From today!

Lunch @ a great pizza joint on South Beach.

Daniela and the Hurricane Sim!!!

What 8 years has taught me...

Every year, on Feb 17, I think my wife needs a medal of honor. She is
not only an amazing woman... she is a godly mother, a great servant of
Jesus, a true friend, and the best wife on this or any other planet.
Feb. 17th was our 8th anniversary and, if anything, there is one thing
I know for sure:

I love Daniela Johnson.

But here's the secret to 8 years of joy (and I imagine the secret to
80 years) - I wake up every morning and choose to love her.

Folks, the person you are married to or the one you are preparing to
marry is not the most lovely person EVERY DAY. Therefore, you must
make the conscious decision to love them every day.

Read (and then re-read) Ephesians chapter 5.

Men, are you up to the task?

--- Sent from a spell check-less mobile device ---

That's me and my sparkling vampire homie. Don't be hatin'.

My ride for this afternoon... A caddy! It's for sale too... if you're interested.

Sweet!

First Flight (part 2)

The guy that gave up his seat for us....

If you have ever traveled in a large group, then you know that
sometimes you can not sit together on a plane. Such was the case with
both our flights (Portland - Texas. . . Texas - Miami). The FAB 5 had
almost the entire row behind me.

So I asked the man behind me to switch.

He seemed a little reluctant at first, but then he saw that I was
traveling with my family. We traded seats.

It turns out that he was also traveling with his family and he gave up
a seat close to them so I could be close to mine.

Does that remind you of Anyone?

Jesus Christ gave His life so that we could have life in Him. That is
awesome.

Why not take five minutes and read (then re-read) Romans chapter five?

Blessings.

(sent from a spell check-less mobile device)

While the older children home-school... the Izz and I just chill :)

Sunrise, Bible Study, and Coffee. What else do you need to start the day?

First Flight (pt 1)

On the first leg of our outing to Miami, someone, while in the
restroom, passed out and they called any doctors to the back of the
plane. Just so you know... a "code red" on American Airlines means
medical assistance is needed. I had people around me freaking out...
"code red? What is that? Are we going to crash?"

There were not any doctors, but we were sitting behind a med student.
After some initial shock and, what seemed like terror (she was just
about hyper-ventalating over the whole "what is a code red?", she made
her way to the rear of the aircraft.

As I watched all this happen, two things came to mind.

1. I am not a doctor (I do t even play one on TV).

2. I can not even imagine what it must have been for the angels in
heaven to look upon Jesus on the cross! Here was the Prince of glory
and there is nothing they can do... He was on a resue mission. If you
remember, He could have called thousands of the host of heaven to
attend to Him... He had the power. He had the authority. But by His
grace He chose to remain on the cross.

Take a few moments to read (and then re-read) the second chapter of
Philippians.

Blessings!

(sent from a spell check-less mobile device)

Our landscape last night!

Awesome.

Daniela on Vacation... and loving every minute of it!

What do you do in S. Florida after a big lunch of the best Chinese food on the planet? Nothing but sit in the sun and relax!

What do you do in S. Florida after a big lunch of the best Chinese
food on the planet?

Nothing but sit in the sun and relax!

More photos from the plane!

Pictures from the plane!

DAVID'S PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

What a blessing this morning was!

Here is the "pew's eye view" for those who were not able to join us.

The text is 2 Samuel 7:18 - 29.

(AGAIN... SORRY ABOUT THE POOR AUDIO QUALITY)

David's Prayer of Thanksgiving from Chris Johnson on Vimeo.

Happy Valentines Day

Hope you are having a wonderful day!

Too wild!

One down...

Ana and the Izz

Two wild kiddis watching THE WILD

Count your blessings

I love old hymns!

There is one that encourages us all to:

Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Sometimes that is hard! But if you think through your life, even during the most trying times there is always something to praise Him about.

This Sunday at BBC we'll see the proper response to God’s grace:
1. Recognition of God’s character.
2. Recognition of our proper place in His plan.
3. Trusting in His faithfulness.

Hope to see you there!

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our "God is a consuming fire." Hebrews 12:28-29

Great article from Bob!

Here is a great article about verbal assault and how to deal with it.

http://bobparr.org/2009/08/24/walk-it-out/

Cheers.

(sent from a spell check-less mobile device)

Valentine’s Day

Daniela and I do not celebrate Valentine's Day, but we know several
people who do. Seriously, this is not a message against Valentine's
Day.

Years ago I vowed to seek to love Daniela as Christ loves the church
(Ephesians 5:25 - 27). Since then, I have sought to show her everyday
that I love, cherish, and honor her. Why? The work that Christ does
on behalf of His church did not end at the cross… or even at the
resurrection!

* On the cross, Jesus paid for our sins!

* At the resurrection, He secured our victory over death!

* HE CURRENTLY SITS AT THE FATHER'S RIGHT HAND INTERCEDING FOR HIS
CHURCH! (Hebrews 7:25)

What a thought… Husbands… how often do you show your love for your
wife?

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave
himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with
water through the word, and to present her to him self as a radiant
church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and
blameless.

Ephesians 5:25 - 27

You have a great and awesome task before you…

To show the gospel in your marriage!

The Davidic Covenant (02-07-10)

The Davidic Covenant (02-07-10) from Chris Johnson on Vimeo.

This video was captured on an iPhone.

MADE TO STICK

Made to Stick (Heath and Heath) Book Review below:



Well... what can I say about this amazing work by the brothers Heath?  Their ideas will certainly stick with me.  I have begun incorporating some of the time tested principles of this book into every form of communication I use (preaching, teaching, writing, blogging, parenting... everything).

Basically, this book sets out to teach you how to make your point stick... sort of fitting considering the title eh?

The authors cover 6 essential characteristics of ideas that last and impact those they come in contact with:

1. The core message should be simple.

2. Presentation should be unexpected.

3. The imagery should be concrete.

4. There must be credibility to the idea.

5. People are emotional and ideas that stick should not forget the emotional element of "human-ness"

6. Stories can carry ideas farther than facts and figures can.

The authors have also included extremely helpful exercises reinforcing these areas on vulnerability.  If you decide to check this book out, I highly recommend working through the exercises.  One warning though: This book will most likely make you think, but more than that, it will probably make you act on what you think.  The last thing you want is to share tons of data with someone or a group of someones and find that NOTHING LASTED... nothing stuck!

Bottom-line: I only recommend this book if you want what you say to be remembered and acted on.

One of the places you can get Made to Stick is here.

GOOD QUESTION

I got this question recently [paraphrased]:

In 1 Samuel 31, it says that Saul fell on his sword and in 2 Samuel 1 it says that an Amalekite killed him. What's going on?

Good question.  What do we do with texts like these?

How would you answer this?

Here's my response:

Remember... This is the account of when David heard the news. Scripture doesn't say that the Amalekite was telling the truth.

We must always be aware of who is speaking in the Bible.  Remember, the serpent lied to Eve (Genesis 3).

May the Lord bless you as you seek to please Him.

The Davidic Covenant

This Sunday we will be looking at 2 Samuel 5 – 7... The Davidic Covenant.

When you think of covenant, what comes to your mind?

Rules? Contracts? …?

When we look at the Davidic Covenant in 2 Samuel 7, there are (at least) two things that stand out:

David is under no obligation to the Lord in the covenant. The throne is simply offered as a gift from the God in whom he trusts.

The fulfillment of the covenant rests in the character and integrity of God... not David.

Consider your own salvation... do you see these two facts shining through?

Blessings as you go about your day today... refreshed and joyful!

Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls. Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow. 1 Peter 1:8–12

David –vs- Goliath 01-17-10

1 Samuel 17
David –vs- Goliath
01-17-10 @ Bethany Baptist Church

This week we looked at a very familiar story... David and his battle with Goliath.

(NOTE: The audio, for some reason, does not correspond to the video in segments. I apologize.)

01-17-10 from Chris Johnson on Vimeo.

Here are a few points and questions to ponder from this text:

- God chooses what we go through; we choose how we go through it. (John Maxwell)

- David’s boldness came from his trust in the Word of God.

- David allowed his theology to interpret his circumstance; we would be wise to do the same.

- God is still looking for men and women after His own heart… will you be one of them?

And probably the greatest truth of this passage is:

- God is not bound by your deficiencies… He is glorified through them.

Blessings!

The Kingdom Handed Over (01-31-10)

The Kingdom Handed Over (01-31-10) from Chris Johnson on Vimeo.

This week (01-31-10) we look at Saul's end.

Such potential... such opportunity... wasted.

We also ask the question: WHO DO YOU SERVE?

The end.

What does that mean? When you think of the end, what thoughts come to
mind?

One of the things I love about the gospel is the promise that, for the
believer in Jesus achrist, we are simply transported to a new life
with Christ. But here's the great part... THAT HAPPENS AT THE MOMENT
OF SALVATION!

What great news!

We have life in Him... because He lives.

Blessings y'all.

(sent from a spellcheck-less mobile device)

Avatar Depression?

Please take four and a half minutes and watch this video then read on:



Now... I don;t know about you, but I write fiction as an “escape”. When things get a little hectic in my life, after prayer and rest... I write. Usually it is fiction for youth. One of the tricks to good writing is getting into the minds of your characters. Having said that, let me say this:

I HAVE NEVER GOTTEN DEPRESSED OVER FICTION... EVER.

I'll be honest, not that I'm in the habit of lying... I have a real hard time sympathizing with this. It seems that there is a cross-section of our culture that believes they are owed something. Apart from the promises of God, they are not owed anything.

For the believer: a glorious inheritance and a home in heaven.
For the unbeliever: judgement.

Forget fiction for a moment... let's talk reality.

Brethren, we have a great high priest who not only is interceding for us at the right hand of God the Father but has also secured us a home in heaven and an inheritance this world knows nothing of. Whether it stems from engrossing fiction or the trials of life... you have a remedy for depression and angst. You need only to look to Christ, the Author and Perfecter of our faith.

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2

David Spares Saul's Life 01-24-10

David Spares Saul's Life 01-24-10 from Chris Johnson on Vimeo.

NEW VIDEO SECTION!

Greetings.



You can check out weekly sermon video here:



www.vimeo.com/pastorchris

Talk about gaining perspective...

Today I had the opportunity to visit with a dear saint who was
thankful "they are able to get around". Talk about gaining
perspective...

Why don't you take a moment or two and thank the Lord for the everyday
things that allow you to function daily.

Shalom.

(sent from a spellcheck-less mobile device)

Sam's birthday party!

Great times....

Happy Birthday!

Upping the Anty

My youngest, the Izz, is at the stage of her life where repeating everything we say and mimicking our actions occupies a lot of her time.  Charles Caleb Colton once wrote: Imitation is the sincerest of flattery.  I'm going to agree with him.  It also ups the anty. 

Not that Daniela and I are in the habit of using inappropriate language, but her constant observation certainly keeps us aware of what we do and say.

Folks, remember... young children are not the only ones looking at us and taking notes.

. . . Even angels long to look into these things.
1 Peter 1:12

The Father is also observing us, comforting, rebuking, and encouraging His children.

So what should our response be?

. . . whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
Colossians 3:17

Batman... er... Samuel turns 3!

Happy birthday!

Willing and Waiting

"Everyone who does any of these detestable things—such persons must be cut off from their people. Keep my requirements and do not follow any of the detestable customs that were practiced before you came and do not defile yourselves with them. I am the Lord your God."

Leviticus 18:29 - 30

 

This morning I was reading through Leviticus and this passage stuck out… actually… it jumped out, smacked me around, and then went back about its business.

 

Brethren, we are not to be conformed to this world… we are called out to be God's instruments of righteousness, pointing people to Christ (Romans 12).

 

Will you present yourself as a willing vessel?

Seriously...

Seriously...

I mean... really?

I checked my spam account today. This is the email address I use to register for things so I won't get bombarded with tons of nonsense. Looks like I got several "once in a lifetime opportunity"'s (I stopped counting at 11)!

Apparently, all I have to do is send _____ my contact info and I will be the recipient of millions.

WHAT IN THE WORLD ARE THESE PEOPLE THINKING?

(Editorial note: If you get these emails either delete them immediately or reply with the Gospel. They are scams.)

I am so thankful that the Lord gives most people eyes to see those scams that sound too good to be true.

But more than that I am thankful that Christ suffered and died for my sins. While I am sitting here thinking about how evil these people are for trying to scam those who are desperate and lack discernment... I am reminded of my own sin. My failure to obey my God and King.

Thank you Lord for your grace.

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. Titus 2:11 - 14

You don't scare me...

This morning's text was a powerful one... 1 Samuel 17.

David, strengthened by his trust in the Lord's provision takes on what
seems like an impossible task.

Folks, what has Christ called you to that only you can do?

Will you follow His leading and allow Him to glorify Himself through
you?

What are you afraid of?

This house is protected by Batman

WALK BY FAITH

This Sunday we will be looking at the story of David and Goliath.

 

This is not an inspirational story about an UNDER-DOG.  

 

This is an exhortation to walk by faith.

 

What we are looking at today is the recounting of a young man's total confidence in God.

 

He allowed his theology to interpret his circumstance.

 

He did not see Goliath as a threat to himself, but as an offense to God.

 

 

This is an exhortation to walk by faith.

 

 

Windows 2010 home edition

That's just plain funny.

:)


(sent from a spellcheck-less mobile device)

Daddy, did you see me?

"Daddy, did you see me?"

...

"Daddy, did you see me?"

Last Saturday I went to my oldest daughter's ballet class. She is
really getting the hang for dance. When her class let out and the
herd of young ballerinas came through the door to their parents I
overheard again and again, "Daddy, did you see me"? Not only do
children take great joy in pleasing their parents, but as a father I
certify that that parents take great pleasure in rejoicing with them.

Believer, remember that, "...whether you eat or drink or whatever you
do, do it all for the glory of God." (1 Corinthians 10:31)

When was the last time you went to the Father and told Him about your day?

Why not today?

Izz is...

Bye bye...

:)

You Have Today...

"Dream as if you have forever, Live as if you only have today."
-- Author unknown (to me anyway)

 

I am so thankful that the Lord laid out His plan for us.  We are told to seek His will for us (Psalm 40:8; Romans 12:1 – 2, and elsewhere).  Probably the most telling statement made in the life of Christ about seeking the will of God is found in John 7:17:

 

If anyone chooses to do God's will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own.

 

The Book of Proverbs exhorts us to live wisely and plan for the future and at the same time, James cautions us to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." (James 4:15).

 

We are called to be steadfast in our faith, and look to the glorious reappearing of Christ! (2 Peter 2 - 3)

 

There is so much to be done and often times we feel like there is too much for us to do for the Lord.

 

When you feel like that remember:

 

You have today.

 

Then ask yourself:

 

With all of today's potential... what will I make of it?

YOUR FAITH IS SHOWING

Why is it "God" always tells crazy people to do crazy [stuff] like kill people, why doesn't he tell them things like.....Do the dishes, or walk the dog???

-- A friend of mine

 

Wow… what a telling statement.

 

How would you answer this? What would you say to my friend?

 

Brothers and sisters in Christ, this is a real concern.  This is why the Scriptures declare:

 

So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more. You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

-- Ephesians 4:17 - 24

 

Folks… the world is watching and taking notes.

 

Watch your life and doctrine… they are showing.

Gadget, Gadgets everywhere...

I have a confession... I love technology.

I appreciate the tools that have come along in the last few years and
it is amazing to see what have been developed in just the few short
years that I have been breathing air. Some readers out there can not
appreciate this... but I remember when Mario was 8 bit and a 32 inch
TV was considered MAMMOTH! Good night... there were no Pentium 3's,
2's, or 1's... (Sorry for the time warp there.)

Recently I listened to a couple of pod casts on technology and the
direction it seems to be headed. Listening to some of these tech guys
talking about technology as "advancements"... I wonder how many of
these tools, ideas, procedures, and techniques are, in fact, NOT
ADVANCEMENTS... But retreats?  Some of the most "innovative" stuff can
actually be a retreat to more comfortable and familiar territory.

Here's something all of us should consider: Do I take the easy route
for the sake of comfort?

Certainly Jesus didn't.

Technology is great... utilize it.

Gadgets are great... allow them to make you more productive.

But the end goal of these modern marvels on ingenuity should be to
make us better servants of the King. And at the end of the day,
that's what should matter.

A book review for you preachers out there

Happy New Year!

 

What better way to begin the year than with a book review?

 

Haddon Robinson offers the church a concise and extremely helpful volume on preaching in Biblical Preaching: The Development and Delivery of Expository Messages.  I love his use of language and the fact that Robinson, as a master teacher, speaks on "my level".  As a writer, and a preacher… I respect that.

 

If you are looking for a book to help round off a few rough edges in your sermon(s), I wholeheartedly recommend Biblical Preaching.

 

The copy I read is a first print from 1980. (Yep... this book is as old as I am.)  Here is the updated edition (2001)

 

http://www.amazon.com/Biblical-Preaching-Development-Delivery-Expository/dp/0801022622/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1262302636&sr=8-1

 

Robinson gets high marks from me on this one and, infinitely more important, what this book aims at producing glorifies Jesus… namely, Biblical Preaching.  If I had to sum the book up in one thought it would be:  The preacher is to communicate truth to those who need it.  If it is not properly communicated... we have failed in our task.  Clarity over profundity.

 

Note:  If you enjoy listening to podcasts on sermon development and would like more from Haddon Robinson... here's the link in iTunes.  The podcast is called PREACHING POINTS.

http://deimos3.apple.com/WebObjects/Core.woa/Browse/gcts-public.2209853432

NEW YEAR'S IS ALMOST HERE

Forget resolutions... let's talk service.

 

Who will you serve in 2010?

 

How will you contribute to the outreach of the Gospel in 2010?

 

How will you become more like Christ in 2010?

 

What lengths will you got o for someone to hear the Good News who hasn't heard yet?

 

What will you do in 2010 that you have not done for Christ yet?

 

What steps of faith will you take?

 

With how much boldness will you proclaim His Name?

 

Forget resolutions... let's talk service!

A Heart to Worship

The Lord's message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it, for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath. 

1 Thessalonians 1:8 - 10

 

Why does man worship?

 

Why do we find every tribe of people on the planet yearning to worship someone or something?  Most people desire to "be a part of something bigger than themselves".  Why is that?

 

God has placed inside every human a longing to worship.  If they choose to reject Him that need will be fulfilled by worshiping the creation rather than the Creator.

(See Romans 1)

 

The question before all of us is simple:

 

Am I worshiping the One true God?

It's Snowing!

:)

Something worth reading

I am not trying to funnel devotional writing to others, but here is something we all will benefit from reading.

 

http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/GracedAgain/~3/cKO2V0ZbKKM/having-a-system-makes-life-better.html

 

Blessings!

Faithful Service

Recently, Daniela's computer was fixed.

(a couple of months ago it got a really nasty virus)

Anyway, I am writing this from that machine. I really appreciate the familiarity I once enjoyed. This machine has been in our home(s) for years. It just... well... works for us. It is a simple machine and, when it's not sick, is a rather reliable /faithful machine.

As I got to thinking about that, I started wondering if there is any service for the Lord that I do that is simple and faithful?

It would be a good idea to ask yourself the same question... Is my service to the Lord simple and faithful?

Sammy the not-so-red-nosed Sam

:)

The sacrifice of prioritizing!

The desire to do a thing must carry with it the willingness to sacrifice for it.

 

Greetings.

 

Recently I have been thinking about the statement above.  What am I willing to sacrifice for?  Now, let me challenge you to do the same… but in a slightly different way.

 

What do you spend your time on now that takes away from things you could / should be doing?

 

To put it another way, how much time do you waste on selfish things, when you could be spending your time encouraging and building up others?  How much time during your day is consumed with trivial things that need not get done?

 

Maybe we do sacrifice our time, talent, and treasure… but for the wrong things?

 

It's all a matter of priorities.

 

…when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.

Galatians 4:4 - 5

A Savior is born!

(So sorry for not blogging in a while… excuse… excuse… there.  Now I am out of excuses.)

"There is nothing so useless as doing efficiently that which should not be done at all."

-- Peter Drucker

Mr. Drucker has a great point there. Whether ministry, business, house work… anything really.

 

Why did Jesus come to earth?  Why was He born in a manger?  Why was He born to poor country folks?  Why did He suffer the rejection and undergo the turmoil (not to mention the crucifixion!)?  Why?  Is saving humanity from their sin, "that which should not be done at all"?

 

Clearly in the heart and mind of God, we are His special possession.  You remember that today… and tomorrow… and anytime you feel like no one cares.  Jesus cares.

 

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.

Luke 2:11

Angry Penguin says there is a 45 minute wait!

Christmas Rap

We have some talented students.

Izzy the Not-so-red nosed...

Ana's Birthday Cookie

Ohhhhhh Yaaaaaaaaa !!!!!!!

Perspective

This is a video I shot after some guacamole fell on Daniela's pants.
It sure looks like a duck at furst, but once you gain some
perspective... you see it's really just a stain.

I'm sure that in your life, gaining a little perspective on certain
things would reap great benefits.

Generosity and Wealth!

Better a little with the fear of the LORD

than great wealth with turmoil.

Better a meal of vegetables where there is love

than a fattened calf with hatred.

Proverbs 15:16 - 17

 

It is hard not to notice that in our country, we are blessed.  Sure, there is somewhat of a problem with our economy at the moment, but a candid look at the history of the U.S.A. will show that we are, most certainly, blessed.  And that should serve as a great caution to us.  Often times the Lord used wealth (or the lack thereof) as a refining agent... something designed to purge impurities from our lives.

 

Here are a few things to ask yourself regarding wealth:

 

1.  Do I see my "net worth" as being on wall street, or in Christ?

 

2.  Am I being a good steward with what the Lord has entrusted to me?

 

3.  Am I being generous with what the Lord has blessed me with?

 

4.  Am I seeking to be a blessing?

 

All a man's ways seem innocent to him,

but motives are weighed by the LORD.

Proverbs 16:2

 

Timidly following Christ?

I thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

2 Timothy 1:3 - 7

 

Paul wrote 2 Timothy to a young guy named... of all things... Timothy.

 

Timothy had a lot going for him.  He learned at Paul's side.  He was well spoken of not only by Paul, but we can assume from the other apostles.  But he, like all of us, wrestled with timidity.

 

What makes us back down from doing what we know we ought?

 

Fear of man?  Possibly.  There is always the fear that we will not be well received.

 

Insecurity? Possibly.  There is always the potential for the nagging feeling that we are not able to accomplish such and such a job for the Lord.

 

Are there more than two? Of course. But the reasons for timidity are not nearly as important as the call to be powerful (in your faith), loving, and self disciplined.  Ask yourself today:

 

What has the Lord called me to and equipped me for that I am not boldly pursuing?

The Aftermath!

The Cake.

:)

More birthday pics

Video

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Ana's Birthday Cake

Soldiers of the Cross

"The scientific name for an animal that doesn't either run from or fight its enemies is lunch."

-- Michael Friedman

I know it has been a while since my last post.  But, as we all know, things happen.  Today is not like any other day.  It certainly is not like yesterday, and will undoubtedly be altogether different from tomorrow. 

 

Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down and talking to a young guy in the military.  Over the years, I have really come to appreciate the character and passion of these folks.  The men and women that serve us by fighting for our freedom are highly trained and it shows.

 

We are called to be soldiers for Christ:

 

To Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker, to Apphia our sister, to Archippus our fellow soldier and to the church that meets in your home…

Philemon 1 and 2

 

But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs.

Philippians 2:25

 

There are other references we could look to, but is it really necessary?  Paul, a man called out by God to take the gospel to the gentiles sees the Christians life as many things... a relationship... a betrothal... a master builder designing the most amazing structure.  But he also sees it as a battle that everyone is engaged in.  The question, then, is:

 

Are you willing to fight for your King?

 

If so, are you sharpening your sword and charging into the trenches everyday?

 

If not... why not?

 

 

Consider the Scriptures

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

2 Timothy 3:14 - 17

 

Timothy, like all of us, was tempted to veer from what he was taught... the truth about Christ.  Notice what Paul does here... he doesn't appeal to modern methods... he doesn't appeal to special knowledge... he doesn't even pull rank and say, "I am the Apostle Paul and you will do what I say."

 

What is the basis for Paul's charge to Timothy? "...you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus."  Paul appeals to the power of the Gospel and the Scriptures that proclaim it!

 

The next time you are faced with the temptation to veer from the truth... consider "the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus."

 

Shalom.

 

 

 

Fun from yesterday!