Christian writer and commentator Warren Wiersbe, tells about a town where a horse bolted and ran away with a wagon carrying a little boy. Seeing the child in danger, a young man risked his life to catch the horse and stop the wagon. The child who was saved grew up to become a lawless man, and one day he stood before a judge to be sentenced for a serious crime. The prisoner recognized the judge as the man who, years before had saved his life; so he pled for mercy on the basis of that experience. But the words from the bench silenced his plea: "Young man, then I was your savior; today I am your judge, and I must sentence you to be hanged." One day Jesus Christ will say to rebellious sinners, "During that long day of grace, I was the Savior, and I would have forgiven you. But today I am your Judge."
What are we saved for? Paul in Romans 6 made it clear that we are not saved so that grace can abound. However grace has a huge role in guiding our path with Jesus. A life that is saved from this world is not one that should be thrown back into it because of greed, selfishness, or desire. We are set free from sin by grace so that we can live lives free from the sinfulness of this world. Therefore by the grace of God we desire to draw closer to God rather than be independent of Him. His grace inspires us to be righteous like Him rather than evil like this world. Therefore it is my hope that one day our judge and savior will look at each one of us and say “you did not discard grace, but rather you grew from it each day to be closer to ME.”
Friday, December 16, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
To the White House Church of Christ
To the White House Church of Christ,
As you know I am leaving to work as the full time preaching minister at the Holly Hill Church of Christ in Daytona Beach, Florida. Goodbyes are never easy; however please consider this my sincere goodbye and farewell.
I want you all to know that I am truly leaving here with mixed emotions; exited about my new opportunity in Florida yet sad to be leaving a church that I love and such a great group of people whom I can call friends and family. The last 5 years has been a time of blessing and growth for me; I have enjoyed my time with you and hope that my next ministry will be filled with as much encouragement and love that you have shown to me and my family. I know that God will not only bring the right person to be your next minister, He will also bless you in new and exciting ways.
I look forward to knowing that our paths will cross again, whether in this life or the one to come. Thank you again for your love, encouragement, friendship, and prayers.
Grace & Peace,
Vic
Good is good all the time!
As you know I am leaving to work as the full time preaching minister at the Holly Hill Church of Christ in Daytona Beach, Florida. Goodbyes are never easy; however please consider this my sincere goodbye and farewell.
I want you all to know that I am truly leaving here with mixed emotions; exited about my new opportunity in Florida yet sad to be leaving a church that I love and such a great group of people whom I can call friends and family. The last 5 years has been a time of blessing and growth for me; I have enjoyed my time with you and hope that my next ministry will be filled with as much encouragement and love that you have shown to me and my family. I know that God will not only bring the right person to be your next minister, He will also bless you in new and exciting ways.
I look forward to knowing that our paths will cross again, whether in this life or the one to come. Thank you again for your love, encouragement, friendship, and prayers.
Grace & Peace,
Vic
Good is good all the time!
Friday, October 21, 2011
Titans, Texans, Elections, Jesus, & Unity
This Sunday is a big day for Titans and Texans fans. Even though it is too early in the season to know who will win the division, it seems as if it has come down to either the Titans or the Texans. Most of you are Titans fans, as you know I am a Texans fan, therefore we are at a crossroads. I think both games we play this season will be bitter fights. Can we get along or will this divide us?
Next year is a big election, some of you are democrats, some of you are republicans, some of you are Tea or even Green Partiers, and some of you just don’t know what you are politically. It will be a heated election; will our political differences divide us? Some of you are doing well financially, other are not; will that disparity in income levels weaken our fellowship? There are so many worldly reasons for us to be divided, disconnected, and maybe even bitter; but who are we really, are we a worldly people controlled by a worldly rationale? Of course not, we have been transformed (Romans 12), and are no longer a people who think or act like the world because we are no longer of the world. We are born again, resurrected into a new life with Jesus in which we think, act, speak, and live within the Spirit of God. Jesus’ example of everyday living is the model by which we live; He is our heart, our DNA that nudges us to good works, righteousness, love, grace, and unity. We are never going to agree on who is the best NFL team (TEXANS), we are never going to agree on who should be president, and we are never all going to be in the same financial bracket. But we can all agree on the one thing, the main thing, the only thing that matters; we belong to Jesus. Jesus is our common bond, and together with Him we overcome all things that disrupt unity.
NOTE: The Texans will win this Sunday!!!!
Next year is a big election, some of you are democrats, some of you are republicans, some of you are Tea or even Green Partiers, and some of you just don’t know what you are politically. It will be a heated election; will our political differences divide us? Some of you are doing well financially, other are not; will that disparity in income levels weaken our fellowship? There are so many worldly reasons for us to be divided, disconnected, and maybe even bitter; but who are we really, are we a worldly people controlled by a worldly rationale? Of course not, we have been transformed (Romans 12), and are no longer a people who think or act like the world because we are no longer of the world. We are born again, resurrected into a new life with Jesus in which we think, act, speak, and live within the Spirit of God. Jesus’ example of everyday living is the model by which we live; He is our heart, our DNA that nudges us to good works, righteousness, love, grace, and unity. We are never going to agree on who is the best NFL team (TEXANS), we are never going to agree on who should be president, and we are never all going to be in the same financial bracket. But we can all agree on the one thing, the main thing, the only thing that matters; we belong to Jesus. Jesus is our common bond, and together with Him we overcome all things that disrupt unity.
NOTE: The Texans will win this Sunday!!!!
Friday, October 07, 2011
Humble Like Christ
Sometimes my conscience gets the best of me and it hits me that I need to be better, spiritually mature, or simply more like Christ. It might be that someone pulls out in front of me causing me to slow down, it might be that someone dropped the ball on their ministry at church, it might be that my kids are not moving as quickly as I want them to, or it might be that I think that the world should revolve around me. When I am at my most selfish I am also at my most destructive and impulsive. It is then that I act out of anger or arrogance when things don’t go my way. All too often I have been too harsh with my children, too judgmental of a fellow Christian, and too busy to listen to the needs of others. I’m not being too hard on myself; I’m just being honest that there is a part of me that is just not good. Whenever I read a scripture like Philippians 2:5-8, I find myself convicted to move beyond my selfishness and to become the person God designed me to be. Jesus acted out of love and holiness when dealing with others, He was able to rise above human arrogance and live with a humility that built others up rather than tear them down. The more God and His Word are present in my heart and mind the more I find myself inclined to love and serve rather than to be the old selfish me. Make it your goal today to allow Christ to guide your every move, word, and thought and you will enjoy God’s glory being revealed in your every moment.
“1 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. 5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 7 rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! 9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:1-11 NIV
Friday, September 30, 2011
Live Up To The Name
Alexander the Great, one of the greatest military generals who ever lived, conquered almost the entire known world with his vast army. One night during a campaign, he couldn’t sleep and left his tent to walk around the campgrounds.
As he was walking he came across a soldier asleep on guard duty—a serious offense. The penalty for falling asleep on guard duty was, in some cases, instant death; the commanding officer sometimes poured kerosene on the sleeping soldier and lit it.
The soldier began to wake up as Alexander the Great approached him. Recognizing who was standing in front of him, the young man feared for his life.
“Do you know what the penalty is for falling asleep on guard duty?” Alexander the Great asked the soldier.
“Yes, sir,” the soldier responded in a quivering voice.
“Soldier, what’s your name?” demanded the General.
“Alexander, sir.”
The General repeated the question: “What is your name?”
“My name is Alexander, sir,” the soldier repeated.
A third time and more loudly the General asked, “What is your name?”
A third time the soldier meekly said, “My name is Alexander, sir.”
The General, Alexander the Great then looked the young soldier straight in the eye. “Soldier,” he said with intensity, “either change your name or change your conduct.”
“However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.” 1 Peter 4:16
As he was walking he came across a soldier asleep on guard duty—a serious offense. The penalty for falling asleep on guard duty was, in some cases, instant death; the commanding officer sometimes poured kerosene on the sleeping soldier and lit it.
The soldier began to wake up as Alexander the Great approached him. Recognizing who was standing in front of him, the young man feared for his life.
“Do you know what the penalty is for falling asleep on guard duty?” Alexander the Great asked the soldier.
“Yes, sir,” the soldier responded in a quivering voice.
“Soldier, what’s your name?” demanded the General.
“Alexander, sir.”
The General repeated the question: “What is your name?”
“My name is Alexander, sir,” the soldier repeated.
A third time and more loudly the General asked, “What is your name?”
A third time the soldier meekly said, “My name is Alexander, sir.”
The General, Alexander the Great then looked the young soldier straight in the eye. “Soldier,” he said with intensity, “either change your name or change your conduct.”
“However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.” 1 Peter 4:16
Friday, September 23, 2011
Waiting
A company offered tours through the historic district, led by guides dressed in Colonial clothing. While leading a group, one of the guides, tripped and fell, breaking his wrist. He went to the hospital and as he sat waiting in the emergency room, a policeman walked by. Doing a double take at him in his 18th-century garb he asked, "Just how long have you been waiting?"
No one likes to wait. I don’t like waiting in line, for Christmas, test results, or even for my favorite team to finally make the playoffs. Waiting goes against every ounce of my being, it tears at my soul. Okay maybe I’m being a little dramatic, but you get the idea, I do not like to wait. So what is the value of waiting? It says in Proverbs 8 that there is a blessing in waiting.
“32 Now then, my children, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. 33 Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not disregard it. 34 Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. 35 For those who find me find life and receive favor from the LORD. 36 But those who fail to find me harm themselves; all who hate me love death.” Proverbs 8:32-36 NIV
The blessing of waiting is found in what you are waiting for. If you are waiting for others to step up and serve in your church or in your community you will be disappointed. If you are waiting till you feel like it before you finally clean out the garage; you again will be disappointed. Whenever we sit back and wait for the world to live up to our expectations we will always be unsatisfied. As you can see from Proverbs 8, whenever we wait for God there is no sitting around, in fact it is the opposite. When we wait for God we begin to find a strength that we did not know we had. We find that strength thru listening, watching, and joining God in the work that He does each day. Lately I have been trying to get Jackson and Abby to do a better job of listening to others. The other day Jackson was waiting in the car rider line; however he was not listening, therefore he did not hear his name called. He missed it and I had to go around into the office to get him. He ended up waiting longer because he was not listening. Whenever we wait for God we must learn to listen because He calls us each day to new opportunities to grow, to serve, and to be with Him.
No one likes to wait. I don’t like waiting in line, for Christmas, test results, or even for my favorite team to finally make the playoffs. Waiting goes against every ounce of my being, it tears at my soul. Okay maybe I’m being a little dramatic, but you get the idea, I do not like to wait. So what is the value of waiting? It says in Proverbs 8 that there is a blessing in waiting.
“32 Now then, my children, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. 33 Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not disregard it. 34 Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. 35 For those who find me find life and receive favor from the LORD. 36 But those who fail to find me harm themselves; all who hate me love death.” Proverbs 8:32-36 NIV
The blessing of waiting is found in what you are waiting for. If you are waiting for others to step up and serve in your church or in your community you will be disappointed. If you are waiting till you feel like it before you finally clean out the garage; you again will be disappointed. Whenever we sit back and wait for the world to live up to our expectations we will always be unsatisfied. As you can see from Proverbs 8, whenever we wait for God there is no sitting around, in fact it is the opposite. When we wait for God we begin to find a strength that we did not know we had. We find that strength thru listening, watching, and joining God in the work that He does each day. Lately I have been trying to get Jackson and Abby to do a better job of listening to others. The other day Jackson was waiting in the car rider line; however he was not listening, therefore he did not hear his name called. He missed it and I had to go around into the office to get him. He ended up waiting longer because he was not listening. Whenever we wait for God we must learn to listen because He calls us each day to new opportunities to grow, to serve, and to be with Him.
Friday, September 02, 2011
The Persistent Weirdo
About five years ago after I had moved to White House, Brandi Taylor told me that she had just taught my daughter’s Bible class about the Parable of the Persistent Widow. Abby, my daughter misunderstood her and thought Brandi said “Parable of the Persistent Weirdo”. We had a good laugh over that; not only because it sounded funny, but also because we all know people who are persistently weird. As you know I am trying to sell my house; which is not easy to do in this market. The other day we had a showing for our house, so we had to leave in order for the perspective buyers to be able to look all round it. We were gone for a while and figured that they would have been gone by the time we got back; so it was interesting when we got back to the house and saw that they were just leaving. We didn’t want to appear weird by pulling in right after they pulled out; so Stacy said “let’s keep driving, that way we won’t look so weird”. So we drove right past our house. Jackson then said “why are not stopping at home, what are we doing?” To which Abby replied, “we are trying not to look weird.” For me it is too late, I am weird, but I am not alone, most of you are too. The apostle Paul said …
“5 For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6 For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.” 2 Corinthians 4:5-6 NIV
Thankfully our message is not just about us; what a short and weird message that would be. Our message is Jesus, His perfection shines over our imperfection to give us lives filled with God’s glory. Therefore before you talk about yourself, talk about Jesus, His message is so much better than ours alone.
“5 For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6 For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.” 2 Corinthians 4:5-6 NIV
Thankfully our message is not just about us; what a short and weird message that would be. Our message is Jesus, His perfection shines over our imperfection to give us lives filled with God’s glory. Therefore before you talk about yourself, talk about Jesus, His message is so much better than ours alone.
Friday, August 19, 2011
I Fought The Law, & The Law Won
Sometimes we seem surprised by the results of our sin. For example, we may drive down the road about 40 miles an hour and yet the posted speed limit is 30. So why should it surprise us when a policeman pulls us over to give us a ticket for speeding? We may not have been intentionally speeding, it may have been an accident; however we broke the law all the same. My question is, why are we mad at the policeman, he didn’t make us break the law nor is it his fault that we are now penalized for our lawlessness. In the same way, why do we get mad at others or even at God when so often the bulk of our troubles are self inflicted? Too many times we act selfish or self righteous around the people we work with or even live with; typically our selfishness results in alienating ourselves and pushing the people closest to us away. John wrote…
“5 This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6 If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” 1 John 1:5-7 NIV
The only way to overcome both sin and its negative repercussions is to be connected to Jesus in every moment of life. Maybe when we are driving we feel that the policeman is out to get us, maybe some are; however God is not out to get us. God sent His son to die on the cross to save us from sin, to literally transform us into people who are more like Jesus and less like the world. God did this so that we may have a life that overcomes all the negative effects of sin. So if you feel like the world is out to get you, rather than feel sorry for yourself, turn to Jesus, allow Him to give you the power to be wise, Holy, and forgiven.
“5 This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 6 If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” 1 John 1:5-7 NIV
The only way to overcome both sin and its negative repercussions is to be connected to Jesus in every moment of life. Maybe when we are driving we feel that the policeman is out to get us, maybe some are; however God is not out to get us. God sent His son to die on the cross to save us from sin, to literally transform us into people who are more like Jesus and less like the world. God did this so that we may have a life that overcomes all the negative effects of sin. So if you feel like the world is out to get you, rather than feel sorry for yourself, turn to Jesus, allow Him to give you the power to be wise, Holy, and forgiven.
Friday, August 12, 2011
A Little Help From My Friends
This week Stacy and I began to spruce up our house by repainting many of the walls. In order to paint a house or stain a deck we have to get really close and examine the walls and the wood. The closer we look, the more flaws and imperfections we will see. That is why I hate to paint, I don’t want to see the flaws, because then I have to admit that they are there and that I have to do something about them. I guess I am saying that I like to be happily ignorant. The problem is that if we choose to be ignorant of our homes flaws, we might be ignoring a flaw that will lead to bigger problems that will require lots of time and money to fix. Spiritually I can be the same way; I do not enjoy examining my life or spirituality. Every time I reflect on my spiritual condition I realize I have a long way to go.
When I work on my house alone it is overwhelming and difficult, however when others come in to help the work gets easier. When we are alone everything seems insurmountable, but when we ask for help we discover that all things are possible. The same could be said about our spiritual condition, it may not be pleasant to admit a struggle or to ask for help, but when we do we unlock unlimited power that makes spiritual growth possible.
“26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. 27 And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. 28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:26-28 NIV
“26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. 27 And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. 28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:26-28 NIV
Thursday, August 04, 2011
Interview between John Ortberg & Jud White
Check out this interesting interview on the 12 steps, discipleship, and spiritual formation.
http://perspectives.monvee.com/article/perspectives_john_ortberg_and_jud_wilhite
http://perspectives.monvee.com/article/perspectives_john_ortberg_and_jud_wilhite
First Day of School
Here are a few funny quotes on parenthood that I have heard over the years:
• If it was going to be easy, it never would have started with something called labor!
• If it was going to be easy, it never would have started with something called labor! • The smartest advice on raising children is to enjoy them while they are still on your side.
• Avenge yourself ~~~ live long enough to be a problem to your children.
• The best way to keep kids at home is to give it a loving atmosphere -- and hide the keys to the car.
Sending kids to their first day of school is not easy for them, but the truth is, it's not easy for parents either. We love our kids, and we love to protect them. It is hard to protect our kids when they are at school. Will they be bullied? Will the work be too difficult or advanced for them? Will they learn bad habits from bad influences? Will they have any friends?
Almost every day I pray that God will influence my children to do what is right, that they would grow closer to Him, that He would deepen their faith, and that He would protect them. Every time I pray for my kids I find comfort as a parent; knowing that our loving and powerful God is with them every moment. I encourage you to pray for your children each day, it will not only be a help to them, but a comfort for you as well. May God bless all of our children as they begin a new school year.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
The Servant Leader
We live in a world in which leaders, politicians, along anyone else who has power expects others to serve them. But when it comes to Jesus, He has done the opposite; Jesus has come into our lives saying “allow me to serve you”. Jesus demonstrated that the greatest leadership model is that of the servant leader who puts others ahead of self. In doing so, Jesus was able communicate both in word and in action the message that He cares for all people. That is why people listened to Him when He spoke or why they followed Him when He traveled. We all have someone to lead; it could be our children, our peers, or even a large company; whoever it is, allow the Jesus model of leadership to be your guide as you lead.
“5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 7 rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!” Philippians 2:5-8 NIV
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Yes From God
The owner of a manufacturing firm decided to make a surprise tour of the factory. Walking through the warehouse he noticed a young man lazily leaning against a packing crate. The factory owner angrily said, "Just how much are you being paid?" The young man replied, "A four hundred dollars a week." The owner pulled out his wallet, peeled off four $100 bills and shouted at the young man: "Here is a week's pay--now get out and don't come back!" Without a word, the young man stuffed the money into his pocket and left. The warehouse manager, standing nearby, stared in amazement. "Tell me," the boss asked him, "How long has that guy worked for us?" "He didn't work here," replied the warehouse manager, "He was just the Fed-Ex guy delivering a package."
I do feel sorry for the owner of the firm. Every moment is one that has opportunity and purpose. Unfortunately, we live in an age in which wasted moments have become common place and acceptable. God however has called us to capture every moment and surrender them to Him. I don’t think God desires that we become busier, but I do think He expects us to be more connected to Him and to His will. As the scripture below implies, God’s message to us has always been “Yes, I want to be with you and empower you to do my will”. Imagine all of the amazing things we could do if we allowed ourselves to be connected to God in every moment. Every time that we are confronted with an opportunity to do good, I believe it is God once again saying to us, “Yes, I am with you, and now let’s live this life together.”
“18 But as surely as God is faithful, our message to you is not “Yes” and “No.” 19 For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us—by me and Silas and Timothy—was not “Yes” and “No,” but in him it has always been “Yes.” 20 For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.” 2 Corinthians 1:18-20 NIV
I do feel sorry for the owner of the firm. Every moment is one that has opportunity and purpose. Unfortunately, we live in an age in which wasted moments have become common place and acceptable. God however has called us to capture every moment and surrender them to Him. I don’t think God desires that we become busier, but I do think He expects us to be more connected to Him and to His will. As the scripture below implies, God’s message to us has always been “Yes, I want to be with you and empower you to do my will”. Imagine all of the amazing things we could do if we allowed ourselves to be connected to God in every moment. Every time that we are confronted with an opportunity to do good, I believe it is God once again saying to us, “Yes, I am with you, and now let’s live this life together.”
“18 But as surely as God is faithful, our message to you is not “Yes” and “No.” 19 For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us—by me and Silas and Timothy—was not “Yes” and “No,” but in him it has always been “Yes.” 20 For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.” 2 Corinthians 1:18-20 NIV
Monday, July 11, 2011
No Barrier Can Stop Him
I love the story of Jesus walking on water. Not because Peter tried to walk out to Him or because Jesus lifted Peter out of the water; I just love that Jesus was willing to walk out to them. We live in a world filled with barriers and roadblocks that keep us from being where we want or need to be. When the apostles were crossing the Sea of Galilee they were following Jesus’ direction, knowing that they would eventually meet up with Jesus. I get a feeling that whenever the apostles were separated from Jesus that they felt a sense of uneasiness. After all Jesus was their leader; without Him they were like a boat without a paddle. When the storm hit their boat, they were overcome by both fear and a sense of powerlessness. We see their fear grow even more when they saw someone walking out on the water toward them. Was it a demon or ghost? They were unsure at first, but then Jesus put their fear to rest and said “it is I, don’t be afraid.” When they finally allowed Jesus into the boat, they immediately arrived at their destination. Ultimately Jesus was their destination, because only when they were with Him were they able to overcome their fear and have the power to finish the task of crossing the lake. This story once again illustrates how there is no barrier or distance that can keep God from being with His people. He wants to be in your life, He wants to give you power, and courage; will you let Him into your boat? -Vic
“Trust God Today” Small GROUP LESSON
“Trust God Today” LIFE GROUP LESSON
How would you define the word “trust”?
READ Exodus 14:1-31
God parted the sea, and the Israelites crossed on dry ground to the other side. If you were there, describe how that event would have made you feel.
What would you have been thinking?
Notice v.31, the people saw the power of God, and how God used His power to help them. That is why they put their trust in Him. Why was it important for the Israelites to learn to trust God?
(ANSWER: The point of this story is that God saves & provides for His people, that God is powerful and He uses His power to protect them. Because of that, it is the responsibility of God’s people to put their trust in Him.)
Our problem is that we want to put our trust in other things. The trust we should place in God often goes to what?
READ Exodus 17:1-7
What were the Israelites doing wrong?
(answer: The problem was that the people were too busy being focused on themselves that they no longer noticed what God was doing for them.)
Because of doubt, and a lack of trust the Israelites wanted to abandon God and go back to being slaves in Egypt. God wants us to trust Him, why is a lack of trust in God harmful to us?
READ Romans 10:10-11
We feel shame because we …
(answer: The reason we feel shame is because our focus is on the wrong thing, it is on us, and not on God.)
In order to overcome the shame of selfishness, God must become our focus. When we stop looking at what we can’t do, we begin to focus on what God can do in our lives. Ask the group to share what they think God can do in their lives.
READ Hebrews 3:12-15.
What is your favorite holiday? What makes that day special?
Why do you think the word “Today” is capitalized in most Bibles in v.13?
The Hebrew writer is saying “Today” is special because today is a day with God, therefore it is a special day (an opportunity) to grow closer to Him, and to help others. Today is special because God is part of it. By the way, what day does “Today” fall on? (answer: everyday)
What can we do to learn to trust God more every day?
God wants us to trust Him today by focusing on Him and not ourselves. If we want to be free of sin and negativity, then must learn to celebrate and trust God Today!
Close in prayer…
How would you define the word “trust”?
READ Exodus 14:1-31
God parted the sea, and the Israelites crossed on dry ground to the other side. If you were there, describe how that event would have made you feel.
What would you have been thinking?
Notice v.31, the people saw the power of God, and how God used His power to help them. That is why they put their trust in Him. Why was it important for the Israelites to learn to trust God?
(ANSWER: The point of this story is that God saves & provides for His people, that God is powerful and He uses His power to protect them. Because of that, it is the responsibility of God’s people to put their trust in Him.)
Our problem is that we want to put our trust in other things. The trust we should place in God often goes to what?
READ Exodus 17:1-7
What were the Israelites doing wrong?
(answer: The problem was that the people were too busy being focused on themselves that they no longer noticed what God was doing for them.)
Because of doubt, and a lack of trust the Israelites wanted to abandon God and go back to being slaves in Egypt. God wants us to trust Him, why is a lack of trust in God harmful to us?
READ Romans 10:10-11
We feel shame because we …
(answer: The reason we feel shame is because our focus is on the wrong thing, it is on us, and not on God.)
In order to overcome the shame of selfishness, God must become our focus. When we stop looking at what we can’t do, we begin to focus on what God can do in our lives. Ask the group to share what they think God can do in their lives.
READ Hebrews 3:12-15.
What is your favorite holiday? What makes that day special?
Why do you think the word “Today” is capitalized in most Bibles in v.13?
The Hebrew writer is saying “Today” is special because today is a day with God, therefore it is a special day (an opportunity) to grow closer to Him, and to help others. Today is special because God is part of it. By the way, what day does “Today” fall on? (answer: everyday)
What can we do to learn to trust God more every day?
God wants us to trust Him today by focusing on Him and not ourselves. If we want to be free of sin and negativity, then must learn to celebrate and trust God Today!
Close in prayer…
Friday, July 01, 2011
Small Group Lesson John 6
LIFE GROUP Lesson: Jesus 24/7. Jesus all the time!
What are some things that you think are impossible to achieve?
What are some things that our great grandparents might have thought were impossible in their day and yet are possible today?
READ John 6:1-9
Why did Jesus ask the question “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?”
Rather than answer Jesus directly, Philip answered Jesus’ where question with a statement that focused on what resource? (answer: money)
Do you think that was the answer Jesus wanted to hear?
When it comes to doing good things (God honoring things), why does money often become part of the discussion?
If we focus simply on the money or property we have, what things might we ignore or miss?
Andrew answered Jesus’ where question with a how question. What do you think Andrew was alluding to here? (answer: I think he was saying that it would be impossible to feed all of the people)
When it comes to serving God, why do we focus on the barriers or on what we perceive as impossibilities?
When we focus on the impossibilities who is our focus not on?
READ John 6:10-15
What did Jesus do with a young man’s lunch?
Do you think 5 loaves and 2 fish was some of the lunch, most of the lunch, or all of the lunch?
(answer: I think all of it)
READ Philippians 4:12-13
IDEA: One powerful idea we get from this story is that all things are possible when we give all things to Jesus. The Apostles were focused on money & worldly resources in order to feed these people; but what Jesus wanted them to learn is that they needed to give themselves completely to Jesus in order for them to be completely capable of meeting the needs of others.
The 12 apostles collected 12 basketfuls of bread after Jesus had already fed 5000 men (possibly 20,000 people all together) all from one child’s lunch. What does this story tell us about the provision Jesus gives to those who serve Him?
Close in Prayer
What are some things that you think are impossible to achieve?
What are some things that our great grandparents might have thought were impossible in their day and yet are possible today?
READ John 6:1-9
Why did Jesus ask the question “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?”
Rather than answer Jesus directly, Philip answered Jesus’ where question with a statement that focused on what resource? (answer: money)
Do you think that was the answer Jesus wanted to hear?
When it comes to doing good things (God honoring things), why does money often become part of the discussion?
If we focus simply on the money or property we have, what things might we ignore or miss?
Andrew answered Jesus’ where question with a how question. What do you think Andrew was alluding to here? (answer: I think he was saying that it would be impossible to feed all of the people)
When it comes to serving God, why do we focus on the barriers or on what we perceive as impossibilities?
When we focus on the impossibilities who is our focus not on?
READ John 6:10-15
What did Jesus do with a young man’s lunch?
Do you think 5 loaves and 2 fish was some of the lunch, most of the lunch, or all of the lunch?
(answer: I think all of it)
READ Philippians 4:12-13
IDEA: One powerful idea we get from this story is that all things are possible when we give all things to Jesus. The Apostles were focused on money & worldly resources in order to feed these people; but what Jesus wanted them to learn is that they needed to give themselves completely to Jesus in order for them to be completely capable of meeting the needs of others.
The 12 apostles collected 12 basketfuls of bread after Jesus had already fed 5000 men (possibly 20,000 people all together) all from one child’s lunch. What does this story tell us about the provision Jesus gives to those who serve Him?
Close in Prayer
Independence Day
We have been blessed to live in the greatest country that has ever existed. I have travelled all over the world and have been amazed by the lack of freedom that other nations have to endure. Did you know that in most other countries a church must be government approved? Also many churches in other countries live in fear of being shut down or fined by their local police. We could go on and on about this topic; I'm saying all of this to say that we are one of the few nations that are blessed with the freedom to worship without interference or persecution by our government. July 4th is a day in which we celebrate our independence, but for God's people we also celebrate the exceptional freedom that we have to worship and serve our God. May God continue to bless America.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Connected Worship
During the singing in worship, a young boy tugged at his grandma’s sleeve and whispered, "She can't sing very well, can she?" talking about the woman behind them that was singing loudly. Knowing the woman had a deep love for the Lord, the grandma said, "son, she sings from her heart. That's what makes it good." He nodded thoughtfully. Several days later as he and grandma were singing along with the car radio, the boy stopped and said, "Grandma, you sing from your heart, don't you?" Why do we worship? In John 4 Jesus met the woman at the well, she like many Samaritans were confused about the value of worship. She thought it was more about where you worship rather than why you worship. In John 4 Jesus made the woman painfully aware that the emptiness in her life was not because she hadn’t found the right man (she had been married 5 times, and the man she was with now was not her husband); the emptiness in her life was due to a lack of connection with God. Jesus said to the woman at the well…
“22 You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23 Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24 God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” John 4:22-24 NIV
In verse 23 Jesus is saying that meaningful worship is done in spirit and in truth. Spirit in this verse does not so much refer to the Holy Spirit but more to the spirit that is within us, the part of us that can connect with God because we are made in His image. Meaningful worship connects us to God so much so that our emptiness is replaced by a deep love relationship with God. The purpose of worship is not to punch our clock on Sunday; it meant to connect us to God so that we will no longer be empty.
“22 You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23 Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24 God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” John 4:22-24 NIV
In verse 23 Jesus is saying that meaningful worship is done in spirit and in truth. Spirit in this verse does not so much refer to the Holy Spirit but more to the spirit that is within us, the part of us that can connect with God because we are made in His image. Meaningful worship connects us to God so much so that our emptiness is replaced by a deep love relationship with God. The purpose of worship is not to punch our clock on Sunday; it meant to connect us to God so that we will no longer be empty.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Acts of God
Whenever there is a great disaster (earthquake, hurricane, tsunami, or tornado) many people call those things "acts of God". I have always been uncomfortable with that statement; it inadvertently blames God for the destruction and death. Many good people die as result of tornadoes and I do not believe their death was the result of God's judgment on them. Check out the link to an article written by Heather Carlton who lives in a suburb of Joplin, Missouri. She was a witness to the destructive tornado that hit that her community May 22, 2011.
http://www.americanthinker.com/2011/05/a_real_act_of_god_in_joplin_mi.html
I want to thank my friend Layton Welborn for sharing this article with me.
http://www.americanthinker.com/2011/05/a_real_act_of_god_in_joplin_mi.html
I want to thank my friend Layton Welborn for sharing this article with me.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
The End Was Last Week, You Totally Missed It!
The world seems to be in a frenzy to find out when is the end of world. Apparently last Saturday May 21st was supposed to be the end; however most of us woke up on May 22nd. The sad reality is that on May 21st it was the end for some people; everyday people die both expectedly and unexpectedly. Some religious leaders focus so much of their ministries on "The End" that maybe they have forgotten that our focus is supposed to be on Jesus "The Beginning". In Matthew 24:36 Jesus said "But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father." We don't know when the "the End" is, we are not supposed to, in fact it is not meant to be our focus. The reality is we all have an end, that is the bad news; one way or the other death comes for us all. The story of Jesus is not called "the bad news", it is called the Gospel (the good news). Jesus came so that we might have life, so that we can overcome sin and death through His power and grace. Rather than worry about an end we cannot predict, let's focus on a beginning that we can be certain of. May we all enjoy the great blessings of life found in our Lord Jesus!
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