Book Review: The Sacred Journey

The Sacred Journey
By Charles Foster
Thomas Nelson Publishers

"The penalty for wanting to be a settler is that you become one." –Charles Foster

That is one of the sentences in this book that could easily define its contents. The main focus of this book is that of our lives, as Christians, being on a moving journey, or "pilgrimage" as it's often described in this book. His writing was simple to follow, sometimes a little dry, and I didn't care for his style of humor. It took me nearly a year to read this book, mainly because it was difficult to read. I kept going back to books I was being pulled into because of their strong content and strong biblical references. This book lacked in this department, so the reason it took so long. It is my first book review with Thomas Nelson's "Book Sneeze" program and unfortunately it was a bad first choice.

Foster is an obviously educated and experienced person, albeit misguided. He makes a key point throughout this book that Jesus was a pilgrim. Jesus was not looking for a place to "settle" but was to move around assuming the role of a servant, spending his time with the unwashed travelers of the day. But that is exactly what I think, as Foster describes in this book, we as Christians should be. Unfortunately, Foster refers to many other "wonderful" religious practices of Buddhists, Muslims or Hindus among others. He spends a lot of time injecting his strange take on Scripture but not including much Scripture at all.

The very clear message of this book, which was made in a 'round about way, is to trust in God. What we NEED will be provided to us, not necessarily what we WANT. Bigger does NOT mean better. It is the distractions of this world that keep us from following Jesus on the true journey of life, the pilgrimage. As Christians, are we better off to be moving around or be settled in one place? On this point I do not quite agree with Foster as I believe everyone has a different "calling" to be wherever the Lord wills. That could be "settled" in a suburbia America, or in my case, could mean to go to a foreign country to share Christ with those who have not heard of Him. In either case, Foster seems to have it "out" for city living indicating that God was always punishing those in the cities. What? His theology is interesting to say the least.

The bottom line of this book is that Foster is trying to take something that is more metaphorical (pilgrims in a strange land) and make it literal (we must all literally be strangers and not settle). It doesn't take "long walks" or a literal journey to find God. That is the stuff all the other world religions are made of. God will never leave me or forsake me. God is wherever I go, and yes, there are times when I hear more clearly from him out in the country. But I hear Him just as often in the city when I seek Him.

I do not recommend this book and will probably throw it away as there are enough heretical statements in this book that I wouldn't want anyone seeking growth in their Christian walk to read it.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

One Minute Sermon

I recently came across a video of a gal who made up a rhyme/rap about one minute long where she lays out all that is needed to deal with today. It applies well to our entertainment centered American culture. I found it transcribed as well and wanted to post it here to remember and for others to read as well. Click on the link at the bottom of the post to see/download the video (right click to 'save as...').

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To be a survivor in this Amazing Race with the need for speed you need God’s Grace and if your desperate like housewives watching days of our lives, you can’t cope without hope and that is not on a soap. If you’re looking to Oprah or Dr. Phil you can shop non-stop or pop a pill, but the void won’t fill and the pain won’t kill until you love the one that hung on a hill.

Kicking back in your lazy boy easy chair watching Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, nah your not gonna find it there. No American Idol or Council Tribal has the final answer that will satisfy ya. C. S. I. ain’t got a clue. S.V.U. don’t know what to do Not the E R or the OC not those seen on a CD TV DVD or MP3 can save you and me.

CNN has got no Good News here’s a headline you must choose. It’s not a simple life Paris Hilton, It’s treading on thin ice living in sin. You can be an apprentice for Donald Trump or eat Fear Factor fast food from a dump. You can be a heavy hitter or wheel of fortune winner or a Fox news no spin spinner or flat out sinner but you better check this life that you’re livin’ and make sure your sins are forgiven.

I bet ya 50 cent Elvis done come and went, and eventually every Black-eyed-pea, Gwen Stefani, P-Diddy and Britney. Every wanna-be on M T V with their Icy Bling, every Dixie Chick that Sings, they all gonna see the king of kings.

I don’t care if you’re J-Lo, Leno or Bono. One thing you gotta know. Some day you’re gonna die, Bro. Then Where are you gonna go? Hey, I’m not talking some punk junk that is irrelevant. Like your Grandma’s church from way back when. It’s not some preacher feature on T B N. that you need to be liking or listening.

The real superstar is Jesus Christ. He’s the way, He’s the truth and the life. One day he’s gonna split the sky. He is the brightest light and the highest high and so what I came to say and what I’m telling you is don’t buy that stupid stuff they be selling ya. it’s all designed to fill your head and waste your space until your dead.

Here’s the bottom line in my rhyme. Give your life to God while there’s still time.

See video here

God Speaks

Early this morning during my "quiet time", I was reading through Luke 1 and 2. I have been trying to spend time lately studying and praying about the birth of Jesus and all the events that surrounded this amazing time in history. For good reason of course as Christmas is coming and it is top of mind. But this morning I was struck with a new truth. This truth is not a new "revelation" per se, but something I did not expect the Lord to be teaching me. This truth is the various ways that God speaks to us if we are willing to listen.

In the past decade of my spiritual journey with Jesus, I have experienced some pretty amazing things. Miracles I guess you could call them. But for me, they have been the undeniable leading of the Holy Spirit and God's ways of directing me where He wants me. God knows me so intimately that He knows EXACTLY how to reach me with whatever He is trying to teach me. When I look back over the past 10 years I can see a pattern. Being relatively young in my faith 10 years ago, God has shown me His power and has "spoken" to me that cannot be attributed to anything else but to His "voice."

I was reminded this morning of how God has spoken to me. Nine years ago I was at a turning point in my faith. I knew that God was real; I knew He wanted more for and from me; and I knew He wanted ALL of me, not just a portion. I was ready to devote all of myself to him (or so I thought then). The gifts He has given me to see something and make it better (in our fallen state) and to create something out of very little (graphic design) I was and continue to be determined to devote to Him for His glory and purposes.

I was reminded of this by how the angel Gabriel came to Mary and spoke to her and that she would give birth to a child and that He would be the Savior of the world, the Messiah that had been spoken of for centuries prior. The cross reference in this part of Luke took me to Hebrews 1 where the author describes Jesus. In Hebrews 2 it then refers to Psalm 22:22, "I will declare Your name to My brethren; In the midst of the assembly I will sing praise to You." Chapter 22 of Psalms is a Messianic chapter, meaning it accurately describes the coming Messiah and what He will endure. It is prophecy. Not only is it prophecy of the coming Messiah, it was in a dream I had nine years ago. Very clearly I saw the word Psalm and many "double 2s" (22, 22, 22, 22...). God was telling me that, yes, I will use you to proclaim the coming of the Lord, that I (God) will use you to encourage and build up the body of Christ.

God has spoken to me in many other ways over the past decade, but one thing they all have in common is they are attached to God's Holy Word, the Bible. In every case, the leading I received from these "chats" with God were followed up by a scripture. I put all my trust in God and I believe that what the Bible says is literally God's words spoken to men, like you and I, and written down for all to read. I believe we are to take them literally and DO what they say. When Jesus said "GO into all the nations..." in Matthew 28:19, it was not preceded or followed by "if you want to." It was and is a clear command. I do not want to let down my Heavenly Father. I want to be used to the full extent of what HE intends for me, because I know there isn't a life worth living unless it is lived FULLY for God.

How are you "going" into all nations? How have you been blessed? God blesses with time, money, abilities, etc. so that we can use those to bless (and ultimately love) others. Are you using those blessings to further God's Kingdom? This is not only my challenge to you, but a reminder to myself to pick up my cross DAILY and follow Him where He leads. It's a reminder of how the creator of the universe, of life and all the incredible intricacies of it, has set in place every event and time for a purpose. It's a reminder of His love for me that He has set me apart for a purpose -- that He has spoken to me literally and that I am a new creation in Christ Jesus. It's a reminder of sacrifice and the blood that was shed for me. I am indebted to Jesus for what He did for me on the cross. He wasn't just a man. He was and is God. How can I give Him any less than all?

How many prophecies did Jesus fulfill?

I suppose that, "All of them," isn't quite the answer you are looking for. In reality, Jesus did fulfill all of the prophecies pertaining to the coming Messiah. I will get into some examples in a moment. But, first of all, what is a prophecy? It is God speaking through a servant-a prophet-to describe a coming event long before it happens. There are over 400 prophecies in the Old Testament which point to the coming Messiah and to His life and death. Jesus Christ perfectly fulfilled every single one of them. The odds of someone doing that who was not the Messiah are too great to even figure. It is impossible.

Isaiah 7:14 says, "Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold a virgin shall conceive and bear a son and shall call his name Immanuel." Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary.

Micah 5:2: "But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of there shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old; from everlasting." Jesus was born in Bethlehem.

Also prophesied were events like John the Baptist preparing the way, Jesus teaching in Capernaum and Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a colt.

Psalm 41:9 even foretells Judas' betrayal, "Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me." And Zechariah 11:12 perfectly predicts the payment Judas would receive, "I told them, 'If you think it best, give me my pay; but if not, keep it.' So they paid me thirty pieces of silver."

Jesus' death on the cross was prophesied to the smallest detail. Isaiah 53 spoke of His sacrificial death paying the price for the sins of all. Psalm 109:25 tells that He would be mocked by those who watched. Psalm 34:20 records the miracle that would happen when none of His bones were broken. Psalm 22:18 says that people would gamble for possession of His clothing. Psalm 31:5 contains the words that Jesus said when He committed His spirit into His Father's hands. Isaiah 53:12 says that He would plead for the forgiveness of those who persecuted Him. Amos 8:9 records the darkness that would follow the death of the Messiah. To find evidence that Jesus fulfilled all of these prophecies, read the gospel accounts of His life and death.

As I said, there are over 400 prophecies that Jesus perfectly fulfilled. This evidence of His Lordship is indisputable. If you have never turned your life over to Him, He is anxiously awaiting the day that you look to Him for salvation. The Bible says that every person is a sinner and in need of forgiveness in order to have eternal life in heaven with Jesus. Go to the Lord in prayer, admit that you are a sinner and desire His forgiveness to cleanse your heart and life. Jesus promises, in the Bible, that He will answer that prayer immediately. Then you can begin to walk with the Lord daily through prayer and Bible study. God bless you as you begin your walk with Him.

He will RISE

Reprinted from www.gty.org:

Without the resurrection, our Christian faith would be just wishful thinking, no better than human philosophies and speculative religions. In fact, the noted seventeenth-century philosopher John Locke, some of whose ideas were incorporated into the Declaration of Independence, wrote, "Our Saviour's resurrection is truly of great importance in Christianity, so great that His being or not being the Messiah stands or falls with it."

Every Easter the newspaper runs an article that casts doubt on the resurrection. Just how important is the resurrection to the Christian faith?The oldest Scripture passages contain the message of resurrection hope (see Job 19:25-26). Death has never been the end for the believer, but simply a gateway to eternal life in heaven. Abraham was ready to sacrifice his only son Isaac because in faith "he considered that God is able to raise men from the dead" (Hebrews 11:19). The Lord assured Daniel that believers "will awake ... to everlasting life" (Daniel 12:2).

The resurrection was the focal point of Christ's teaching to the disciples about His sufferings and death: "The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again" (Mark 8:31). It is therefore completely understandable that Mark and the other three gospel writers all included an historical account of Jesus' resurrection in their narratives.

Paul knew that without the resurrection our salvation could not have been possible (1 Corinthians 15). He was also convinced a person couldn't be saved without believing in the resurrection of Jesus: "If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved" (Romans 10:9).

It's no wonder Paul, the other apostles, and every leader in the early church continually proclaimed Christ's resurrection as the culmination of His ministry. Those men were so captivated by the significance of the resurrection that they could not help but preach it. And that should be our attitude today.

Profile of the obsessed

I was moved to write about a topic that has been continually on my mind lately. That is the purposeful pursuit of holiness and knowing the Creator in a personal and intimate way. I am writing these things because I am heartbroken to the state of Christians today. I am not in any way leaving myself out of this statement. I am guilty of not revering God they way he should be.

The following describes what Christians should be, but mostly are not. The following is something I strive for and need God's help and the guidance of the Holy Spirit to accomplish. I pray it motivates you to become obsessed for the One who created you, loves you, died for you and now is your advocate in this life and beyond.

Adapted from the book 'Crazy Love,' by Francis Chan.

Obsessed: To have the mind excessively preoccupied with a single emotion or topic.

People who are obsessed with Jesus give freely and openly, without censure. Obsessed people love those who hate them and who can never love them back.

People who are obsessed with Jesus aren't consumed with their personal safety and comfort above all else. Obsessed people care more about God's kingdom coming to this earth than their own lives being shielded from pain or distress.

People who are obsessed with Jesus live lives that connect them with the poor in some way or another. Obsessed people believe that Jesus talked about money and that poor so often because it was really important to him. (1 John 2:4-6; Matthew 16:24-26).

Obsessed people are more concerned with obeying God than doing what is expected or fulfilling the status quo. A person who is obsessed with Jesus will do things that don't always make sense in terms of success or wealth on this earth. As Martin Luther put it, "There are two days on my calendar: this day and that day" (Luke 14:25-35; Matthew 7:13-23; 8:18-22; Revelation 3:1-6).

A person who is obsessed with Jesus knows that the sin of pride is always a battle. Obsessed people know that you can never be "humble enough," and so they seek to make themselves less known and Christ more known (Matthew 5:16).

People who are obsessed with Jesus do not consider service a burden. Obsessed people take joy in loving God by loving his people (Matthew 13:44; John 15:8).

People who are obsessed with God are known as givers, not takers. Obsessed people genuinely think that others matter as much as they do, and they are particularly aware of those who are poor around the world (James 2:14-26).

A person who is obsessed thinks about heaven frequently. Obsessed people orient their lives around eternity; they are not fixed only on what is here in front of them.

A person who is obsessed is characterized by committed, settled, passionate love for God, above and before every other thing and every other being.

People who are obsessed are raw with God; they do not attempt to mask the ugliness of their sins or their failures. Obsessed people don't put it on for God; he is their safe place, where they can be at peace.

People who are obsessed with God have an intimate relationship with him. They are nourished by God's Word throughout the day because they know that forty minutes on Sunday is not enough to sustain them for a whole week, especially when they will encounter so many distractions and alternative messages.

A person who is obsessed with Jesus is more concerned with his or her character than comfort. Obsessed people know that true joy doesn't depend on circumstances or environment; it is a gift that must be chosen and cultivated, a gift that ultimately comes from God (James 1:2-4).

A person who is obsessed with Jesus knows that the best thing he can do is be faithful to his Savior in every aspect of his life, continually saying "Thank You!" to God. An obsessed person knows there can never be intimacy if he is always trying to pay God back or work hard enough to be worthy. He revels in his role as child and friend of God.

What is love?

A free gift for those who want to know what true love is. John 19:1-3

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Praise to the Creator

It's dark outside... woke up at 5:45 am this morning wide awake. I typically get up around 6:30 to be with the Lord in prayer and in the Word, but this morning was different. I felt a strong urging to get out of bed. I opened the Word to Psalms and began reading. I have read Psalms many times over, but this morning every word jumped off the page. I feel the Lord is telling me to write down what I am reading so that He can receive praise and glory for WHO HE IS. I cannot express in my finite mind the glory of God, so I will repeat what those wrote many, many years ago about the One who created all things, who is not created, but IS. I feel led to write these Psalms as my heart's prayer to the Lord.

The following are verses I am pulling from all throughout the Psalms, in no particular order, but as the Lord directs me: (all NIV)

I will declare your name to my brothers;
in the congregation I will praise you.
The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it.
We wait in hope for the Lord;
he is our help and our shield.
In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Worship the Lord with gladness.
I seek you with all of my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.
I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
I will not neglect your word.
I am a stranger on earth.
Teach me your decrees!
Let me understand the teaching of your precepts.
I will speak of your statutes before kings,
and will not be put to shame.
You are my portion, O Lord;
I have promised to obey your words.
I have sought your face with all my heart;
be gracious to me according to your promise.
I will hasten and not delay to obey your commands.
Teach me your decrees!
I keep your precepts with all my heart.
Your word, O Lord, is eternal;
it stands firm... Your faithfulness continues through all generations.
Save me, for I am yours.
Accept, O Lord, the willing praise of my mouth.
My zeal wears me out!
I rise before dawn and cry for help;
I have put my hope in your word.
Salvation is far from the wicked.
Give me understanding according to your word.
Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love,
for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go,
for to you I lift up my soul.
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.

Praise the Lord!

Blogging MORE!

Ok, it's time to start. I have been wanting to journal my experiences lately with the whole journey I've been on with missions and my daily walk with God. Mainly for my own purposes, I will begin blogging more so I can look back at where I have been and where God has led and guided me. At least once a week I want to post something, at the very least giving an overview of where I have been spiritually and where I see God working. The most important thing to me is being in God's will. To know His will is like the key to all understanding. In order to do this, however, we must know the Holy Spirit. To know the Holy Spirit, we must know Jesus. You see the pattern here... God wants us to give all of us to Him. Selfishness is the world's way. Selfishness is doing ANYTHING outside of God's will. This blog will now serve as a way to keep myself in check, to look back and see the patterns in my life and how closely I stay (or not) in His will.

CBN reports on Haiti earthquake with mention of Salem Evangelical Church team currently in Haiti:

Be Holy because I am Holy

My prayer and heart song to the Lord of Lords:

Holiness, holiness is what I long for
Holiness is what I need
Holiness, holiness is what
You want for me, for me

Holiness, holiness is what I long for (that's what I long for)
Holiness is what I need
Holiness, holiness is what
You want for me

Righteousness, righteousness is what I long for
Righteousness is what I need (thats what I need)
Righteousness, Righteousness is what
You want for me, for me
So, take my heart and mold it

So, take my heart and mold it (So, take my heart and mold it)
Take my mind, transform it (Take my mind, transform it)
Take my will, conform it (Take my will, conform it)
To Your, to Your, oh, Lord (Take my will, conform it)

Brokenness, brokenness is what I long for
Brokenness what I need (gotta be broken)
Brokenness, brokenness is what
You want for me, for me
So, take my heart and mold it

So, take my heart and mold it
Take my mind, transform it
Take my will, conform it
To Yours, to Yours, oh, Lord

Take my will, conform it (Take my will, conform it)
Take my mind transform it (Take my will, conform it)
Take my will conform it (Take my will conform it)
To Your, to Your, oh, Lord (To Your, to Your, oh, Lord)

Holiness, holiness is what I long for
Holiness is what I know I need
Holiness, holiness is what
You want for me
I want to be holy

Its what you want for me
I got to be holy

It's what you want for me

(lyrics to Sonic Flood's "Holiness")

What Christmas is ABOUT

Remember that Christmas is NOT about presents, it's not about lights, it's not about family, it's not about food, it's not about shopping, not about gold, tinsel, silver, wrapping, bows, Santa, reindeer, or snow. No it's not about any of these things. IT'S ABOUT THE KING OF KINGS.

It's about a baby in a manger, born as a King. It's hard to describe the King, but here goes anyway:
He's the King of the Jews.
He's the King of Israel.
He's the King of righteousness.
He's the King of the ages.
He's the King of Heaven.
He's the King of glory.
He's the King of kings and He is the Lord of lords.
He's enduringly strong.
He's entirely sincere.
He's eternally steadfast.
He's immortally graceful.
He's imperially powerful.
He's impartially merciful.
He's God's Son.
He's the sinner's savior.
He's the centerpiece of civilization.
He stands alone in Himself.
He's honest.
He's unique.
He's unparalleled.
He's unprecedented.
He's supreme.
He's pre-eminent.
He's the grandest idea in literature.
He's the highest personality in philosophy.
He's the supreme problem in high criticism.
He's the fundamental doctrine of proved theology.
He's the carnal necessity of spiritual religion.
He's the miracle of the age.
He's the superlative of everything good that you choose to call Him.
He's the only one able to supply all of our needs simultaneously.
He supplies strength for the weak.
He's available for the tempted and the tried.
He sympathizes and He saves.
He's strong God and He guides.
He heals the sick.
He cleanses the lepers.
He forgives sinners.
He discharged debtors.
He delivers the captives.
He defends the feeble.
He blesses the young.
He serves the unfortunate.
He regards the aged.
He rewards the diligent and He beautifies the meek.
He's a King of knowledge.
He's the wellspring of wisdom.
He's the doorway of deliverance.
He's the pathway of peace.
He's the roadway of righteousness.
He's the highway of holiness.
He's the gateway of glory.
He's the master of the mighty.
He's the captain of the conquerors.
He's the head of the heroes.
He's the leader of the legislatures.
He's the overseer of the overcomers.
He's the governor of governors.
He's the prince of princes.
He's the King of kings and He's the Lord of lords.
His office is manifold.
His promise is sure.
His light is matchless.
His goodness is limitless.
His mercy is everlasting.
His love never changes.
His Word is enough.
His grace is sufficient.
His reign is righteous.
His yoke is easy and His burden is light.

I wish I could describe Him to you, but He's indescribable.

This post is in honor of my King Jesus! Praise His holy name!
(Credit to S.M. Lockridge and the sermon "My King")

The Story

Learn how it all began and how it will never end...

Two opposing prescriptions for happiness

Source

SELF-SAVING vs. SELF-GIVING prescriptions for happiness:

SELF-SAVING: “I will be happy when I can get others to love me the right way how I want to be loved.”
SELF-GIVING: “I will be happy as I learn to love others maturely.”

SELF-SAVING: “I will be happy when I accumulate enough things for my own self-enjoyment.”
SELF-GIVING: “I will be happy the more I use my things for the well-being of others.”

SELF-SAVING: “I will be happy when I get enough time for myself to do what I want to do.”
SELF-GIVING: “I will be happy as I learn how to use most of my time to serve other people.”

SELF-SAVING: “I will be happy when I get circumstances going my way.”
SELF-GIVING: “I will be happy as I love others regardless of my circumstances.”

RESULTS: Jesus promises that the SELF-SAVING life always results in emptiness for everyone who pursues it, while he promises that the SELF-GIVING life always results in true happiness for everyone who pursues it. Is this true? Look at our world today. Let's break down what SELF-SAVING and SELF-GIVING really means:

1. SELF-SAVING: Dissatisfaction. You may experience a temporary sense of happiness when you get some of the above—but it is fleeting—you need more next time to get the same lift, and it leads to long-term emptiness.
   
   SELF-GIVING: Increasing contentment with what you have in the above areas—because you know that’s not what makes your life full and meaningful anyway. You often experience short-term excitement from giving to others—and definitely experience a long-term deepening sense of satisfaction that you have helped others.
   
   
2. SELF-SAVING: Relational failure. When people try to build a relationship based on expecting the other person to love them the right way, relational problems are bound to follow: usually either breaking the relationship off to find someone else who loves you better, or negotiated selfishness and parallel lives.
   
   SELF-GIVING: Relational success. When even one person becomes committed to self-giving, it radically changes the dynamics. And when both people focus on how to give/serve (Rom. 12:10) rather than on expecting/demanding, the relationship ripens into something that, while not trouble-free, becomes more and more stable and enjoyable as the years go by.
   
   
3. SELF-SAVING: Emotional problems. Because your happiness depends on things you can’t control, this leads to a lot of anxiety about losing the things you have, lots of effort to control people and circumstances to get a sense of security, frustration and anger and bitterness when people disappoint you or block you from the things you want, increasingly chronic depression, etc.. And this gets worse as people get older.
   
   SELF-GIVING: Growing emotional health. Because we are fallen and a sinful race, none of us is ever completely free from emotional problems. But we do see people who truly sell out to this get substantially free from anxiety and need to control and bitterness and depression—progressively delivered from unhealthy self-centeredness to wholesome other-centeredness.
   

Read Isa. 58:9,10 as a picture of the self-giving life and its results. When you make happiness your goal, it eludes you. But when you turn away from this and make serving others your goal, happiness finds you.

The self-giving life requires access to God’s love

But how can this be? It is counter-intuitive and seems crazy for one simple reason: Who is going to take care of me? What’s going to prevent me from being used up? That’s a fair question, and this is why the self-giving way of life is crazy unless the God of the Bible exists—a personal God who loves you and who will take care of you and who can indwell you as an inexhaustible source of love to give to others.

See what Jesus “knew” that enabled him to wash his disciples’ feet (Jn. 13:3,4). He knew that he was secure in his Father’s love (destiny; ultimate authority), and on this basis he could focus on serving his disciples even when he was in great need himself. So it is with us—and this is why Jesus called the disciples to love one another “as I have loved you” (13:34). This means not only that he set an example for them, but that they could depend on his ongoing love for them. Through our relationship with Jesus, we can know that our destiny is secure (Rom. 8:1), that God’s sovereign and loving hand is on all of our circumstances (Rom. 8:28), and that nothing can separate us from his love (Rom. 8:37-39).

Read 1 Jn. 4:16-19. We are able to love others because God first loved us. As we come to understand and choose to believe the love that God has for us, we are perfected in loving others.

Even Matt. 16:25 presumes a love relationship with Jesus (“for me”).

So this is God’s wisdom—only the self-giving life brings true happiness, but you can live the self-giving life only when you have personal access to God’s love. And there is only one way to gain this access—through receiving Jesus Christ. This is what Jesus claims in this wonderful invitation (read Jn. 7:37,38). Have you made the decision to receive God’s love through Jesus Christ?

Do not live in fear!

I knew a man once named Mike who was afraid of everything. I mean, literally, afraid of EVERYTHING! He was afraid of getting sick, of getting injured, of losing his job, of strife in his marriage, of giving into immoral desires, of being poor--and on top of all that he was afraid of what people thought of him with the smallest self-esteem of any person I have ever known. I asked him boldly one day, "why are you so afraid of everything?" His answer is what I expected. He answered, "I am afraid of what tomorrow might bring because I am not worthy of anything good." Wow. This guy was afraid of good things happening to him because he believed that they would be taken away. He was living in the past and never looked to the future or to any other source for joy and hope.

There are many people in our world today like Mike. Many people, especially the U.S., have hope in things that have no value. They measure their own value by the things they have, or the friends they associate with, or things they are "good" at. But those who have hope in these things must live in fear. If I put all my trust in these things I would be fearful too! But I do not fear anything. Why? Not because of my own strength and self-control. Trust me, NOT because of that! It is because there is a greater power at work within me that gives me strength every day to continue on. This power gives me hope for a future and I know without any doubt in my mind, that this power at work within me will be with me for the rest of my life and I will do things, say things, and experience things that are beyond what I can hope or imagine. This trust I have is not in things that will rust or get eaten away by moths. This hope is not in a career or status in society. No, it's an understanding of things to come, a knowledge that there is a greater power than myself and my circumstances.

I do not fear because Jesus died for my pitiful, selfish, sinful, deceitful self and gave me a new life, one full of hope, love, and confidence. I am confident God put me here on this planet in this time period for purpose and that he has done that for every other person in this world. Fear is only from those things that oppose God's plan. If we are to claim what God has purposed us for then we CANNOT live in fear. Fear is straight from the Liar and Deceiver himself, Satan. Do you have strife in your life? It is because of fear. Do you have uncertainty of what tomorrow might bring? It is because of fear.

READ the Word of God. The Bible is the best selling book of all times, not because of it's popular messages (in fact it is hated by many). It is called the Living Word because that is exactly what it is! It not merely a book with words in it. When read, the words are given power, literally. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God (Romans 10:17).

When you are hungry, do you eat? You feel hunger pains and your stomach growls. Are you feeling pain in your life? Is your body and/or your circumstances "growling" at you? We are given warning signs for purpose. If we did not feel hungry we would not eat and we would starve. As well as nourishing your body, you need to nourish your soul. In Scripture, King David declared God's Word to be sweeter than honey (see Psalm 19:10), and Job said that he treasured God's Word more than his necessary food (see Job 23:12).

Franklin D. Roosevelt said, "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself." That statement has profound wisdom if looked upon in a spiritual sense. Do not let fear control you. Get into the Word of God, study it daily, keep a journal, and pray daily for the Lord of All to show you an abundant life free from fear.

A just God draws the line in the sand

People have asked, “If my God is so loving and kind, why would He allow some people to go to heaven, while letting others go to hell?” I respond by saying that I do not believe that God has a scoring system for rating “when good is good enough to go to heaven” and “when bad is bad enough to go to hell.” God knows that all will fall short of the standard created by His Holy nature. Rather than thinking in terms of a wall between “good enough” and “bad enough,” think of it as everyone’s sinful nature being “incompatible” with God’s Holiness.

Jesus is God’s “line in the sand,” so to speak. Those who seek the light of His true nature and immortality will stand with Him. Those who prefer the darkness of the world’s lies will not. Although God wants an eternal relationship with everyone, He only makes the offer, we must make the choice. (Matthew 19:17)

Another question that relates to this last comment is this: “If my God is so loving and kind, why would He allow suffering and torment on Earth?” He ultimately wants us to seek Him. But He gives us free will so that we will follow Him willingly. Those who do not follow Him and serve the other side (the absence of light is darkness), cause this suffering and torment. For example, who do you suppose terrorists serve, a God of love or a god of suffering? It’s apparent it’s a god of suffering. That’s not my God.

In our fallen and sinful world there is decay. This decay goes through every living thing, including our own bodies. Those who fall to illnesses do so because of sin, the original sin of Adam and Eve, not because God caused it or because someone “deserves” it - there is no such a thing. But for those people who do suffer in this way, God’s ways and will is perfect. There is a purpose in it and it CAN be used for God's glory...

Chance at a new life

Recently I have been reflecting on how I came to be a Christian and what that means. I chose to remind myself frequently of my past because I want to remember what Jesus has done for me, not just in the "spiritual" sense, but literally. I don't dwell on the past, as that would not allow me to move forward. But remembering who I was before I met Jesus, before I gave up my stupid ways, reminds me who I am living for. If you are a Christian, do you think about this? It's important because without our past we would have no witness or example at all as to why the heck we would put all our faith into this unseen person, Jesus.

It has taken several years (a decade in fact) to get to the point that I am at today. I lay my life at the feet of Jesus for him to take me and mold me into the man HE wants me to be. I was once heavily into alcohol and loved the party scene. Going to clubs, hanging out in the most obscene places. That was my life in my teens into my early 20s. Although I accepted Jesus and the fact that I believed he was and is truly God at age 19, I struggled to live out my new faith. After years of living as I did before I knew Christ, I realized one day that something needed to change. I was not going down the road I wanted to, struggling with my marriage, my job, everything. So with my wife, we decided to make a real change. The year was 1998. We started attending church regularly and eventually found a "home" church that we would go to every week for the following 8 years.

Fast forward to today, two mission trips to India later, a leader of an international surfing ministry, ministry partner with several evangelists, going to an incredible mission-minded, spirit-led, praying church, and working for a Christian college. Not to MY glory, but to God alone. I am willing. I am ready. To live is Christ, to die is gain - dying to myself (Phil. 1:21).

Want to know more about who Jesus REALLY is? Not what you see on TV. Not what you typically know of at church. The REAL Jesus. He IS real and he has changed my life. I have seen him work in amazing ways. The things I have seen are not explainable in human terms, only spiritual. I'd love to talk to you about your walk in life and experiences. Give me a call or email: 503-320-4814 / corey@ckwells.com.

Encourage someone today

"'Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad.'"
-Proverbs 12:25

The nineteenth-century writer Walt Whitman struggled for years to get anyone interested in his poetry. During his discouragement he received a life-changing note from an admirer of his work. The note read, 'Dear Sir, I am not blind to the worth of the wonderful gift of Leaves of Grass [one of Whitman's recent writings]. I find it the most extraordinary piece of wit and wisdom that America has yet contributed. I greet you at the beginning of a great career.' It was signed by Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Whitman enjoyed a long career and is now considered one of the giants of American literature. But when times were tough he needed encouragement to keep going. And he's not alone. When we're on the brink of failure, the right word at the right time can keep us in the game. When we're too tired or discouraged to keep going, an act of compassion can give us new strength. Encouragement is one of the central themes of the Bible:

• 'Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad' (Proverbs 12:25).
  
• 'Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees' (Isaiah 35:3).
  
• 'For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, saying to you, 'Fear not, I will help you'' (Isaiah 41:13).
  

Encouragement doesn't deny the problem; it enables us to overcome it. It doesn't validate stubbornness or stupidity; it simply corrects and guides us in the right path. It doesn't leave us alone to carry the burden; it lets us know that God is present to help and strengthen us. So today, encourage somebody!

I pray you are encouraged by this...

What is your identity?

Who are you? What do your closest friends associate with you? I have been thinking about this as I pray and read in my quiet time with the Lord. Recently family that I had not seen in many years came from the east coast and we caught up on the past 15 years. I was talking with some of them about what I liked to do as far as a hobby and surfing came up. I don't consider myself a great surfer, yet when they heard I surfed, it raised curiosity and my position with them. Funny thing about this is my parents also mentioned to them that I was a big time surfer. Is that my identity? Do I want to be associated with being a surfer?

This got me thinking about the different positions that people in the Bible held. Jesus was a carpenter, Peter was a fisherman, Matthew was a tax collector, but were they looked upon with this identity? Before they knew Jesus and laid down what they did to follow Him, yes I think they did hold these identities. It makes me wonder if my identity is where it should be. When people meet me and get to know me, will they know me as a surfer or something else? Or that guy who is sold out to Jesus?

I want people to remember me as someone who is wholeheartedly seeking the Lord. Surfer? Maybe. Jesus used many skill sets as examples (or parables) to relate to others about the Kingdom of Heaven. So surfing has its place; using it to relate life to one of faith following after the Lord, seeking His wisdom. But that is not what I want my identity to be solely. I want people to know that I love the Lord with all my strength and might. I want them to know that the greatest purpose for living is to please the Lord, glorifying Him in all we do. Of course this comes back to who we are, what we do. But do not to let WHAT you do supercede WHO you are; let WHO you are direct WHAT you do.

Rethink how you think

Here is a link to a great Q&A article by Rethink Magazine, a local Christian perspective mag in my area. The interview is with Francis Chan, pastor of Cornerstone Church. He poses very good insight into how we must rethink the way we think of ourselves as missionaries in the world around us.

rethinkmonthly.com

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