayer and reading His Word is vital training!

Thursday, April 15, 2010

1 Corinthians 8 DEVO: Freedom is Never Free

Chapter 8:
Freedom in Christ – graciously being forgiven of sin to live freely for Jesus - is all over the New Testament (Jn. 8:31-32; 2 Cor. 3:17; Gal. 5:1). Yet – how far does a believer’s freedom extend in regard to behavior? Specifically behavior not addressed (1 Pet. 2:16) in scripture? Things like drinking alcohol, smoking, dancing, playing cards, wearing make-up, working on Sundays, Sunday sports/activities, going to movies, styles of music, the internet, clothing styles, etc. We know specifically that stealing, murder, lying and adultery scripture plainly calls sinful! So, where do you draw the line? Are there gray areas? Here are 2 principles:
1) Attitude: Knowledge puffs up, love builds up. The key is operating out of love. Specifically, meat sacrificed to idols bothered some but not others. The reality Paul shares is that idols are nothing.
2) Don’t be a Stumbling Block: Some things may not be sin for you or me but may be sin for a friend who is with us. If we try to get them to participate in something non-sinful to us and they give in, it is sin for them and we just caused it! Not good.
Verse 9 is KEY: “Be careful, however, that the exercise of your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak.” Paul will deal with this more in Romans 14-15.
SO WHAT?
*Is there an attitude that God needs to address in your life? In mine? Pride? Insensitivity? Lack of grace? Impatience? Whatever the issue, ask God right now to help you by His Holy Spirit to change.
*Is there an area of your life or mine where we may be leading a younger/weaker friend into sinning? Matthew 18:6 is a scary thought!

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

1 Corinthians 7 DEVO: Marriage, Divorce, Celibacy, Remarriage – Soooo Many Questions!

Chapter 7:
“Concerning the matters you wrote about…” - Paul now in chapters 7-11 begins to address questions that the Corinthian believers had. I’d like to say up front that no “devo” can do justice in covering one of the most misunderstood and controversial chapters in the New Testament. With that in mind, here’s my best shot…..
What I know for sure: Statistics sadly tell us that half of all marriages end in divorce. So every other one of you reading this has in some way been affected by divorce. My parents got divorced. God hates divorce (Malachi 2:16). I’m not divorcing Jean!
What I’m still learning: Everything else! Let’s walk thru this chapter…
1-7: Marriage is a gift from God to most people, but singleness (Celibacy) is a gift as well. To remain unmarried and abstain from sexual relations is good and honorable. But it is not better than marriage as some were thinking, and is not the norm for most people. As a matter of fact, so many in Corinth were involved in sexual sin that Paul encourages them to “have” their own wife = get married, be a one woman man and enjoy sex within your marriage!
8-9: To unmarried & widows: Ok to stay that way unless you can’t control your sexual desires. If you can’t, get married! That is better than burning with lust!
10—11: To married: Don’t divorce. But if you do, you can’t remarry.
12-40: To the rest:
12-14: Husbands don’t divorce unbelieving wife, wives, don’t divorce unbelieving husband. Why? Because they will reap benefits from your belief, one of which could be salvation!
15-16: BUT, if the unbeliever leaves (divorces you), can’t do much about that. But verse 11 still seems to come into play.
17-24: Remain as you are! 3 times we are told this. Apparently Corinthian believers were wanting “get out of marriage free” cards and making wholesale changes! Paul is saying that if you’re married, stay married. If you’re a slave, stay a slave, if you became a believer without circumcision, then don’t get circumcised and if you are free in Christ don’t use that to rationalize your sin!
25-28: Now about virgins: Basically Paul states that because persecution is coming, he’d suggest not marrying. It’s ok if you do, but there are going to be lots of troubles. Persecution is tough enough on a single person, let alone a married person with a family.
29-31: These verses are NOT saying marriage is over or that we are to toss out all emotion. Rather, Paul is describing the priority the Lord and eternal things should have in our lives. Truth is to guide us more than our emotions.
32-35: Paul here communicates the fact that single people can be more fully dedicated to the Lord than married people. I can attest this is true. When I came to Katy as a single guy out of college I was putting in 70-80 hours a week with students. I was single and had “no life.” But when I got married, I put in less time. And when we had Drew & Jessica even less time. Don’t get me wrong, next to Jesus, Jean, Drew & Jessica are the greatest things that God has ever given me. But it IS true that I have divided interests – God-given ones! This does NOT mean I can’t serve the Lord wholeheartedly though.
36-38: Apparently some dads had dedicated their daughters to the Lord as permanent virgins - and, you guessed it, these daughters wanted to marry. Paul’s point was if they want to marry let them, that’s ok, and it’s even better if they keep their father’s dedication.
39-40: This is the “till death do we part” statement in all the wedding we go to. Marriage is a lifetime commitment ‘til one dies, then the contract ends. A person who’s spouse dies is free to remarry, but they must be a believer. Then Paul again reiterates his bias of singleness.
Ok, whew…….hope this helps make a bit more sense of this chapter!
SO WHAT?
*Next to a person’s surrender to the Lord Jesus Christ, marriage is the most important decision you will ever make or have made! It’s a promise to God (& the other person) for a lifetime. That’s why I won’t do a wedding without the couple going through marriage counseling with me and doing all the homework. Yes, homework! Couple will spend hours, dollars, energy, etc…. to plan for a one day event (wedding) without even blinking to think about planning for their marriage. Are you single? If so, there is no greater time in your life to pour all your energies into serving the Lord and I hope you do! Are you married? If so, I hope you’ll take time today to thank God for your spouse, appreciate your spouse, help your spouse and date your spouse! You did that when you were dating, why stop now? I feel bad for marriages that have gone cold and boring because it doesn’t have to be that way!
*If you are single, make a promise to God TODAY that you will not get a divorce – then keep it! The only way you’ll be able to do that is if GOD is in the center of your marriage. If HE is what y’all are living for then your marriage will be about pleasing HIM and not yourselves, because at the root of all divorce is selfishness.
* Finally 2 Quotes: First, Mr Herb when asked how he and Peggy have stayed together for so long always says, “No Way Out” has been our mentality. Secondly, “It’s better to be single wishing you were married than to be married wishing you were single.” Marriage Rocks when God is at the center and both just keep their promises!

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

1 Corinthians 6 DEVO: Lawsuits & Doing What You Want

Chapter 6:
A few years back a patron at McDonald’s spilled his coffee in his lap and sued McDonalds because it burned him – and won! Was it a cold coffee he wanted, ummmm that would be a frappuccino. Anyway, I mention this to describe the crazy direction that lawsuits have gone.
We see in this chapter, Paul addressing yet another area where the Corinthian believers were not living any different from the world. Believers were taking their cases to unbelievers and so Paul writes, “If any of you has a dispute with another, dare he take it before the ungodly for judgment instead of before the saints?” Paul’s concern was not that they would get an unfair trial but that they had so little respect for church authority & ability! Instead, “…if you have disputes about such matters, appoint as judges even men of little account in the church!” Believers who know the Word of God and have the Holy Spirit are far more qualified than the best trained lawyers. Not to mention (don’t understand this phrase because I’m gonna mention) that public disputes as believers is a bad testimony to the world = “…and this in front of unbelievers.”
So here’s Paul’s main point: “Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated?” In other words, take the loss. Wow – that’s not very American. Nope, but it is Biblical! Proverbs 22:1 says, “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.” It is better to leave a good testimony for Jesus than to be “right.”
The next issue Paul addresses is living freely. Because these new believers had experienced forgiveness in Christ, many may have felt that it didn’t matter how they lived, Christ would forgive them. While it is true that Jesus will forgive us, it doesn’t give us the freedom to continue to live wrong. Romans 6:1-2 says, “What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?” Specifically they were being sexually impure, thinking that it didn’t affect their relationship with God or others. Paul tells them to RUN from this kind of thinking! God lives inside us and we are not to treat God’s home with such filthy living.
SO WHAT?!
*Ever been wronged and you desperately want to be “righted?” yeah, me too. A few years ago, right after I got JJ (my new truck) a lady in the Academy parking lot backed into my side and dented in my door. We looked at the damage, exchanged numbers and even had an officer there helping us. I went and got 2 estimates and both places also noticed that the front fender was pushed in as well. When I gave the estimates to her she became irate. “I didn’t do that much damage, all I did was dent your door” she exclaimed. I explained I didn’t see the other damage either (I’m not a body shop estimator). Then, because I had taken the opportunity to talk with her about Jesus, she said adamantly, “How can you call yourself a pastor and be scamming me like this?!” This hit me hard. I told her I wasn’t but I could see this was not going anywhere so I said, “Mam, I have not tried in any way to scam you, but because it seems that you might hold this against Jesus or His people, consider your debt paid.” I was wronged, I was cheated, but so was Jesus in my place. I still have that dent in JJ and every time I see it I reminds me that Jesus took my wrong for me! Oh Lord, whenever we are wronged, remind us that YOU know what that is like and to respond in a Christ-like manner.
*Sexual sin was bad in Paul’s day and the same is true today – even in the church. I work with students and it’s amazing how we can “rationalize” our sexual sin. Truth is that sex is great within it’s God designed parameter of marriage, and that it is extremely damaging when taken outside of marriage. Is there sexual sin you need to ask forgiveness of and stop? Internet porn? Going too far in a dating relationship? Having an affair? Paul is right – RUN AWAY from it! I pray you will today.

PS – Want a good laugh? Weird Al wrote a song making fun of lawsuits – you can check out the lyrics here.

Monday, April 12, 2010

1 Corinthians 5 DEVO: Sexual Sin in the Church

Chapter 5:
So….if you like gross stuff, you’ll like today’s reading.
The city of Corinth was much like cities in America today – intent on fulfilling physical lust. Sexual permissiveness was rampant then as it is today and church believers were fulfilling those lusts then as well as today. As serious as the sexual immorality itself was, so was the tolerance of it! These believers were not taking corrective measures, but rather became arrogant and flippant about it. We read this and say, “Man, I can’t believe this so called believer is doing such a gross sin…” We forget that God is likely saying, “I can’t believe YOU are tolerating this sin in My house!!!” The Church just stood by doing nothing about it. In fact, they arrogantly refused to do anything about it! And as a result, their testimony was being severely hindered!
“It is reported” = people knew, it was public, it was in the church and it was disgraceful enough that even unbelievers didn’t practice it. Incest – a man was having sex with his dad’s wife, probably his step-mom. And though they should have been ashamed and addressed this sin, they instead were proud. Paul straightforwardly let’s them know they need to tell this guy to get out!
He then goes on to explain why by using an analogy. Yeast, though very small, when worked into the dough affects the entire batch – it puffs up! These believers had allowed a disgusting sin to go on and had even become “puffed up” about it.
Paul goes on to say we shouldn’t associate with sexually immoral believers, not to even eat with them. Why? Not to show hatred but to drive them to conviction and to seek forgiveness from the Savior!
SO WHAT?
*None of us are perfect and we all hide sin at times, all of which displeases God. This passage though is not so much talking about committing a single sin, as it is addressing continual sinning with the knowledge it is wrong. And yes, I am guilty of that as well at times. How about you? Is there a sin you need to confess and stop or will God need to make it “public” in order for you to change?
*Worse than this, is there sin going on with someone else that you know is wrong and you aren’t saying anything about? Sometimes our silence gives approval. Often we want to please people more than God and we’re afraid to gently bring it up for fear we’ll lose a friend. Ask God for strength to lovingly address it.

Friday, April 9, 2010

1 Corinthians 4 DEVO: Characteristics of a Servant

Chapter 4:
What is the criteria by which you evaluate your pastor(s)? Success? Influence? Giftedness? Membership? Attendance? Degrees? Speaking Engagements? Personality? According to verses 1-2 it should be servanthood and Paul gives 8 things that define a servant:
1) Faithfulness: (1-2) Believers have been given God’s Word and we have a responsibility to feed it to others.
2) Seeks to please God: (3-4) God is to be first & foremost on a servants mind – He is our Master! (Gal 1:10)
3) Not Judgmental: (5) A servant’s role is not as judge but servant – duh.
4) Doesn’t think too highly of self: (6-7) Pride is always a stumbling block to servanthood. We like calling ourselves servants until we are treated like one!
5) Humility: (8-13) Servants are willing to be counted as nothing for Christ. The Corinthians thought they had everything in themselves, Paul knew he had nothing in himself.
6) Produces spiritual children: (14-16) Paul loved these people as a father and led many of them to Jesus!
7) Teachable: (17) Whenever we become unteachable, we become unusable to God.
8) Confronts sin: (18-21) When we truly love someone, we will lovingly help them to see destructive issues, as hard as it can be.
SO WHAT?!
*How faithful are you & I with what God has given us:
Good health? Finances? Friends? The Good News of Jesus? Living in the USA? Gifts? Talents?
*Would your friends say that you are teachable or hard to teach? Says a lot about the ability God has to use us!
*Who are your spiritual kids- those whom you have helped know Jesus and are helping make Him known? What steps are you taking to conceive & give birth to spiritual kids? Why not start today and ask God to give you an opportunity to share Jesus with someone today?!

Thursday, April 8, 2010

1 Corinthians 3 DEVO: Spiritual Retardation

Chapter 3:
Whenever we don’t get along in our home, it affects family relationships: parents, siblings, inlaws & outlaws. The same is true in God’s house and Paul addresses that in chapter 3.
After beginning the topic of divisiveness in 1:10, he picks it up again, this time calling it worldly and childish. When we bicker about things that in the end don’t matter, it brings out self-centered and selfish behavior that is so prominent in our world. These people were inexcusably immature. Mental retardation is a tragedy, but is not a condition we are responsible for. Spiritual retardation is one’s own doing because of selfishness & worldliness.
The problem here was loyalty to those who had led them to Jesus: Paul, Peter, Apollos, etc… Paul sets them straight by noting “What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe—as the Lord has assigned to each his task. I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.” Great reminder Paul!
He then makes an architectural analogy. Paul was a foundation layer. God used him to establish churches is Asia Minor, Greece, Macedonia, etc… by preaching Christ. Others came along and built these churches up from that foundation. Paul rightfully saw himself not as the source, but as part of the process (vs. 9) of knowing Jesus and making Him known. How others built on this foundation differed. Some worked hard showing dedicated spiritual service to build up God’s church – represented by gold, silver & costly stones. The efforts of others was shallow and of no eternal value – represented by wood, hay & straw. And one day our work will be tested by fire and…….you can guess which efforts will stand the test.
Paul concludes with yet another argument that human wisdom cannot save. Why? So we won’t raise up people or their “wisdom”……“So then, no more boasting about men! All things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future—all are yours, and you are of Christ, and Christ is of God.”
SO WHAT?
*How long have you been a believer? Would Paul have considered you a “spiritual retard?” Lord please help us to daily know you more and make you known more!
*Where do you see yourself in the spiritual reproduction process? Art you a planter? A waterer? Let’s remember to ask God to bring the growth in our own lives and the lives of those within our circles of influence!
*What have you boasted about recently – outwardly or inwardly? Lord, teach us to only boast in YOU!

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

1 Corinthians 2 DEVO: Real Power and Wisdom

Chapter 2:
Our culture tends to think power comes with position, the higher you climb in academia or business, the more powerful you become. Here Paul writes that true power & wisdom come from God. “Know Jesus, Know Power - No Jesus, No power!”
Paul begins by making it clear that as he preached the Gospel it wasn’t with “eloquence, superior wisdom or persuasive words” but it was simple and powerful: “Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” Why? So our faith wouldn’t be because someone “talked us into believing” but rather that God Himself saved us by His power!
On the flip side, Paul does speak the wisdom of God revealed to us by His Holy Spirit! This is a great section on how God’s Spirit works in the life of a believer. He reveals truth to us as we read God’s Word. He also searches our hearts, knows our thoughts and knows God’s thoughts. This is why those who have the Holy Spirit understand REAL truth & wisdom – because we have God inside us to give us understanding. Those who don’t have God inside them have no way of understanding spiritual truth, so they have to find “truth” elsewhere.
Talk about an amazing blessing from God – wow!?! And we have no idea of the endless implications, that’s why Paul writes: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him.”
SO WHAT?!
*Ever try to talk someone into believing in Jesus? Yeah, me too. How should today’s reading affect our view of evangelism? It should cause us to PRAY more because it’s the Spirit’s power not my words.
*What wisdom from the world is most tempting for you? Work hard, get rich? Scratch their back, they’ll scratch yours? Etc… Jesus gives REAL wisdom. The old Michael Card song says:
We in our foolishness thought we were wise.
He played the fool and he opened our eyes.
We in our weakness believed we were strong.
He became helpless to show we were wrong.

Remember, “Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.” – 1 Corinthians 1:24

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

1 Corinthians 1: Bickering, Wisdom & Perspective

Introduction:
This letter was written by the apostle Paul (vs. 1) around AD 55ish, near the end of Paul’s ministry in Ephesus, on his third missionary/discipleship journey.
Background: Today, the city of Corinth is a small town of little significance. But in New Testament times it was a thriving, prosperous and strategically located city. All north and south traffic had to pass through Corinth. Sea travel around Corinth (250 miles) was dangerous and captains would carry their ships overland on skids because it was more economical and safer, so all would pass by Corinth. Today, a canal connects the 2 gulfs. Two great athletic festivals were held in Corinth – the Olympian games and the Isthmus games. Originally it was a Roman colony but because it was a major trade center of the world, it had a cosmopolitan population: Greeks, Romans, Near Easterners, Jews, Officials, and Businessmen (not unlike Houston or L.A.). The pagans worshipped Aphrodite (Goddess of Love). Her temple housed over 1000 prostitutes who would come down each night and ply their trade in Corinth to travelers and local men. Even in the pagan world, Corinth was known for its moral corruption! So much so that “to Corinthianize” meant gross immorality: drunken debauchery, pornography, adultery homosexuality, stealing, coveting, drunkenness, foul language/speech, swindling, etc…(6:9-10).
Paul came to Corinth on his 2nd missionary journey (Acts 18:1-11) and stayed 1½ years (vs. 11). Sometime between leaving Corinth and writing I Corinthians, Paul had written another corrective letter (5:9) referred to as “The Lost Letter” and another after II Corinthians (2 Cor. 2:4) called “The Severe Letter”.
The theme of this book is: “HOW TO LIVE GODLY IN AN UNGODLY SOCIETY.” What a timeless theme for today. We are not to blend in with this world’s practices or accept it’s values and lifestyles. I look forward to how God wants to transform me thru His Word to the Corinthians.

Chapter 1: Bickering, Wisdom & Perspective

Throughout Paul’s writings, the Gospel and the Cross make up his spiritual DNA. When Charles Spurgeon was asked how he put together his sermons his reply was, “I take my text and make a bee line for the cross.” Paul did the same.
This letter is written to “…all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ…” – you and me! After he gives thanks for those in Corinth who were eagerly waiting for Jesus return, he immediately addresses a bickering issue that could easily divide. They were choosing favorite preachers – “I follow Ed Young…..well I follow Chuck Swindol….well I follow Mitch Maher…….and oh yeah, then the real spiritual ones…..well I follow Jesus…” Paul sets them straight – he’s not the Savior and none of the others are either – only Jesus! It’s the cross of Christ that has power – not people!
Paul then transitions into the Gospel message: “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.” He goes on in the next few verses to basically say that often times “higher learning” can keep people from accepting the simple message of Jesus! All the smarts in the world cannot even compare to the wisdom from God.
Finally, Paul concludes with perspective, a reality check. The basic message is that when God chooses people, He doesn’t look for the brainy, good looking, talented & gifted type – for none of us whom God chooses are “qualified.” Why? So we won’t get a big head and think too much of ourselves! And God knows we need to hear & see this!
SO WHAT?
*How are you involved in building up your church family? A principle I’ve found true is that it’s always easier to tear down that to build up! Rather than take sides, may we be more like Paul today and to only emphasize Christ crucified!
*What do you feel like you “bring to the table” for God? It’s a trap of the devil to get us to think God couldn’t do without us. Truth is – the only thing I bring to the table is MY SIN! That is why I need Christ! Lord please use Your Holy spirit to make verses 26-31 evident in my life.
*This “foolish message” turns into transforming power when someone believes. Who can you share this with today? Pray for me today as I follow up with a friend today who came to church Sunday, that He might believe this “foolish” message!

Monday, April 5, 2010

2 Thessalonians 3 DEVO: No Lazy Bums!

Chapter 3:
One of the sad stereotypes of a pastor is that they are lazy bums with an easy life and living off everybody else’s money. I’m a pastor and I hate that stereotype! I believe I work hard as God’s servant and this too was the message Paul was sending to the Thessalonians.
Before he addresses laziness, he asks for prayer and reminds these believers of the greater spiritual battle. We all need to pray daily for God to “deliver us from wicked and evil men.” And Paul was confident that the Lord would do just that.
Then Paul addresses the fact that some of these believers were being idle and lazy. Some may have felt that because Jesus was coming back soon they should quit their jobs, don’t make plans and just wait on the Lord. Paul made it real clear – don’t even hang out with these peeps – they don’t get it! He cites his own example of how to live and serve the body of believers: “We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone's food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to make ourselves a model for you to follow.” Paul was not a lazy servant of Christ and here he says that no believer should be. They should provide for themselves and their families. As a matter of fact, "If a man will not work, he shall not eat." The need to “settle down and earn the bread they eat.” As Paul gives these instructions, he reminds them this is not a salvation issue though and they should “not regard them as an enemy” but rather to “warn them as a brother.” God Word consistently warns against laziness and it’s outcome.
SO WHAT?!
*We are in a spiritual battle every day, one that Satan would love for us to lose. I don’t totally understand all that goes on, but I’ve seen enough to know it’s real and that Satan fights dirty – getting at me thru my family. How about you? Let’s ask God today to protect us from the evil one so we can accomplish the good work HE has for us! (Ephesians 2:10)
*I grew up on a farm in Iowa and am grateful for a father who taught me hard work, loyalty and how to earn a living. I’m sure my dad saw me as lazy at times (as I do my son at times) but I always worked and tried to make him proud. Ever since trusting in Christ as my Savior, I’ve wanted to say thanks back to God by how I live and I’ve wanted to make my Dad in heaven proud. I know I’m not perfect, but I try to work hard for Jesus, not because I have to, but because I want to. We’re committed to staying out of debt because I don’t want our church to see the Freunds as a burden but a blessing. And, we want the role of pastor not to be seen as some kind of freeloading and extortion of people’s hard earned offerings, but a calling to love, shepherd and equip people – specifically students! So how about you? Do those around you see you as a hard worker they can respect, or a lazy freeloader? As ambassadors for Jesus, let’s let our work ethic draw people to Jesus, not drive them away!
*Finally, I don’t believe Paul was teaching us to be “work-a-holics.” There is a difference between leisure & laziness. Relaxation and recreation are needed to balance our lives. For some reading this, it might be that you need to spend a few less hours at your job and more time with your family. It’s one thing to be disrespected at your job for being lazy, it’s much worse to be disrespected by your family because you are not fulfilling your role as spouse and parent. Ok, enough conviction for a Monday.

Friday, April 2, 2010

2 Thessalnians 2 DEVO: Clarifying “The Day of the Lord”

Chapter 2:
Paul in this chapter addresses their concerns regarding Jesus’ return. Somehow, a false teaching had reached them saying that “the day of the Lord” had already come. Paul corrects them by saying that this day cannot occur until the “the man of lawlessness” is revealed. This is the one the Bible calls “the anti-Christ.” He will oppose God, try to take over God’s place and call himself God. “Hey – we’ve talked about this before” – Paul says.
He goes on to remind them that the “power of lawlessness” is already at work. In other words, evil reigns right now but someday that will be corrected. Who is the one who “holds back” this evil one? Ultimately it’s God, but there’s some debate as to the specifics - that would take way more than this devo to describe. Just know that miraculous acts will accompany this anti-Christ – so don’t be fooled, supernatural powers are not limited to God (remember Pharaoh’s magicians) but are certainly under His sovereignty!
“Those who are perishing” - refuse to love the truth, so God allows them to believe the lie. Thos who do not believe the truth will be condemned. The only unforgivable sin truly is unbelief. Makes sense that you don’t get to be with God if you don’t believe.
We need to remember as believers that from the beginning God chose & called us (verses 13-14). Oh boy, look out………… so did God choose us or did we choose Him? Again, this would take like, a year’s worth of devos, but here’s where I stand: Yes and in that order!
This certainly is encouraging for believers, that God initiated our salvation and that we can’t do anything to lose it! This is a good reason for Paul to conclude with a benediction citing God as loving, gracious and encouraging!
SO WHAT?!
*Ever been unfairly treated? Been shown injustice in a situation? Then you are among the ranks of the saints in scripture, and even among our Savior Jesus, who faced these very things, especially during passion week! The Bible teaches us that we should thank God that we were worthy to suffer for His name’s sake!
*If you have put your trust & faith in Jesus Christ, God not only CHOSE you but has GOOD WORKS for you to do! Namely to Know Jesus and Make Him Known! What better time to get to it than Easter weekend! I challenge you to ask someone in the next 48hrs what they believe Easter is about. And then YOU share with them what YOU believe Easter is about! Go ahead, I double-dog dare ya’!

Thursday, April 1, 2010

2 Thessalonians 1 DEVO: Hang in There Thessalonians!

Introduction:
In 2 Thessalonians, Paul continues the theme of 1 Thessalonians regarding the Lord’s return. After sending his first letter, the report back was that some may have misunderstood Paul’s teaching. It seems that some may have stopped working, thinking “why work if Jesus is coming soon?!” Others were being so persecuted that they may have felt that “The Day of the Lord” was now. Regardless, there was misunderstanding so Paul writes another letter to this young church to both encourage & clarify.

Chapter 1:

Paul begins this letter by thanking God for their growing faith and increasing love! The reports Paul received encouraged him so much that he bragged on them! He realized they were being testes and that they were persevering, despite the injustice and discomfort.
All this was proof that God is “just.” That means He is right, true and always right & true. What great news for those who were suffering for doing right!~! God WILL make everything right in the end, our role is to patiently persevere – and the Thessalonians were doing that.
After Paul describes the punishment to come for unbelievers and the reward to come for believers, he prays that God would:
- Count them worthy of His calling
- Give power for every good purpose
- Give power for acts prompted by faith
- People see God in them

SO WHAT?!
*What would your friends give thanks to God for you about? Your faith? Your perseverance? Your encouragement? Sometimes we think tough times are God teaching us. Maybe God has it for you or I to suffer just to be an example of perseverance to others? Who knew?!
*Have you ever misunderstood something someone said? Rather than go to friends and talk about it, why not go straight to that person and get things clarified? It will certainly be better for unity in the body of Christ!
*Whatever you or I are going thru right now, we need to remember that GOD knows – so “hang in there.” We can “cast all our cares on Him because He cares for us!” (1 Peter 5:7) Why not take a moment right now and do just that?