Daily Devotions - August 2015
Monday August 3, 2015 - Have You Read the Manual?
I have to admit, that while I’m not much into reading instruction manuals I realize they’re extremely important. Have you ever tried to do repairs on your car without taking a look at the owner’s manual? If you have, you probably remember the headaches and probably lost count of the wasted hours until you took a good look at the book. How about trying to repair an appliance around the home just by “eyeballing” the mechanics? That’s a dicey proposition at best.
Not only reading, but understanding the manual is essential. I can’t tell you the number of people that I’ve encountered who seem to have problems with the Bible, who after questioning I find have never really read it. Oh they’ve “heard things” or “thought something was in there”, but they’ve never bothered to check it out for themselves. Martin Luther King Jr. once said “Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.”
Yes, there are many who simply go about life day after day, never bothering to want to know what their own Creator has to say to them. Yet, these same people want a happy and contented life. We’re told in God’s Word there is only one way by which we might attain those things – Joshua 1:8 “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” (NKJV)
Interestingly, the Lord doesn’t instruct us to go on some kind of spiritual quest, or to look within through meditation and contemplative thought. He simply directs us to read His Word. It’s all there. It’s all been said, and it’s all for us.
God’s Word gives us direction and clarity for the situations of life – Psalm 119:105. His Word becomes a preventative against sin – Psalm 119:11. Along that line there’s a truism – “One week without God’s Word makes one weak”. You see, God created us with a need for Him. Unless we receive from Him we’re left to our own devices which simply translate into weakness and defeat.
So, let’s have the attitude of David, and make the Word of God a priority – Psalm 119:12-16 “Blessed are You, O Lord! Teach me Your statutes! With my lips I have declared All the judgments of Your mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies, As much as in all riches. I will meditate on Your precepts, And contemplate Your ways. I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word. “
The only way to have that attitude is to first open and read the Book. Start off every day in the Word – before you do anything else and it will transform your life.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord.
Pastor Tony
I have to admit, that while I’m not much into reading instruction manuals I realize they’re extremely important. Have you ever tried to do repairs on your car without taking a look at the owner’s manual? If you have, you probably remember the headaches and probably lost count of the wasted hours until you took a good look at the book. How about trying to repair an appliance around the home just by “eyeballing” the mechanics? That’s a dicey proposition at best.
Not only reading, but understanding the manual is essential. I can’t tell you the number of people that I’ve encountered who seem to have problems with the Bible, who after questioning I find have never really read it. Oh they’ve “heard things” or “thought something was in there”, but they’ve never bothered to check it out for themselves. Martin Luther King Jr. once said “Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.”
Yes, there are many who simply go about life day after day, never bothering to want to know what their own Creator has to say to them. Yet, these same people want a happy and contented life. We’re told in God’s Word there is only one way by which we might attain those things – Joshua 1:8 “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” (NKJV)
Interestingly, the Lord doesn’t instruct us to go on some kind of spiritual quest, or to look within through meditation and contemplative thought. He simply directs us to read His Word. It’s all there. It’s all been said, and it’s all for us.
God’s Word gives us direction and clarity for the situations of life – Psalm 119:105. His Word becomes a preventative against sin – Psalm 119:11. Along that line there’s a truism – “One week without God’s Word makes one weak”. You see, God created us with a need for Him. Unless we receive from Him we’re left to our own devices which simply translate into weakness and defeat.
So, let’s have the attitude of David, and make the Word of God a priority – Psalm 119:12-16 “Blessed are You, O Lord! Teach me Your statutes! With my lips I have declared All the judgments of Your mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies, As much as in all riches. I will meditate on Your precepts, And contemplate Your ways. I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word. “
The only way to have that attitude is to first open and read the Book. Start off every day in the Word – before you do anything else and it will transform your life.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord.
Pastor Tony
Tuesday August 4, 2015 - Keep Your Eyes on the Lord
It’s been said that “Fear is faith that won’t work out.” Okay, enough of that. The point is many of us are anxious, fearful and worried about so many things. God’s Word has much to say about fear and anxiety, probably because much like the common cold it’s an annoying condition that is bound to attack each of us at one time or another.
Believers certainly aren’t immune to the condition, so we find the apostle Paul addressing this issue with the Philippian believers – Philippians 4:6-7 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (NKJV)
Paul wasn’t on the top of the world when he wrote this. It’s fairly easy to offer encouragement to others when things are going well with us and we can look at their difficulties from a distance. It’s a much different idea when we are the encourager even though we are in far more difficult straits than they are. Paul wrote this letter of encouragement while he was in prision. He was in chains but he was encouraging those who were walking around free. Imagine that!
Yet he isn’t just saying “smile, be happy” rather he’s saying exactly why the believer should not succumb to anxiety. He’s also teaching a great sermon on what our prayer lives should look like.
First we should notice that Paul is saying that “everything” is provided for by the Lord. Therefore, he says “be careful” or “anxious” for nothing. You see, the problem is that we are often “moved” or “thrown” by things in life for the very reason that we count our lives as “dear” to ourselves. I think that’s why Jesus said that we have to “lose” our lives in order to truly “find” our lives.
The believer needs to have such confidence in God, that he or she is therefore freed from anxiety and there should be such dependence upon the Lord that it creates a great sense of calm and peace.
While nothing should cause us to become fearful and anxious, everything should be committed to the Lord. There’s nothing that is too big or too small to be brought before Him. I like what Albert Barnes said in his commentary on this verse: “There is nothing which pertains to body, mind, estate, friends, conflicts, losses, trials, hopes, fears, in reference to which we may not go and spread it all out before the Lord.” That really says it all.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord.
Pastor Tony
It’s been said that “Fear is faith that won’t work out.” Okay, enough of that. The point is many of us are anxious, fearful and worried about so many things. God’s Word has much to say about fear and anxiety, probably because much like the common cold it’s an annoying condition that is bound to attack each of us at one time or another.
Believers certainly aren’t immune to the condition, so we find the apostle Paul addressing this issue with the Philippian believers – Philippians 4:6-7 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (NKJV)
Paul wasn’t on the top of the world when he wrote this. It’s fairly easy to offer encouragement to others when things are going well with us and we can look at their difficulties from a distance. It’s a much different idea when we are the encourager even though we are in far more difficult straits than they are. Paul wrote this letter of encouragement while he was in prision. He was in chains but he was encouraging those who were walking around free. Imagine that!
Yet he isn’t just saying “smile, be happy” rather he’s saying exactly why the believer should not succumb to anxiety. He’s also teaching a great sermon on what our prayer lives should look like.
First we should notice that Paul is saying that “everything” is provided for by the Lord. Therefore, he says “be careful” or “anxious” for nothing. You see, the problem is that we are often “moved” or “thrown” by things in life for the very reason that we count our lives as “dear” to ourselves. I think that’s why Jesus said that we have to “lose” our lives in order to truly “find” our lives.
The believer needs to have such confidence in God, that he or she is therefore freed from anxiety and there should be such dependence upon the Lord that it creates a great sense of calm and peace.
While nothing should cause us to become fearful and anxious, everything should be committed to the Lord. There’s nothing that is too big or too small to be brought before Him. I like what Albert Barnes said in his commentary on this verse: “There is nothing which pertains to body, mind, estate, friends, conflicts, losses, trials, hopes, fears, in reference to which we may not go and spread it all out before the Lord.” That really says it all.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord.
Pastor Tony
Wednesday August 5, 2015 - How Big is Your God?
If you haven’t been faced with a seemingly overwhelming situation in your life, chances are someday you will. Difficult circumstances are part of everyone’s life, yet the question is how we will handle them.
Job 1:13-20 “One day when Job’s sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house, a messenger came to Job and said, “The oxen were plowing and the donkeys were grazing nearby, and the Sabeans attacked and carried them off. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The fire of God fell from the sky and burned up the sheep and the servants, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!”
While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The Chaldeans formed three raiding parties and swept down on your camels and carried them off. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” While he was still speaking, yet another messenger came and said, “Your sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house, when suddenly a mighty windswept in from the desert and struck the four corners of the house. It collapsed on them and they are dead, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!”
At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship and said: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.” In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing.” (NIV)
Job had been faithfully following the Lord, yet these incredibly grievous circumstances befell him. When you read the rest of the book, you see the counsel that many of those closest to him gave. His wife for example said that he should simply curse God and then just die. That was her way of saying “give up, since all hope for you is lost”. How many of us have been there? Have you ever been at what you consider your “limits” and then were just ready to “throw in the towel” and give up? If so, then there’s a much more important question to ask; “how big is your God?”
Is your God only big enough for the small problems in life? Isn’t He the same God that spoke the universe into existence, parted the Red Sea, healed the sick and raised the dead? “Yes," you might say, “but maybe my problems are then too small for Him. He has so many other, more important issues to be concerned with.” If that’s the case, then we’re accusing the God of love, Who declared us to be the apple of His eye of being disinterested in our needs.
That’s not the God of the Bible. That’s not the loving Heavenly Father Who clothes the flowers of the field, and shows care and concern for the birds of the air – Matthew 10:29-31.
So, no matter how you look at it, the answer is clear – God sees, and is able to handle everything that’s going on in our lives. He is without question “big enough” and up to the task. Just when you are ready to say, “yeah but…” remember this wonderful promise – Ephesians 3:20-21 “ Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (NKJV)
Not only is He able and big enough, He’ll never fail.
“When you have nothing left but God, then you become aware that God is enough.” - Maude Royden
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord,
Pastor Tony
If you haven’t been faced with a seemingly overwhelming situation in your life, chances are someday you will. Difficult circumstances are part of everyone’s life, yet the question is how we will handle them.
Job 1:13-20 “One day when Job’s sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house, a messenger came to Job and said, “The oxen were plowing and the donkeys were grazing nearby, and the Sabeans attacked and carried them off. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The fire of God fell from the sky and burned up the sheep and the servants, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!”
While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The Chaldeans formed three raiding parties and swept down on your camels and carried them off. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” While he was still speaking, yet another messenger came and said, “Your sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house, when suddenly a mighty windswept in from the desert and struck the four corners of the house. It collapsed on them and they are dead, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!”
At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship and said: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.” In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing.” (NIV)
Job had been faithfully following the Lord, yet these incredibly grievous circumstances befell him. When you read the rest of the book, you see the counsel that many of those closest to him gave. His wife for example said that he should simply curse God and then just die. That was her way of saying “give up, since all hope for you is lost”. How many of us have been there? Have you ever been at what you consider your “limits” and then were just ready to “throw in the towel” and give up? If so, then there’s a much more important question to ask; “how big is your God?”
Is your God only big enough for the small problems in life? Isn’t He the same God that spoke the universe into existence, parted the Red Sea, healed the sick and raised the dead? “Yes," you might say, “but maybe my problems are then too small for Him. He has so many other, more important issues to be concerned with.” If that’s the case, then we’re accusing the God of love, Who declared us to be the apple of His eye of being disinterested in our needs.
That’s not the God of the Bible. That’s not the loving Heavenly Father Who clothes the flowers of the field, and shows care and concern for the birds of the air – Matthew 10:29-31.
So, no matter how you look at it, the answer is clear – God sees, and is able to handle everything that’s going on in our lives. He is without question “big enough” and up to the task. Just when you are ready to say, “yeah but…” remember this wonderful promise – Ephesians 3:20-21 “ Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (NKJV)
Not only is He able and big enough, He’ll never fail.
“When you have nothing left but God, then you become aware that God is enough.” - Maude Royden
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord,
Pastor Tony
Thursday August 6, 2015 - Wide
Open Spaces
I know that many people love the hustle and bustle of the city, yet there is also something great when you can enjoy the wide open spaces of nature. There’s just something special about having the space to roam and even grow.
We see a great picture of this in the Bible – Genesis 26:21-22 “Then they dug another well, and they quarreled over it too, so he named it Sitnah. He moved away from there and dug another well, and they did not quarrel over it; so he named it Rehoboth, for he said, "At last the Lord has made room for us, and we will be fruitful in the land." (NASB)
Isaac had inherited a great number of herds and flocks from his father Abraham. While Abraham basically lived a nomadic life moving from place to place, Isaac settled down in a farming area called Gerar. Even though he experienced a great deal of blessings, Isaac ended up in a number of territorial disputes. We see in verse 21 that he dug one particular well, and then the Philistines argued with him about the land, he named the place “Sitnah” which means hatred. The enemy often has a way of closing in on the child of God, attempting to cut off all possibility of the believer’s spiritual growth. Satan will attempt to use several methods to undermine the believer, from disagreements and discouragement to distractions. Here’s how the JB Philips translation of the New Testament puts it – Romans 12:1-2 “With eyes wide open to the mercies of God, I beg you, my brothers, as an act of intelligent worship, to give him your bodies, as a living sacrifice, consecrated to him and acceptable by him. Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould, but let God re-mould your minds from within, so that you may prove in practice that the plan of God for you is good, meets all his demands and moves towards the goal of true maturity.” (JBP)
Satan will often use the world system as an attempt to “squeeze” us into its mold, thus conforming to the world’s ways. While most people think of Christianity as narrow-minded, in reality it is the Lord who provides us with true freedom. While Isaac had been beset by only arguing and dissention, it wasn’t until he moved a little further to the open spaces of Rehoboth that he would really have enough room for his flocks, but most importantly it’s where he found peace, joy and fellowship with the Lord.
So let’s make this practical and apply it to our lives. Are you and I in a place of contention and striving? Are we at odds with someone on the job, in the home, or even in the church? If we are, we’ll never experience the most sought after peace and joy – with the Lord.
In order to find true joy, we need to get ourselves to the place of open spaces, our personal Rehoboth. That’s the place where the Lord will nurture, bless and grow us.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord,
Pastor Tony
I know that many people love the hustle and bustle of the city, yet there is also something great when you can enjoy the wide open spaces of nature. There’s just something special about having the space to roam and even grow.
We see a great picture of this in the Bible – Genesis 26:21-22 “Then they dug another well, and they quarreled over it too, so he named it Sitnah. He moved away from there and dug another well, and they did not quarrel over it; so he named it Rehoboth, for he said, "At last the Lord has made room for us, and we will be fruitful in the land." (NASB)
Isaac had inherited a great number of herds and flocks from his father Abraham. While Abraham basically lived a nomadic life moving from place to place, Isaac settled down in a farming area called Gerar. Even though he experienced a great deal of blessings, Isaac ended up in a number of territorial disputes. We see in verse 21 that he dug one particular well, and then the Philistines argued with him about the land, he named the place “Sitnah” which means hatred. The enemy often has a way of closing in on the child of God, attempting to cut off all possibility of the believer’s spiritual growth. Satan will attempt to use several methods to undermine the believer, from disagreements and discouragement to distractions. Here’s how the JB Philips translation of the New Testament puts it – Romans 12:1-2 “With eyes wide open to the mercies of God, I beg you, my brothers, as an act of intelligent worship, to give him your bodies, as a living sacrifice, consecrated to him and acceptable by him. Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould, but let God re-mould your minds from within, so that you may prove in practice that the plan of God for you is good, meets all his demands and moves towards the goal of true maturity.” (JBP)
Satan will often use the world system as an attempt to “squeeze” us into its mold, thus conforming to the world’s ways. While most people think of Christianity as narrow-minded, in reality it is the Lord who provides us with true freedom. While Isaac had been beset by only arguing and dissention, it wasn’t until he moved a little further to the open spaces of Rehoboth that he would really have enough room for his flocks, but most importantly it’s where he found peace, joy and fellowship with the Lord.
So let’s make this practical and apply it to our lives. Are you and I in a place of contention and striving? Are we at odds with someone on the job, in the home, or even in the church? If we are, we’ll never experience the most sought after peace and joy – with the Lord.
In order to find true joy, we need to get ourselves to the place of open spaces, our personal Rehoboth. That’s the place where the Lord will nurture, bless and grow us.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord,
Pastor Tony
Friday August 7, 2015 - Worshipping the Lord
What do you think of when worshipping the Lord comes to mind? Is it singing worship songs in your car or in church? Maybe it’s your giving or service in a particular ministry at church. You can probably think of many more ways. Each of these can actually be considered as an act of worship, as long as they are done with the proper attitude.
The right attitude must be the key to everything that we do if it is to be done as worship. Notice the words of the Lord as He addressed the "feigned" worship of the Israelites, who were basically "going through the motions" in their time of worship – Isaiah 29:13 “Therefore the Lord said: "Inasmuch as these people draw near with their mouths And honor Me with their lips, But have removed their hearts far from Me, And their fear toward Me is taught by the commandment of men,” (NKJV)
Here we see that according to the Lord the heart is the “heart” of worship. As the saying goes, He’s not so much interested in our perspiration but rather the basis of our inspiration. While the Jewish leaders never quite “got” that, thankfully there was someone who did – Matthew 26:6-13 “ Now when Jesus was in Bethany, at the home of Simon the leper, a woman came to Him with an alabaster vial of very costly perfume, and she poured it on His head as He reclined at the table. But the disciples were indignant when they saw this, and said, "Why this waste? For this perfume might have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor." But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, "Why do you bother the woman? For she has done a good deed to Me. For you always have the poor with you; but you do not always have Me. For when she poured this perfume on My body, she did it to prepare Me for burial. Truly I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be spoken of in memory of her." (NASB)
Jesus knowing everything also knew the heart of someone who was worshipping Him. She was doing her very best for Him at a time when He needed it the most. She wasn’t concerned with the cost, nor was she thinking of the spiritual significance of anointing Him for His burial. She was just expressing love in the only way she knew how. That is true worship, and that’s what the Lord desires from each of us.
So let’s show our love by offering our very best to Him, whatever that might be. And above all, let's make certain to make everything we do a true act of worship.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord,
Pastor Tony
What do you think of when worshipping the Lord comes to mind? Is it singing worship songs in your car or in church? Maybe it’s your giving or service in a particular ministry at church. You can probably think of many more ways. Each of these can actually be considered as an act of worship, as long as they are done with the proper attitude.
The right attitude must be the key to everything that we do if it is to be done as worship. Notice the words of the Lord as He addressed the "feigned" worship of the Israelites, who were basically "going through the motions" in their time of worship – Isaiah 29:13 “Therefore the Lord said: "Inasmuch as these people draw near with their mouths And honor Me with their lips, But have removed their hearts far from Me, And their fear toward Me is taught by the commandment of men,” (NKJV)
Here we see that according to the Lord the heart is the “heart” of worship. As the saying goes, He’s not so much interested in our perspiration but rather the basis of our inspiration. While the Jewish leaders never quite “got” that, thankfully there was someone who did – Matthew 26:6-13 “ Now when Jesus was in Bethany, at the home of Simon the leper, a woman came to Him with an alabaster vial of very costly perfume, and she poured it on His head as He reclined at the table. But the disciples were indignant when they saw this, and said, "Why this waste? For this perfume might have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor." But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, "Why do you bother the woman? For she has done a good deed to Me. For you always have the poor with you; but you do not always have Me. For when she poured this perfume on My body, she did it to prepare Me for burial. Truly I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be spoken of in memory of her." (NASB)
Jesus knowing everything also knew the heart of someone who was worshipping Him. She was doing her very best for Him at a time when He needed it the most. She wasn’t concerned with the cost, nor was she thinking of the spiritual significance of anointing Him for His burial. She was just expressing love in the only way she knew how. That is true worship, and that’s what the Lord desires from each of us.
So let’s show our love by offering our very best to Him, whatever that might be. And above all, let's make certain to make everything we do a true act of worship.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord,
Pastor Tony
Monday August 10 - While We Wait
Waiting is probably the activity I least enjoy in life. I’ll admit, I’m not very good at it. Whether it’s standing on line (probably the worst), or stuck in traffic (no, that’s worse), or waiting for someone who should have been ready hours ago (that’s even worse)… you get the point. Waiting is often difficult.
The Bible says a lot about waiting. David the great psalmist wrote quite a bit about the subject, but you see he learned how to wait. Remember Samuel anointed David as king while Saul was still in power. David had to wait quite awhile before he could receive the kingdom. During that time he went from being highly favored by Saul to being sought after and then fleeing for his life. It was on one of those occasions that he wrote the following: Psalms 25:5 “Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You [are] the God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day.” (NASB)
In another instance this is what he said: Psalms 27:14 “Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!” (NASB)
Notice, David was instructing us not only about the need to wait, but that there are actually things which we should be doing while waiting:
Psalms 25:5 we should be attentive. Waiting for the Lord’s instructions. He’s teaching you something during the waiting period.
Psalms 27:14 we should allow Him to strengthen and give us courage. In other words He will enable us to endure it.
Psalms 37:7 we are told not only to wait, but to rest while we are waiting. Don’t stress out. In His wisdom, God is creating an opportunity for us to rest in Him, while He causes us to wait.
Psalms 37:34 we are to keep His way while we wait. In other words we are to simply be obedient as we wait. Or as the Lord often tells me – “trust and obey”
Psalms 52:9 gives us a picture of praising or worshipping while we wait. What a beautiful thing that is.
On the other hand, Psalms 62:5 speaks of being silent – or literally not voicing an argument or complaint as we wait on the Lord.
There are many other pictures all throughout Scripture of the attitude that we are to have as we wait on the Lord. However, in each the idea is the same – we are to submit to His will, whether it be by resting, trusting, praising, etc.
As David said – “Wait, I say on the Lord!”
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony
Waiting is probably the activity I least enjoy in life. I’ll admit, I’m not very good at it. Whether it’s standing on line (probably the worst), or stuck in traffic (no, that’s worse), or waiting for someone who should have been ready hours ago (that’s even worse)… you get the point. Waiting is often difficult.
The Bible says a lot about waiting. David the great psalmist wrote quite a bit about the subject, but you see he learned how to wait. Remember Samuel anointed David as king while Saul was still in power. David had to wait quite awhile before he could receive the kingdom. During that time he went from being highly favored by Saul to being sought after and then fleeing for his life. It was on one of those occasions that he wrote the following: Psalms 25:5 “Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You [are] the God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day.” (NASB)
In another instance this is what he said: Psalms 27:14 “Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!” (NASB)
Notice, David was instructing us not only about the need to wait, but that there are actually things which we should be doing while waiting:
Psalms 25:5 we should be attentive. Waiting for the Lord’s instructions. He’s teaching you something during the waiting period.
Psalms 27:14 we should allow Him to strengthen and give us courage. In other words He will enable us to endure it.
Psalms 37:7 we are told not only to wait, but to rest while we are waiting. Don’t stress out. In His wisdom, God is creating an opportunity for us to rest in Him, while He causes us to wait.
Psalms 37:34 we are to keep His way while we wait. In other words we are to simply be obedient as we wait. Or as the Lord often tells me – “trust and obey”
Psalms 52:9 gives us a picture of praising or worshipping while we wait. What a beautiful thing that is.
On the other hand, Psalms 62:5 speaks of being silent – or literally not voicing an argument or complaint as we wait on the Lord.
There are many other pictures all throughout Scripture of the attitude that we are to have as we wait on the Lord. However, in each the idea is the same – we are to submit to His will, whether it be by resting, trusting, praising, etc.
As David said – “Wait, I say on the Lord!”
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony
Tuesday August 11,2015 - Buying Without Paying
You certainly don’t need me to remind you of the economic difficulties that many of us are facing these days. It seems that one thing is certain: the price of just about everything continues to rise. The poor economy has created an even greater problem – the credit crunch. More and more, people are buying now with the hope of being able to pay later. Wouldn’t it be great however if we could buy without ever having to pay?
That probably sounds oxymoronic, since the very idea of buying indicates there is some means of exchange that has taken place. In other words, I will give the desired goods or services if you give me something of equal value. There is however one particular instance where we can buy without paying a single cent – Isaiah 55:1-2 “Ho! Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat. Yes, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, And let your soul delight itself in abundance.” (NKJV)
Unlike the incessant television commercials lauding their over-priced products, in this passage of Scripture we find God making us the greatest offer ever – we can buy without money. We find Him offering us His very best. Did you notice the offer is universal? The offer of God’s best is made to “everyone who thirsts”. I love that. There’s no discrimination, no exclusion. The Lord gives an open invitation. If you’re thirsty come, if you hunger come on in the door is open. This is similar to the words of Jesus as He spoke to the multitudes – John 6:35-37 “And Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst. But I said to you that you have seen Me and yet do not believe. All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.” (NKJV)
The Lord’s wonderful invitation is that He will provide full, complete and lasting satisfaction for our needs. You see, He’s thorough in all that He does. He doesn’t just satiate our immediate needs, but provides that which is lasting and eternal. Yet many of us are simply interested in only the here and now. Our concern just seems to be about now. “Hey I want my belly filled now” or “I need that newest model today”. Notice the admonition from our text – Isaiah 55:2”Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, And let your soul delight itself in abundance.” (NKJV)
God voices His concern that we are often striving for all the wrong things. We’re spending money on what will never bring real sustenance much less satisfaction. On the other hand, His offer of abundant and eternal life is completely free (to us). Yes, there was a price, a very great price, but He paid it Himself. What a bargain!
If you’ve never taken Him up on His offer what in the world are you waiting for? You can “buy” it for free. You’ll never receive another offer like it.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord,
Pastor Tony
You certainly don’t need me to remind you of the economic difficulties that many of us are facing these days. It seems that one thing is certain: the price of just about everything continues to rise. The poor economy has created an even greater problem – the credit crunch. More and more, people are buying now with the hope of being able to pay later. Wouldn’t it be great however if we could buy without ever having to pay?
That probably sounds oxymoronic, since the very idea of buying indicates there is some means of exchange that has taken place. In other words, I will give the desired goods or services if you give me something of equal value. There is however one particular instance where we can buy without paying a single cent – Isaiah 55:1-2 “Ho! Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat. Yes, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, And let your soul delight itself in abundance.” (NKJV)
Unlike the incessant television commercials lauding their over-priced products, in this passage of Scripture we find God making us the greatest offer ever – we can buy without money. We find Him offering us His very best. Did you notice the offer is universal? The offer of God’s best is made to “everyone who thirsts”. I love that. There’s no discrimination, no exclusion. The Lord gives an open invitation. If you’re thirsty come, if you hunger come on in the door is open. This is similar to the words of Jesus as He spoke to the multitudes – John 6:35-37 “And Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst. But I said to you that you have seen Me and yet do not believe. All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.” (NKJV)
The Lord’s wonderful invitation is that He will provide full, complete and lasting satisfaction for our needs. You see, He’s thorough in all that He does. He doesn’t just satiate our immediate needs, but provides that which is lasting and eternal. Yet many of us are simply interested in only the here and now. Our concern just seems to be about now. “Hey I want my belly filled now” or “I need that newest model today”. Notice the admonition from our text – Isaiah 55:2”Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, And let your soul delight itself in abundance.” (NKJV)
God voices His concern that we are often striving for all the wrong things. We’re spending money on what will never bring real sustenance much less satisfaction. On the other hand, His offer of abundant and eternal life is completely free (to us). Yes, there was a price, a very great price, but He paid it Himself. What a bargain!
If you’ve never taken Him up on His offer what in the world are you waiting for? You can “buy” it for free. You’ll never receive another offer like it.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord,
Pastor Tony
Wednesday August 12,2015 - Basic Instructions
Have you ever tried to build something without reading the instruction manual because it seemed too long or detailed? Well, if you’re a guy, I already know the answer to that question is – yes. I think it might be something encoded in the male chromosome.
However, that quirky human characteristic has a definite downside. Many people also fail to spend time reading the most important instruction manual – God’s Word. Yes, the Bible is the instruction manual which God Himself has designed to bring fallen mankind into a personal relationship with Him.
It’s in the Bible where God reveals His character, plans and protective love for us – Psalms 19:7-11 “The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The decrees of the Lord are firm, and all of them are righteous. They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb. By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.” (NIV)
No wonder the Bible has often been referred to as Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.
That’s right it’s the instruction book which prepares us for eternity.
“Read the Bible, read the Bible! Let no religious book take its place. Through all my perplexities and distresses, I seldom read any other book, and I as rarely felt the want of any other.” – William Wilberforce
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony
Have you ever tried to build something without reading the instruction manual because it seemed too long or detailed? Well, if you’re a guy, I already know the answer to that question is – yes. I think it might be something encoded in the male chromosome.
However, that quirky human characteristic has a definite downside. Many people also fail to spend time reading the most important instruction manual – God’s Word. Yes, the Bible is the instruction manual which God Himself has designed to bring fallen mankind into a personal relationship with Him.
It’s in the Bible where God reveals His character, plans and protective love for us – Psalms 19:7-11 “The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The decrees of the Lord are firm, and all of them are righteous. They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb. By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.” (NIV)
No wonder the Bible has often been referred to as Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.
That’s right it’s the instruction book which prepares us for eternity.
“Read the Bible, read the Bible! Let no religious book take its place. Through all my perplexities and distresses, I seldom read any other book, and I as rarely felt the want of any other.” – William Wilberforce
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony
Thursday August 13, 2015 - Be Still
It’s amazing how fast-paced and hectic that our lives can be. Sometimes we have legitimate things which keep us busy, but more often than not we simply fill our lives with pleasant but trivial and often meaningless pursuits. In effect, we waste so much of the time God has given us.
Stats show that the average American spends nearly three hours per day watching television. Now while those numbers have gone down in recent years it’s only because the time spent on computers with social networking and other things have steadily climbed. The point is we find so little time to just be still.
Yes, stillness is almost a foreign word and concept, especially to those who live in large metropolitan areas where there’s almost always something to do or someplace to go. Yet, God’s Word shows that we should actually pursue stillness, especially a still heart or spirit – Psalms 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” (NKJV)
The New Living Translation renders it “Cease from striving” and Young’s Literal Translation says “Desist…” I actually like the latter two versions since they warn against engaging in a negative activity. The Lord is telling us that all pursuits away from Him are by their nature negative and therefore not beneficial to us. This is very much in line with what David’s son Solomon said after attempting to experience everything that he felt life had to offer him – Ecclesiastes 1:16-17 “ I communed with my heart, saying, "Look, I have attained greatness, and have gained more wisdom than all who were before me in Jerusalem. My heart has understood great wisdom and knowledge." And I set my heart to know wisdom and to know madness and folly. I perceived that this also is grasping for the wind.” (NKJV)
The Lord had blessed Solomon with wisdom and wealth beyond compare, but the king wasted it all on worthless pursuits. He set his heart on experiencing any and everything he could imagine. But in the end he recognized that to have everything and to be without God is simply foolishness and vanity – Ecclesiastes 2:15 “So I said in my heart, "As it happens to the fool, It also happens to me, And why was I then more wise?" Then I said in my heart, "This also is vanity." (NKJV)
So what is the answer? It’s in being still and quiet before the Lord. That’s where true strength, comfort and joy reside – Isaiah 30:15 “For thus says the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel: "In returning and rest you shall be saved; In quietness and confidence shall be your strength." But you would not,” (NKJV)
Did you notice the connection between quietness and rest? The Lord wants us to be still, and to rest quietly in His presence. Just as a shepherd would quiet and settle down his flock of sheep, our Lord desires to quiet and still our fretful hearts. He longs to fill us with His peace which surpasses all understanding.
So instead of engaging in a lot of unnecessary activity today, simply be still and let Him fill you with His peace.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord.
Pastor Tony
It’s amazing how fast-paced and hectic that our lives can be. Sometimes we have legitimate things which keep us busy, but more often than not we simply fill our lives with pleasant but trivial and often meaningless pursuits. In effect, we waste so much of the time God has given us.
Stats show that the average American spends nearly three hours per day watching television. Now while those numbers have gone down in recent years it’s only because the time spent on computers with social networking and other things have steadily climbed. The point is we find so little time to just be still.
Yes, stillness is almost a foreign word and concept, especially to those who live in large metropolitan areas where there’s almost always something to do or someplace to go. Yet, God’s Word shows that we should actually pursue stillness, especially a still heart or spirit – Psalms 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” (NKJV)
The New Living Translation renders it “Cease from striving” and Young’s Literal Translation says “Desist…” I actually like the latter two versions since they warn against engaging in a negative activity. The Lord is telling us that all pursuits away from Him are by their nature negative and therefore not beneficial to us. This is very much in line with what David’s son Solomon said after attempting to experience everything that he felt life had to offer him – Ecclesiastes 1:16-17 “ I communed with my heart, saying, "Look, I have attained greatness, and have gained more wisdom than all who were before me in Jerusalem. My heart has understood great wisdom and knowledge." And I set my heart to know wisdom and to know madness and folly. I perceived that this also is grasping for the wind.” (NKJV)
The Lord had blessed Solomon with wisdom and wealth beyond compare, but the king wasted it all on worthless pursuits. He set his heart on experiencing any and everything he could imagine. But in the end he recognized that to have everything and to be without God is simply foolishness and vanity – Ecclesiastes 2:15 “So I said in my heart, "As it happens to the fool, It also happens to me, And why was I then more wise?" Then I said in my heart, "This also is vanity." (NKJV)
So what is the answer? It’s in being still and quiet before the Lord. That’s where true strength, comfort and joy reside – Isaiah 30:15 “For thus says the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel: "In returning and rest you shall be saved; In quietness and confidence shall be your strength." But you would not,” (NKJV)
Did you notice the connection between quietness and rest? The Lord wants us to be still, and to rest quietly in His presence. Just as a shepherd would quiet and settle down his flock of sheep, our Lord desires to quiet and still our fretful hearts. He longs to fill us with His peace which surpasses all understanding.
So instead of engaging in a lot of unnecessary activity today, simply be still and let Him fill you with His peace.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord.
Pastor Tony
Friday August 14, 2015 - Continuing in the Faith
While so many believers have unfortunately gotten off track by arguing about issues such eternal security or the even more dangerous issue of if we can even know whether or not if we are indeed saved, they seem to completely forget one of the great admonitions of the New Testament, which is to continue in the faith – Acts 14:21-23 “And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, "We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God." (NKJV)
In this verse we see Paul encouraging the believers to remain strong in their faith since they would be certain to undergo great difficulty in the days to come. What’s interesting is that this occurred right after some of the Jewish leaders had stoned and left him for dead (actually he did die and was caught up to heaven.) Yet, Paul’s main concern was to encourage the church to remain strong and steadfast in the face of certain persecution.
Another verse which speaks of the need to continue in the faith is Paul’s encouragement to the Colossian believers – Colossians 1:21-13 “And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight if indeed you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under heaven, of which I, Paul, became a minister.” (NKJV)
Despite having almost no power or influence, the Colossian church had been serving and living faithfully for the Lord. Paul wanted to remind them of the importance to remain steadfast and to keep their eyes on Christ. Many around them had become seduced by both false doctrine and persecution from the state. Paul wanted to remind this small band of believers that even though they had once been far from God, they had been reconciled to Him and made holy by Jesus. Therefore it was essential to remain grounded or literally “rooted” in Him. Just as a healthy plant must have strong roots which will supply nutrition, so must the child of God.
You see, our continuing in Christ is essential for not only our spiritual well-being but for our spiritual life. Remember Jesus is the Vine and we are simply the branches. The branches cannot have life except for the Vine.
No wonder Paul made the following statement – Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (NKJV)
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony
While so many believers have unfortunately gotten off track by arguing about issues such eternal security or the even more dangerous issue of if we can even know whether or not if we are indeed saved, they seem to completely forget one of the great admonitions of the New Testament, which is to continue in the faith – Acts 14:21-23 “And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, "We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God." (NKJV)
In this verse we see Paul encouraging the believers to remain strong in their faith since they would be certain to undergo great difficulty in the days to come. What’s interesting is that this occurred right after some of the Jewish leaders had stoned and left him for dead (actually he did die and was caught up to heaven.) Yet, Paul’s main concern was to encourage the church to remain strong and steadfast in the face of certain persecution.
Another verse which speaks of the need to continue in the faith is Paul’s encouragement to the Colossian believers – Colossians 1:21-13 “And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight if indeed you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under heaven, of which I, Paul, became a minister.” (NKJV)
Despite having almost no power or influence, the Colossian church had been serving and living faithfully for the Lord. Paul wanted to remind them of the importance to remain steadfast and to keep their eyes on Christ. Many around them had become seduced by both false doctrine and persecution from the state. Paul wanted to remind this small band of believers that even though they had once been far from God, they had been reconciled to Him and made holy by Jesus. Therefore it was essential to remain grounded or literally “rooted” in Him. Just as a healthy plant must have strong roots which will supply nutrition, so must the child of God.
You see, our continuing in Christ is essential for not only our spiritual well-being but for our spiritual life. Remember Jesus is the Vine and we are simply the branches. The branches cannot have life except for the Vine.
No wonder Paul made the following statement – Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (NKJV)
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony
Monday August 17, 2015 - God’s Guidance
Often we’ll hear someone say something along the lines of “God is leading me to do…” Is there a way to determine if it is actually God who is leading us? The following question is equally important and is probably asked almost as frequently – If we are going through difficulty does it necessary follow that God is not guiding us?
Well, we can actually find the answer to that question in the first scriptural mention of God’s leading – Exodus 13:17-18 “Then it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, "Lest perhaps the people change their minds when they see war, and return to Egypt." So God led the people around by way of the wilderness of the Red Sea. And the children of Israel went up in orderly ranks out of the land of Egypt.” (NKJV)
Those verses clearly show us how intimately the Lord was involved in delivering His children. In them we see three components to God’s guidance which we will also find whenever He’s leading and directing circumstances in our lives as well:
Purpose – God determined a purpose, to lead them out of Egypt for good. In Scripture, Egypt pictures the old sinful and worldly lifestyle which seeks to keep us in bondage.
Plan - The Lord devised a plan, which was to actually lead them through the wilderness. As we see from the verse, God knew best. The shortest and least difficult way is not always the best way. Quite often the Lord desires that we learn from difficult life experiences so that we and even those around us might grow.
Personal – God was personally involved as He led them both by pillars of fire and cloud. Therefore they moved at His direction. He didn’t leave the trip-planning to them. In the same way with us, when He is leading it means He must go before us.
The Lord knew the challenges and hardships of the wilderness. He knew that some wouldn’t make it and He knew that the trip would take forty years. He also knew that if He didn’t lead them through it the people would run back to Egypt at the first sign of trouble.
You see, God promises to lead and guide His people. It’s up to us to stay close enough (in His Word and in prayer) that we will be sure to hear His voice. We also need to look for His purpose, plan and personal involvement in whatever we are going through. And remember, it doesn’t always mean that things won’t be difficult or that we will always understand. But we will know that if He’s involved that He will be leading us in the proper direction which is always a closer relationship with Him - "God does not give us everything we want, but He does fulfill His promises...leading us along the best and straightest paths to Himself." – Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony
Often we’ll hear someone say something along the lines of “God is leading me to do…” Is there a way to determine if it is actually God who is leading us? The following question is equally important and is probably asked almost as frequently – If we are going through difficulty does it necessary follow that God is not guiding us?
Well, we can actually find the answer to that question in the first scriptural mention of God’s leading – Exodus 13:17-18 “Then it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, "Lest perhaps the people change their minds when they see war, and return to Egypt." So God led the people around by way of the wilderness of the Red Sea. And the children of Israel went up in orderly ranks out of the land of Egypt.” (NKJV)
Those verses clearly show us how intimately the Lord was involved in delivering His children. In them we see three components to God’s guidance which we will also find whenever He’s leading and directing circumstances in our lives as well:
Purpose – God determined a purpose, to lead them out of Egypt for good. In Scripture, Egypt pictures the old sinful and worldly lifestyle which seeks to keep us in bondage.
Plan - The Lord devised a plan, which was to actually lead them through the wilderness. As we see from the verse, God knew best. The shortest and least difficult way is not always the best way. Quite often the Lord desires that we learn from difficult life experiences so that we and even those around us might grow.
Personal – God was personally involved as He led them both by pillars of fire and cloud. Therefore they moved at His direction. He didn’t leave the trip-planning to them. In the same way with us, when He is leading it means He must go before us.
The Lord knew the challenges and hardships of the wilderness. He knew that some wouldn’t make it and He knew that the trip would take forty years. He also knew that if He didn’t lead them through it the people would run back to Egypt at the first sign of trouble.
You see, God promises to lead and guide His people. It’s up to us to stay close enough (in His Word and in prayer) that we will be sure to hear His voice. We also need to look for His purpose, plan and personal involvement in whatever we are going through. And remember, it doesn’t always mean that things won’t be difficult or that we will always understand. But we will know that if He’s involved that He will be leading us in the proper direction which is always a closer relationship with Him - "God does not give us everything we want, but He does fulfill His promises...leading us along the best and straightest paths to Himself." – Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony
Tuesday August 18, 2015 - When "Jesus" is not Enough
Did you know that there comes a point when claiming Jesus is not enough for your problems or situations? That’s right; there are times when “just Jesus” is not enough. I guess many of you are probably thinking I’ve lost it, and am teaching heresy. There are a couple of reasons for my statement, so let’s take a look at what I mean.
First, there are a number of people who consider themselves Christians, constantly invoking the name “Jesus” but who have never actually entered into a personal relationship with Him. They may consider themselves “Christian” because they grew up in a family of believers, or because they attended church as a child, or some think that not being Jewish or Muslim automatically makes one a Christian. Jesus however taught that it is necessary to have personal relationship with Him. He called Himself the Good Shepherd and us the sheep. Just as the sheep “know” their shepherd, we need to know our Shepherd – John 10:14 “I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own.” (NASB)
Secondly, we find a number of Christians that believe that since they’re saved they can live any way they please. After all, their salvation has been secured. Jesus has an answer for that way of thinking and living as well – Luke 6:46 “But why do you call Me 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do the things which I say?” (NASB)
We also read in John 8:31 “…"If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.” So we see the importance of abiding and obedience.
You see, while it’s important that we proclaim Christ, that’s just one part of the equation. There’s an old saying “many words that speak not too much.” Our words mean much more when they are backed by our actions. It’s no different when it comes to the profession of our faith. Do we only “speak” about Jesus, or do we “live” Him. The best testimony that any of us can have is when people look at our lives and can see Christ in us. The words are just the beginning. Words that give birth to action are what truly make a difference.
So let’s ask ourselves the question “are we living Christ”? I love the way the apostle Paul stated it – 2 Cor 3:2-3 “You are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read by all men; clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart.” (NASB)
The man or woman who is truly being effective for Christ is one who is a “living epistle” and whose life is being read by everyone they come in contact with.
So are you and I not only “naming” the name of Christ, but are we truly “living” Him?
Do our lives mirror our words? If so, keep it up. If not, there’s no better day to change than today. Make today the day that you really live for Him. You won’t regret it, and you’ll never have a better day.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony
Did you know that there comes a point when claiming Jesus is not enough for your problems or situations? That’s right; there are times when “just Jesus” is not enough. I guess many of you are probably thinking I’ve lost it, and am teaching heresy. There are a couple of reasons for my statement, so let’s take a look at what I mean.
First, there are a number of people who consider themselves Christians, constantly invoking the name “Jesus” but who have never actually entered into a personal relationship with Him. They may consider themselves “Christian” because they grew up in a family of believers, or because they attended church as a child, or some think that not being Jewish or Muslim automatically makes one a Christian. Jesus however taught that it is necessary to have personal relationship with Him. He called Himself the Good Shepherd and us the sheep. Just as the sheep “know” their shepherd, we need to know our Shepherd – John 10:14 “I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own.” (NASB)
Secondly, we find a number of Christians that believe that since they’re saved they can live any way they please. After all, their salvation has been secured. Jesus has an answer for that way of thinking and living as well – Luke 6:46 “But why do you call Me 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do the things which I say?” (NASB)
We also read in John 8:31 “…"If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.” So we see the importance of abiding and obedience.
You see, while it’s important that we proclaim Christ, that’s just one part of the equation. There’s an old saying “many words that speak not too much.” Our words mean much more when they are backed by our actions. It’s no different when it comes to the profession of our faith. Do we only “speak” about Jesus, or do we “live” Him. The best testimony that any of us can have is when people look at our lives and can see Christ in us. The words are just the beginning. Words that give birth to action are what truly make a difference.
So let’s ask ourselves the question “are we living Christ”? I love the way the apostle Paul stated it – 2 Cor 3:2-3 “You are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read by all men; clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart.” (NASB)
The man or woman who is truly being effective for Christ is one who is a “living epistle” and whose life is being read by everyone they come in contact with.
So are you and I not only “naming” the name of Christ, but are we truly “living” Him?
Do our lives mirror our words? If so, keep it up. If not, there’s no better day to change than today. Make today the day that you really live for Him. You won’t regret it, and you’ll never have a better day.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony
Wednesday August 19, 2015 - Mercy Triumphs
While it is essential that every believer continue to go forward and to “grow” in Christ, unfortunately many take that to mean an accumulation of head knowledge. Oh they’ll read their bible, diligently attend church service and may even become involved in ministry. While that’s a wonderful resume and is certainly moving in the right direction, it still falls short of what might be considered full growth. Yes, they often fail to realize that there’s something of equal importance which is needed to enhance our Christian growth. Notice what James had to say in his epistle – 2 James 2:13 “For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.” (NKJV)
You see, the believer who has only amassed knowledge is dangerously close to being like the Jewish religious leaders who made a career out of harassing Jesus for what they considered His flaunting of their laws and instead doing what Jesus seemed to do best “having compassion on the people."
In our passage, James makes it clear that mercy far outdistances pure knowledge which only leads to a harsh, unforgiving and ultimately judgmental attitude. Now let’s make it clear we aren’t speaking about having a carefree or lax attitude toward sin, since Jesus never did. He always confronted sin and the sinner. However, since He also met repentance with forgiveness shouldn’t we?
Interestingly, the attitude of mercy triumphing over judgment is even found outside of Scripture – “The quality of mercy is not strain’d; It droppeth, as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath: it is twice bless’d; It blesseth him that gives, and him that takes: ‘Tis mightiest in the mightiest; it becomes The throned monarch better than his crown; His scepter shows the force of temporal power, The attribute to awe and majesty, Wherein doth sit the dread and fear of kings; But mercy is above this sceptered sway, It is enthroned in the heart of kings, It is an attribute to God himself; And earthly power doth then show likest God’s When mercy seasons justice.”— William Shakespeare's “Merchant of Venice."
So the next time we’re confronted with the choice to render judgment or mercy, let’s choose mercy, both parties will always come out winners.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony
While it is essential that every believer continue to go forward and to “grow” in Christ, unfortunately many take that to mean an accumulation of head knowledge. Oh they’ll read their bible, diligently attend church service and may even become involved in ministry. While that’s a wonderful resume and is certainly moving in the right direction, it still falls short of what might be considered full growth. Yes, they often fail to realize that there’s something of equal importance which is needed to enhance our Christian growth. Notice what James had to say in his epistle – 2 James 2:13 “For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.” (NKJV)
You see, the believer who has only amassed knowledge is dangerously close to being like the Jewish religious leaders who made a career out of harassing Jesus for what they considered His flaunting of their laws and instead doing what Jesus seemed to do best “having compassion on the people."
In our passage, James makes it clear that mercy far outdistances pure knowledge which only leads to a harsh, unforgiving and ultimately judgmental attitude. Now let’s make it clear we aren’t speaking about having a carefree or lax attitude toward sin, since Jesus never did. He always confronted sin and the sinner. However, since He also met repentance with forgiveness shouldn’t we?
Interestingly, the attitude of mercy triumphing over judgment is even found outside of Scripture – “The quality of mercy is not strain’d; It droppeth, as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath: it is twice bless’d; It blesseth him that gives, and him that takes: ‘Tis mightiest in the mightiest; it becomes The throned monarch better than his crown; His scepter shows the force of temporal power, The attribute to awe and majesty, Wherein doth sit the dread and fear of kings; But mercy is above this sceptered sway, It is enthroned in the heart of kings, It is an attribute to God himself; And earthly power doth then show likest God’s When mercy seasons justice.”— William Shakespeare's “Merchant of Venice."
So the next time we’re confronted with the choice to render judgment or mercy, let’s choose mercy, both parties will always come out winners.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony
Thursday August 20, 2015 - Only One Life to Live
America is a land of fanatics. Whether its sports, music or the arts, we usually like to do things full throttle. For some, the interests have even become obsessions, so much so that they identify themselves by what they do. Just think about the number of adults you will see at many sporting events that will go to the ridiculous extremes of painting themselves in the colors of their favorite teams.
Now you might be wondering what does any of this have to do with our walk and relationship with the Lord. But it actually does, since while many people may take their hobbies and leisure interests to extremes, so few Christians will exert more than a tepid interest or response to the things of the Lord. They may attend church and read their Bible but that’s it. The Lord has become just a part of their life. While, Jesus wants to "be" our lives.
Here’s what the apostle Paul had to say – Galatians 2:20 “ I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (NKJV)
Paul’s identity was in Christ. He understood that His life now belonged to Jesus. Moreover, Christ was living in him. Therefore he understood that he was no longer his own, but that he had been purchased (from the slave market of sin) and now belonged to the Lord -1 Corinthians 6:20.
Can you and I say the same thing as Paul? Do we so identify with Christ that we can say that our lives are hid in Christ? Does Jesus give us identity, or is there something else that competes and rivals for that place in our heart?
Jesus doesn’t want 90% or 95%. He wants to be Lord of all of us. That means 100% surrender. When He has that He’ll take care of everything, guaranteed- “God is ready to assume full responsibility for the life wholly yielded to Him.” – Andrew Murray
Remember, we have but one life to live, so don’t waste a single moment of it.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony
America is a land of fanatics. Whether its sports, music or the arts, we usually like to do things full throttle. For some, the interests have even become obsessions, so much so that they identify themselves by what they do. Just think about the number of adults you will see at many sporting events that will go to the ridiculous extremes of painting themselves in the colors of their favorite teams.
Now you might be wondering what does any of this have to do with our walk and relationship with the Lord. But it actually does, since while many people may take their hobbies and leisure interests to extremes, so few Christians will exert more than a tepid interest or response to the things of the Lord. They may attend church and read their Bible but that’s it. The Lord has become just a part of their life. While, Jesus wants to "be" our lives.
Here’s what the apostle Paul had to say – Galatians 2:20 “ I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (NKJV)
Paul’s identity was in Christ. He understood that His life now belonged to Jesus. Moreover, Christ was living in him. Therefore he understood that he was no longer his own, but that he had been purchased (from the slave market of sin) and now belonged to the Lord -1 Corinthians 6:20.
Can you and I say the same thing as Paul? Do we so identify with Christ that we can say that our lives are hid in Christ? Does Jesus give us identity, or is there something else that competes and rivals for that place in our heart?
Jesus doesn’t want 90% or 95%. He wants to be Lord of all of us. That means 100% surrender. When He has that He’ll take care of everything, guaranteed- “God is ready to assume full responsibility for the life wholly yielded to Him.” – Andrew Murray
Remember, we have but one life to live, so don’t waste a single moment of it.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony
Friday August 21, 2015 - In the Light
Have you ever gone camping or been somewhere so dark that you literally could not see even inches before you? If you have, then you know it’s a strange feeling. There’s even an expression for that sensation: “it’s so dark you can feel it”.
Simply put, darkness can be foreboding and in some instances downright scary. The Bible tells us of a time when it was so dark that it could be felt. Remember when Pharaoh refused time and time again to let the children of Israel go? Because of the hardness of Pharaoh’s heart, the Lord used Moses to send numerous plagues upon Egypt, one of which was an incredibly eerie darkness – Exodus 10:21-23 “Then the Lord said to Moses, "Stretch out your hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, darkness which may even be felt." So Moses stretched out his hand toward heaven, and there was thick darkness in all the land of Egypt three days. They did not see one another; nor did anyone rise from his place for three days. But all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings.” (NKJV)
Did you notice what was going on there? The darkness clung to those in sin and unbelief, whereas the believers had light. That’s always the case. This story is a wonderful picture of the differences between believers and unbelievers.
Those who have rejected the gospel are living in spiritual darkness and are therefore spiritually blind, and unable to move in the right direction. It’s a life of stumbling and bumping, sort of “hit and miss” with everything they do. Here’s what the psalmist had to say - Psalms 107:10-14 “Those who sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, Bound in affliction and irons-- Because they rebelled against the words of God, And despised the counsel of the Most High, Therefore He brought down their heart with labor; They fell down, and there was none to help. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and He saved them out of their distresses. He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and broke their chains in pieces.” (NKJV)
We see here that it is the Lord who brings light. It’s the light of salvation, if you will. This is of course is the light of Christ which gives direction and freedom. We see from the gospel of John that was the very reason He came – John 1:9-13 “That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. “ (NKJV)
So, are you a child of the Light? Are you walking in the Light today? If you are then you have nothing to fear, the Lord will give His light and direction to your life. Just keep following His wonderful light.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony
Have you ever gone camping or been somewhere so dark that you literally could not see even inches before you? If you have, then you know it’s a strange feeling. There’s even an expression for that sensation: “it’s so dark you can feel it”.
Simply put, darkness can be foreboding and in some instances downright scary. The Bible tells us of a time when it was so dark that it could be felt. Remember when Pharaoh refused time and time again to let the children of Israel go? Because of the hardness of Pharaoh’s heart, the Lord used Moses to send numerous plagues upon Egypt, one of which was an incredibly eerie darkness – Exodus 10:21-23 “Then the Lord said to Moses, "Stretch out your hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, darkness which may even be felt." So Moses stretched out his hand toward heaven, and there was thick darkness in all the land of Egypt three days. They did not see one another; nor did anyone rise from his place for three days. But all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings.” (NKJV)
Did you notice what was going on there? The darkness clung to those in sin and unbelief, whereas the believers had light. That’s always the case. This story is a wonderful picture of the differences between believers and unbelievers.
Those who have rejected the gospel are living in spiritual darkness and are therefore spiritually blind, and unable to move in the right direction. It’s a life of stumbling and bumping, sort of “hit and miss” with everything they do. Here’s what the psalmist had to say - Psalms 107:10-14 “Those who sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, Bound in affliction and irons-- Because they rebelled against the words of God, And despised the counsel of the Most High, Therefore He brought down their heart with labor; They fell down, and there was none to help. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and He saved them out of their distresses. He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and broke their chains in pieces.” (NKJV)
We see here that it is the Lord who brings light. It’s the light of salvation, if you will. This is of course is the light of Christ which gives direction and freedom. We see from the gospel of John that was the very reason He came – John 1:9-13 “That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. “ (NKJV)
So, are you a child of the Light? Are you walking in the Light today? If you are then you have nothing to fear, the Lord will give His light and direction to your life. Just keep following His wonderful light.
Have a blessed and victorious day in the Lord!
Pastor Tony