In the summer of 2001, I was a camp counselor for a Christian sports camp. The camp traveled throughout the southern region of the United States stopping at college campuses to lead sports clinics. Our staff consisted of volleyball, softball, baseball, and cheerleading coaches. The experience is extremely memorable. The opportunity to get away from my comfortable environment and adapt to a new surrounding with people from different parts of the states was somewhat challenging. However, the opportunity of meeting people, touching the lives of children and teenagers, and growing as a believer was much needed.
During this time in my life, my emotions still somewhat dictated what I ‘said’ and ‘did’. More than ever, since rededicating my life to Christ, I had the tendency to say things that made ‘no sense at all’ simply to encourage a laugh. Whether it rudely interrupted, mocked authority, or encouraged observations of other’s flaws, I would verbally acknowledge it; knowing that during the process, I was wrong. If the crowd or one person laughed, my ego was fed. My ability was not a secret to anyone, as everyone knew to be careful with the words or actions around me. To this day, it is a past behavior that I probably am most shameful.
Throughout the summer, personalities were established amongst the group. There was a staff member, that I was not really close to, whom hardly ever said a word. When he spoke it was encouraging and positive. His actions matched his words, as he was ‘happy-go-lucky’ and much admired by everyone.
During the 4th of July weekend, our group took a much needed break. We decided to go into New Orleans to visit the inner city. Of course, while there we saw many different people. I happen to see someone out of this ‘many people’ that sparked my visual interest. In response, I excitedly commented in a jokingly, what I thought at the time, Christian manner to ‘this guy’. Looking for a ‘buy-in’, I was met with a scripture not an opinion.
Ephesians 4:29
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
“Wow, did you really just quote scripture at me?” This is the exact thought that entered my mind. I don’t remember what else he said, but this scripture was definitely remembered. I was immediately angry at the young man. I felt that he did not understand me or where I came from. I immediately isolated myself from him. Watched him more carefully and held a grudge for the words spoken.
After four weeks of being encouraged to watch my words, I was unable to sleep. I’m not a man that cries much, but when I do, it’s a terrible, ‘snot-blowing’ experience and this particular night, the snot was overflowing along with tears. The Word of God communicated to me in an untouched area. The conviction was real. If I desired to continue growing with God, I needed to repent and ask God for his help in this defeated area of my life. Thankfully, I did. Today, I still struggle with the use of my tongue towards building up others; however, I’m much better.
Recently, I was given a verbal ‘pat on the back’ from an ongoing observer. For the most part through my adult life, I have been told that I have a bright future with charisma ‘to match,’ but this day, I was told something that I considered an achievement, not a gift. I was informed that I was careful with my words and possessed the ability to know ‘when to’ and ‘not to’ speak. It’s comical considering my past. If you were to ask my wife, she may not 100% agree, as it is easier to watch your tongue at work versus your home. Yet, I rejoice because of the progress. I’m convinced that had I not repented and asked God for help, this compliment would have ever been heard.
When God gives you a command, He does not factor in your experiences, background, or obstacles. He expects you to obey. It’s for your own good. He promises that He will never allow more than you can bear. The sooner you submit to His will, the faster you will experience peace and joy. If the Lord uses someone to speak His words into your life, rejoice! Even the more, if the person is upright, God-fearing, and follower of Jesus Christ. After praising Him for His truths, follow through by repenting and following His path; as it is, the only way to experience real freedom.
If you chose to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, please click on the link below.
http://www.cbn.com/spirituallife/BibleStudyAndTheology/Discipleship/Steps_to_Peace_With_God.aspx
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Friday, February 12, 2010
Choose Life!
Being disobedient to the commands of God is the fastest and easiest way to self-destruct your life. The demonic spiritual forces residing on this earth have a purpose for your life. You may be totally unaware of Satan’s influences in your life, but believe me, he and his followers are aware of you and your potential. Spiritual warfare may be rarely spoken in your group of friends. However, it is a reality that takes place everyday of our life. You are fighting a battle (Ephesians 6:12)! Who you represent is the question you must ask yourself.
Each day, reading your Bible to understand God’s purpose for humanity is a great start; however, obeying God is the ultimate key to living His will. In reading and following the Bible, you are not complying with Satan’s plan for you or adversely affecting the life of your children, family, friends, co-workers, etc. You will be one less person not fulfilling their potential. God’s plan is for every man to receive salvation (1 Timothy 2:3-4). We have all been selected to receive this gift. There’s not a chosen selected few who will inherit His kingdom. If this be the case, there’s no hope in life. You live, die, and spend eternity without your creator, God. This makes no sense. God made a way for you to experience His will through Jesus Christ.
During the days of Christ, religious leaders fought against Jesus Christ eventually crucifying Him for being the son of God. The Spirit of God didn’t live within them, but a religious spirit, and they were unable to recognize God's salvation. The Bible states that those who had solid relationships with God rejoiced at the birth of Christ (Luke 2:25-32). They were not chosen to know that this child was the world’s Savior, but knew because of their time spent with and faith in God. The same principle applies today. As the saying goes, ‘Know God, Know Peace! No God, No Peace!’
So if you claim a relationship with God without accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and actively living for God, you are lying to yourself and others. As the religious leaders, you are making a fool of yourself! If you didn’t know about God’s plan for salvation, you are ignorant no more. Make a choice to accept, serve, and obey Him. If you did know about God’s plan for humanity and are not ‘walking it out’, you have chosen a very emotionally, spiritually painful and miserable life! If it hasn't happened already; the cursing of disobedience will manifest in your life. God will not be mocked; you will reap, what you sow (Galatians 6:7). Whether you believe it or not, His spiritual laws will not be denied. I say these words in complete, God-fearing love. Don’t take my word alone, but read the Bible. The Old Testament and New Testament are full of life morals for the obedient and disobedient.
Before Christ, God called a man, Abram, to fulfill His will. Based on Abram’s faith in God’s promise, he and his descendants were chosen as God’s people. These people were not always obedient to God’s way of life and constantly turned away . Therefore, God informed his people of His law’s effect on their lives, encouraging them to choose the blessing through obedience. If they choose to disobey, but eventually repented, the blessing would return. According to Galatians 3:29, the promise of the blessing still exists today through Jesus Christ. God has made a way for you through accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. If you want to experience the blessing of God, accept His plan and began obeying Him and watch your days transform into a life of peace and prosperity. He promises.
Deuteronomy 30:2-6 (NIV)
…When you and your children return to the LORD your God and obey him with all your heart and with all your soul according to everything I command you today, then the LORD your God will restore your fortunes and have compassion on you and gather you again… Even if you have been banished to the most distant land under the heavens, from there the LORD your God will gather you and bring you back… He will make you more prosperous… The LORD your God will circumcise your hearts and the hearts of your descendants, so that you may love him with all your heart and with all your soul, and live.
If you choose to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, please click on the link below.
http://www.cbn.com/spirituallife/BibleStudyAndTheology/Discipleship/Steps_to_Peace_With_God.aspx
Each day, reading your Bible to understand God’s purpose for humanity is a great start; however, obeying God is the ultimate key to living His will. In reading and following the Bible, you are not complying with Satan’s plan for you or adversely affecting the life of your children, family, friends, co-workers, etc. You will be one less person not fulfilling their potential. God’s plan is for every man to receive salvation (1 Timothy 2:3-4). We have all been selected to receive this gift. There’s not a chosen selected few who will inherit His kingdom. If this be the case, there’s no hope in life. You live, die, and spend eternity without your creator, God. This makes no sense. God made a way for you to experience His will through Jesus Christ.
During the days of Christ, religious leaders fought against Jesus Christ eventually crucifying Him for being the son of God. The Spirit of God didn’t live within them, but a religious spirit, and they were unable to recognize God's salvation. The Bible states that those who had solid relationships with God rejoiced at the birth of Christ (Luke 2:25-32). They were not chosen to know that this child was the world’s Savior, but knew because of their time spent with and faith in God. The same principle applies today. As the saying goes, ‘Know God, Know Peace! No God, No Peace!’
So if you claim a relationship with God without accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and actively living for God, you are lying to yourself and others. As the religious leaders, you are making a fool of yourself! If you didn’t know about God’s plan for salvation, you are ignorant no more. Make a choice to accept, serve, and obey Him. If you did know about God’s plan for humanity and are not ‘walking it out’, you have chosen a very emotionally, spiritually painful and miserable life! If it hasn't happened already; the cursing of disobedience will manifest in your life. God will not be mocked; you will reap, what you sow (Galatians 6:7). Whether you believe it or not, His spiritual laws will not be denied. I say these words in complete, God-fearing love. Don’t take my word alone, but read the Bible. The Old Testament and New Testament are full of life morals for the obedient and disobedient.
Before Christ, God called a man, Abram, to fulfill His will. Based on Abram’s faith in God’s promise, he and his descendants were chosen as God’s people. These people were not always obedient to God’s way of life and constantly turned away . Therefore, God informed his people of His law’s effect on their lives, encouraging them to choose the blessing through obedience. If they choose to disobey, but eventually repented, the blessing would return. According to Galatians 3:29, the promise of the blessing still exists today through Jesus Christ. God has made a way for you through accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. If you want to experience the blessing of God, accept His plan and began obeying Him and watch your days transform into a life of peace and prosperity. He promises.
Deuteronomy 30:2-6 (NIV)
…When you and your children return to the LORD your God and obey him with all your heart and with all your soul according to everything I command you today, then the LORD your God will restore your fortunes and have compassion on you and gather you again… Even if you have been banished to the most distant land under the heavens, from there the LORD your God will gather you and bring you back… He will make you more prosperous… The LORD your God will circumcise your hearts and the hearts of your descendants, so that you may love him with all your heart and with all your soul, and live.
If you choose to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, please click on the link below.
http://www.cbn.com/spirituallife/BibleStudyAndTheology/Discipleship/Steps_to_Peace_With_God.aspx
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)