And I saw between the throne (with the four living creatures) and the elders a Lamb standing, as if slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God, sent out into all the earth. And He came and took the book out of the right hand of Him who sat on the throne. When He had taken the book, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each one holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. And they sang a new song, saying, "Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. "You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth." - Revelation 5:6-10 (New American Standard Bible)
There are five words that every believer should know and be able to explain. I have defined and discussed all of them many times in sermons and writings, but I am doing so again because they are so essential. Being confident in our beliefs is ever more important as cultures become bolder about persecuting Christians.
Jesus' shed blood redeems believers (1 Peter 1:18-19). This means that we are purchased from a life of slavery to sin. Furthermore, we receive forgiveness—the wrongs of our past, present, and future are totally washed away (Eph. 1:7-8). For the rest of eternity, God views His children through the "veil" of Christ's blood, which makes them pure and holy. Everyone who trusts in Jesus is declared no longer guilty (justified—Rom. 5:8-9) and brought into relationship with God (reconciled—Col. 1:19-22). This unalterable change in status from sinner to saint happens the moment a person receives Christ as Savior.
The final word, sanctified, describes the life-long maturing process that begins when a person trusts in the Savior (Heb. 13:12). A saint is set apart from the rest of humanity for the purpose of making him Christ-like. Through discipleship, testing, and teaching, God "drains out" our old self and pumps the life of Jesus into our heart and life.
These five words tell the story of our faith. Meditate upon the verses related to each one, and pray that God will write the meanings on your heart. When we're confident in our beliefs, we can be a light to others instead of crumbling at the threat of pain.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Have You Heard?
"We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world." - John 4:42
When we hear stories of how other people’s relationship with God helped them overcome adversity, it empowers us to persevere through our difficulties. And when God personally helps us to overcome our struggles, it causes our faith in him to be even stronger.
There is nothing like experiencing God first-hand in our lives. It is in those times when God speaks clearly and directly to us that we truly understand his love and faithfulness.
Maybe you know someone who has yet to discover the great benefits of a life yielded to the Savior. Or, you may have heard others talk about the awesome, life-changing power of Jesus Christ but have never experienced it for yourself. Take some time right now to invite him into your life.
Knowing Christ personally will literally transform you from the inside out. If you have a personal relationship with him, share your story with someone who doesn’t yet know the Savior, and encourage them to experience God first-hand. Let your life serve as a bold reminder that Christ really is the Light of the world so that others can be brought out of the darkness and have a new, brighter life with Jesus.
A Prayer for Today
Dear Lord, Thank you so much for coming into my life. Please help me to share my experiences with others so that they can experience your Light in their own lives. Use my life as an illustration of your awesome power at work so that others can experience your love. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
When we hear stories of how other people’s relationship with God helped them overcome adversity, it empowers us to persevere through our difficulties. And when God personally helps us to overcome our struggles, it causes our faith in him to be even stronger.
There is nothing like experiencing God first-hand in our lives. It is in those times when God speaks clearly and directly to us that we truly understand his love and faithfulness.
Maybe you know someone who has yet to discover the great benefits of a life yielded to the Savior. Or, you may have heard others talk about the awesome, life-changing power of Jesus Christ but have never experienced it for yourself. Take some time right now to invite him into your life.
Knowing Christ personally will literally transform you from the inside out. If you have a personal relationship with him, share your story with someone who doesn’t yet know the Savior, and encourage them to experience God first-hand. Let your life serve as a bold reminder that Christ really is the Light of the world so that others can be brought out of the darkness and have a new, brighter life with Jesus.
A Prayer for Today
Dear Lord, Thank you so much for coming into my life. Please help me to share my experiences with others so that they can experience your Light in their own lives. Use my life as an illustration of your awesome power at work so that others can experience your love. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Extreme - DevoMail with Skip Heitzig
The world looks at Christians celebrating death on Good Friday, and they can't figure it out. They say, "That is so extreme! Why, before God could forgive people, would He require the death of His Son? Why wouldn't He simply, benevolently, forgive people's sin? If I did something against you, you would just forgive me. Why can't God do that?"
But that kind of questioning betrays a sort of ignorance that is two-fold. One is of how heinous our sin is, and the other is of how great and holy our God is.
Nobody speaks of sin anymore. In fact, sin has almost disappeared from the American vocabulary. We speak of "problems" or "hangups" or "issues." It's called a "sickness" or it's called someone else's fault. But the Bible says very plainly that if we say we have no sin, we are liars. (1 John 1:8).
How serious is it? Paul said, "The wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23). We sin because it's our nature. "Through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all have sinned" (Romans 5:12). And we sin by choice. Every day we commit individual acts that are an affront to God.
They are an affront because God is absolutely holy. You see, holy God is wholly incompatible with sin and unrighteousness. "You are of purer eyes than to behold evil, and cannot look on wickedness" (Habakkuk 1:13). "Your iniquities have separated you from your God; and your sins have hidden His face from you" (Isaiah 59:2).
Perfect, holy God cannot coexist with sinful man. And because of that, we're separated, we're lost. So one of two things must happen. Either holy God must destroy unholiness, or holy God must declare that which is unholy, holy.
And that takes us to the cross. Jesus lived the perfect life that we could never live, and then took all our sins on Himself. So effectively God said, "I'll take the rap. I'll take all of your wickedness and evil and I'll put it on Myself so that when I die on the cross, it's finished, once and for all."
The cross is the only place that God will meet with mankind. The cross is the only place where both God's mercy and God's justice could meet. How can God be a God of love and a God of justice at the same time? How can holy, perfect God meet with sinful, rebellious man? Only at the cross. He came, He took our punishment, and then He declared you and me righteous because of it.
Extreme? Yes! But what a deal that is! It's the deal of a lifetime!
In His strong love,
Skip Heitzig
But that kind of questioning betrays a sort of ignorance that is two-fold. One is of how heinous our sin is, and the other is of how great and holy our God is.
Nobody speaks of sin anymore. In fact, sin has almost disappeared from the American vocabulary. We speak of "problems" or "hangups" or "issues." It's called a "sickness" or it's called someone else's fault. But the Bible says very plainly that if we say we have no sin, we are liars. (1 John 1:8).
How serious is it? Paul said, "The wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23). We sin because it's our nature. "Through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all have sinned" (Romans 5:12). And we sin by choice. Every day we commit individual acts that are an affront to God.
They are an affront because God is absolutely holy. You see, holy God is wholly incompatible with sin and unrighteousness. "You are of purer eyes than to behold evil, and cannot look on wickedness" (Habakkuk 1:13). "Your iniquities have separated you from your God; and your sins have hidden His face from you" (Isaiah 59:2).
Perfect, holy God cannot coexist with sinful man. And because of that, we're separated, we're lost. So one of two things must happen. Either holy God must destroy unholiness, or holy God must declare that which is unholy, holy.
And that takes us to the cross. Jesus lived the perfect life that we could never live, and then took all our sins on Himself. So effectively God said, "I'll take the rap. I'll take all of your wickedness and evil and I'll put it on Myself so that when I die on the cross, it's finished, once and for all."
The cross is the only place that God will meet with mankind. The cross is the only place where both God's mercy and God's justice could meet. How can God be a God of love and a God of justice at the same time? How can holy, perfect God meet with sinful, rebellious man? Only at the cross. He came, He took our punishment, and then He declared you and me righteous because of it.
Extreme? Yes! But what a deal that is! It's the deal of a lifetime!
In His strong love,
Skip Heitzig
Friday, March 19, 2010
Is It Really a Virtue? - Ed Young Ministries
"Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains." - James 5:7
In today’s society, we want results quickly. We want to invest and then enjoy the return immediately. We want to meet someone and instantly become friends or fall in love. We eat fast, talk even faster and rush through our days at a NASCAR-type pace.
But when it comes to God, we can’t rush Him. We can’t force Him to act according to our pace. So what does God advise us to do? James puts it all out there in the first two words of this verse—be patient.
How can the answer be that simple? How is patience going to help anything? After all, we need results now.
But patience is a crop whose value only grows over time. Whatever you are facing right now, wait for the Lord to direct you. Don’t try to force Him to act according to your plan. Listen to Him. And wait patiently for His plan to unfold. Soon, you will begin to discover just how valuable the crop is that He is growing in your life.
A Prayer for Today
Dear Lord, One of my biggest struggles is time. I want results now. I have difficulty waiting for anything, including You. Help me to be patient, especially when it comes to Your plan for my life. Help me to see that Your timing is always perfect. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
In today’s society, we want results quickly. We want to invest and then enjoy the return immediately. We want to meet someone and instantly become friends or fall in love. We eat fast, talk even faster and rush through our days at a NASCAR-type pace.
But when it comes to God, we can’t rush Him. We can’t force Him to act according to our pace. So what does God advise us to do? James puts it all out there in the first two words of this verse—be patient.
How can the answer be that simple? How is patience going to help anything? After all, we need results now.
But patience is a crop whose value only grows over time. Whatever you are facing right now, wait for the Lord to direct you. Don’t try to force Him to act according to your plan. Listen to Him. And wait patiently for His plan to unfold. Soon, you will begin to discover just how valuable the crop is that He is growing in your life.
A Prayer for Today
Dear Lord, One of my biggest struggles is time. I want results now. I have difficulty waiting for anything, including You. Help me to be patient, especially when it comes to Your plan for my life. Help me to see that Your timing is always perfect. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Chris Tomlin : All The Way My Savior Leads Me Lyrics
Chris Tomlin : All The Way My Savior Leads Me Lyrics
Songwriters: Redman, Matt; Tomlin, Chris;
All the way my Savior leads me
Who have I to ask beside
How could I doubt His tender mercy
Who through life has been my guide
All the way my Savior leads me
Cheers each winding path I tread
Gives me grace for every trial
Feeds me with the living Bread
You lead me and keep me from falling
You carry me close to Your heart
And surely Your goodness and mercy will follow me
All the way my Savior leads me
O, the fullness of His love
O, the sureness of His promise
In the triumph of His blood
And when my spirit clothed immortal
Wings its flight to realms of day
This my song through endless ages
Jesus led me all the way
Jesus led me all the way
You lead me and keep me from falling
You carry me close to Your heart
And surely Your goodness and mercy will follow me
You lead me and keep me from falling
You carry me close to Your heart
And surely Your goodness and mercy will follow me, will follow me
All the way my Savior leads me
All the way my Savior leads me
Songwriters: Redman, Matt; Tomlin, Chris;
All the way my Savior leads me
Who have I to ask beside
How could I doubt His tender mercy
Who through life has been my guide
All the way my Savior leads me
Cheers each winding path I tread
Gives me grace for every trial
Feeds me with the living Bread
You lead me and keep me from falling
You carry me close to Your heart
And surely Your goodness and mercy will follow me
All the way my Savior leads me
O, the fullness of His love
O, the sureness of His promise
In the triumph of His blood
And when my spirit clothed immortal
Wings its flight to realms of day
This my song through endless ages
Jesus led me all the way
Jesus led me all the way
You lead me and keep me from falling
You carry me close to Your heart
And surely Your goodness and mercy will follow me
You lead me and keep me from falling
You carry me close to Your heart
And surely Your goodness and mercy will follow me, will follow me
All the way my Savior leads me
All the way my Savior leads me
Our Relationship With God
"Teach me, O LORD, the way of Your statutes, And I shall observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may observe Your law and keep it with all my heart. Make me walk in the path of Your commandments, For I delight in it. Incline my heart to Your testimonies And not to dishonest gain. Turn away my eyes from looking at vanity, And revive me in Your ways. Establish Your word to Your servant, As that which produces reverence for You. Turn away my reproach which I dread, For Your ordinances are good. Behold, I long for Your precepts; Revive me through Your righteousness. " - Psalm 119:33-40 (New American Standard Bible)
By trusting Christ, a person enters into a lifelong relationship with the heavenly Father. As believers, we have a responsibility to keep that connection healthy.
First, we must learn about our new family. An essential and on-going part of family life involves knowing and being known by the other members. In the Bible, God gave a detailed description of His attributes, values, and thinking. And since Jesus came to earth, we can better understand divine character, which was demonstrated in a human life. As we meditate on Scripture, our sense of connectedness to our triune God will grow.
Second, we should stay in close contact with God through prayer and study of His Word—and resist the temptation to put people, work, or pleasures ahead of Him. Remember: Relationships thrive with consistent interaction but wither if neglected.
Third, we are to respond to what He has communicated. He provided instructions for living and explained what pleases Him. In healthy families, people pay attention to each other. We need to heed our Father's warnings and obey His commands.
Finally, we must grow in likeness to God. Relatives can resemble each other in subtle and obvious ways. As we cooperate with the transforming work of the Holy Spirit, we will start to think and act like our Father.
God the Father provided salvation through His Son, who died so we could become spiritually alive. Jesus set an example for us to follow: a life of loving, obedient service. God's Spirit is doing His sanctifying work in us (1 Peter 1:2). Are we doing our part to keep the relationship healthy?
By trusting Christ, a person enters into a lifelong relationship with the heavenly Father. As believers, we have a responsibility to keep that connection healthy.
First, we must learn about our new family. An essential and on-going part of family life involves knowing and being known by the other members. In the Bible, God gave a detailed description of His attributes, values, and thinking. And since Jesus came to earth, we can better understand divine character, which was demonstrated in a human life. As we meditate on Scripture, our sense of connectedness to our triune God will grow.
Second, we should stay in close contact with God through prayer and study of His Word—and resist the temptation to put people, work, or pleasures ahead of Him. Remember: Relationships thrive with consistent interaction but wither if neglected.
Third, we are to respond to what He has communicated. He provided instructions for living and explained what pleases Him. In healthy families, people pay attention to each other. We need to heed our Father's warnings and obey His commands.
Finally, we must grow in likeness to God. Relatives can resemble each other in subtle and obvious ways. As we cooperate with the transforming work of the Holy Spirit, we will start to think and act like our Father.
God the Father provided salvation through His Son, who died so we could become spiritually alive. Jesus set an example for us to follow: a life of loving, obedient service. God's Spirit is doing His sanctifying work in us (1 Peter 1:2). Are we doing our part to keep the relationship healthy?
Sunday, March 7, 2010
The Holy Spirit: Our Teacher
"These things I have spoken to you while abiding with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you." John 14:25-26 (New American Standard Bible)
If you are going to take instruction from someone, you want to be certain that person is well qualified, right? It's interesting, then, that so many believers neglect the greatest Bible teacher available. We read religious books, consult friends, and tune into a favored preacher before we will get on our knees. While those sources can point us in the right direction, only the Holy Spirit illuminates God's Word to our hearts and minds.
Asking someone to explain God's Word seems easier than seeking to understand it through the Holy Spirit's power. But consider what a person misses by forsaking Him. Who better to instruct believers about the Scripture's depth and breadth than the One who wrote it (2 Peter 1:20-21)? The Spirit laid His message on the authors' hearts, and they dutifully recorded it, each in his own unique voice.
Furthermore, as a member of the holy Trinity, the Spirit knows the mind of God (1 Cor. 2:10). He is often called the Spirit of truth, because He understands everything. The Spirit recognizes our emotional and mental state and can identify exactly where we are in our Christian growth. Therefore, He can reveal to our minds passages that will encourage, challenge, or convict us as needed.
We have a teacher of divine quality. He will help us to learn and grow, guide us through difficult passages, and shed light on why the Lord allows certain challenges our life. When it comes to aiding God's people to know His Word, no one is more qualified than His Spirit.
If you are going to take instruction from someone, you want to be certain that person is well qualified, right? It's interesting, then, that so many believers neglect the greatest Bible teacher available. We read religious books, consult friends, and tune into a favored preacher before we will get on our knees. While those sources can point us in the right direction, only the Holy Spirit illuminates God's Word to our hearts and minds.
Asking someone to explain God's Word seems easier than seeking to understand it through the Holy Spirit's power. But consider what a person misses by forsaking Him. Who better to instruct believers about the Scripture's depth and breadth than the One who wrote it (2 Peter 1:20-21)? The Spirit laid His message on the authors' hearts, and they dutifully recorded it, each in his own unique voice.
Furthermore, as a member of the holy Trinity, the Spirit knows the mind of God (1 Cor. 2:10). He is often called the Spirit of truth, because He understands everything. The Spirit recognizes our emotional and mental state and can identify exactly where we are in our Christian growth. Therefore, He can reveal to our minds passages that will encourage, challenge, or convict us as needed.
We have a teacher of divine quality. He will help us to learn and grow, guide us through difficult passages, and shed light on why the Lord allows certain challenges our life. When it comes to aiding God's people to know His Word, no one is more qualified than His Spirit.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Lifted Up
"Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded... Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up." - James 4:8, 10
So often we shy away from the word sin. We try to make it sound better by saying, "mistake," "issue" or "struggle." Rarely do we call it what it really is. But to discover the life that God has for us, we have to admit our sin. Rather than laughing off our "mistakes," James challenges us here to admit our sin and fall humbly before God.
Sin is a serious issue. So serious in fact, that it cost God the life of his only Son, Jesus Christ. But the good news is that your sin doesn’t have to come between you and God. When you admit to God that you are a sinner; when you fall humbly before Him and ask Him for forgiveness, "he will lift you up."
No longer will you have to be ashamed of your sin. Once you are forgiven, God holds no memory of your transgressions. Nothing on earth has the power to lift you up and give you life like the power of a purified heart before God.
A Prayer for Today
Dear God, I know that my sin has separated me from You. I admit this sin to You and ask You for forgiveness. I fall humbly at Your feet and know that through the blood of Jesus Christ, I am purified and can experience life on a whole new level. In Your Son’s name I pray, Amen.
So often we shy away from the word sin. We try to make it sound better by saying, "mistake," "issue" or "struggle." Rarely do we call it what it really is. But to discover the life that God has for us, we have to admit our sin. Rather than laughing off our "mistakes," James challenges us here to admit our sin and fall humbly before God.
Sin is a serious issue. So serious in fact, that it cost God the life of his only Son, Jesus Christ. But the good news is that your sin doesn’t have to come between you and God. When you admit to God that you are a sinner; when you fall humbly before Him and ask Him for forgiveness, "he will lift you up."
No longer will you have to be ashamed of your sin. Once you are forgiven, God holds no memory of your transgressions. Nothing on earth has the power to lift you up and give you life like the power of a purified heart before God.
A Prayer for Today
Dear God, I know that my sin has separated me from You. I admit this sin to You and ask You for forgiveness. I fall humbly at Your feet and know that through the blood of Jesus Christ, I am purified and can experience life on a whole new level. In Your Son’s name I pray, Amen.
Psalm 27:1-5
"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked came against me to eat up my flesh, my enemies and foes they stumbled and fell. (Having seen this place, they no doubt would have.) Though an army may encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war may rise against me, in this I will be confident. One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple. For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavillion (There are many natural pavillions made out of rocks and boulders.), in the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock (Lots of high places in the rocks.). - Psalm 27:1-5"
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Be Generous
"A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed" - Proverbs 11:25, (NIV)
Do you need refreshing today? So many people go around overwhelmed, tired, worn down, barely getting by. But that's not God's best. He wants us to prosper. He wants us to be refreshed. Here's the key: be generous and refresh others. Is there someone at the office you can be a blessing to? Can you lighten someone's load? Maybe a family member is going through a hard time. Can you help them out? Can you cook them a meal? Refreshing someone can be as simple as a smile or an encouraging word. Don't wait until you feel like doing it, that day may never come! Do it because the Scripture tells us to. Do it because it blesses the Lord.
Today, look for someone to be a blessing to. As you step out and refresh others, as you live a life of generosity, you will be refreshed and experience His blessing in your own life in return.
A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your grace and mercy in my life. Thank You for blessing me so that I can be a blessing to others. Teach me to be generous. Show me how I can refresh others and bring glory to You. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Do you need refreshing today? So many people go around overwhelmed, tired, worn down, barely getting by. But that's not God's best. He wants us to prosper. He wants us to be refreshed. Here's the key: be generous and refresh others. Is there someone at the office you can be a blessing to? Can you lighten someone's load? Maybe a family member is going through a hard time. Can you help them out? Can you cook them a meal? Refreshing someone can be as simple as a smile or an encouraging word. Don't wait until you feel like doing it, that day may never come! Do it because the Scripture tells us to. Do it because it blesses the Lord.
Today, look for someone to be a blessing to. As you step out and refresh others, as you live a life of generosity, you will be refreshed and experience His blessing in your own life in return.
A PRAYER FOR TODAY
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your grace and mercy in my life. Thank You for blessing me so that I can be a blessing to others. Teach me to be generous. Show me how I can refresh others and bring glory to You. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Walking in the Spirit
"16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. 17 For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh ; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. 19 Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20 idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, 21 envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control ; against such things there is no law. 24 Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. " - Galatians 5:16-25 (New American Standard)
The Holy Spirit is one of God's most precious gifts to His beloved children. He takes up residence within the believer at the moment of salvation and empowers him to overcome sin and live for God's glory and purposes. However, the Spirit's power can be "turned off" or ignored. Only those who choose to walk with Him have unhindered access to His strength and guidance.
Walking by the Spirit denotes reliance upon Him. He leads the way, and we follow. As He speaks, we listen, heed His warnings, and obey His directions. The Spirit's way is a path of surrender which, although difficult, leads to fullness of life.
God's Spirit not only guides; He also empowers because the challenge of obeying Him is impossible in our own strength. The Holy Spirit supplies everything we need to live a godly life, and He produces His amazing fruit in us.
Being led by the Spirit should be the natural lifestyle of the sons and daughters of God. As you intentionally seek to maintain an awareness of His presence throughout the day, He is only a thought away. When your mind turns to Him, He gives sensitivity to the things of God and understanding about the situations and people in your life.
Take a walk with the Spirit today, and learn to know His voice. Whenever your mind is not occupied with the duties of the day, focus your thoughts on Him, asking for His guidance and looking expectantly for His leading. When He gives it, rely on His power to obey.
The Holy Spirit is one of God's most precious gifts to His beloved children. He takes up residence within the believer at the moment of salvation and empowers him to overcome sin and live for God's glory and purposes. However, the Spirit's power can be "turned off" or ignored. Only those who choose to walk with Him have unhindered access to His strength and guidance.
Walking by the Spirit denotes reliance upon Him. He leads the way, and we follow. As He speaks, we listen, heed His warnings, and obey His directions. The Spirit's way is a path of surrender which, although difficult, leads to fullness of life.
God's Spirit not only guides; He also empowers because the challenge of obeying Him is impossible in our own strength. The Holy Spirit supplies everything we need to live a godly life, and He produces His amazing fruit in us.
Being led by the Spirit should be the natural lifestyle of the sons and daughters of God. As you intentionally seek to maintain an awareness of His presence throughout the day, He is only a thought away. When your mind turns to Him, He gives sensitivity to the things of God and understanding about the situations and people in your life.
Take a walk with the Spirit today, and learn to know His voice. Whenever your mind is not occupied with the duties of the day, focus your thoughts on Him, asking for His guidance and looking expectantly for His leading. When He gives it, rely on His power to obey.
A Position of Submission - Ed Young Ministries
But he gives more grace. That is why Scripture says: "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." Submit yourselves, then, to God... Come near to God and he will come near to you. - James 4:6-8
When you drill down nearly every emotional, relational and spiritual struggle in your life, you’ll come to one root cause: pride. We all have a tendency to want to be in charge. We want to be our own god, to call the shots. But control is far from ours, no matter how much we may want it.
The Bible tells us that God opposes the proud. So when pride causes you and me to attempt to wrestle the reins of life from God, we end up facing some major opposition.
To get back to a place of peace with God, James tells us to place ourselves in a position of submission. In this context, the word "submit" is a military term. It conveys the idea that we need to get under God’s plan for our lives. He is the one who is in control; He has set forth the battle strategy. And when we submit to His plan rather than trying to follow our own, we will discover victory over every other battle in life.
A Prayer for Today
Dear God, I admit to you that I want control of my life. I want to call the shots. But I also realize that my pride causes a rift between you and me. So I humbly ask that when I try to wrestle control from you, that you help me get back to a place of submission. Because only by following you will I discover true peace. In Christ’s name I pray, Amen.
When you drill down nearly every emotional, relational and spiritual struggle in your life, you’ll come to one root cause: pride. We all have a tendency to want to be in charge. We want to be our own god, to call the shots. But control is far from ours, no matter how much we may want it.
The Bible tells us that God opposes the proud. So when pride causes you and me to attempt to wrestle the reins of life from God, we end up facing some major opposition.
To get back to a place of peace with God, James tells us to place ourselves in a position of submission. In this context, the word "submit" is a military term. It conveys the idea that we need to get under God’s plan for our lives. He is the one who is in control; He has set forth the battle strategy. And when we submit to His plan rather than trying to follow our own, we will discover victory over every other battle in life.
A Prayer for Today
Dear God, I admit to you that I want control of my life. I want to call the shots. But I also realize that my pride causes a rift between you and me. So I humbly ask that when I try to wrestle control from you, that you help me get back to a place of submission. Because only by following you will I discover true peace. In Christ’s name I pray, Amen.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
The Main Event - DevoMail with Skip Heitzig
Dear Connection Friend,
In December 1903, Wilbur and Orville Wright sent a telegram to their family from Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. It said, "We actually flew 120 feet. We'll be home for Christmas." Their sister Katharine took it to the editor of the local newspaper. His response was interesting. "Oh, how nice," he said. "The boys will be home for Christmas." He missed the main event: Mankind had flown!
Much bigger news happened in a little town outside Jerusalem 1900 years earlier, but some people missed it.We find one of them in Luke 2. The innkeeper at Bethlehem missed the main event because he was too preoccupied with his business. Although there's always room available for a stranger in that part of the world, he showed no hospitality whatsoever. He sent Joseph and Mary to a stable. This shows the attitude of the world toward God. When it comes to spiritual things, and the person of the Lord Jesus Christ, most people's response is that they're too busy. But if you're too busy for God, you are just too busy!
In Matthew 2 we find the second one who missed the main event, a paranoid politician. King Herod was fearful and perturbed when the magi came looking for a newborn "King of the Jews." This was Herod's title, and he didn't want any competition. He didn't want to lose control. There are people today who won't let God interfere with their personal kingdoms. God is fine as long as He doesn't invade their space. Like Herod, they claim to worship God, but it's really all about them.
And then there was a group of passive theologians. Herod asked the scribes and priests where Christ would be born, and they knew the exact place. I think that's amazing--not because of what they knew, but because of what they didn't do. Why didn't they go to Bethlehem? It was only five miles away! It's not enough to know the text or be able to analyze it or quote it. You have to respond in obedience. Do you have a passion for God, to know Him and have His peace? Or has this "church thing" become routine?So there was no room in the inn, no room in the court, no room in the religious system. No room for Jesus. How about you? Are you preoccupied with other things? Are you paranoid about losing your position as king of your own life? Or are you just passive and can't be bothered?
Don't miss the main event. Don't let distractions or pride or apathy keep you from Jesus Christ. He is the Son of God, the Savior, and the only one worthy of our worship. "O come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!"
In His strong love,
Skip Heitzig
In December 1903, Wilbur and Orville Wright sent a telegram to their family from Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. It said, "We actually flew 120 feet. We'll be home for Christmas." Their sister Katharine took it to the editor of the local newspaper. His response was interesting. "Oh, how nice," he said. "The boys will be home for Christmas." He missed the main event: Mankind had flown!
Much bigger news happened in a little town outside Jerusalem 1900 years earlier, but some people missed it.We find one of them in Luke 2. The innkeeper at Bethlehem missed the main event because he was too preoccupied with his business. Although there's always room available for a stranger in that part of the world, he showed no hospitality whatsoever. He sent Joseph and Mary to a stable. This shows the attitude of the world toward God. When it comes to spiritual things, and the person of the Lord Jesus Christ, most people's response is that they're too busy. But if you're too busy for God, you are just too busy!
In Matthew 2 we find the second one who missed the main event, a paranoid politician. King Herod was fearful and perturbed when the magi came looking for a newborn "King of the Jews." This was Herod's title, and he didn't want any competition. He didn't want to lose control. There are people today who won't let God interfere with their personal kingdoms. God is fine as long as He doesn't invade their space. Like Herod, they claim to worship God, but it's really all about them.
And then there was a group of passive theologians. Herod asked the scribes and priests where Christ would be born, and they knew the exact place. I think that's amazing--not because of what they knew, but because of what they didn't do. Why didn't they go to Bethlehem? It was only five miles away! It's not enough to know the text or be able to analyze it or quote it. You have to respond in obedience. Do you have a passion for God, to know Him and have His peace? Or has this "church thing" become routine?So there was no room in the inn, no room in the court, no room in the religious system. No room for Jesus. How about you? Are you preoccupied with other things? Are you paranoid about losing your position as king of your own life? Or are you just passive and can't be bothered?
Don't miss the main event. Don't let distractions or pride or apathy keep you from Jesus Christ. He is the Son of God, the Savior, and the only one worthy of our worship. "O come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!"
In His strong love,
Skip Heitzig
Above and Beyond
In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' - Acts 20:35
There’s a philosophy in our culture that breeds mediocrity. Most people do only what is necessary to get by.
If there’s a job to be done, it’s done adequately. We tolerate people we work with, instead of actually taking an interest in them. And when it comes to really important matters, like our relationship with God, our spouse, our family and friends—some offer indifference instead of creativity and an eagerness to engage.
Our God is not a lack-luster God. Our God is overflowing with power and a desire to know you, to bless you, and to offer you his peace and hope for the future. But to receive that, you have to be willing to share what you have now with others. God’s design is that in order to get more, you have to give more. And once we understand that, our lives will be blessed and go above and beyond anything we’ve ever dreamed.
A Prayer for Today
Dear God, It’s so easy to become complacent and only do the bare minimum. Help me to live life with excitement and joy. Help me to put forth effort in helping others, building relationships, in being generous with my time and resources and in going the extra mile in everything that I do. In your Son’s name I pray, Amen.
There’s a philosophy in our culture that breeds mediocrity. Most people do only what is necessary to get by.
If there’s a job to be done, it’s done adequately. We tolerate people we work with, instead of actually taking an interest in them. And when it comes to really important matters, like our relationship with God, our spouse, our family and friends—some offer indifference instead of creativity and an eagerness to engage.
Our God is not a lack-luster God. Our God is overflowing with power and a desire to know you, to bless you, and to offer you his peace and hope for the future. But to receive that, you have to be willing to share what you have now with others. God’s design is that in order to get more, you have to give more. And once we understand that, our lives will be blessed and go above and beyond anything we’ve ever dreamed.
A Prayer for Today
Dear God, It’s so easy to become complacent and only do the bare minimum. Help me to live life with excitement and joy. Help me to put forth effort in helping others, building relationships, in being generous with my time and resources and in going the extra mile in everything that I do. In your Son’s name I pray, Amen.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Come On In - DevoMail with Skip Heitzig
I gave my son Nathan some instructions when he was small. I told him he had my permission to come into my office whenever he wanted, no matter what, no matter when. I wanted him to know that his concerns and questions were important to me, because he was important to me. And he took advantage of that right--sometimes to the surprise of my visitors or people I was counseling!
Did you know that we have the same access to God? It's true. The God of heaven and earth, the Creator of all that exists, is available to you at all times, for any reason.
Hebrews 4:16 says, "Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." The reason we can come "boldly" is in verse 15. "For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin." That High Priest is Jesus Christ. He understands it all, and He is never surprised at our struggles.
God doesn't condemn us for our sin when we approach the Throne of Grace. After all, when we come to Him, we've already admitted we're in the wrong, we have a problem, and we need His help. If we didn't want to admit we were wrong, we would hide.
That brings me to the scripture that I want you to read. Psalm 139 is full of wonderful truths about God and His knowledge and love for us. Read it over slowly several times and digest it.
Verse 7 in particular stands out. "Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?" The psalm goes on to explain how that very idea is nonsense. There's nowhere to hide. But that's the great part. Not only is there nowhere to hide, there's no reason to even try. We can come to Him at any time, with any problem.
Are you struggling with a sin? Come to the Throne of Grace. Are you depressed or grieving? Come to the Throne of Grace. Are you angry, or confused, or full of doubt? You guessed it--come to the Throne of Grace. God is waiting there, eager to hear your problem, eager to give you His solution, His care, and His love. You can come anytime.
Isn't that what being a child of God is all about? He's never too busy, and He's never annoyed that you want to talk to Him. What a wonderful God we serve! What a wonderful Father we have!
In His strong love,
Skip Heitzig
Did you know that we have the same access to God? It's true. The God of heaven and earth, the Creator of all that exists, is available to you at all times, for any reason.
Hebrews 4:16 says, "Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." The reason we can come "boldly" is in verse 15. "For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin." That High Priest is Jesus Christ. He understands it all, and He is never surprised at our struggles.
God doesn't condemn us for our sin when we approach the Throne of Grace. After all, when we come to Him, we've already admitted we're in the wrong, we have a problem, and we need His help. If we didn't want to admit we were wrong, we would hide.
That brings me to the scripture that I want you to read. Psalm 139 is full of wonderful truths about God and His knowledge and love for us. Read it over slowly several times and digest it.
Verse 7 in particular stands out. "Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?" The psalm goes on to explain how that very idea is nonsense. There's nowhere to hide. But that's the great part. Not only is there nowhere to hide, there's no reason to even try. We can come to Him at any time, with any problem.
Are you struggling with a sin? Come to the Throne of Grace. Are you depressed or grieving? Come to the Throne of Grace. Are you angry, or confused, or full of doubt? You guessed it--come to the Throne of Grace. God is waiting there, eager to hear your problem, eager to give you His solution, His care, and His love. You can come anytime.
Isn't that what being a child of God is all about? He's never too busy, and He's never annoyed that you want to talk to Him. What a wonderful God we serve! What a wonderful Father we have!
In His strong love,
Skip Heitzig
Saturday, January 24, 2009
The Three R's of Revival
"Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works . . ." - Revelation 2:5
Before we can ever talk about revival in the church, every Christian must ask themselves, Am I personally revived? Am I living as a committed, on-fire follower of Jesus Christ?
Ask yourself that question right now. If your answer is that you are not a committed, on-fire follower of Jesus Christ, you exist as part of the problem, not part of the solution.
Listen to what Jesus said to the church of Ephesus in the book of Revelation. He says,
"I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name's sake and have not become weary. Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place--unless you repent." (Revelation 2:2--5)
Jesus gave the church of Ephesus the three R's of revival: remember, repent, and repeat.
"Remember therefore from where you have fallen," and then He says. "Repent." In other words, turn away from your sins. And finally repeat, "Do the first works." Get back and serve God like you once did.
Remember, repent, and repeat. Put the three R's of revival into practice, because we need to be revived before God.
Before we can ever talk about revival in the church, every Christian must ask themselves, Am I personally revived? Am I living as a committed, on-fire follower of Jesus Christ?
Ask yourself that question right now. If your answer is that you are not a committed, on-fire follower of Jesus Christ, you exist as part of the problem, not part of the solution.
Listen to what Jesus said to the church of Ephesus in the book of Revelation. He says,
"I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name's sake and have not become weary. Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place--unless you repent." (Revelation 2:2--5)
Jesus gave the church of Ephesus the three R's of revival: remember, repent, and repeat.
"Remember therefore from where you have fallen," and then He says. "Repent." In other words, turn away from your sins. And finally repeat, "Do the first works." Get back and serve God like you once did.
Remember, repent, and repeat. Put the three R's of revival into practice, because we need to be revived before God.
The Greatest Life
"I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me." - Galatians 2:20
If you want to be a true follower of Jesus, you need to take up your cross. Jesus said, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me" (Matthew 16:24).
That may sound miserable to some of us. You envision yourself carrying around some huge, wooden cross--living a miserable life, a life of selfless sacrifice.
Let me share something with you. Taking up the cross of Christ means that I come to the Lord and say, "God, I realize you know more about life than I do. You know my future and what is best for me. And Lord, I want what You want for me more than what I want for myself. I am willing to put Your will above my own. If that means letting go of something that would hold me back or hurt me spiritually, I'm willing. If that means cutting loose something that is dragging me down, I'm willing. Because I know that You love me and have my best interest in mind."
That is why the apostle Paul said, "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me" (Galatians 2:20).
The greatest life is the life that has been exchanged--the life that has been given to God. And the greatest life is living in obedience to Jesus Christ.
If you want to be a true follower of Jesus, you need to take up your cross. Jesus said, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me" (Matthew 16:24).
That may sound miserable to some of us. You envision yourself carrying around some huge, wooden cross--living a miserable life, a life of selfless sacrifice.
Let me share something with you. Taking up the cross of Christ means that I come to the Lord and say, "God, I realize you know more about life than I do. You know my future and what is best for me. And Lord, I want what You want for me more than what I want for myself. I am willing to put Your will above my own. If that means letting go of something that would hold me back or hurt me spiritually, I'm willing. If that means cutting loose something that is dragging me down, I'm willing. Because I know that You love me and have my best interest in mind."
That is why the apostle Paul said, "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me" (Galatians 2:20).
The greatest life is the life that has been exchanged--the life that has been given to God. And the greatest life is living in obedience to Jesus Christ.
A Lasting Reputation
"I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war." - Revelation 19:11
We can become known for a multitude of things. And it is amazing how far we can carry a reputation. The girl who dropped her lunch tray in the third grade can carry that reputation all the way through high school. The high school jock can carry that reputation into his career. The career-driven executive can carry that reputation in her relationships. And the list goes on and on.
In the verse above, Jesus (the rider) is known as “faithful and true.” That is an incredible reputation. Jesus proved himself faithful as he lived a sinless life, despite facing the same tempta¬tions you and I face. Jesus was faithful to God’s call on his life, even as he endured the cross for our sins. And he has remained faithful to all who called on his name for salvation.
Jesus is true. He proved it while he walked the earth as he demonstrated the reality that he truly is God. And he demonstrates his truthfulness as his promises for life are fulfilled in the lives of believers.
Jesus’ reputation is one of faithfulness and truth. What are you known for? Remember, the decisions you make will determine your reputation. And it’s a reputation you will carry with you for the rest of your life.
You aren’t known for what you would like to have done. You are not known for how you should have acted. Don’t miss the opportunities to follow Jesus’ lead and be known as faithful and true.
A Prayer for Today
Dear God, I want to live in such a way that I am known as being faithful and true in all areas of my life. Help me to make decisions that reflect the reputation I want to build so that I can truly and faithfully glorify you. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
We can become known for a multitude of things. And it is amazing how far we can carry a reputation. The girl who dropped her lunch tray in the third grade can carry that reputation all the way through high school. The high school jock can carry that reputation into his career. The career-driven executive can carry that reputation in her relationships. And the list goes on and on.
In the verse above, Jesus (the rider) is known as “faithful and true.” That is an incredible reputation. Jesus proved himself faithful as he lived a sinless life, despite facing the same tempta¬tions you and I face. Jesus was faithful to God’s call on his life, even as he endured the cross for our sins. And he has remained faithful to all who called on his name for salvation.
Jesus is true. He proved it while he walked the earth as he demonstrated the reality that he truly is God. And he demonstrates his truthfulness as his promises for life are fulfilled in the lives of believers.
Jesus’ reputation is one of faithfulness and truth. What are you known for? Remember, the decisions you make will determine your reputation. And it’s a reputation you will carry with you for the rest of your life.
You aren’t known for what you would like to have done. You are not known for how you should have acted. Don’t miss the opportunities to follow Jesus’ lead and be known as faithful and true.
A Prayer for Today
Dear God, I want to live in such a way that I am known as being faithful and true in all areas of my life. Help me to make decisions that reflect the reputation I want to build so that I can truly and faithfully glorify you. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Your Redemption Draws Near
"Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming..." - 1 John 2:18
When the Bible says the Antichrist is coming, you better believe it's going to happen. With computer technology where it is today, the possibility for a man to come and use technology to manipulate and rule the world is present like it has never been before.
Everything is ready for the Antichrist to come. It could happen at any time.
Despite the inevitability of the Antichrist, I'm not going to stand around holding my breath, waiting for him to come.
Many people try to figure out who he is. And every few years, a new theory arises where someone has allegedly cracked the code. They know who the Antichrist is.
But I'm not looking for him, because the Bible doesn't tell me to. The Bible says, "Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near" (Luke 21:28). I'm not looking for the Antichrist.
I am looking for Jesus Christ. And He is coming soon and very soon.
When the Bible says the Antichrist is coming, you better believe it's going to happen. With computer technology where it is today, the possibility for a man to come and use technology to manipulate and rule the world is present like it has never been before.
Everything is ready for the Antichrist to come. It could happen at any time.
Despite the inevitability of the Antichrist, I'm not going to stand around holding my breath, waiting for him to come.
Many people try to figure out who he is. And every few years, a new theory arises where someone has allegedly cracked the code. They know who the Antichrist is.
But I'm not looking for him, because the Bible doesn't tell me to. The Bible says, "Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near" (Luke 21:28). I'm not looking for the Antichrist.
I am looking for Jesus Christ. And He is coming soon and very soon.
Fishers of Men
"Come, follow me,” Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men.” - Matthew 4:19
Jesus’ life had a specific purpose—it was all about fishing. I’m not talking about fishing for fins and scales. His goal was to make each of us fishers for the hearts and souls of others who matter to God. Christ’s purpose for us is very simple. It is very powerful. Jesus told us to fish. Jesus did not tell us to be catchers of men—he told us to be fishers of men. He will do the catching.
Being a fisher of men is an active sport, one that takes work. You have to talk and communicate and share your beliefs with people. The greatest thing about sharing your faith is that you are not alone. You are in a partnership with God. When you accept Christ’s purpose to witness to others, know that he is going to be there with you.
Take some time this week to think of the people in your life who don’t know Christ. Are you doing what Jesus asked of you? Ask those people to come to church with you. Cast God’s Word to them. Don’t worry about catching them—leave that up to Jesus. All you have to do is fish.
A Prayer for Today
Lord, Thank you for communicating creatively with me about how I am suppose to communicate your love to those around me. Help me be obedient to Christ’s command to become a fisher of men. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Jesus’ life had a specific purpose—it was all about fishing. I’m not talking about fishing for fins and scales. His goal was to make each of us fishers for the hearts and souls of others who matter to God. Christ’s purpose for us is very simple. It is very powerful. Jesus told us to fish. Jesus did not tell us to be catchers of men—he told us to be fishers of men. He will do the catching.
Being a fisher of men is an active sport, one that takes work. You have to talk and communicate and share your beliefs with people. The greatest thing about sharing your faith is that you are not alone. You are in a partnership with God. When you accept Christ’s purpose to witness to others, know that he is going to be there with you.
Take some time this week to think of the people in your life who don’t know Christ. Are you doing what Jesus asked of you? Ask those people to come to church with you. Cast God’s Word to them. Don’t worry about catching them—leave that up to Jesus. All you have to do is fish.
A Prayer for Today
Lord, Thank you for communicating creatively with me about how I am suppose to communicate your love to those around me. Help me be obedient to Christ’s command to become a fisher of men. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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