Friday, November 30, 2012

260 in 2012 - DEVOS - Day 240 - Revelation 2: Lost Love, Suffering, Compromise & Tolerance

In the next two chapters Jesus gives John the “What IS” section of this book - specifically, the current state of the churches mentioned. Jesus is dictating a letter to each of these 7 churches and the structure is the same: - It’s always written to “the angel” or messenger of that church. Probably the one who delivered the message. - Next we get who it’s from, which is always a different description of Jesus. And it always with this phrase, “I know.” This indicating there is nothing we can hide from Jesus! - Then, in 6 of the 7, we are given what Jesus commends that church for. - This is followed by what Jesus rebukes that church for – 2 of the 7 received no rebuke. - Then each church is commanded to change in some way so to better represent Him. - And finally, each church is given a promise of some sort – “to him who overcomes.” Ok – so let’s look at the first four churches: EPHESUS – Lost Love: The description of Jesus here tells us that He is in control, He’s actively checking out churches & determining how their “light” or life is. Ephesus receives a pretty good beginning evaluation: hard working, perseverance, don’t put up with wicked men, tested peeps, endured hardships and hadn’t given up! But they had “forsaken the love they had at first.” It’s easy to start doing ministry out of love for Jesus and after a while to lose that devotion and enthusiasm and let it become routine & repetitious! The cure? “Repent and do the things you did at first.” If not, I’ll remove your lampstand – Yikes! Jesus says He will take away the light & testimony for Him of any church that will not repent! SMYRNA – Suffering: Jesus is described as “The First and the Last”, pointing to His control, which is comforting if you’re suffering like Smyrna was. As poor as Smyrna was (financially & materially), Jesus said they were RICH! They had Jesus and He knew the suffering they were going through and were yet to go through more for Him. No rebuke here, just comfort from the Lord: “Do not be afraid” and “Be faithful.” If you do = LIFE, victor’s crown, = i.e. you win! PERGAMUM – Compromise: Jesus is described as “the sharp, double-edged sword” (see Heb 4:12-13), the idea being to divide truth from error. This was a church that had remained true to Jesus in both a difficult area and through difficult circumstances. But Jesus says they have compromised. They’ve let false teaching in their church. The cure? “Repent therefore!” – Or face judgment from Jesus. THYATIRA – Tolerance: Another good beginning evaluation as they are commended for their love, faith, service, perseverance and doing more than when they began – hey, ministry was booming! Yet Jesus rebukes them because they are “tolerating that woman Jezebel.” Somehow there were some who had rationalized her behavior and were permitting it in the church. She won’t repent of her sexual immorality so Jesus gives her a punishment that fits her crime. SO WHAT?! *”Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says…” – The idea is we are to listen up! God is serious about His Church and wants it to be a light that helps people see Him. And if His church (you & I) is not a light, look out! *Has your fire for Jesus dwindled to a smolder? Are you just going through the motions and “doing church”? In the words of the song, have you “lost that loving feeling?” If so, God’s arms are open wide for you to run to Him, to love & be loved again! Don’t put it off, MAKE time today and lets pray like David in Psalm 51 “Restore me to the joy of Your salvation!” *What are you going through right now for the sake of Christ? Maybe you’ve lost friends because of your stand. Maybe you’re being made fun of at school. It can cost you grades, your job, reputations, friendships, etc… but please know it is worth it! Jesus said, “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown. The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death.” *Finally, is there sin that you are allowing or rationalizing in your own life, your ministry or your church? Addressing sin today isn’t looked upon as kind, but it’s Biblical and it is needed, because it affects the whole. The great news is that if we confess it to God, desire to turn from it, He can transform us and make us the kind of reps He wants us to be for Him! Lord forgive me for the issues I have not addressed and need to. Help me to turn from my wrong ways as well as lovingly address the issues I am aware of that I’ve put off!

Thursday, November 29, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 239 - Revelation 1: What Was, What Is, What Is To Come

Intro to Revelation: We live in a culture that is fascinated with the future: horoscopes, palm readers, the occult, psychic hotlines (they knew you’d call), etc… The future fascinates us because we’re all a bit intrigued with what lies ahead. If only there were a book that would tell us what that is!~ Well, God gave us one – the Bible – and within that book, the sub-book called Revelation. The word translates “Apocalypse” which means “to uncover or unveil.” Revelation doesn’t hide the truth but reveals it! It is John’s last writing and God is revealing to him what WILL literally (not figuratively) happen in the future. He wrote it in approximately 92-94 AD while exiled on the island of Patmos and was written to the 7 churches in Asia (and all believers). It has a very clear structure seen in vs. 19 that is repeated throughout (1:4, 1:8, 4:8, 11:17, 16:5): What Was: “what you have seen” = The vision John had just seen (Ch 1) What Is: “what is now” = the letters to the churches (Ch 2-3) What Is To Come: “what will take place later” (Ch 4-22) It’s a book chucked full of prophecy. 278 of the 404 verses (yeah, too much free time) allude to OT prophecies! It’s a book of praise – There are tons of hymns & songs written from these chapters. It’s also a book of both hope (for the believer) and warning (for unbelievers). And although many of the very specific details are unknown, what God intends to have occur at the end of time is clear. So – wanna’ know how this “life on earth” thing ends? Do you want the ultimate action thriller? Then read Revelation with me because, “blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.” Revelation 1: What WAS, What IS, What IS TO COME “The revelation from Jesus Christ” – God is revealing to John what will occur at Jesus’ second coming (His first coming was “Christmas” when He became a man). This book reveals Jesus – “who is, who was and who is to come.” Another reference to Jesus being God because these words can only be true of “the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.” So, we pick up the story as John is out chillin’ in the Spirit and hears “a loud voice like a trumpet” that tells him to “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches.” John turns around to see who is speaking to him and attempts describe the indescribable Lord! Nice try John. And, like all in the Bible who come into the very presence of God, John falls face down in fear! The immense holiness and intense awesomeness of God will always cause unholiness to shudder. Jesus taps him, says it’s ok (whew), and identifies Himself: “I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever!” This is Jesus! And He is in charge of eternity for every soul! Jesus tells John to grab a pen & paper (ok, maybe ink & papyrus) and write down what He’s gonna’ tell him, “what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later.” So John played secretary to Jesus and wrote Revelation – the very words of God! How Awesome is that!!! SO WHAT?! *The Gospels reveal Jesus’ first coming as one of humiliation, offering grace. Revelation reveals Jesus second coming as one of exaltation, pronouncing judgment to those who don’t believe. The urgency for our friends to believe has never been so high. Christmas time is an easy time to turn conversations to Jesus. Lord give us opportunities TODAY to share your love! *So, are you ready for some wild, end-of-all-things stuff?! You are if you know Jesus as your Savior! You’re not ready yet if you haven’t trusted in Christ – but why not today? If you do, I guarantee you will be blessed (vs 3). Don’t put it off, the end is nea…….

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 238 - JUDE – Danger & Snatching

Ever bite into a jalapeño or worse yet, a habanero? Those things are so small but carry a powerful punch! I think of the same when I come to this letter from Jude. Only 25 verses but wowsa – what a punch! This was written by Jesus’ brother, Jude, around AD 65 to warn his readers of false teaching. In many ways, this letter parallels with 2 Peter. The first 16 verses have to do with the danger of false teaching and the remaining 9 verses are a call to stand for God’s truth. One of the problems was that these false teachers had “slipped in”. In other words, they may have looked & acted much like real believers for a while. But in time, their hearts came out: “They are godless men, who change the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord.” You can't be a believer and continually living, day by day, a life of immorality. You also can’t be a believer, with the Holy Spirit of God living in you, and truly deny Christ! Those who do so will - like unbelievers in the desert & fallen angels & those in Sodom & Gomorrah - be punished (7). We are to therefore “build our faith….pray….keep in God’s love…be merciful…and snatch others from the fire and save them.” As false teaching comes we are to, with gentleness and respect, stand against it. Why? Because it builds our faith. Because it draws us closer to God. And because it keeps our friends (who believe) from going to hell. Jalapeños and Habaneros won’t even compare to the burn your friends and mine will receive for eternity if they don’t believe & receive! Ohhh Lord, please give them faith to believe and give me continual opportunities to share the Love of Jesus with them! SO WHAT?! *Are you a believer? If so, are you involved in immorality? Maybe you’re sensually and/or sexually involved with your boyfriend or girlfriend. Maybe you’ve been watching stuff on the internet you shouldn’t and you think no one knows. God knows - and He wants you to stop. These cravings can become addictions that lead into a downward spiral of sin. Get someone today - either your parents, a student pastor or a spiritual mentor – and ask them to hold you accountable. It will be the best thing for both you and for your testimony for Jesus! *When was the last time you begged God to save a friend or family member? I mean you cried out for them to God? And then, because you care for them, you shared Jesus with them? Shouldn’t this be one of our utmost concerns? Come on, let’s do it this week! Take the 48 hour challenge with me to share Jesus with someone in the next 2 days – I DOUBLE-DOG DARE US!!!

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 237 - 3 John: No Greater Joy!

Encouragement – there is no greater motivator of people! You and I love to receive it and love to see it! In this short letter, John dishes it out to Gaius! Next to 2 John, this is the next smallest letter in the Bible. Addressed to Gaius, it is about the walking in truth, the need for showing hospitality to traveling preachers & believers and to warn against church “dictators.” John first commends Gaius’ character: “It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” Imagine how you’d feel if next Sunday your pastor said these things about you!~ John was majorly encouraging Gaius! He goes on to commend his conduct: “Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters, even though they are strangers to you. They have told the church about your love… It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans. We ought therefore to show hospitality to such people so that we may work together for the truth.” Gaius was being hospitable to fellow believers he didn’t even know. Then, there was Diotrephes. His conduct showed he was selfish (“loves to be first”), slanderous (”spreading malicious nonsense about us”) and controlling (”he even refuses to welcome other believers. He also stops those who want to do so and puts them out of the church.”) John’s advice: “Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good.” In other words – don’t be that guy! SO WHAT?! *There truly is no greater joy than to know my children are walking in the truth! Grades, sports and activities aside, to know that Drew & Jessica know Jesus and want to make Him known, that ROCKS MY WORLD! And for the honor to have spiritual “kids” all over the world who have been in our student ministry and are now pastors, youth workers, soldiers, missionaries, doctors, musicians, moms, etc… and still know Jesus and are making Him known – that too Rocks! You Go God! *Hospitality can be messy. Rooms get dirty, things get broken, laundry machines wear out and there is constant cooking & cleaning. But God wants us to open up the homes He gave us for Him! Over the years, the Freunds have had many items broken, numerous dents, carpet stains, holes in walls, etc… that tell stories of the students who made them – LOL! Now I’m not saying they were all enjoyable at the time - Jean has put up with and cleaned up A LOT! But how boring would it be after 10 years to say “wow, hasn’t this carpet held up well” because nobody’s been there! Forget that, lets wear out our homes because we’ve constantly opened them up to minister for Jesus! And by the way, if you do, those people will keep coming by later in life as well because they know you love and care for them and it may lead them to Jesus!~ So, be Hospitable, be messy for Jesus!

Monday, November 26, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 236 - 2 John - Hospitality Abuse

This second letter from John also deals with false teachers and the dangerous influence they can have on believers. It is the shortest writing in all of the Bible – only 13 verses. It is written to emphasize Christ, Truth & Love as well. It is addressed to “the chosen lady and her children” – most likely a good friend of John in ministry. John begins by emphasizing that we live lovingly and truthfully. To show love without truth is not helpful and to show truth without love is not kind. Balance is needed. Why? “…because many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist.” You and I must be wise as serpents and harmless as doves or we can hinder the work of Jesus: “If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them. Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work.” This “chosen lady” may have, in trying to be loving, let false teachers stay with her resulting in damage to God’s work. SO WHAT?! *When you talk to people about Jesus, which is easier for you to share – Jesus’ love or Jesus’ truth? We must remember both, but if I’m gonna’ err on one it’s gonna’ be overemphasizing His LOVE! This letter warning could easily have been written to me. I do hope that when false teaching occurs that we will speak up. I’ve learned that to say nothing is to approve of what was just said! *The only way to detect false teaching is to know the Truth. How much time are you & I spending in God’s Truth, the Bible? If we are to combat a world of deception, we must be filling our hearts & minds with what God says. Are you? *How’s your hospitality? It means “lover of strangers.” Are you involved in loving strangers? That TRULY IS what God did with us!

Friday, November 23, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 235 - 1 John 5: THE Relationship That Brings Assurance

What is the strongest thing you possess? Brains? Braun? Personality? Your truck? (hehe…) John says in this chapter that it is our FAITH! John again stresses that love for God = carrying out His commandments – AND they’re not burdensome. I need to hear this because often I feel the heavy burden of ministry (Paul did too 1 Corinthians 11:28). But somehow it need not be my burden, but I am to “cast my cares on Him.” (1 Peter 5:7). Then John begins a bit of courtroom talk as he uses the word testimony & testify 8 times in 6 verses. God’s testimony (the Bible) is true and is verified by multiple witnesses. Verses 11-13 were some of the first verses I memorized as a new believer and they have stuck in my heart! “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.” These verses ROCK! Basically if you’ve got Jesus, you’ve got life, if ya’ don’t, ya’ don’t! And for us who do have Jesus it gets even better: 1) We can KNOW we have eternal life! 2) We can receive anything from God that He wants us to have! “Jesus Christ – He is the true God and eternal life!” SO WHAT?! *How’s your faith? We don’t need big faith in a small god, but rather small faith in our BIG God! Never forget it! *What “burdens” are you carrying right now that you need to give to Jesus? Take some time right now and pray them over to Him – you’ll be glad you did, He’s big enough to handle them! *Are you 100% sure that if you died tonite that you’d go to heaven? I’m not talking 99%, I mean 100%. You can be! And it’s not based on how you feel or what kind of a day you had. It’s also not arrogance. It’s based in what God says in 5:13 and it’s TRUE! There is nothing that gives me more peace than to know my eternity is secure NO MATTER WHAT! Believers in Jesus totally have “Hakuna Matata” = No Worries! Ohhhhh yeah!!!!

Thursday, November 22, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 234 - 1 John 4: Relationship With The World, God & Others – Part 2

Relationships require trust and vulnerability. We are always at risk whenever we put our trust in another, therefore we are to exercise wisdom in relationships as well. That is what John is getting at when he says “do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” False teachers attempt to lead truth seekers astray. Bad company can corrupt good morals and a companion of fools will suffer harm. So we are reminded that “the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” God has made us overcomers because of Jesus in us – let’s never forget that we can CHOOSE to follow Jesus and not others! Relationships also require love (all beautiful things need tending) – and because we’re all sinners, they require the unconditional, sacrificial love of God: “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him………that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” And what should our response to that kind of love be? “Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” We are to demonstrate love for others in the same way! John finishes this chapter with one of his constant themes – LOVE! He uses this term interchangeably with God Himself. “God is Love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.” And as this occurs, we will love others. “Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.” SO WHAT?! *May sound like a broken record, but do you and I LOVE God and LOVE others? Can we “prove” it by the way we live? *How could you “lay your life down” for a Christian friend this next week?

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 233 - 1 John 3: Relationship With God & Others – Part 2

The intimate relationship a believer has with God is founded on love. “We love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19) This love God has for us is amazing and is described in the first two verses of this chapter. The best word is “lavished.” It means to expend in great amount without limit! WOW – that is totally what God did and does! And what is our response to God’s love? To intentionally live sinful lives? May it never be!!!! “All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure. No one who lies in Him keeps on sinning.” Throughout the Bible, a true relationship with our Creator develops into a transformed life. Then, as when we are transformed by God’s love for us, we love our brothers & sisters (11-15). And it means a sacrificial love: “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.” We can’t say we love people if we see their needs, have the ability to help them, but don’t! “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” John finishes this chapter with words that sound familiar to the vine & the branches in John 15: “The one who keeps God’s commands lives in him, and he in them. And this is how we know that he lives in us: We know it by the Spirit he gave us.” SO WHAT?! *Today (& every day) is a great day to give thanks. Let’s take some time today and write down some of the ways God has “lavished” His love on us. Then take that list and spend some time in prayer thanking Him! *Jesus laid down His life for you and me. There is no way we could ever repay Him. But we can LIVE the rest of our days as a big THANK YOU LETTER back to Him. Let’s go for it! *Who do you know in need that you can you show your love to in actions and in giving?

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 232 - 1 John 2: Relationship with God, Others & the World

Sin is a horrible thing. It tears apart & destroys relationships. Yet, as terrible as sin is, how much greater is God’s grace! “But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.” Thank you Jesus! God – What shows that we have a relationship with God? “We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person.” Pretty clear huh!~ Others – What shows that we have a correct relationship with our fellow brothers & sisters in Christ? “Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness.” Again, pretty clear huh!~ The World – What is our relationship to be with the world we live in – it’s system & attractiveness? “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.” One more time, pretty clear huh!~ John goes on to tell us that our desires for the things of this world - “the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” – aren’t from God. The chapter ends with a warning against false teachers who disguise themselves as believers - what I call “make-believers.” These people look, talk & act like believers, but eventually they will deny Jesus, be liars, lead people away from God and themselves ditch God. Beware & Be Strong: “And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming.” SO WHAT?! *Do you & I keep God’s commands? No – not fully. But would our lifestyle show we are living to please Him? If you aren’t sure, ask a close friend. But pray first, that we will accept their answer! *How are you actively showing love to your brothers & sisters in Christ? Do you pray for them, show compassion, serve them, share their burdens, sacrifice for them? It’s never too late to start! *Take a look at your checkbook, credit card statement and your weekly schedule. What do these things show that you love? Jesus told us “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also!” Is it time to reset priorities? *Finally, all over the Bible we get the message that we are not to play games with God. So let’s all do each other a favor and not be “make-believers.” Let’s be “all in” for Jesus!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 231 - Intro & 1 John 1: Relationship with God & Others

Introduction: The book of 1 John is a book on Relationships: Relationship with God, Relationship with the World, and Relationship with Others. It was written by the apostle John in approximately 90 AD to believers living in Ephesus to address false teachings. It is very practical as well as very black & white. Some of the repeated words/phrases and how often they are used are: Love (35), Know (33), World (22), Jesus/Christ/Son (37), Dear children/friends (15), brothers (15), Life (14), Sin (14). John writes to reassure believers in their faith and to teach them to discern truth from error, both in doctrine and lifestyle by presenting a clear picture of Jesus Christ! 1 John 1: Relationship with God & Others Fellowship is an amazing thing. It’s not the same as socializing, but has the idea of sharing in the joys of Jesus with other believers. To do so, you must have Jesus in your life. In the first three verses, John explains how (through our senses) this “Word of Life” is revealed in Jesus (1), experienced by those who trust in Christ (2), is shared by those who know Christ (3) and brings joy (4). And what is this message? “God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.” Then he addresses three false claims that were causing problems: 1st Claim (6): “If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth.” – Translate: “The way I live doesn’t affect my relationship with God.” Truth is, it DOES affect us. Remedy = “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” 2nd Claim (8): “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.” Translate: “Deep down I’m not that bad.” Ummm…..Yes you are, and so am I! And if Jesus is the truth (Jn 14:6), then Jesus is not in us, and we are not believers! Remedy = “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 3rd Claim (10): “If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.” Translate: “If I’m not a sinner then God’s a liar – take your pick.” Ummmm…..I’m gonna’ go with God on this one! SO WHAT?! *How does knowing that Jesus is “The Word of Life” impact you? How does denying Christ impact our relationship with others? *To confess” our sins means to “agree” with how God sees them. How often do you spend time confessing your sin? Lord, help us to make confession as regular of a practice as we make sin! Help us to keep accounts with you short! *Does JOY describe your relationship with Jesus? If not, what does? How does our intimacy with Jesus (or lack of it) affect our relationship with fellow believers? Lord help us to get right with You regularly so we can be right with others!

Friday, November 16, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 230 - 2 Peter 3: The Lord’s Day & Our Response

The Word of God helps us think differently (1). And when we think differently, we then act differently. This is Peter’s second letter and he is reminding his readers of the Bible truths. He begins by saying, “in the last days scoffers will come……They will say, "Where is this 'coming' he promised?” Some day every prophecy of God will be fulfilled, but right now we are still waiting on the remaining ones and that can bring out the skeptics. It’s all about God’s mercy & grace. It’s not as though God has forgotten: “With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” We are confined to time, and often, to our generation – God is not. Why then has He waited almost 2000 years since Jesus died & rose again? Mercy & Grace! “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” God is giving people time to turn to Him. One day that time will end and He WILL return and everything He said WILL happen. How are we to live in this “in between” time? “Holy and godly lives….spotless, blameless, at peace with Him…..be on guard…..grow in grace and Knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” Well, that ought to keep us busy for a while! SO WHAT?! *Ever pray to God and feel like you’re getting nothing? Yeah, me too. But the Bible reminds us that God hears our prayers and is answering each one of them. We just always like them to be yes & now, instead of no & wait! What requests are you regularly bringing to God that you haven’t seen answered yet? I believe God is saying “Bring It”. We just need to persevere and trust. I prayed for God to bring us to a new church and ministry to students and He did! I also prayed for over 25 years for God to save my dad. He passed away in 2005 and I won’t know ‘til heaven if that one happened! *When was the last time you thanked God for His mercy (not getting sentenced to eternal punishment for my sins) and His grace (getting eternal life in heaven instead because of my trust in Jesus)??? You and I are better off than we deserve and we must never forget it!

Thursday, November 15, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 229 - 2 Peter 2: False Teachers

Deception – It began in the Garden of Eden when the serpent deceived Eve and continues to be around us today. Jesus told his disciples false teachers would come (Matt 24:11, Mark 13:22-23). Peter heard these words and was seeing this come true. People were saying things like Jesus was not God, that the resurrection wasn’t true, that Jesus’ work on the cross was insignificant and so on. Sound familiar? Peter warns against them and I notice three things: First, their teaching leads people away from Jesus: “Many will follow their shameful ways and will bring the way of truth into disrepute.” Second, their description is not “neutral” – they didn’t accidentally teach lies. They have an agenda and Peter doesn’t speak lightly of them: “unrighteous…bold and arrogant….brute beasts, creatures of instinct…eyes full of adultery…experts in greed, an accursed brood…” These are not descriptions of innocent people who accidentally teach wrong. Third, false teachers WILL be punished! “The Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the day of judgment, while continuing their punishment…they will be paid back with harm for the harm they have done….blackest darkness is reserved for them.” SO WHAT?! *Have you been deceived lately regarding the truths in the Bible? Because the claims of Scripture go against our culture, if your faith hasn’t yet been challenged, it will be. So what is the best way to combat this? Know both WHAT you believe and WHY you believe it. Those who detect counterfeit currency don’t study counterfeit currency. They study hard the real thing so they can spot fakes! The same should be true of believers. We must read & study our Bible. The more you & I are in the Word of God, the more we will be able to spot teaching that is contrary! *We must not think that the teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormons, Islam, Hinduism, etc… are harmless. These teachings go against the biblical teaching that Jesus is the ONLY way to be made right with God. They are deceiving many and they all have some kind of problem with the claims of Jesus. Yes, these people are sinners for whom Jesus died and we need to pray they will believe! But we must take a stand against what they teach. A while back, some JW’s came to my door. I again sat down with them and showed them in the Bible that Jesus is God. They continually denied it. I then asked them kindly not to go to any more of my neighbors, to which they said they had the freedom to do so. So, I grabbed my Bible and followed them around to each of my neighbors homes. After they would finish, I would kindly say to my neighbors (who all know me), “These people are telling you lies about Jesus. I would love to sit down anytime with you and explain what the Bible really says and answer any questions you have about Jesus and God.” Each of these neighbors was soooo appreciative for me to talk with them. Finally, the JW’s decided to leave, but they first asked me, “Why I was doing this?” I told them that if I knew someone was giving poison to my friends, I’d do what ever I could to stop them, wouldn’t you? Y’all are trying to poison my friends with your false teaching about Jesus. I was kind, I was gentle, but I was truthful and offered them a chance to believe in the True Jesus. God knows, and hey, maybe, someday, Barbara and her friends will believe!

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 228 - 2 Peter 1: Everything We Need

Introduction to 2 Peter: This letter was written by the apostle Peter (1) in approximately AD 67. Peter knew his life was coming to an end (13-14) so He wrote to warn about false teachers and to remind believers of the eternal, unchanging truth of the Gospel. 2 Peter 1: Everything We Need “Consumer” is a good word for us people types. Seems like we are always wanting something: clothes, a new phone, the latest computer, new shoes, bigger vacations, more money, nicer truck, yadda, yadda, yadda….. I need to hear verse 3: “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.” These are amazing words we all need to hear! Promises from God like this exist so that “through them we may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.” Cool God stuff! Next Peter lines out what faith looks like: learning to know God better, developing perseverance, doing God’s will and loving others. These actions require work and they overlap each other. We must practice them because “they will keep us from being ineffective and unproductive in our knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Only then we can get a “way to go” from God on the day we arrive in heaven! Finally, Peter was an eyewitness of Jesus, specifically the transfiguration (17-18). He didn’t make up this stuff about Jesus. As a matter of fact, none of the writers of the Bible did: “Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” SO WHAT?! *What is it you are “wanting” these days? The latest phone so you can keep up with your friends? More money? Bigger muscles? Cooler wheels? Whatever it is, we need to never forget that this earth is just our temporary living place. Everything we need to live this life for Jesus He has already given us. We just need to live it. *Are you having an impact on your friends for Jesus or are they impacting you towards worldliness? I learned early in my Christian life, that if I don’t see myself as a missionary, it won’t be long before I’m the mission field! How about you? In what tangible ways are you being an ambassador? Really, who wants to live an ineffective and unproductive life!?~! Just sayin’… *This chapter teaches us that the Bible was written by GOD. Yes, He used people, but HE is the author and He gave them what to write. This is why we call it “God’s Word.” Think about this the next time we get busy and blow off reading it. When we do that, we put off the most impactful and powerful words we could ever receive for the day. Ouch. Lets read!

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 227 - 1 Peter 5: Ten Commands

Ok, so this is a cool chapter in which I find 10 commands. The first four commands are to leaders, the fifth to youth and the rest to everyone. Paul begins with an appeal and by putting himself on the same level as the other leaders in the church. Real leaders are those who serve alongside us not over us and real leaders keep their priorities in check! 1. BE Shepherds: (2a) The first & foremost responsibility of a pastor/shepherd is to care for his flock. This is an AWESOME responsibility! Too often today, the role of pastor is replaced by religious entrepreneurs with business plans. GOD wants shepherds! 2. BE Willing: (2b) God calls those who WANT to shepherd, not people who feel they “have” to. Don’t sign up for stuff at church just because no one else is. Sign up because you WANT to and God will bless you! 3. BE Eager to Serve: (2c) Ok, if you’re in ministry for the money, you’re an idiot! I’m a pastor (yes, youth pastors are REAL pastors) because I can’t do anything else! I don’t mean I’m unskilled to do anything else, what I mean is I can’t because deep down I know God wants me pastoring students and I’d be miserable doing anything else because it would be outside God’s will for me! 4. BE Examples: (3) No one likes to serve a boss who gives them all the cruddy jobs. Jesus never asked His disciples to do anything He had not already done or was about to do with them. The same should be true of shepherds/pastors. We are to serve alongside as examples. 5. BE Submissive: (5a) Pride keeps young people from listening to older and older from trying to understand the young. Period. 6. BE Humble: (5b-6) God’s mighty hand is big enough to trust our lives with! 7. BE Worry-Free: (7) We are to give God all our anxiety because we are His personal concern (Phillips translation). Then we can truly have “hakunna matatta”!~ 8. BE Self-Controlled: (8) God’s people are to exercise both restraint and discipline. “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age…” – Titus 2:11-12 9. BE Alert: (8) Throughout the Bible we are continually reminded to be ready, not caught off guard and to stand firm. The enemy Satan is constantly trying to catch us! 10. BE Intimate: (14) Ok, this doesn’t necessarily mean we’re to go around kissing everyone! It was a cultural sign of affection, intimacy & love for another. The Bible says unbelievers will know we are Christians by our LOVE for one another. This Love is what ought to attract people to Jesus! SO WHAT?! *As a pastor/shepherd, caring for students & families at Grace Chapel in Castle Rock is an enormous responsibility that I do not take lightly. It’s also one I need help doing. As a result, every student in our ministry is prayed for daily and is shepherded as well. I’m not the parent, but I will have to give an account to God some day for the students He put under my care, and I want to do that well. How about you? Who are you in charge of caring for? *I’m cool with sign up lists – every church has them. But you won’t get a guilt trip from me if you don’t sign up. Those who WANT to serve are so much more pleasant to work with. Maybe, if people don’t sign up for something, could it be that God is saying not to do it?!~! Novel thought huh?!~! *Finally, vs 7 was one of the first verses I memorized as a new believer. It has been such a comfort to know I can release all my “crud” to God and trust Him with it. I believe it has saved me many an ulcer! I encourage you to do the same right now! We ARE God’s personal concern!

Monday, November 12, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 226 - 1 Peter 4: Living & Suffering

Jesus said in John 16:33, “In this world you will have trouble.” Trials, persecution & suffering will always be a part of our lives. It’s HOW we face them that makes the difference. In the first 6 verses, Peter describes how a radically transformed life will impact others. Having a Christ-like attitude, not living for ourselves but instead living for God will not only baffle them (“they think it strange”) but also cause them to “heap abuse on you.” Yeah – he’s saying these things are to be expected, but take heart, Jesus has overcome the world! In the midst of tough times, we are to “be clear minded and self-controlled so that we can pray, love each other deeply, offer hospitality to one another without grumbling and use whatever gift we have received to serve others…” Why? “So that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.” Nothing is better, when we are suffering, than to know others are in it with us! Finally, Peter once again reminds us that suffering should not surprise us. And here’s the attitude we are to have “rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed, praise God that you bear His name…… So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” SO WHAT?! *What are you facing right now that is just plain not fun? How are you handling it? Why not take some time right now and ask God to help you put into practice the attitudes listed in this chapter?! *Ever feel like you’re doing all the right things but suffering even more? The believers Peter was writing to of his day must have felt the same way because he told them to “commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” In spite of the temporary, earthly results, be encouraged, you’re doing the right thing! *Do you feel alone in your suffering? That’s no fun! Hey, the Castle Rock Freund’s have seen a lot of changes lately and have felt pretty alone at times. Maybe this is how you’re feeling. Let me encourage you not to slouch into “loneliness pity” but instead to seek out a close friend or two who will pray with you through these times. You will be blessed if you do!

Friday, November 9, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 225 - 1 Peter 3: Dedication, Preparation, Conversation, Cooperation

With a rhyming title like this, I should be Baptist! Anyway, Peter continues describing submission and here what it should look like between husbands & wives. I find it interesting that he equates submission with inner beauty. In a world that focuses on the external, Peter explains to women that even an unbelieving husband can get saved “when they see the purity and reverence of your lives.” Not only that, but a woman’s beauty “should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight.” This is good stuff ladies. Guys – live with your wife in an understanding way. Yes, that means things like listening more, telling her regularly you love her, maybe even shopping with her! The rest of the chapter returns back to Peter’s theme of suffering. I believe the key is found in four phrases: Dedication: We are to “in our hearts set apart Christ as Lord.” Our commitment to Jesus is to be the foundation for suffering. Preparation: We are also to “Always be prepared…” The Christian life requires discipline! Conversation: “…to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” As we prepare, we begin to know what we believe and why we believe it so we can share that good news with others: “For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.” Cooperation: “But do so with gentleness and respect…” You and I can’t MAKE anyone believe in Jesus, the Holy Spirit must draw them. Trust me, if we could, I would! But what we can do is BE Jesus to peeps and invite them into a loving, caring community of Jesus-centeredness! So What?!~ *Are you married? If so, in what way can you this week be more understanding of your spouse? If you’re not married yet, make this a good time of preparation, learning to be understanding! *What gets you through tough times? I can honestly say for me it’s JESUS! I wasn’t doing very well before I knew Him! Now it can be Jesus in another person, or Jesus in the Word of God or Jesus in actions – but it’s still Jesus! What are you going through right now that you need Jesus to help you through? He can AND HE WANTS TO HELP! Call on Him today! *Are you prepared to tell someone how they can know Jesus? Can you explain the points of the Gospel? If not, memorize them today! Here is a good resource: http://www.dare2share.org/gospeljourney/

Thursday, November 8, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 224 - 1 Peter 2: Therefore, Living Legos, Royalty & Submission

I love building things. And for me, growing up it was Lincoln Logs. Brown notched out logs, red roof beams & green slats all together to form buildings. Then came Legos – colorful, multi-shaped pieces which transformed every 8 year old boy into a building machine! Yeah…..even though they were “after my time” as a kid, I still keep a box in my office to help with creativity! In this chapter, Jesus is referred to as the “Prime Lego” of a spiritual building in which all of us are a part. Before we get there though, we’re reminded to put into practice chapter 1. 1-3: “Therefore” – because God has given believers new birth into a living hope, with an incredible inheritance, we are to live differently. We are to “rid” ourselves of old ways of living and instead “crave” the things of God! 4-8: Living Legos: The cornerstone was an important stone that held two rows of stones together in a corner. Once it was in place, the rest of the building was determined. The capstone is the most important part of the building. It completes, strengthens and unifies the walls. Without it, the walls would be weak. Jesus is THE Living Stone (Lego). Unbelievers are the builders. Believers are living stones as well – chosen, precious and at times, rejected. 9-10: These verses say believers are Royalty! How awesome to be the King’s kid!~ And with a purpose, “that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” 11-12: Our loyalty to God is seen in our actions, how we live this life God has given us. By doing so, it silences the critics and points people to God. 13-21: Submission is one of life’s paradoxes. The sin nature in all of us battles to do what we want, yet it is in submission that we can truly live! Here, Peter says that as we submit to authorities and suffer, we are commended by God! 22-25: There is no greater example of submission & suffering that that of our Lord! To be totally innocent and say nothing requires incredible restraint and trust in God – all of which Jesus demonstrated. SO WHAT?! *This passage teaches us that we are part of spiritual building. Where do you see yourself: The supporting beams? A wall? The roof? How is your role in the body helping “hold things together”? *We also read that God has “called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” In what dark rooms of your life has God “turned on a light”? What will you do about it? *Of all the authorities in your life, which ones do you have the hardest time submitting to? Will you ask God for humility & strength to obey? *Finally, take out that box of Legos & build something today with this passage in mind! A cheerful heart is good medicine!

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 223 - Intro & 1 Peter 1: Salvation & Grace Living

Introduction: The book was written by the apostle Peter around 64ish AD to both Jewish (vs 1: scattered) & Gentile (vs 14: ignorance) Christians. It was written to offer encouragement to suffering Christians in the midst of a society that was ignorant of the true God. “Christ/Jesus/Lord” is used 46 times – indicating the key to persevering in suffering is to focus on Christ! There is no other disciple whom Jesus was closer to than Peter. During the three years they spent together, Jesus showed & taught Peter a lot of lessons. As stubborn as Peter was, this book reveals that he learned those lessons! Here’s proof: · Submission – Matthew 17:24 - $ in mouth of fish, pay taxes. He got it = 1 Peter 2:13ff · Restraint – John 18 – Peter cut off the guards ear w/ his sword (frankly, I think he was going for his head!). Jesus told him “Live by the sword, die by the sword” – Mathew 26:52. He got it = 1 Peter 2:23 · Humility – “I’ll never leave you Jesus….. all others but not me” He got it = 1 Peter 5:5 · Sacrifice – John 21:19 – “You are gonna’ be a martyr Peter” – He got it = 1 Peter 4:19 · Love – Easy as a leader to get “task oriented” rather than “people oriented!” – John 21 – “Do you LOVE me Peter?” – (maybe this is why he hooked up with John)….. He got it = 1 Peter 4:8 1 Peter 1: Salvation & Grace Living The first two verses show us the Trinity at work in saving us: God the FATHER, by His grace, CHOOSES people. God the SON, by His blood, SAVES those who believe. The HOLY SPIRIT then SANCTIFIES believers. What an amazing demonstration of God’s grace! The purpose of all this: “for obedience to Jesus Christ.” God’s Word was never just meant to be known but to also be obeyed!~ So what are we given once we are saved? A whole boatload of stuff! Specifically mentioned here is: - Inheritance & Security (3-5) - Faith & Joy (6-9) - Grace & Guidance (10-12) What then are the bi-products of being saved? Holiness (13-16), Reverence (17-21) and Love (22-25). In our next chapter we will be told how then to live as a result! COOL GOD STUFF! SO WHAT?! *What are you going through right now that seems overwhelming? 46 times Peter reminds us the focus is JESUS not our circumstances. Why not take a moment right now to give that circumstance to Him and focus on all the great things you have IN Him!?~ *According to this chapter, what % of your salvation are you responsible for? The answer is ZIP, nadda, zero, nothing!~ You & I can never earn our acceptance before God. It’s all based on what Jesus did for us that we could never do. Now that’s worth giving thanks for! *Finally, “prepare your minds for action, be self-controlled, set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance, be holy in all you do…”

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 222 - James 5: Warnings, Commands, Prayer

If yesterday’s rebukes weren’t enough, don’t fear, James has some more for us today – LOL!~ Let me begin by asking you – Are you rich? The question can be pretty relative, but I ask it anyway. I’m certainly rich! I live in the richest country in the world. I’m rich. I live in Castle Rock, CO, which is located in one of the most affluent counties in the nation. I’m rich. We have two vehicles, 4 TV’s, 2 computers, 3 cell phones. And most of all, we have JESUS! We’re rich! We may not have as much money as most of those around us, but we’re rich. And so are you! Which brings me to this point: James is addressing US in this chapter – YOU & ME. Five times he says it! YOU have hoarded wealth… YOU failed to pay the workmen… YOU lived on earth in luxury & self-indulgence… YOU have fattened yourselves… YOU have condemned & murdered innocent men… Whenever we earn or receive money and think it’s ours, instead of realizing we are managers of God’s money, it causes selfish problems: hoarding, stingy-ness, spending it all on ourselves and, sadly, “murdering” the poor – people in financial need who are dying for help – help we could give! I realize there will always be more needs than I can ever meet. But one by one I am to seek to meet needs with what the Lord has given! This takes patience – for it means sacrificially giving, and having to do without ourselves. AND we are not to grumble in doing it. It also takes integrity. If we say we will help, we must. God’s name is at stake! We are to let our “Yes” be yes and our “No” be no! Finally, James calls his readers to prayer! It could very well be that the trouble, unhappiness & sickness mentioned in 13-14 came from people being shown unfair favoritism, receiving tongue lashings, having promises broken and the poor being dissed. So we should PRAY! We need the strength of heaven to combat the stuff of this earth! SO WHAT?! *How are you managing the riches God has given you? Let’s not compare ourselves with others! We will never have to answer for what others have, but we will give an account to God of what He gave us. So, who could you & I help out today financially? Know of anyone going thru some financial troubles? Surpise ‘em! Doesn’t matter how much the gift, God will use it! *When was the last time you went to God desperate in prayer? I believe God loves to hear us cry out to Him because it shows we NEED Him – and God loves to be needed and CAN MEET our every need!

Monday, November 5, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 221 - James 4: Rebuke

Chapter 3 ends with “Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.” Then chapter 4 begins with “What causes fights and quarrels among you?” Quite the contrast huh?! It’s hard to read this chapter without feeling rebuked! And we all know how much we love that, yet rebuke is one of the very things God’s word is useful for (2 Timothy 3:16). Maybe the first 12 verses from God should be rephrased like this: “You selfish pig (1-3), choose your side (4-6), humbly repent (7-10) and let me take care of your brother (11-12).” Nah, that’s too convicting! Anyway, I believe the big idea here is submission to God. When we live a life of daily trusting the Lord to meet our needs, it helps remove selfishness, draws us closer in our friendship with God and makes us humbly treat others with the same mercy & grace we have received. James goes on to address the prideful spirit of making plans without God. It’s easy to forget that we’re really not here on this planet very long before we spend eternity elsewhere! That’s why James tells us “Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." So – will you do it? “Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.” Ouch. SO WHAT?! *Selfishness, pride and fear often get in the way of what God wants to do TO us and THRU us. What about you? Is there a relationship that has caused quarrels and now it’s strained? Why not ask God to give you the strength today to make it right?! “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” *Making plans is not bad. Actually I believe if you aim at nothing you’ll hit it every time. But when we make plans and leave God out of the picture, that’s when it’s bad. What plans do you have? Hopes? Desires? Dreams? Why not pray to the Lord and give them over to Him?! They may turn out even better than we could have ever hoped for!!! *Finally, I believe that most of the time we think of sin as things we DO. But the last verse of this chapter tells us that sin is also the things we know we should do but don’t! Has the Holy Spirit prompted you to do something recently that you ignored? Like maybe telling that friend about Jesus? If so, let’s ask God’s forgiveness and then ask Him to help us to DO what we know we should!

Thursday, November 1, 2012

260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 219 - James 2: Favoritism & Genuine Faith

James is in our face with two topics in chapter 2: Favoring some people over others and how works demonstrate true faith. 1-13: I don’t know about you, but if the events of theses few verses actually occurred in our church, I’d be furious! Maybe it’s because I have been that shabby clothed, poor outcast. Maybe it’s because I work with students and they always seem to get blamed for whatever is broken or stolen. Maybe it’s because deep down, I know that I too show favoritism at times…….ouch! If we’re honest, all of us are prone to partiality. Maybe it doesn’t look like these verses, but we do it. Maybe for us it’s the tendency to go talk with the good looking or funny or athletic person, instead of the plain or overweight or depressed person that requires a lot of maintenance. Maybe it’s not confronting someone in sin because they are your boss or in the church because they give a lot. Maybe it’s planting a church in an affluent neighborhood because you know they can financially help instead of planting a church in a poor area of town because it can drain resources – yet both need Jesus. Whatever the scenario, James (actually GOD) says it’s wrong! Why? Because it causes us to make unfair, inappropriate judgments on people; “have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?” Instead, we are to “Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!” Yikes! 14-26: These next few verses have often been used to say that the Bible contradicts itself. Paul says Christians are saved by grace thru faith, not works, and here it seems like James says it’s works. WRONG!~ Paul and James do not disagree. Paul is speaking of salvation, what it takes to be made right with God – by grace thru faith alone. Here, James is dealing with sanctification, how a person lives out their faith. To explain this he uses Abraham and reminds us, “You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did.” Deeds are not what makes a person right with God but are a natural by-product of a person who HAS a relationship with Jesus! It can’t be just intellectual: “You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.” SO WHAT?! *Who do you tend to favor? Come on, who is it? Will you ask God TODAY to help you quit doing that?! Ask Him also to remind us that we are no better than anyone else. And hey, I’ll do the same! *What makes a person right with God? GREAT question! What makes you or I right with God? It’s easy to get saved by grace and then try to keep up the relationship by works. Don’t do it. ALWAYS remember that our acceptance before God is never based on our performance! But that what we DO is just a “Thank You” back to God for all He’s done for us! Lord help our lives to be thank you letters back to You – today and every day!