54 Jesus replied, “If I glorify myself, my glory means nothing. My Father, whom you claim as your God, is the one who glorifies me. 55 Though you do not know him, I know him. If I said I did not, I would be a liar like you, but I do know him and obey his word. 56 Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad.”
John 8:54-56
The Jews were in disbelief in what Jesus was claiming. It was hard for them to believe that Jesus was the Messiah, as he did not match their expectations for a messiah figure. They expected their savior to come in glory and rescue them from the grips of Roman rule, but rather Jesus came as a humble handyman from Galilee that did not have status, wealth or power. He came in humility to disprove what our notions of what a ruler should be.
Jesus emphasizes the knowledge of God, yet the Jews were too focused on what they thought who God was. Rather than actually knowing God and his heart they knew it with empty knowledge read from scripture. They knew the laws, and traditions, but it was all meaningless. They were so caught up in acting Holy rather than listening and obeying the heart of God. They put too much emphasis on their bloodline and not enough on their personal relationship with the almighty.
It's been too long since I've spent time in the Word. These past few weeks have been a meaningless holy acts. Serving in the praise team.. Praying for meals or before I go to bed. Even when I do read, it doesn't stick in my mind. I know for a fact that these empty motions displeases God, yet I try to fake it just to get by. God knows whats in my heart and he knows I've been drifting away while I make excuses of tiredness or busyness in my schedule. There is no excuses to not spend time with him. If he is my God, he should be that priority in my life. I should make all the time to spend with the most beloved being in my life. Yet I don't. I sin and fall away. I think I know him through my pass experiences, but every day is a new experience and a new moment that reveals more who God is. Even with a million lifetimes, I still will not fully know him. God is unfathomable, and indescribable.
Jesus forgive me for falling away. I ask Holy Spirit that you would change my heart so that seeking after you would be my priority. Help me not to lose you during the day. Allow me to set apart time for you. I pray that you would help me learn about you more.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Friday, November 30, 2012
Self Control
3 It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; 4 that each of you should learn to control your own body[a] in a way that is holy and honorable, 5 not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God; 6 and that in this matter no one should wrong or take advantage of a brother or sister.[b] The Lord will punish all those who commit such sins, as we told you and warned you before. 7 For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. 8 Therefore, anyone who rejects this instruction does not reject a human being but God, the very God who gives you his Holy Spirit.
In Jesus Name Amen.
1 Thessalonians 4:3-8
Sexual immorality stems from practices of pagan rituals. God abhors sexual immorality as shown in the fall of Sodom and Gomorrah. Often times civic religion instructed sexual acts as a form of worship. The Thessolonians knew that Jesus was coming soon, yet many of them suffered long periods of persecution, even seeing their follow brothers and sisters be martyred or imprisoned. Paul warns not to fall away from the faith and to keep strong from such temptations that these Christians were once apart of.
As a guy, the temptation of lust is always in my mind. Even though there isn't a institution like those in the biblical time that promoted sex as an act of spiritual worship, our culture still embraces sexual acts as stimulant that is easily accepted and even praised among our peers. Being bombarded by sex in ads, movies, and other forms of media, I can't help but think about sex all day-everyday which causes me to sin all the more when I'm alone in the quiet of my room. God calls us to have self control and to be set apart. He made the act of sex a Holy and pleasing gift for us to enjoy in marriage, yet the world has desecrated it to another form of instant gratification that only leads to sin. In this I know my biggest flaw is that I lack the spiritual fruit of self control. I get tempted and I struggle as I will until I get married. And I'm sure once I'm married, I'll still struggle with lust, but I'm hoping that it'll decrease. Besides the point, I need more of God's spiritual fruit of self control. To control not only my hands, eyes, but also goes further in controlling my tongue as well. When I am tempted to look at pornography, I need to remember to pray or to listen to christian music. When I'm tempted with my gf, I need to call a buddy. Accountability is a big thing and I need more of it.
Jesus help me to have more self control. Forgive me for my past sins, but going forward I pray that you would help me to rely on you when I can't control myself. Thank you for being gracious and forgiving.
In Jesus Name Amen.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Imitators of christ
1 Thessalonians 1:6 NIV
You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit.
To be a Christian not only means to follow christ but to imitate him in all that he does. To Imitate his love his life and even into his suffering.
Sure it's not too much of a stretch to love people even love those who hate me, but to suffer like christ suffer is something I have a hard time doing. One thing that I truly can't stand is being blamed for something I didn't do. To take the hit for a friend is hard but for an enemy or a stranger is something I would never do. Christ took on sin even when he was innocent. He also suffer the physical pains for taking on sins of this world. Something I would never do. But this is what portrays God ultimate love and this is what I must imitate.
Jesus forgive me for saying I'm Christian when I can't fully imitate you. Help me Holy Spirit to be more like you. In jesus name amen
Monday, November 26, 2012
Being Prepared
25 “At that
time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and
went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Five of
them were foolish and five were wise. 3 The
foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. 4 The wise
ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. 5 The
bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell
asleep.
6 “At
midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’
7 “Then all
the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. 8 The
foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going
out.’
9 “‘No,’
they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to
those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’
10 “But
while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The
virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the
door was shut.
11 “Later
the others also came. ‘Lord, Lord,’ they said, ‘open the door for us!’
12 “But he
replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I don’t know you.’
13 “Therefore
keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.
The
Parable of the Bags of Gold
Matthew 25:1-13
Jesus will comeback to this world at an undisclosed time. Instead of predict the time of when he'll come back, we are to be prepared like the virgins that are awaiting for his arrival. Those virgins didn't prepare ahead of time are left outside of the wedding banquet.
The biggest fear I have is not be fully prepared when Jesus arrives or when I'm taken away from this earth. Preparation does not mean I'll be fully awake when he'll comeback, but more of a spiritual preparations When he sees me, will he be proud of me? Was I a righteous person on this world given and living selflessly or was I living selfishly. I know lately I have been living selfishly. I've been drawing away from him, but this verse is a good reminder as the Holy Spirit is pulling me back into God. I need to ready my heart and wait for his arrive. Always have that in my mind that Christ is near, and my time on this earth is only shortening. I also need not to be a stumbling block for others, especially my girlfriend.
Jesus help me to draw back to you. Help me to refocus myself in preparing for your future arrival. This time on earth is not for myself, but it's to serve you and allow you to be Lord over my life. Help me to not put my gf or other relationships before you, but help me truly to be you at the center of my life. Help me to be that spiritual leader to help those around me to draw closer to you.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Matthew 25:1-13
Jesus will comeback to this world at an undisclosed time. Instead of predict the time of when he'll come back, we are to be prepared like the virgins that are awaiting for his arrival. Those virgins didn't prepare ahead of time are left outside of the wedding banquet.
The biggest fear I have is not be fully prepared when Jesus arrives or when I'm taken away from this earth. Preparation does not mean I'll be fully awake when he'll comeback, but more of a spiritual preparations When he sees me, will he be proud of me? Was I a righteous person on this world given and living selflessly or was I living selfishly. I know lately I have been living selfishly. I've been drawing away from him, but this verse is a good reminder as the Holy Spirit is pulling me back into God. I need to ready my heart and wait for his arrive. Always have that in my mind that Christ is near, and my time on this earth is only shortening. I also need not to be a stumbling block for others, especially my girlfriend.
Jesus help me to draw back to you. Help me to refocus myself in preparing for your future arrival. This time on earth is not for myself, but it's to serve you and allow you to be Lord over my life. Help me to not put my gf or other relationships before you, but help me truly to be you at the center of my life. Help me to be that spiritual leader to help those around me to draw closer to you.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Keeping in Repentance
7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? 8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. 9 And do not think you can say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. 10 The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.
Matthew 3:7-10
John the baptist is preaches to the Pharisees and Sadducees to repent. Of all the sects, the Pharisees would be able to keep the law by performing all the necessary tasks to be deemed righteous in Gods eyes. Their association with being the children of Abraham had given them status as God's chosen hence they firmly believed that they would be saved. John speaks of the fruit keeping with repentance, which is not associate with salvation, but with the sanctification (being made more Christ-like) by the Holy Spirit. The Pharisees and Sadducees firmly believed that their deeds, association, and bloodline deemed them righteous in the eyes of God. God sees the heart not the empty motions.
I realize, the more I learn and know God, the great the rift is between God and I. Coming to God's presence, I feel it necessary to come in repentance. I wish this were so in all circumstances, but I forget at times how holy God is. I get so consumed in my daily activities, my relationships, and even ministry that I forget to know God at that intimate level. If I'm not approaching God in repentance then I definitely am not being sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
God forgive me for not coming to you in repentance. Forgive me for not having joy when it comes to helping Rosa with her video. Help me not to grumbling and losing patience, but to remember to have your characteristics to do things with patience and love. I pray Jesus that you would help me to better control myself when I do get frustrated, but also help me to better control myself in lust as well. Allow me to be sanctified. You are a Holy God, and I am not worthy to approach you, but you showed me grace through your blood.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Matthew 3:7-10
John the baptist is preaches to the Pharisees and Sadducees to repent. Of all the sects, the Pharisees would be able to keep the law by performing all the necessary tasks to be deemed righteous in Gods eyes. Their association with being the children of Abraham had given them status as God's chosen hence they firmly believed that they would be saved. John speaks of the fruit keeping with repentance, which is not associate with salvation, but with the sanctification (being made more Christ-like) by the Holy Spirit. The Pharisees and Sadducees firmly believed that their deeds, association, and bloodline deemed them righteous in the eyes of God. God sees the heart not the empty motions.
I realize, the more I learn and know God, the great the rift is between God and I. Coming to God's presence, I feel it necessary to come in repentance. I wish this were so in all circumstances, but I forget at times how holy God is. I get so consumed in my daily activities, my relationships, and even ministry that I forget to know God at that intimate level. If I'm not approaching God in repentance then I definitely am not being sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
God forgive me for not coming to you in repentance. Forgive me for not having joy when it comes to helping Rosa with her video. Help me not to grumbling and losing patience, but to remember to have your characteristics to do things with patience and love. I pray Jesus that you would help me to better control myself when I do get frustrated, but also help me to better control myself in lust as well. Allow me to be sanctified. You are a Holy God, and I am not worthy to approach you, but you showed me grace through your blood.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Friday, November 16, 2012
Comfort
3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. 5 For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ. 6 If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. 7 And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.
2 Corinthians 3-7
Paul is writing to the Corinthians in a time of turmoil. Christians are being persecuted, as they are being put to death or jailed because of their faith. Advances to spread the gospel to Asia has failed and has left many in disarray for the early Christians were going through a time of crisis where their lives are at stake. Paul encourages the church to comfort others just as they have been comforted by God. Verse 6 states that, if we are distressed, it is for our comfort and salvation. Comfort in latin means.. Com = With. Forte = Strength ~ so therefore "with strength" we endure the troubles of persecution. When we endure we share with Christ's the hardships he also endured. I believe salvation is a part of going through these trials solely because when we are struggling, we turn to God and chase after him.
I can't remember the last time I've experienced persecution that caused me to fear for my life. I realize I have it good here in the states, the most I endure are dirty looks or a label of being a bigot for being a Christ follower. Even then this is very minor which I easily get over. Christ has called me to know his name and comfort those around me who are enduring religious persecution. When the "member of the body mourns, I too shall more". I haven't been doing that as of much lately, being too focused on the comforts of life. That meaning of "with strength" has completely when out the window in the western world. I associate comfort as the ability to be at a state of happiness or easiness where God never implied my life to be easy. When I'm not chasing God to be comforted, then I'm not in a place where I can depend on God for all things. He isn't the center of my life. Finally, I need to remember those around me.. whether it be comforting a homeless person, a friend or a brother or sister in Christ who's suffering real persecution.. I need to remember to lift them up in prayer.
Jesus help me to be more aware of those who are suffering. Use me to strengthen and give hope to those who are hopeless. Help me to pray and build them up. Ultimately is it you that changes, heals and restores their hearts. Just use me as your vessel.
In Jesus Name
Amen
2 Corinthians 3-7
Paul is writing to the Corinthians in a time of turmoil. Christians are being persecuted, as they are being put to death or jailed because of their faith. Advances to spread the gospel to Asia has failed and has left many in disarray for the early Christians were going through a time of crisis where their lives are at stake. Paul encourages the church to comfort others just as they have been comforted by God. Verse 6 states that, if we are distressed, it is for our comfort and salvation. Comfort in latin means.. Com = With. Forte = Strength ~ so therefore "with strength" we endure the troubles of persecution. When we endure we share with Christ's the hardships he also endured. I believe salvation is a part of going through these trials solely because when we are struggling, we turn to God and chase after him.
I can't remember the last time I've experienced persecution that caused me to fear for my life. I realize I have it good here in the states, the most I endure are dirty looks or a label of being a bigot for being a Christ follower. Even then this is very minor which I easily get over. Christ has called me to know his name and comfort those around me who are enduring religious persecution. When the "member of the body mourns, I too shall more". I haven't been doing that as of much lately, being too focused on the comforts of life. That meaning of "with strength" has completely when out the window in the western world. I associate comfort as the ability to be at a state of happiness or easiness where God never implied my life to be easy. When I'm not chasing God to be comforted, then I'm not in a place where I can depend on God for all things. He isn't the center of my life. Finally, I need to remember those around me.. whether it be comforting a homeless person, a friend or a brother or sister in Christ who's suffering real persecution.. I need to remember to lift them up in prayer.
Jesus help me to be more aware of those who are suffering. Use me to strengthen and give hope to those who are hopeless. Help me to pray and build them up. Ultimately is it you that changes, heals and restores their hearts. Just use me as your vessel.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Love is Tenacious
7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
1 Corinthians 13:7
The key word in this verse is "always". In the KJV the word always is replaced with "all things". In short, Paul describes "all things" as "all the time". This description is exactly how Christ loved us. Time and time again, God has always reached out his ever present hand to rescue us from our sins. Being broken for us, so that we could be present with him in heaven. What an awesome God!
Reading this verse reminds me of what Christ has done on the cross. The grace and mercy that I don't deserve, Christ has fulfilled as he protected me from my own sins. Even when I sin over and over again, he's always willing to forgive and trust me for wanting to live a holier life - but of course I always fail. Christ has hope and won't give up on believing in me to live a life of obedience. And lastly Jesus always perseveres, as he was broken by the whip and hung on the cross. So easily could he have called on the angels aid him, yet he endured shame, pain and rejection from the father to save us from our sins. I'm just in awe of Christ and have a deeper desire of wanting to be more like him. I want to protect, trust, hope and persevere for those whom I love. The new and old relationships, and even to those who are unlovable.. I want to be more like Christ - Loving always.
Jesus, help me to love like you. Help me to be tenacious and active when loving on the people you send my way. I no longer want to love passively and be carried with the waves, but rather help me to be fierce and persistent in loving those around me. I also pray that you would break any pride and self worth, so that I can put others above myself when it comes to loving them. Thank you God
In Jesus Name
Amen.
1 Corinthians 13:7
The key word in this verse is "always". In the KJV the word always is replaced with "all things". In short, Paul describes "all things" as "all the time". This description is exactly how Christ loved us. Time and time again, God has always reached out his ever present hand to rescue us from our sins. Being broken for us, so that we could be present with him in heaven. What an awesome God!
Reading this verse reminds me of what Christ has done on the cross. The grace and mercy that I don't deserve, Christ has fulfilled as he protected me from my own sins. Even when I sin over and over again, he's always willing to forgive and trust me for wanting to live a holier life - but of course I always fail. Christ has hope and won't give up on believing in me to live a life of obedience. And lastly Jesus always perseveres, as he was broken by the whip and hung on the cross. So easily could he have called on the angels aid him, yet he endured shame, pain and rejection from the father to save us from our sins. I'm just in awe of Christ and have a deeper desire of wanting to be more like him. I want to protect, trust, hope and persevere for those whom I love. The new and old relationships, and even to those who are unlovable.. I want to be more like Christ - Loving always.
Jesus, help me to love like you. Help me to be tenacious and active when loving on the people you send my way. I no longer want to love passively and be carried with the waves, but rather help me to be fierce and persistent in loving those around me. I also pray that you would break any pride and self worth, so that I can put others above myself when it comes to loving them. Thank you God
In Jesus Name
Amen.
26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.
1 Corinthians 12:26
Paul is addressing the issue of division within the church of Corinth. The reason why the church was divided was because each of the members who served in different ways was acknowledged differently. The various roles and spiritual gifts that God has granted to them might not have been the most desired. As humans we tend to recognize and categorize importance of servitude. Paul is making a point that everyone is equal and all apart of the body. Likewise this verse also reflects the grander scale of the universal body of Christ. When one brother or sister suffers from persecution all suffers.
This verse is a wake up call for me to keep praying for the persecuted church. As in Pastor Charles sermon last week, I need to remember to keep praying for the lost souls and also the brothers and sisters who are in an area of persecution. The verse is also a reminder for me to not think less of others who serve in different capacities. All who serve for the body is of equal importance. As a praise team member, I sometimes get caught up in the music and the stage presence that I lose focus on why I'm serving the first place. I need to remember that everything I do is for God's glory.
Jesus forgive me not praying for the persecuted brothers and sisters who are suffering around the world. I pray that I would be in constant prayer for them and also for the lost friends in my life. I also pray that you would help me to be humble so that I would be able to serve you without any sinful motives. It's ultimately all for your Glory.
In Jesus Name
Amen.
1 Corinthians 12:26
Paul is addressing the issue of division within the church of Corinth. The reason why the church was divided was because each of the members who served in different ways was acknowledged differently. The various roles and spiritual gifts that God has granted to them might not have been the most desired. As humans we tend to recognize and categorize importance of servitude. Paul is making a point that everyone is equal and all apart of the body. Likewise this verse also reflects the grander scale of the universal body of Christ. When one brother or sister suffers from persecution all suffers.
This verse is a wake up call for me to keep praying for the persecuted church. As in Pastor Charles sermon last week, I need to remember to keep praying for the lost souls and also the brothers and sisters who are in an area of persecution. The verse is also a reminder for me to not think less of others who serve in different capacities. All who serve for the body is of equal importance. As a praise team member, I sometimes get caught up in the music and the stage presence that I lose focus on why I'm serving the first place. I need to remember that everything I do is for God's glory.
Jesus forgive me not praying for the persecuted brothers and sisters who are suffering around the world. I pray that I would be in constant prayer for them and also for the lost friends in my life. I also pray that you would help me to be humble so that I would be able to serve you without any sinful motives. It's ultimately all for your Glory.
In Jesus Name
Amen.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Free to Love
6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.
Galatians 5:6
Paul states that we are free through the grace of Jesus Christ. We no longer have to follow the law, but rather we are free through the simple act of faith we have in Christ. Paul urges Timothy in his letters to the people of Galatia not to be circumcised because the act would appease the Jews to believe that we must follow the law in order to be justified with Jesus. Once Christ died for our sins, we are no longer held to the law. In this passage Paul is urging that even then, nothing matters.. Tradition, rituals, religious activities... whatever it maybe. The only thing that God cares about is faith expressed through love.
This passage brings it back home for me. When I serve at church whether it be through the praise team, or CG, the only thing that matters is showing faith through the act of love. I often forget that my service to God is meaningless, but rather God is most satisfied when I love the people at church. Christ freed me from the law, so therefore I'm not longer obligated to get "circumcised" [act holy, pray harder/louder, give offering out of obligation etc...] but do everything in faith and love, just as Christ showed me love first. It really is freeing to know that what I do or don't do doesn't matter to God as long as I have faith in Him and return that love he gave me to other people.
Amazed...
Jesus thank you for giving me grace when I don't deserve it. It is so much easier now to follow you than what it mean to be a Jew during the old testament times. When my act of being holy could never be on par with what you wanted. I know I'm a sinner, yet you still loved me and accept me only by the faith I have in you. And in return I ask Holy Spirit that you would help me to love on others and to be sensitive to those in need.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Galatians 5:6
Paul states that we are free through the grace of Jesus Christ. We no longer have to follow the law, but rather we are free through the simple act of faith we have in Christ. Paul urges Timothy in his letters to the people of Galatia not to be circumcised because the act would appease the Jews to believe that we must follow the law in order to be justified with Jesus. Once Christ died for our sins, we are no longer held to the law. In this passage Paul is urging that even then, nothing matters.. Tradition, rituals, religious activities... whatever it maybe. The only thing that God cares about is faith expressed through love.
This passage brings it back home for me. When I serve at church whether it be through the praise team, or CG, the only thing that matters is showing faith through the act of love. I often forget that my service to God is meaningless, but rather God is most satisfied when I love the people at church. Christ freed me from the law, so therefore I'm not longer obligated to get "circumcised" [act holy, pray harder/louder, give offering out of obligation etc...] but do everything in faith and love, just as Christ showed me love first. It really is freeing to know that what I do or don't do doesn't matter to God as long as I have faith in Him and return that love he gave me to other people.
Amazed...
Jesus thank you for giving me grace when I don't deserve it. It is so much easier now to follow you than what it mean to be a Jew during the old testament times. When my act of being holy could never be on par with what you wanted. I know I'm a sinner, yet you still loved me and accept me only by the faith I have in you. And in return I ask Holy Spirit that you would help me to love on others and to be sensitive to those in need.
In Jesus Name
Amen
10 these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit.
The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. 11 For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. 12 What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us. 13 This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual realities with Spirit-taught words.[c] 14 The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit. 15 The person with the Spirit makes judgments about all things, but such a person is not subject to merely human judgments, 16 for,
But we have the mind of Christ.
As we were discussing in Cg today, the Spirit instructs and touches those who are seeking. Having the Spirit of God is not an emotion, or a state of mind, but God actually instructing us and giving us wisdom. To know Christ is to have the spirit and pray that the spirit is included in every action.
Thank you God for residing in my heart. Allow me to be sensitive to the Spirit, so that my actions directly reflect what you want me to be. Help me to strive to know your will.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Monday, November 5, 2012
Pleasing God
10 Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.
Galatians 1:10
Paul is warning the believers not to perverse the core doctrine of what the gospel is. The church in Galatia had a problem of mixing Jewish ideology to Christian faith. The Jews in Galatia were pressuring the gentiles to be circumcised in order to be saved, but Paul clearly states that the circumcision of the heart is required, and it is strictly through faith in Christ in which they are saved. Paul told it like how it was because ultimately he doesn't care whether the people are offended as there is a higher power he serves.
As Jesus described in the gospel accounts, one who follows him should be prepared to be hated even by family members. When I follow Christ I need to lay aside all that I hold dear, as Jesus' message can turn people against you. God is who I want to please regardless of how much I don't want to offend others. I struggle with this because I am a big people pleaser. I want to not offend people and tell what others to believe, but I know this is wrong as God's servant. So far I don't believe to have compromised what I take in as gospel message, but if and when it comes down to it, I need to ask God for courage, resolve and the ability to dictate my words correctly. I need to preach the truth of what it means to be a Christ follower, even if it means to lose everything.
Jesus help me to have courage and resolve when I need to convey your message of the gospel to non-believers and believers alike. You said, your Word is the truth...
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, - 2 Tim 3:16
Help me to be true to your commands, even if it means that people will hate me.
In Jesus Name
Amen.
Amen.
Great Commission
15 He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. 16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18 they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.”
Mark 16:15-18
Jesus' last command for the disciple and all who follow him was the great commission. That commandment was to go out and preach the gospel to all creation. We are not called to convert, as that is only God who can change the hearts, but to be God's mouthpiece to tell the good news. In which God will be with in signs, as we who have faith in Christ Jesus will be able to do the impossible.
Today's sermon by Pastor CJ did affect me one way. That there are a huge number of individuals that don't know Christ. Jesus called me to go and preach the gospel. Furthermore, if I don't do so, I will be responsible for those around me who haven't heard the truth come judgement day. Fear and punishment shouldn't be my motivating factor, but my motivation should come from my for Christ and the love for people. I did have a lot of criticism in how Pastor CJ spoke, but ultimately I know that his message of spreading the Word is essential for the ultimate goal of saving people from condemnation. In that I am grateful to hear the message.
Aside note... I want to have the faith to be able to heal, drive out demons, or just do the impossible. Not for my gains, but to serve Christ and make his name great. It definitely comes through prayer and a childlike faith. One that believes wholeheartedly.
Jesus forgive me for the lack of desire to spread your word. Help me to make the most of every opportunity presented. I pray that you would allow me to have faith that can heal the sick. Help me to be best put to use to better serve your kingdom.
In Jesus Name
Amen.
Mark 16:15-18
Jesus' last command for the disciple and all who follow him was the great commission. That commandment was to go out and preach the gospel to all creation. We are not called to convert, as that is only God who can change the hearts, but to be God's mouthpiece to tell the good news. In which God will be with in signs, as we who have faith in Christ Jesus will be able to do the impossible.
Today's sermon by Pastor CJ did affect me one way. That there are a huge number of individuals that don't know Christ. Jesus called me to go and preach the gospel. Furthermore, if I don't do so, I will be responsible for those around me who haven't heard the truth come judgement day. Fear and punishment shouldn't be my motivating factor, but my motivation should come from my for Christ and the love for people. I did have a lot of criticism in how Pastor CJ spoke, but ultimately I know that his message of spreading the Word is essential for the ultimate goal of saving people from condemnation. In that I am grateful to hear the message.
Aside note... I want to have the faith to be able to heal, drive out demons, or just do the impossible. Not for my gains, but to serve Christ and make his name great. It definitely comes through prayer and a childlike faith. One that believes wholeheartedly.
Jesus forgive me for the lack of desire to spread your word. Help me to make the most of every opportunity presented. I pray that you would allow me to have faith that can heal the sick. Help me to be best put to use to better serve your kingdom.
In Jesus Name
Amen.
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Faith in God
22 “Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. 23 “Truly[f] I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them. 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 25 And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” [26] [g]
Mark 11:22-26
Prayer and faith go hand in hand. When we pray, we do it with a heart expecting God to hear us out. If we don't do so, whats the point of praying?
Since prayer is a petition to God, He expects us to pray with a clear conscious. If there's any form of bitterness or anger towards another person, then it is something I need to give up. There are definitely things I need to work on as of this moment. Even though I'd like to think there's nothing wrong with this certain individual, I know there is a deep seeded bitterness that I need to bring up to God and lay it at his feet. Regardless of the situation this is what I need to do and is expected to do, as I am a Christ follower. Jesus forgive me for this bitterness I have in my heart for this particular individual.
Help me Jesus to forgive like you. Help me to love rather than be upset about the wrongs that happened in my life. I pray God that you would take care of all the individuals that have wronged me in the past and allow peace within both the individuals and my heart.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Mark 11:22-26
Prayer and faith go hand in hand. When we pray, we do it with a heart expecting God to hear us out. If we don't do so, whats the point of praying?
Since prayer is a petition to God, He expects us to pray with a clear conscious. If there's any form of bitterness or anger towards another person, then it is something I need to give up. There are definitely things I need to work on as of this moment. Even though I'd like to think there's nothing wrong with this certain individual, I know there is a deep seeded bitterness that I need to bring up to God and lay it at his feet. Regardless of the situation this is what I need to do and is expected to do, as I am a Christ follower. Jesus forgive me for this bitterness I have in my heart for this particular individual.
Help me Jesus to forgive like you. Help me to love rather than be upset about the wrongs that happened in my life. I pray God that you would take care of all the individuals that have wronged me in the past and allow peace within both the individuals and my heart.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Friday, November 2, 2012
Childlike Faith
15 Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
Mark 10:15
It doesn't take much for a child to trust you completely. As long as you reassure them that you're not a bad man, they'll completely trust and reciprocate that love just as easily. On the other hand, being an adult I do realize that there is no such thing as a truly free. Whatever is given to me will ultimately need to be paid back sometime down the line. Even coming to know Christ and his free gift of salvation is hard to swallow. All Jesus ask of me is to drop everything, pick up the cross and follow him. This includes giving up my savings, my 401k, or whatever else I fall back on. I don't have much right now, but later down the line when I'm raising a family and have more responsibilities will it be as easy drop everything and completely follow Christ? I struggle with wanting to serve Christ whole-heartedly, but also to get ahead in life. My mom definitely doesn't help in this situation as shes always pressuring me to make a lot of money and live well off. I understand where she's coming from as she didn't grow up with much and sacrificed a whole lot to be here in the states. But does my obedience to my mom justify living selfishly and not living selflessly for Christ? It's contradicting sometimes, as well because I know my mom's was a 집사님, yet the way she influences me is very worldly way. Her reasoning is this, make a lot of money so you can give a lot. It makes sense, but will my heart be ready if and when that time comes. I really don't know if this is valid, as I know having money is itself another problem. Greed can take over, or forgetting about Christ completely. Regardless, I know as Christ calls me, I need to trust him completely whether he leads me to quiet waters of blessing or dark valleys of poverty. My identity should not come from my accomplishments, but rather in the security I have in Christ.
Jesus help me to live more selflessly. To give when asked. If you do bless me with material wealth, I pray that you would help me not be consumed by it, but to be a good steward of your blessings. Regardless of where you lead me in life, I pray that you bless it and help me to be contempt in the process. Let me have child like faith and trust in you always.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Mark 10:15
It doesn't take much for a child to trust you completely. As long as you reassure them that you're not a bad man, they'll completely trust and reciprocate that love just as easily. On the other hand, being an adult I do realize that there is no such thing as a truly free. Whatever is given to me will ultimately need to be paid back sometime down the line. Even coming to know Christ and his free gift of salvation is hard to swallow. All Jesus ask of me is to drop everything, pick up the cross and follow him. This includes giving up my savings, my 401k, or whatever else I fall back on. I don't have much right now, but later down the line when I'm raising a family and have more responsibilities will it be as easy drop everything and completely follow Christ? I struggle with wanting to serve Christ whole-heartedly, but also to get ahead in life. My mom definitely doesn't help in this situation as shes always pressuring me to make a lot of money and live well off. I understand where she's coming from as she didn't grow up with much and sacrificed a whole lot to be here in the states. But does my obedience to my mom justify living selfishly and not living selflessly for Christ? It's contradicting sometimes, as well because I know my mom's was a 집사님, yet the way she influences me is very worldly way. Her reasoning is this, make a lot of money so you can give a lot. It makes sense, but will my heart be ready if and when that time comes. I really don't know if this is valid, as I know having money is itself another problem. Greed can take over, or forgetting about Christ completely. Regardless, I know as Christ calls me, I need to trust him completely whether he leads me to quiet waters of blessing or dark valleys of poverty. My identity should not come from my accomplishments, but rather in the security I have in Christ.
Jesus help me to live more selflessly. To give when asked. If you do bless me with material wealth, I pray that you would help me not be consumed by it, but to be a good steward of your blessings. Regardless of where you lead me in life, I pray that you bless it and help me to be contempt in the process. Let me have child like faith and trust in you always.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Sinful Heart.
Job 22:2-10
2 “Can a man be of benefit to God?
Can even a wise person benefit him?
3 What pleasure would it give the Almighty if you were righteous?
What would he gain if your ways were blameless?
Can even a wise person benefit him?
3 What pleasure would it give the Almighty if you were righteous?
What would he gain if your ways were blameless?
4 “Is it for your piety that he rebukes you
and brings charges against you?
5 Is not your wickedness great?
Are not your sins endless?
6 You demanded security from your relatives for no reason;
you stripped people of their clothing, leaving them naked.
7 You gave no water to the weary
and you withheld food from the hungry,
8 though you were a powerful man, owning land—
an honored man, living on it.
9 And you sent widows away empty-handed
and broke the strength of the fatherless.
10 That is why snares are all around you,
why sudden peril terrifies you,
and brings charges against you?
5 Is not your wickedness great?
Are not your sins endless?
6 You demanded security from your relatives for no reason;
you stripped people of their clothing, leaving them naked.
7 You gave no water to the weary
and you withheld food from the hungry,
8 though you were a powerful man, owning land—
an honored man, living on it.
9 And you sent widows away empty-handed
and broke the strength of the fatherless.
10 That is why snares are all around you,
why sudden peril terrifies you,
This was Eliphaz 3rd and final speech to Job in regards to his suffering. Eliphaz urges Job to repent to God, so he would be vindicated and would no longer face suffering. Though Eliphaz had a valid point in that we need to come to God in repentance, this did not apply to Job.
God does not need anything from us. "What pleasure would it give the Almighty if you were righteous?" At church, I act with pietness, yet I feel like my actions doesn't accurately reflect my sinful nature within heart. I walk around with a smile, but so many times I catch myself criticizing or thinking negatively of them. I am known to be the "nice guy", but I realize my actions of wanting to please God does not correlated with the truth that is reflected within my heart. My actions are not consistent with the words that come from my mouth. Even today, I could have gone to church to help out with the outreach, but I chose not to go because of the crabby mood I was in. After hearing it from another brother that the outreach was good, I felt really ashamed that I wasn't there to set that example for others. Though in Jobs situation he was blameless and did repent in earlier chapters, I definitely do deserve God's wraith for being so disobedient. At this moment, I feel like my act of piety is just for show. I need to check my heart and really strive to do things out of love God rather than to act holy. I'm not better than being a white-wash wall (pharisee).
Forgive me Jesus for being disobedient. I know I should have went today to CG, but out of my laziness and my mood I stayed home instead. Help me to resist satan's temptation next time. Allow my actions to reflect the words I say.
In Jesus Name
Amen
God does not need anything from us. "What pleasure would it give the Almighty if you were righteous?" At church, I act with pietness, yet I feel like my actions doesn't accurately reflect my sinful nature within heart. I walk around with a smile, but so many times I catch myself criticizing or thinking negatively of them. I am known to be the "nice guy", but I realize my actions of wanting to please God does not correlated with the truth that is reflected within my heart. My actions are not consistent with the words that come from my mouth. Even today, I could have gone to church to help out with the outreach, but I chose not to go because of the crabby mood I was in. After hearing it from another brother that the outreach was good, I felt really ashamed that I wasn't there to set that example for others. Though in Jobs situation he was blameless and did repent in earlier chapters, I definitely do deserve God's wraith for being so disobedient. At this moment, I feel like my act of piety is just for show. I need to check my heart and really strive to do things out of love God rather than to act holy. I'm not better than being a white-wash wall (pharisee).
Forgive me Jesus for being disobedient. I know I should have went today to CG, but out of my laziness and my mood I stayed home instead. Help me to resist satan's temptation next time. Allow my actions to reflect the words I say.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Sharing the Good News
18 As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. 19 Jesus did not let him, but said, “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” 20 So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis[b] how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed.
Mark 5:18-20
Jesus heals a demon possessed man who was socially outcasted by society. After driving out the unclean spirits, the man regains his senses and begs Jesus to follow him. Rather Jesus tells the man to stay and tell his home and his people how much God has shown mercy on him.
I feel like the importance of the story was not how Jesus healed the man, but how the man responded to Jesus' act of mercy. This man was a social outcast, shun by society to live in the outskirts of civilization. I'm not sure how this man got by, but the fact that he was inflicted by unclean spirits and had supernatural strength meant he had some means of food. Unlike the leopards that forgot about Jesus once they were healed, this man was different, as he begged Jesus for permission to allow him to follow. Rather than allowing this man to follow him, Jesus told him to go and give a testimony to the people about how God showed mercy on him in driving out the demons. I too would be disappointed if I were in the situation when I earnestly wanted to go with Jesus. The man was obedient and did what he was told by sharing his testimony. Though I'm sure he had no visions of grandeur by following Jesus, he forewent his desires, and became obedient even in a situation that might have not been optimal for him. As a result many people were amazed (I'm assuming they were saved). In other stories, such as the young rich man who Jesus calls for to follow, Jesus goes a different route by telling this man stay. It shows me that God's answer for ministry is not always what we envision. Even playing the small parts of being the man who goes back to his hometown to be a testimony of God should be done in faith and obedience. Every little part that God assigns me to shows that this life, my story on this earth is going to be redirected back to God for his glorification. Less of me more of him - even if it means to live a simple life.
Jesus help me to forego my selfish desires. I'm not sure why you had the man stay back instead of following you, but you blessed his life either way by using him as a testimony of your mercy and grace. Thank you for healing me of my sins. And likewise help me to be ecstatic when it comes to share about my faith to other non-believers just as the man in this story has.
In Jesus Name
Amen.
Mark 5:18-20
Jesus heals a demon possessed man who was socially outcasted by society. After driving out the unclean spirits, the man regains his senses and begs Jesus to follow him. Rather Jesus tells the man to stay and tell his home and his people how much God has shown mercy on him.
I feel like the importance of the story was not how Jesus healed the man, but how the man responded to Jesus' act of mercy. This man was a social outcast, shun by society to live in the outskirts of civilization. I'm not sure how this man got by, but the fact that he was inflicted by unclean spirits and had supernatural strength meant he had some means of food. Unlike the leopards that forgot about Jesus once they were healed, this man was different, as he begged Jesus for permission to allow him to follow. Rather than allowing this man to follow him, Jesus told him to go and give a testimony to the people about how God showed mercy on him in driving out the demons. I too would be disappointed if I were in the situation when I earnestly wanted to go with Jesus. The man was obedient and did what he was told by sharing his testimony. Though I'm sure he had no visions of grandeur by following Jesus, he forewent his desires, and became obedient even in a situation that might have not been optimal for him. As a result many people were amazed (I'm assuming they were saved). In other stories, such as the young rich man who Jesus calls for to follow, Jesus goes a different route by telling this man stay. It shows me that God's answer for ministry is not always what we envision. Even playing the small parts of being the man who goes back to his hometown to be a testimony of God should be done in faith and obedience. Every little part that God assigns me to shows that this life, my story on this earth is going to be redirected back to God for his glorification. Less of me more of him - even if it means to live a simple life.
Jesus help me to forego my selfish desires. I'm not sure why you had the man stay back instead of following you, but you blessed his life either way by using him as a testimony of your mercy and grace. Thank you for healing me of my sins. And likewise help me to be ecstatic when it comes to share about my faith to other non-believers just as the man in this story has.
In Jesus Name
Amen.
Monday, October 29, 2012
Routine
Jesus Questioned About Fasting
18 Now John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. Some people came and asked Jesus, “How is it that John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees are fasting, but yours are not?”19 Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? They cannot, so long as they have him with them.20 But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day they will fast.
21 “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. Otherwise, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse. 22 And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins.”
Mark 2:18-22
Fasting was a sign of piety among the pharisee. There were no Mosianic laws regarding fasting, but over time fasting became a way for the Jewish leaders to express themselves outwardly. Essentially fasting became a religious act rather than the meaning we know today. In this story, Jesus goes against what fasting was established. Jesus was referring to fasting as being an outward sign of devotion to the ceremonial laws for the Pharisees. Fasting occurs in the old testament when God allows famine and disasters to occur. During hardships, the Israelites come back to God in desperation. In verse 20, Jesus talks about a time when he will no longer be with them. During that time, the people will turn to God in fasting. (this is the true meaning of why we fast). Fasting is not a sign of piety, but a sign of desperation. It's our outward expression for our need to be hungry for God. Jesus takes the original meaning of piety and replaces it with the new meaning of desperation. Hence the two cannot mix ~ New wine into an old wineskin will cause it to burst. etc...
Doing life journals lately has been difficult. Ljs has become a routine rather than personal time with God. It has become mindless, and just an expression of my devotion to God rather than me earnestly seeking his Word. I don't think or mediate on what God has been telling me, or if I have, I quickly forget his message. It's become a habit, and the only goal insight for me is to finish this month and keeping to my commitment (doing life journals everyday in October). Regardless, I know God speaks through the Word, as he has over the last several weeks I've been doing LJs, but even then I'm having a difficult time being motivated to take things seriously. I have become like the Pharasees showing my piety outwardly... My desperation for God's word is absent. Maybe it's time to take my faith further and stop being comfortable in my current place. To pray, seek and fast God earnestly...
Jesus forgive me for making this time with you a routine. To read your Words then blatantly ignoring what you have taught me by sinning. Help me to seek you earnestly with a new found desire. Change my mind of habit to a genuine desire to seek you.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Calloused
26“‘Go to this people and say,
“You will be ever hearing but never understanding;
you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.”
27For this people’s heart has become calloused;
they hardly hear with their ears,
and they have closed their eyes.
Otherwise they might see with their eyes,
hear with their ears,
understand with their hearts
and turn, and I would heal them.’a
Acts 28:26-27
Paul directly quotes from what Isaiah the prophet wrote about in the old testament. Originally the message was for the Jews, but later became available to the gentiles because God's chosen had calloused hearts. The Jews were exposed to God's love from the beginning of creation, yet they still fell away. They also saw the signs and wonders through God's messengers, but it wasn't enough for them to believe. Time and time again, God reached out his hands to his chosen people, but always rejected God.
This verse is a good reminder to see whether I am at the right place that God intends me to be at. Am I doing all that I can to see and hear everything that God wants me to hear? Is my heart and desires lined up in accordance to God's desires? I know I'm certainly not at the right place of where God wants me to be at. Likewise this message also carries to the brothers and sisters around me. Are they also aligned with God's message? If no... It comes to show that I need to pray more for those lost souls who come to church and as well as myself, until we are made perfect in him once we pass on in this life.
Jesus forgive me for being calloused. I pray that you would help me to pray more for my brothers and sisters as well as myself. - for their salvation. I pray that you would grant your children the Holy Spirit. I ask that you would remove the scales from our eyes and make clear the distractions from the things around us. Help me to focus on you.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Amen
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