Change the world

Changing the world

 

Deuteronomy 28:1-14

“If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully keep all his commands that I am giving you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the world. 2 You will experience all these blessings if you obey the Lord your God: 3 Your towns and your fields will be blessed. 4 Your children and your crops will be blessed. The offspring of your herds and flocks will be blessed. 5 Your fruit baskets and breadboards will be blessed.6 Wherever you go and whatever you do, you will be blessed. 7 “The Lord will conquer your enemies when they attack you. They will attack you from one direction, but they will scatter from you in seven! 8 “The Lord will guarantee a blessing on everything you do and will fill your storehouses with grain. The Lord your God will bless you in the land he is giving you. 9 “If you obey the commands of the Lord your God and walk in his ways, the Lord will establish you as his holy people as he swore he would do. 10 Then all the nations of the world will see that you are a people claimed by the Lord, and they will stand in awe of you.11 “The Lord will give you prosperity in the land he swore to your ancestors to give you, blessing you with many children, numerous livestock, and abundant crops. 12 The Lord will send rain at the proper time from his rich treasury in the heavens and will bless all the work you do. You will lend to many nations, but you will never need to borrow from them. 13 If you listen to these commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you today, and if you carefully obey them, the Lord will make you the head and not the tail, and you will always be on top and never at the bottom. 14 You must not turn away from any of the commands I am giving you today, nor follow after other gods and worship them.

 

What does this mean?

 

If we live lives that honor God, He will…

Cause the divisions in the nations to see our lives by because of us blessing…

 

Our cities and communities

Our children

Our lively hood

AND

He will chase away every enemy

He cause everyone to see us as blessed

He will make the weather work for us

He will break debt off of us and cause us to prosper

He will make you to be at the top of the pile rather than the bottom

 

I know this sounds unbelievable but it was presented as a promise of God to the nation of Israel that they never fulfilled and now it reaches to us if we will trust in him…not simply for our blessing but so the world might know that our God is God. We live so far below God’s expectation if we will but choose to walk in obedience.

I believe this is all part of our destiny so Jesus can be seen in the world

See Jesus further emphasized this point here

Matt 5:14-16

You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. 15 No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

Why do we need to be this…

We have a world out there that is messed up…some of us in here are messed up and we have to push through to bring our world to freedom

We are not the victims of an anti-God society we are the heroes they are waiting for to bring them to freedom

 

How? There has to be a strategy or you have planned to fail

My personal call to encourage everyone to become all the Lord has called them to be. Teaching them to recognize who they are in Christ and the gifts they have and can acquire to fulfill who their destiny.

I believe as we become who God has called us to be; using every skill, gift, our personalities, our time, talent and treasure. We will begin to change the world.

 

What ways are we going to begin preparing to fulfill our destiny

 

  • Teaching – the public and the private challenge of God’s word through weekend meetings, small group sessions, one on one mentoring every person will begin to recognize the gifts and calling. (Explain)

 

They will also learn to walk in righteousness through encouragement, reproof, and correction

2 Timothy 3:16,17.

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

As this scripture states it is by learning the word and walking out the word that we are equipped and prepared for every good work.

The teaching must be a balance between strong theology, apologetics, and an active and accurate understanding of the gifts and fruit of the Holy Spirit.

2 Timothy 3:1-5

But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: 2 For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, 4 traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!

 

Paul warns us that many will fall away if they do not understand the power of God. All of this must also be relevant to our culture and the needs of the community to be able to understand Jesus message.

  • Serving – Jesus said if we want to be the greatest in the Kingdom we must become the servant of all Matthew 23:11. Before we can effectively serve our world and community we must learn to serve each other. (Explain using gifts serving in children church and other areas so others can be blessed)

 

Once we have learned to serve one another we can be more effective serving the world. We are not called to hide behind the doors of the church but to allow the light of the church shine everywhere so all men might come to know and pursue the one that we love because He first loved us.

 

We will focus on strategies to reach our community by meeting their felt needs and in that process showing them Jesus. We must develop and maintain a stellar reputation in the community, (the call Paul gave to all leadership 1 Timothy 3:7 Moreover he must have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.). We will not duplicate the ministry outreaches of others unless there is a proven need for duplication. We will seek the Lord not for good ideas but great ones. There is no end to the need of the poor but we must find what is God-breathed, that will impact our community and encourage our Body.

 

Our impact will go beyond our local community to our state, our nation, and the world. Every dollar, every minute, and every use of talent will be accounted for so as to not waste one of God’s gifts.

 

  • Fellowship – The early church grew stronger and more effective through teaching, prayer, and fellowship with one another Acts 2:42.

“And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.”

If we are going to apply the teaching and begin serving our region, community, state, nation and the world better. We will come into warfare, attacks, as well as blessings, and we will need each other and those relationships for support and encouragement.

Our culture is so busy. We live in a Snapchat, sound bite, Facebook quip, culture but that is not healthy and there is a need in our culture for connection.

Part of this fellowship connection must include, an active mentoring program helping the younger Christians to connect and grow with more mature Christians. Connection groups will also play a part in getting us to the next level

 

  • Worship – Everything that I have just mentioned is worship and add to that singing, prayer, giving and we have pretty much rounded out what worship actually is.

 

Anything we do with God at the center is worship whether it be our work, our singing, our prayers, our serving, our fellowshipping, or our learning. The purpose of worship through prayer and singing is not necessarily to go with the trends but instead to go with those who are truly seeking the Lord in those areas. We have a challenge in singing that there is a need for strategic leadership through example in singing part of worship. All in all, I want to create an environment of worship that our family feels like everything they do here is worship. Each of us connecting in worship with each other and the Lord.

So what does all this mean?

  1. We need to begin to believe that God wants to bless us so that others will see the blessing and want to know the God we serve
  2. We are the light and the only hope the world has and we need to start living like it.
  3. We have to apply a stratgey to impact our world
  4. We must grow and mature we must be willing to serve one another and the world, we must build our relationships with each other and we must learn to worship with every aspect of our lives

These are all the things that are “real” church

The question is are you willing?

 

 

 

 

Who are you? How do you know that? (overcoming our identity crisis in the church)

Who are you? How do you know that? (overcoming our identity crisis in the church)

 

We are defined many ways by many different things or people

We can be know by very quick judgments like who is that fat guy or the skinny lady

By more detail who is the blond or the guy with the beard

 

We can be known by what we do…is that the mechanic, engineer, teacher, nurse

 

Terms of endearment…mom, dad, honey, babe

 

Who we believe we are sets the tone and attitude of our lives. If it is rested on how people define us then people can quickly change their attitude like the wind instead we should define ourselves by the Lord’s definition

 

I would like to challenge your thinking today that you really will define yourself not by who God says that you are but instead who you believe God is

 

Let’s look at a familiar story

 

Matthew 16:13-19

When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?” 14 So they said, “Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” 15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 17 Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. 18 And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

 

Who Jesus is to us, defines us!

 

If as the disciples were saying, Jesus is merely like one of the prophets of old Elijah, Jeremiah, or one of the others or even a revived John the Baptist.

That would mean that we are merely believing in a very good man, a very wise man, a very gifted man which is all well and good until we come to the cross.

If we define Jesus as simply a gifted man then he is nothing more than a miracle worker

 

Matthew 16:1-4

Then the Pharisees and Sadducees came, and testing Him asked that He would show them a sign from heaven. 2 He answered and said to them, “When it is evening you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red’; 3 and in the morning, ‘It will be foul weather today, for the sky is red and threatening.’ Hypocrites! You know how to discern the face of the sky, but you cannot discern the signs of the times. 4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah.” And He left them and departed.

 

All they were interested in was a sign they wanted to maintain the status quo and keep their positions and power and relegate Jesus to simply being another prophet miracle worker.

 

There is no need for a change if Jesus is merely a monkey on a chain doing your bidding answering your every whim

 

The best that we can attain to is to be just like Him and flow in that power but to what end?

 

If we are not changed then we can not change others. There is no saving grace in the miracles signs and wonders they are merely drawing cards for the real deal

 

Like the prophets of Old is he merely a guilt tripper here to make us feel guilty about all of our failures.

 

Matthew 16: 5-12

Now when His disciples had come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. 6 Then Jesus said to them, “Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.” 7 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, “It is because we have taken no bread.” 8 But Jesus, being aware of it, said to them, “O you of little faith, why do you reason among yourselves because you have brought no bread? 9 Do you not yet understand, or remember the five loaves of the five thousand and how many baskets you took up? 10 Nor the seven loaves of the four thousand and how many large baskets you took up? 11 How is it you do not understand that I did not speak to you concerning bread?—but to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” 12 Then they understood that He did not tell them to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadducees.

 

Because they were looking at Jesus as one of the prophets of old they assumed he was there to condemn them. Because of their point of view of who Jesus was they lived in guilt and waiting for the condemnation because that is what the Pharisee’s did to them

 

We tend to worry about the wrong stuff…we look at ourselves and others through the eyes of judgment because we see Jesus as judge thus condemn ourselves and others very easily

 

We feel shame when in reality he is protecting us. Knowing really who Jesus is sets us free to believe this Romans 8:15-17

For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” 16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.

 

When we begin to realize who Jesus is then we are able to get a revelation of who we are let’s look at the verse we started with to see what I mean.

 

Matthew 16:15-18

15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 17 Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. 18 And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.

Did you see what happened here? As soon as Peter got a revelation of who Jesus is, Peter’s identity was made clear

 

Once Peter got a revelation of who Jesus is Peter then got a revelation of who he was

 

When we recognize Jesus as the Christ the son of the living God then all of a sudden we are no longer living under condemnation but freedom no longer living with a chance of hope but instead with real hope

 

When we recognize Jesus as Lord, savior King of the world, then we are given the keys to the kingdom

 

Once we know who Christ is then we get the revelation of who we are and we begin to function in Kingdom authority

 

The gates of hell will not prevail against someone who understands who they are because of who Christ is Jesus was referring to a promise made to the seed of Abraham

 

God promised this to Abraham’s descendants of which we are in Christ. Genesis 22:17

In blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply your descendants as the stars of the heaven and as the sand which is on the seashore; and your seed shall possess the gate of their enemies.

 

The word seed here is singular referring directly to the Messiah.

 

Our view of who we are is skewed or enhanced by our understanding of who Jesus is

 

If he is just a good man then what can he really do for us

If he was just a prophet of old then his words no longer have life

If he was just a miracle worker what can he do for us now

If he was just to make us feel guilty and condemned we already feel that way we don’t need help there

 

But if he is the Son of God and we profess that then

 

His teaching is alive because he is alive

His miracles can still happen because He is the son of the living God

He has made us free from sin and death

He said to Peter the gates of hell will not prevail and God promised to us through Abraham that we would possess the gate of our enemies

 

The gates protect, they keep bad things out, they are passage way of commerce but the also keep people captive and in bondage

 

As Peter recognizes who Jesus really is revelation comes alive in him that he no longer needs to be trampled on by the enemy he now has control of what comes into his life.

 

He see Jesus as son of the living God and so himself as a joint heir with Jesus

 

He sees Jesus as conquering King (Revelation 17:14) and so himself as more than a conqueror.

 

He sees Jesus as the almighty one (Revelation 1:8) so he can see himself as never being defeated

 

He sees Jesus has the deliverer (1 Thessalonians 1:10) and he can see himself as always being free.

 

We must see Jesus for who he is or we will never be able to see who we are.

 

How do you see yourself? Your view may be limited by how you see Jesus!

 

50 Names and Titles of Jesus:

 

  1. Almighty One –“…who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” Rev. 1:8

 

  1.  Alpha and Omega – “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” Rev. 22:13

 

  1.  Advocate – “My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father–Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.” 1 John 2:1
  2. Author and Perfecter of Our Faith – “Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Heb. 12:2
  3.  Authority – “Jesus said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Matt. 28:18
  4.  Bread of Life – “Then Jesus declared, ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.’” John 6:35
  5.  Beloved Son of God – “And behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” Matt. 3:17
  6.  Bridegroom – “And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.” Matt. 9:15
  7.  Chief Cornerstone – “The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief corner stone.” Ps. 118:22
  8. Deliverer – “And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.” 1 Thess.1:10
  9. Faithful and True – “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 wages war.” Rev.19:11
  10. Good Shepherd – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” John 10:11
  11. Great High Priest – “Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.” Heb. 4:14
  12. Head of the Church – “And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church.” Eph. 1:22
  13. Holy Servant – “…and grant that Your bond-servants may speak Your word with all confidence, while You extend Your hand to heal, and signs and wonders take place through the name of Your holy servant Jesus.” Acts 4:29-30
  14. I Am – “Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” John 8:58
  15. Immanuel – “…She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel, which means ‘God with us.’” Is. 7:14
  16. Indescribable Gift – “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.” 2 Cor. 9:15
  17. Judge – “…he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead.” Acts 10:42
  18. King of Kings – “These will wage war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, because He is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those who are with Him are the called and chosen and faithful.” Rev. 17:14
  19. Lamb of God – “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29
  20. Light of the World – “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12
  21. Lion of the Tribe of Judah – “Weep no more; behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has conquered, so that he can open the scroll and its seven seals.” Rev. 5:5
  22. Lord of All – “For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Phil. 2:9-11
  23. Mediator – “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” 1 Tim. 2:5
  24. Messiah – “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ).” John 1:41
  25. Mighty One – “Then you will know that I, the Lord, am your Savior, your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.” Is. 60:16
  26. One Who Sets Free – “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”  John 8:36
  27. Our Hope – “…Christ Jesus our hope.” 1 Tim. 1:1
  28. Peace – “For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility,” Eph. 2:14
  29. Prophet – “And Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown and among his relatives and in his own household.” Mark 6:4
  30. Redeemer – “And as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last He will take His stand on the earth.” Job 19:25
  31. Risen Lord – “…that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.” 1 Cor. 15:3-4
  32. Rock – “For they drank from the spiritual Rock that followed them, and the Rock was Christ.” 1 Cor. 10:4
  33. Sacrifice for Our Sins – “This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” 1 John 4:10
  34. Savior – “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11
  35. Son of Man – “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10
  36. Son of the Most High – “He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David.” Luke 1:32
  37. Supreme Creator Over All – “By Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities– all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.…” Colossians 1:16-17
  38. Resurrection and the Life – “Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” John 11:25
  39. The Door – “I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture.” John 10:9
  40. The Way – “Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6
  41. The Word – “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John 1:1
  42. True Vine – “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.” John 15:1
  43. Truth – “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32
  44. Victorious One – “To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne.” Rev. 3:21
  45. – 50. Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace – “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Is. 9:6

 

 

Power: whether you know it or not you are already plugged in!

I realized this week that as we have been going through Ephesians 6 that I had not shared with you a very important point.

Let’s go there today

Ephesians 6:10

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.

I almost used this as a “thought for the day” then realized I needed to teach it because there is too much here to just do a cursory glance.

If we are to impact our world we can not use our wisdom, our strength, our influence alone we must learn to walk and live in His power.

So how do we do that? Is there some magic secret? Secret handshake perhaps some kind of backroom deal we can make with God

I remember being in a tent revival as a kid when the Pastor asked people if they wanted to receive power from on high

Dozens came forward as the evangelist began to pray he would walk behind the people and say if you want it you have to really cry out, beg God for it, plead with Him to pour out this power in your life. Pray louder pray harder if you want it you have to wait.

As a kid watching this it gave me the impression that God was a hard taskmaster like the Baal in the old testament when Elijah told them yell louder maybe Baal is not awake, maybe he is away

The Bible tells us that God knows what we desire before we ask and as I shared last week that it is His good pleasure to give us the Kingdom. Neither of those things jived with what the evangelist was saying.

Neither does it work with what Paul is saying here in Ephesians 6:10

Let me walk you through something very briefly this morning

Jesus said in Mark 16:17,18

“And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18 they will pick up serpents with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

How was this going to happen? How will Christ-followers be able to have the power to cast out demons, heal the sick, speak in tongues, drink or eat anything and not have it harm them?

When Jesus was with them they were able to do this easily… he shared the authority he was given, with them. But He was now going away but he was sending the Holy Spirit to take His place

John 16:5-15

“But now I go away to Him who sent Me, and none of you asks Me, ‘Where are You going?’ 6 But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart. 7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. 8 And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: 9 of sin, because they do not believe in Me; 10 of righteousness, because I go to My Father and you see Me no more; 11 of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged. 12 “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. 14 He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you. 15 All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare it to you.

 

After Jesus was resurrected He spent 40 days with them talking about the Kingdom of God and explaining what they needed to know.

Now they needed the power to make it all happen, the power he had promised to them as recorded in John so in Acts 1:4-8 we see this

Once when he was eating with them, he commanded them, “Do not leave Jerusalem until the Father sends you the gift he promised, as I told you before. 5 John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” 6 So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, “Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?” 7 He replied, “The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

 

They were to wait until the timing was just right then in Acts 2 we see this promise fulfilled. The timing wasn’t abut their needing to wait to be good enough, righteous enough to receive but instead it was about a large celebration where was the Holy Spirit was poured out they would be able to reach the most people with the Gospel

 

The power of the Holy Spirit is to always honor God. Is something that is being done is supposed to be of God but is not honoring Him then it is not God!

Acts 2:1- 4

On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place. 2 Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. 3 Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. 4 And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.

 

So where does that leave us..

 

– Jesus said we would do amazing things

– The disciples did amazing things under Jesus authority

– Jesus said he wanted these amazing things to keep happening even after He went to be with the Father so he would send the Holy Spirit to empower us.

– He told the disciples in order to keep doing the things to impact the world they needed to wait for the Holy Spirit baptism

– Once they were baptized in the Holy Spirit they immediately had the power to do everything they did when Jesus walked with them

 

So where is that power today

Right with you….that takes us back to our opening scripture

Ephesians 6:10

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.

“in the Lord” – what Paul is saying here is this supernatural power is Locked up in Jesus

– You can read books about it, hear sermons about it, watch TV or listen to radio about it they can all point you to the power but the only place you can get this power is in the Lord.

This is in the “locative” case, which means it expresses location. Paul is saying here that this power is located in one place in Jesus. If you have the chance read Ephesians 1 within the first 13 verses Paul uses this same phrase and case to describe how we as believers are locked up in Christ. The phrase Paul uses to describe our connection to Christ are “in Him, in Christ, in whom, or in the Beloved”. Paul uses all of this to say as you come to Christ you are placed in Him…your habitat as a believer is no longer in the world but you are now “in Christ”

WE have been securely placed in Him perpetually now why is this important because not only are we “locked up” in Christ but so is the power of the Holy Spirit. Every day since we came to Christ we have been rubbing elbows with this power.

Let me give you this illustration (Alayna I will give you a picture to put up to illustrate this) The fact that we are in Jesus residing with the power of the Holy Spirit can be illustrated this way. If you picture this fishbowl it is filled with water and a goldfish both are of a different substance and in the bowl both reside in the bowl. The bowl is the home for both of them. The fish doesn’t have to release faith to get into the water it is already in the water.

The idea that we are “locked up” inside Christ with the Holy Spirit’s power means we can access a supernatural move of power anytime we want. Just as the fish we have access to the water all the time but with being surrounded by this supernatural power we must simply by faith allow the power of the Holy Spirit to fill us and then embrace that power by faith, being thankful for it

You don’t have to beg or plead for God to fill you all you have to do is want Him to His power is all around you there for the taking…He loves you, wants to give it to you all you have to do is breathe it in!

Question, is do you want it today?

 

 

 

 

Keep talking, quality relationships depend on it

Praying in the Spirit

Last week we talked about the power and impact of the word of God as our sword to destroy the works of the enemy. I am grateful that I heard from many of you this week that you really are applying these teachings in your life.

I know what I am teaching is stretching many of you but I am grateful that you are allowing the Lord to stretch you.

Hebrews 12:5-9

And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said,

“My child, don’t make light of the Lord’s discipline and don’t give up when he corrects you.

6 For the Lord disciplines those he loves,  and he strongly brings correction to each one he accepts as his child.” 7 As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? 8 If God doesn’t discipline you as he does all of his children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really his children at all. 9 Since we respected our earthly fathers who disciplined us, shouldn’t we submit even more to the discipline of the Father of our spirits, and live forever?

 

Today we wrap up this series with talking about talking to God something called prayer

 

Ephesians 6:10 – 18 Philips Translation

In conclusion be strong—not in yourselves but in the Lord, in the power of his boundless resource. Put on God’s complete armor so that you can successfully resist all the devil’s methods of attack. For our fight is not against any physical enemy: it is against organizations and powers that are spiritual. We are up against the unseen power that controls this dark world, and spiritual agents from the very headquarters of evil. Therefore you must wear the whole armor of God that you may be able to resist evil in its day of power and that even when you have fought to a standstill you may still stand your ground. Take your stand then with truth as your belt, righteousness your breastplate, the Gospel of peace firmly on your feet, salvation as your helmet and in your hand the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. Above all be sure you take faith as your shield, for it can quench every burning missile the enemy hurls at you. Pray at all times with every kind of spiritual prayer, keeping alert and persistent as you pray for all Christ’s men and women.

 

Praying in the spirit is one of our most powerful offensive weapons.

There is a problem with prayer, that is if each of us were totally honest we would admit that we don’t spend much time in prayer.

It really is a reflection of our “can do attitude” as a culture.

See prayer is putting God first in all things, trusting that He is really able to take control of everything in our lives, leading and showing us how to accomplish things easier, more efficiently, more effectively and with greater results.

It is never wrong to read a book, talk to a friend, a pastor, a counselor about our problems but it is wrong to not pray first. Coming to the Lord should always be our first thought.

Our “can do attitude” says I can do it myself. Have you ever been trying to help a three year old put something together, build a puzzle, or such things only to have them take the puzzle piece or block from your hand and say, “let me do it, I can do it myself” this is part of their growth and as a child while it is disrespectful it is somewhat necessary for their independence the problem is we do this with God through our lack of prayer and it shows our lack of dependence on him and will causes us to take so much longer to accomplish our own growth, maturity and effectiveness in the Kingdom.

Praying in the spirit is simply allowing God to direct our prayers so we are not just simply shouting out a bunch of needs and concerns but really waiting on His heart to be revealed that is why many times my prayers literally begin by my praying in tongues, my prayer language because I want to have my heart and spirit align with His spirit then I begin to pray in English because I have aligned my heart with His heart.

If you don’t have a prayer language that doesn’t mean that you can’t pray in the Spirit, because simply put, praying in the Spirit is… God directed prayer, but at least for me it is easier to get to the point of directed prayer because of my prayer language

The Holy Spirit’s job is to lead, guide, give comfort, wisdom and encouragement, it is also to show and prepare us for things to come.

Through my prayer time I can understand better the big dream the Lord has for me our church, and at times many of you it is not spooky or out there it is simply spending time talking with my Father who knows everything and knows what is going to happen it is His good pleasure to let us understand things better

Luke 12:32

“Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”

Prayer makes that happen. Paul challenges our understanding of prayer by saying this

1 Thessalonians 5:17

pray without ceasing,

 

What in the world is he saying? How am I supposed to get work done, accomplish and live my life if I take this literally?

What Paul is saying is always be in communication with God, keep your mind focused on Him and on His word. We can do that when we fall in love, have good friends or from the negative have a difficult problem we are facing. In any of those cases we are influenced moment by moment by the people or situation. If we can do that in those cases we can do it with God.

Every relationship we have will be impacted by how much our minds are focused on God. If they are focused on God’s heart

Three things about prayer I need to discuss today

Pray with focus without rote

Pray with persistence

Pray specifically

 

Pray with focus without rote

We as humans are creatures of habit we tend to drive the same path, go to the same places, eat the same foods because it is safe and comfortable while that is not bad it can lead to genuine boredom.

I don’t know if we can bore God but we certainly can bore ourselves if we are constantly praying the same prayers, in the same way.

In Colossians 4:2 “Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving;”

The translation for keeping alert better lends itself to “stay awake”

If we believe that when we pray we are talking to the one who created everything and knows everything we remember who we are talking to and talk with Him in the confidence that we know He hears us.

Jesus said this Matthew 6:7

“When you pray, don’t babble on and on as the Gentiles do. They think their prayers are answered merely by repeating their words again and again.

When you pray keep it fresh and focused on a purpose. Stylistically you can mix it up and still be in line with Scripture

You can, stand, sit, kneel, lay down when you are praying. You can pray quietly, shout, in song, or just in your head.

You can pray in words or phrases of others, your own or scripture

You can pray by yourself or with others.

The other point Paul is making in Colossians about keeping alert as that we need to be aware of what is going on to make sure we to pray for what is happening in our homes, world, church, neighborhood with our leaders and our families.

It is important that we focus and that our prayers do not become so routine, that they lose their power and prayer becomes boring for us

 

Pray with persistence.

James 5:16b

“The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.”

We used to have to wait until we got to the office or home to make a phone call. We used to have to heat up the oven to reheat a meal. For at least the last 20 years we have been able to make a call anytime, and pop things in the microwave for instant access or instant cooking and we get instant results.

God rarely works that way. He is interested in the long term, in our character, on helping us to move forward not just cover something up.

I mentioned earlier that our prayers are not to be routine but that does not mean that we simply pray for something once and move on. We are to pray until we receive an answer. Persistently seeking God

When we give up on prayer we are giving up on relationship

As we pray God moves and we change and often relationships quickly get healed.

Pray specifically

How many of you are hunters? If you are a hunter you know the difference between a shotgun and a rifle. A shot gun sprays lead pellets over a wide area hitting whatever is in that pattern out to about 100 yards tops. When you’re going after pheasant or quail or even rabbits, a shotgun can be effective. The prey is moving, often erratically, and so you point and shoot. Aiming is often kept to a minimum. You just hope you to hit what you’re pointing at. A shotgun is pretty indiscriminant in what it hits. If you’re in the path, watch out!

A rifle, on the other hand, is used very differently. A rifle is used to take intentional aim at a specific, single target, often hundreds of yards away. A rifle fires just one projectile, one bullet, at that target. And if your aim is accurate, you can drop your target from a great distance.

Both are good for their intend use

Many of our prayers are shotgun prayers

“Dear God, Give me good day today. You know that our church needs some help so please bless it and the pastor. Please take care of those that are sick and need you and please help us to be more effective for you. Amen.”

That is a shotgun prayer pretty common and OK but it doesn’t show real interest. Some of the Biblical prayers are shotguns but the most impactful ones are specific

It is kind of like having surface relationships where you really don’t know someone you simply are happy with nothing deeper. There OK and all of us have them but the real impact and danger come when you become more open and vulnerable

Rather than God give me a good day we pray God help me to be effective in my relationships with my family and Fred in accounting and sally in sales help me to be a blessing to them specifically in today

“God help our church.” No! God, our church needs to reach out to our community better than we do. Help us to discover what the specific needs of our community are and then give us a vision and creativity and workers and the finances to help us meet that need and show me how to be part of the answer.

You get the idea…God know what we need and he needs us to see the need with clarity and he will give us the strategies to meet those needs

We all need and desire to have healthier relationships; relationships that honor God.

God has given us some wonderful and powerful tools; some exercises that we are to use to build a better body of relationships.

We are to put on his strength

We are to ground our relationships in truth and integrity

We are to be right with God so that we can be right with others

We are to advance the Gospel of Christ in our relationships

We are to maintain faith in Christ

We are to align our thoughts with Christ

We are to immerse our lives and our relationships in the Word of God

And we are to be praying for our relationships.

We are to pray in the spirit. We are to pray continually, we are to pray with focus, we are to pray persistently and we are to pray specifically.

As a result, every relationship in our lives will be strong

 

 

 

 

 

A sharp word to keep our relationships strong

Sword of the spirit

Last week we talked about whether you were a thermometer or a thermostat how many of you this week had the opportunity to notice that about yourself or others?

Ephesians 6:10-18

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,

Everything so far has been defensive in nature but now Paul talks about the sword of the Spirit. There were several types of swords in the Roman cache. One was a two-handed broad sword designed mainly for practice but if used in battle, mainly wounded the enemy rather than kill. There was a long sword that was used mainly as a weapon to cut at arms and legs. Neither of those are the sword described here by Paul.

This sword was 12” – 18” in length it was meant for close battles. It is an offensive weapon to be used in tight situations.

It was extremely sharp and could be maneuvered easily and appropriately to overcome any enemy

Paul compares the word of God to that sword and how it can work in keeping our relationships strong is amazing.

I need to mention this God’s Word is true

 

1) It makes things clear
2) It purifies
3) It guides

How does it make things clear

Hebrews 4:12

For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.

Often in our relationships, there are times when things getting a little confusing we don’t understand why someone is saying something or doing something. We can understand why someone is treating us the way that they are.

His word pierces right to the core of things
It cuts through self-deception
It shows up against hypocrisy

When we know and live God’s word it reveals our hearts

Things like

1 John 4:20

If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?

Titus 3: 1,2

Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, 2 to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.

Matthew 6:14,15

For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

Just these three verses alone can cut through any hypocrisy and self-absorption leaving 31,099 verses to work on other areas of your life.

What would these three verses alone do to enhance, heal and bring life to every relationship

2) God’s Word purifies

Psalm 119:9

How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word.

John 17:17

Sanctify (Purify) them in the truth; your word is truth.

There are so many things that can pollute our minds and our hearts so much on television, on the internet, in conversations at work. The anger, hatred, bitterness, greed, fear that can easily pollute you so can stand firm against if you will allow God’s word to do the work.

Here is a positive challenge of how the Word purifies

Proverbs 7:1-4

My son, keep my words and treasure up my commandments with you;
2 keep my commandments and live; keep my teaching as the apple of your eye; 3 bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart. 4 Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call insight your intimate friend,

Wisdom will keep your heart and attitude strong, focused and clear. The Word of God is a book filled with wisdom

Think about it if we use wisdom and keep our heart attitudes pure in every relationship we will solve all kinds of conflicts

When we don’t know where to go or what to do….

4) It guides

Psalm 119:105

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

So many of our relationship become confusing when we don’t know how to treat one another we offend or we get offended.
We are working on a relationship and don’t know how to get there from here

John 15:13

Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.

Ephesians 4:2,3

with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Hebrews 10: 24,25

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

If we need guidance as to how to handle any relationship these words alone should help us accomplish amazing things with each other.

Laying down our lives for each other gets pride and rejection out of the way, listening to each other taking on each others burdens to help us carrying them helps draw us to unity not division, and challenging each other to love and get to church always helps us grow.

How do we allow this word to make the difference in us so we can make a difference in all of our relationships

1) Learn it
It can’t really change you until you know it Psalm 119:11 says “I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you”

2) Love it
We embrace so many concepts in our daily lives to excel at work and in family but God wants us to embrace His word to excel at life and all of our relationships

Psalm 1: 1,2
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,
nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; 2 but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law, he meditates day and night.

3) Live it
We have got to allow God’s word to be live to us to allow it to go out through our hands and touch the lives of others

James 1:22

But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.

I hope you can see today how God’s word can keep every relationship strong and healthy

Thermostat or Thermometer

Or “Where your mind goes there goes your attitude”

 

Last week we talked about wheelbarrow faith the difference between believing in God and having faith in him. How that impacts all of our relationships.

This week we want to look at the helmet of salvation and how allowing Christ to change our minds can impact our relationships.

Ephesians 6:10-18

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.

 

It is no accident that Paul encourages us to cover our minds with salvation. All of our relationships will be impacted by the way we think

The question we need to ask today is “How do I positively effect my relationships?”

I am not saying every relationship is poor but every relationship can be better

 

We do this by becoming a thermostat

Thermometers merely change with the temperature. If it is hot then the thermometer reflects and reports that heat if cold the thermometer does the same. It merely conforms to the temperature around it.

If everyone is bent out of shape and your are a thermometer then you too will get bent out of shape, if everyone is angry, fearful, jealous you go with that flow and conform to the same.

The thermostat does just the opposite it changes the environment rather than being changed by it. If it gets too hot the thermostat is set to regulate that heat and cool it down if too cool the thermostat turns on the heat. It is not conformed by its environment instead conforms its environment to be what it wants

 

Romans 12:2

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

We are to be transformers, not conformers. If we are merely thermometers we can take the temperature of the relationship but not do anything about it

 

– “How do we function as thermostats and not fall into the thermometer thinking?”

 We have to change our thinking, align our thoughts with Christ, the practical part of putting on the helmet of salvation

Think like Christ. Paul raises the bar with this

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.

That is not as easy as it sounds. Think about where you are getting all of your input and how that affects your output. Think about how much of your day you feel anxious, angry (without a real just cause), fearful, distraught, hurt, rejected

None of that conforms to a “Jesus” way of thinking. God challenges us to think higher in Isaiah 55:8,9

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts,

Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord.

9 “For as the heavens are higher than the earth,

So are My ways higher than your ways,

And My thoughts than your thoughts.

 

This is not saying we can’t be the thermostat we need to be, but that we must work higher in our thinking rather than getting upset with everyone else we focus on what is noble, just, lovely and the good report rather than the bad.

Every relationship we have we need to make the choice to keep our thinking Christ-like and help others to do the same. We must start by renewing and changing our minds, our way of thinking

Last question…”How do we change our thinking?” In other words how do I put on the helmet of salvation so my mind might be aligned with Christ?

In order to do this, we must understand something about our thinking

 

  • Behavior is based on belief

 

We purchase things based on belief we believe this is the better car, laundry detergent, or best price for the quality

 

We make decisions in our minds that something is better than another things

Our behavior regarding people is the same, we react to them based on what we believe about them

If we revisit the scripture I shared earlier we can see how this word can change our view of our relationships

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.

Until we have a standard to measure our opinions by, we can allow our flesh-oriented beliefs about people to rule us or choose to look at things through Jesus standard

Yes we must look at the truth of every situation which means we don’t simply white-wash problems but we deal with them with a pure heart, a noble and just attitude

 

Giving people the benefit of the doubt and above all choosing love above hatred, prejudice, wrath.

 

Choosing to believe in what is good versus what is evil….these political things are not going away…regardless of decisions made in congress or the Whitehouse, choose to believe your life is in God’s hands and allow him to bless

I know a number of our teachers are concerned about the choice for secretary of education but your career is not in their hands but God’s he is giving you an opportunity to not go with the world’s thinking but to find his “mind regarding your future

 

  • Change always begins in the mind

 

Our mind is the culmination of our thoughts and emotions it is more than our brain however with it we choose how we will feel and act and react

 

Remember Romans 12:2

Romans 12:2

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

With my travels and decisions I have had to make, there have been many times I have had to bring my fears, anger, anxiety

From little things to big things (flying air pocket drop) choose to believe God was going to get me there everyone else panicking I was able to help keep people calm (I was able to be that witness)

How much do you believe your life, your future, your children are in God’s hands?…then why are you worried…keep your heart right and clean and you will always been in God’s hands thinking the way he thinks and able to be the thermostat

 

 

  • Only God’s word can change our minds

 

In order to change our beliefs we must change our minds and our change of beliefs will change our behavior but until we know that things need to change we will not change

The Word sets our standard of belief

Paul in talking about what Christ did for the church in Ephesians 5:26 says this

“that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word,”

 

God’s word always in our hearts and minds, challenges us daily to change, to be reflective more of the image of God.

Last week I mentioned this scripture 2 Timothy 3:16,17

all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

God’s word equips us to change, it makes us complete in the sense that its reflection challenges us to be better, to overcome, to not allow the jerks to get the best of us, to be the thermostat rather than the thermometer

And as we read it, it corrects, becomes our standard for our lives and our relationships and our standard to the way that we treat others.

Putting on the helmet of salvation requires change in minds and attitudes we must become the thermostat that helps regulate all the relationships around us. We must change our beliefs about others and our world by bringing our thinking into alignment with Christ

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Putting out the darts and arrows that will catch us on fire

Subtitle (wheelbarrow faith)

We have talked about the strength it takes to keep relationships going, the integrity and truth at the core of any great relationship, the righteousness given to us because of Christ and the choices we must make to walk in righteousness to keep us and our relationships alive, and last week we talked about always being ready, prepared to handle any situation so we might remain in peace in all of our relationships.

 

This week I want to talk about being willing to get into the wheelbarrow. I’ll explain that in a moment

 

Ephesians 6:10 – 18

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.

 

In 1859, French daredevil Charles Blondin stretched a rope 1,100 feet across Niagara Falls. He then proceeded to walk across the rope, 160 above the falls, while blindfolded. The crowd that had gathered cheered wildly. He then walked over the falls pushing a wheelbarrow. Some accounts of this story claim that he filled the wheelbarrow with 150# of dirt. When he completed this feat, the wildly cheering crowd again greeted him.

 

Blondin then asked the gathered crowd, “Do you believe I can walk over the falls again with the wheelbarrow?” And the crowd responded with a hearty “Yes!”

Blondin then asked the gathered crowd, “Do you believe I can walk over the falls again with the wheelbarrow?” And the crowd responded with a hearty “Yes!”

Blondin asked, “Do you believe I can walk this tightrope with someone in that wheelbarrow?” Again, the crowd responded with a hearty “Yes!”

“Who then, will get into the wheelbarrow?” Blondin asked. And you can guess the response of the crowd. There was not a single volunteer.

The crowd believed firmly that Blondin could take a person across the tightrope in a wheelbarrow. However, believing it wasn’t enough.

You see; there is a difference between “belief” and “faith”.

Today we are going to talk about wheelbarrow riding faith

 

Paul said

16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.

 

Roman shields were rectangular in shape so joined together they could act as a wall against any attackers

 

They also were made out of wood, leather, and metal. The purpose for the mix of materials was to extinguish the fiery arrows of the enemy.

You see when a volley of flaming arrows would be shot; it tended to slow the soldiers down. The shield was designed to take these hits and extinguish the arrows.

The enemy loves to attack relationships with jealousy, division, anger, frustration, and misunderstanding to do his best to destroy relationships.

That is why Paul says hold up the shield of faith to stop the arrows of the devil

What are the ways to build and/or apply our faith?

 

Believe in the word of God

 

I know this may seem simplistic but one of the first challenges after creation was to the validity of God’s word.

 

Genesis 3:1-3

Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, “Has God indeed said, ‘You shall not eat of every tree of the garden’?” 2 And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; 3 but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, ‘You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die.’ ”

 

If we don’t know the word of God and believe it we will fall for anything that sounds like it. I hear all of the time “this is not what a loving God would do” My question is do you define love in the way God defines love and have you read the Bible and how a loving God protects people always.

 

Then there are those who have read parts of the word and add their own to it “nor shall you touch it” why was that a problem? If she believed she would die if she touched it then when she did and did not die she would believe everything is a lie.

 

As a church this is what we believe

 

We believe that all scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction and instruction in righteousness.

 

2 Timothy 3:16,17 this is the basis of that tenet of our faith

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

 

John tells us this John 20:31

but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.

 

We can not pick and choose what we believe but some things are harder to understand if you do not have someone teaching you. If you have questions do like many others have, send them to me and I will answer them to help you understand better.

 

God’s word is filled with wisdom on building stronger relationships

Handling problems with people

When applied the principles in scripture can cause every relationship to be at its best.

When we know and believe in the Word of God, it doesn’t matter how many arrows the enemy may shoot our way, we know what God’s word says, remember how many times it has kept us focused and defended us and the arrows can’t even burn us because we are protected by the shield that says though every man is a liar God’s word is true

 

Trust in Jesus

 

I say “trust” in Jesus because it must go beyond mental assent to faith in him. It must God from your brain to your heart

 

Remember the illustration about the wheelbarrow faith?

There is a difference between believing in Jesus and putting your faith in him

Belief is mental assent believing that something can be done faith is actually putting your trust in someone or something.

It is not merely enough to believe that the Bible is true you must place your trust in it and the God who created it.

 

James puts it this way

James 2:19,20

You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. 20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless?

 

You have to know that God is going to get you through anything. The demons know God, they believe in Him but they do not have faith in Him that is how they became demons in the first place.

 

Trust in Jesus is more than believing it is saying, “God I am letting go of the steering wheel and giving it to you”

I mentioned this scripture last week but allow me to take a slightly different view of it this morning. The good deeds, I would challenge you with this today are that you are showing you trust in Jesus by what Jesus said

 

Matthew 5:43-45

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven;”

 

John 13:34

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.”

 

It is easy for us to lash out at people who hurt or offend us, it is easy for us to not like people that think differently than we do. These are all the things that the world does.

 

If Jesus is truly in charge then we allow Him to handle all of these things, we are confident in His leading, plan, purpose for our lives. This helps us see people differently, through His eyes

 

Ladies and gentlemen we are the overcomers, we are empowered by the Spirit of the living God people hate Christians because they are afraid, they persecute real men and women of God because their Father has lied to them. People fear real men and women of God because we are drawing people to a loving, living powerful God the world wants to create a personality cult you see it in Hollywood, entertainment field, athletics and even in the church. Satan hates anyone coming into freedom in Christ so he will do and mask whatever he needs to, to keep you in bondage to a thing or person rather than God. These are fiery darts sent to do sneak attacks because there is not freedom or joy in trusting in people or things only in trusting in God

 

 

Act in obedience to God’s Word

 

Our world is broken in so many ways.

 

They live in unforgiveness, they live in a world of manipulation and control. They live in a world were they are driven to the point of exhaustion and hopelessness.

 

You see the enemy of our soul not only shoots flaming arrows at us but everything made in the image of God.

 

The world is hopeless! We are walking in faith so they can see it.

 

When we believe in God’s Word, trust in Jesus for everything then we will naturally, because of these two things, want to live in obedience not out of a burden or law but knowing that it is the only way for us to be free.

 

Our obedience requires us to walk in forgiveness always as we forgive we bring freedom to ourselves and others.

 

Our obedience causes us to not try to control or manipulate others, guide encourage yes, but the world is full of manipulation we in our security can point them to truth, joy and freedom because we are walking in those things.

 

We begin to study the word more…we begin to spend more time in prayer and sharing our faith

 

We leave a victim mentality which I am afraid is creeping into the church. We are only a victim, if we do not live by God’s Word, trust Jesus, and act in obedience

 

Because with these three keys the shield of faith is up full and every dart of the enemy is extinguished.

 

I know it is work but it is real and the strength, overcoming power, life and anointing that comes with it not only brings freedom to us but to the world around us.

 

If you are willing to climb into the wheelbarrow and allow Jesus to walk you across the high wire you are in for a real adventure of a lifetime.

 

Where is your faith this morning? Are the darts or arrows getting through? Have the gotten through?

 

It takes nothing more than standing on God’s word, trusting the Jesus has the wheelbarrow of your life and you are getting into that wheelbarrow in obedience to Him

 

 

Getting ready to take some ground

Let’s get right into it today!

 

Ephesians 6:10-18

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

 

The Roman soldier had shoes that were made stronger and built for warfare.

 

– The sole was double the thickness of the normal sandal to protect from hot sand and sharp rocks

– they had nails drive through the bottom for better traction and to help them always advance, you don’t win battles by retreating, these types of shoes kept him from slipping or sliding.

– When on duty, a soldier never took his sandals off, even when they slept they were always prepared for battle because their shoes were on!

 

Paul saw all of this and so he wrote “shoes of readiness that comes with the Gospel of peace.

 

We get into most trouble in our relationships when we are weary, worn out, stressed, on our last nerve, in other words when we are not prepared to handle everything coming our way.

 

We need to be prepared with all of our relationships to respond God’s way! We need to be ready to take some ground.

 

Often someone will say something to us that is just not right, they are missing the point or have miss interpreted something we or someone else has said, or worse something the Bible says and we let it go.

 

If we really love someone we can’t allow gossip, slander, misunderstandings or any such thing live in our relationships so what do we do to prepare with peace?

 

Any relationship that is alive will encounter tension it is the nature of living relationships but if we want the relationships to grow deeper we must be willing to speak the right words into a person’s life at the right time

 

Bring the truth

Act in faith

Be prepared to answer

 

If we are going to take ground and advance rather than stagnate or fall backward we have to not allow little things to hurt our relationships

 

2 Timothy 4:2

“Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.”

 

In order to advance some relationships we have to put things at risk

 

There are times when something is said that sets a person so far away from being Christ-like that we need to “rebuke” them

 

Rebuke – is often a harsh warning to someone that they are headed in the wrong direction, or they are simply out of line. As a Christian it is still spoken out of love and concern for the individual but is direct, to the point because the person is in some kind of danger whether it be spiritual, mental, emotional, or physical.

 

Correction– is similar to a rebuke in that it is a word of correction spoken directly to protect someone but it is followed up with a plan of action that the person speaking the corrective word is willing to help with. Often it is not enough to simply correct someone because many times they are not aware of how to not create the problem so they need someone to lovingly come along side and lead them to the right course.

 

Encouragement – Every word of rebuke or correction should be followed up with encouragement. Just because someone is doing a bad thing or failing in some way does not mean they are all bad. Encouragement is not simply cheerleading but is coming along side someone for comfort and support. It is something we simply do not do enough of we are either too busy, too insecure, or just don’t think about it but everyone welcomes and is in need of some encouragement.

 

As I said a couple of weeks ago, truth is our core and to readily advance and walk in peace we must be ready in these three areas to speak truth, lovingly and with mercy.

 

Next in order to take some ground we must in all readiness, live out our faith before others.

 

James 2:14-18

What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? 15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, 16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? 17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”

 

Bringing peace means showing the way, we must always be ready to show our faith to our family.

 

We can’t see someone in genuine need and not do something about it. I say genuine need because we live in a culture of entitlement and there are some that believe they should be always taken care of but God has called them to work.

 

Our love must be seen not only in words but in action if we want our relationship to grow and mature we need to as the adage says “no one cares how much you know until they know how much you care”

Take some ground by bringing peace not in word only but in action, that proves the love you espouse.

 

To bring peace and take ground away from the enemy we need to be prepared to answer the attacks, lies, and misunderstandings of the broken, hurting, angry, and confused as well as the babies, and those that are simply different from you.

 

1 Peter 3:15b

…always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;

 

Matthew 10:18-20

You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. 19 But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak; 20 for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.

 

I know we want to believe everyone thinks like us, understands us, and looks at the world through the same prism but that is not true.

 

Our “frames of reference” influence the way we think, act, and react.

 

We need to know what we believe, why we believe it and be saturated by the presence of God. Our readiness can help bring and keep peace if we know what we believe.

 

Part of our defense is simply being able to explain to others what we believe the Bible has to say about certain things

I would encourage you as the quote from Rupertus Meldenius states

“In the essentials unity, in the non-essentials liberty, and in all things love”

That is the prepared love we are to walk in, that brings peace but these verses also make a stricter accounting

Both inside and outside of the church we need to have a firm grasp of what we believe, not based on opinion, nor culture but on the word of God

What does God’s word say about?

Abortion

Homosexuality

Marriage

Pornography

Foods that we eat

Medicine we take

Alcohol consumption

Raising children

Treating your spouse

Treating your enemies

Entertainment

Friendships

Work, work ethic

Welfare

Aliens (people from outside of our country, not out of this world)

Fear

Wealth, how to handle money

Integrity

Foul language

Sin

Heaven

Hell

Depression

Talking to the dead

Horoscopes

Psychics

Prophets

Healing

Leadership

Serving

 

Basically, any subject that can be brought up today the Bible has an answer and talks about it in at least general terms.

 

We will be questioned both intensely and inquisitively once people know what we believe.

 

We also know from this past election that there are people who love Jesus just as much as we do that have differing opinions. Some are anti-biblical and need correcting, but only if we truly know what we believe and why and some are simply points of liberty that we must agree to disagree.

 

It is always a blessing to love someone enough to allow them to be heard, it helps us to understand people of differing opinions if we allow them to be heard!

We can take ground and bring peace in our relationships if we love enough to

 

– Speak words or correction, rebuke, and encouragement, in love

 

– Live out our beliefs, love and truth in a way that everyone can see them and it helps them to live in peace

 

– We must know what we believe so well that we can easily defend it

 

If we do these things we will be ready and able to bring and keep peace in our relationships in the church and outside of the church.

 

If you don’t have peace because of some situation in your life come and allow someone to pray with you.

 

If you are having some issue with someone in your life please come let us pray for you and believe the Lord to lead you into peace!

 

Let’s take some ground this morning

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Making your life bullet-proof

Making your life bullet proof!

 

Essential exercises to build a better body Part 3

 

Several years ago Officer Cardamon of the Erie police force was on the late night shift. He was sitting at an intersection when a car did not make a complete stop at a stop sign he was concerned at so late at night that the person driving was falling asleep at the wheel. He called to alert everyone he was in pursuit, turned on the lights and the siren.

 

The man driving the car pulled over, as officer Cardamon walked up to the drivers window he found himself face to face with 9mm pistol before he knew it two shots were fired one missed and one hit him in the chest the officer went down. The man had just robbed a local convenience store and thought officer Cardamon was on to him. To the man’s surprise in just a few seconds two shots rang out from the officer both going through the door of the car to hit his leg and arm. The man dropped his gun and surrendered. Officer Cardamon was bruised but OK 3/8” inch of Kevlar a fabric so dense that the bullet was stopped from piercing his skin.

 

Today’s essential is to bullet-proof our walk

 

We have talked about how we need to fight for our relationships and when we don’t have the strength to openly rely on him for that strength and we will win

 

Then we talked about the importance of truth and integrity and learning to lovingly communicate with each other, the truth and to always maintain our integrity even in the littlest things will keep our relationships strong and are the core to everything else being strong.

 

Today I want to define righteousness and the role it plays in healthy and bullet proofed relationships

 

But lets start again with Ephesians 6: 10-18

 

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere

 

On the Roman soldier they wore a vest made out of leather with metal plates sewn on to protect the soldier from blows of a sword or piercings of a spear. Without it the soldier was a dead man the closest thing we have to it today is a Kevlar vest.

 

This breastplate or body armor of God’s righteousness kept the soldier alive and will keep us alive today. Our two biggest adversaries to our become everything God has called us to be and our functioning as a fellowship of believers are the devil and our own flesh and wrapping ourselves in God’s righteousness defeats both of those easily.

 

Righteousness defined is virtue, purity of life, rightness, correctness of thinking, feeling, and acting.

 

This is a challenge because what is rightness, correct thinking, feeling, and/or acting?

 

There are so many opinions of what that is and what that means.

 

Here is the challenge, do you believe the Bible was written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and is the Word of God?

 

If you don’t why don’t you?

 

The Bible has errors….my question is where are these errors there have been questions about the differing accounts in the Gospels but we are dealing with eye witnesses giving accounts from different points of view nothing that would steal the accuracy of scripture

 

Historical reliability – many things over the years have been pointed to as fallacy in scripture, King David and the Hittite people to name just two. Archeologist and historians were both convinced that these were myths only to discover them to be true after further archeological digs.

 

That being said righteousness is defined by what God says that it is in the Bible.

 

The first thing we have to understand about righteousness is that we can’t be righteous on our own God has got to do it in us and through us.

 

Romans 3:23 – 26

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, 26 to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.

 

Three important points

 

– We all have sinned

– We can not come into God’s presence and be made righteous apart from the grace (unmerited favor) and the blood price (redemption) of Christ

– His purity, righteousness justifies us before a holy God

 

In other words when we recognize we are sinners and accept that Christ paid the price for all of our sin on the cross we receive unmerited favor to become righteous because of him that is how we are righteous

 

But then living righteously is another thing.

 

Receiving God’s righteousness is our get out of hell free card but living righteously is the way we protect ourselves from failure and broken relationships and walk in the blessings of God.

 

Let’s look at the problems a lack of righteousness causes

 

2 Timothy 3:1-5

You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. 2 For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. 3 They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. 4 They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. 5 They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!

 

I want us to look at the life saving features of righteousness from this list of unrighteousness

 

If unrighteousness is… (with each item relate it to Body relationships)

 

  • Only loving yourself and money then righteous living is laying down your life for others and being generous “we are to prefer one another” and always be willing to give recognizing that everything we have came from God.
  • Is being boastful and proud then righteousness is being humble not a doormat but instead knowing who you are and submitting that to God and others to be a blessing
  • Being disobedient to parents and authority then righteousness is learning to sit and listen to wisdom and want to gain understanding
  • Scoffing at God and nothing being sacred then righteousness is being respectful of people, God and walking always in a way that reflects the love of Christ
  • Being unloving and unforgiving then righteousness is never taking offense, always believing the best in your brothers and sisters in Christ and daily forgiving yourself and them in this they therefore will not slander, speak ill of each other
  • Having no self-control then righteousness is having self control by not responding to people out of anger or one-upmanship, not hurting someone in return for their hurting you
  • Hating what is good then righteousness is loving what is good. The Bible defines a good person as having these qualities

– heart felt devotion to God (Acts 13:2)

– willing obedience (John 14:15)

– accepts peoples imperfections but pushes them on to growth Acts 11:23,24 story of Barnabas encouraging

– enjoys seeing others use and grow in their gifts (most of Paul’s writings)

– generous with time and money Acts 4:36,37, 1 John 3:17

– devotes themselves to reaching the lost Acts 11:21-24

-recognizes the source of all human goodness is submitting to the Holy Spirit Galatians 5: 16,22

 

  • Love pleasure rather than God then righteousness is loving God more than pleasure allow me to give you some signs if you are too busy to read your Bible, pray, come to church, serve, share then you are struggling with loving pleasure rather than God
  • Act religious but reject the power then righteousness is having a real relationship with God and believing in the power that healing, prophecy, and all of the gifts of the spirit and character of God are needed.

 

We can’t maintain any of this apart from Christ. These are not going to hell or going to heaven rules these are the things that if we learn to live them make our lives better, more loving cause us to grow as believers and bullet-proof us from our own flesh and the enemy.

 

I know I stepped on some toes today but the point is these are all key points that will keep you alive in the Body of Christ and as your walk in them you will help to keep others alive as well.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

No Pain No Gain!

No Pain No Gain Part 2 Essential Exercises for Building a Better Body

We have all heard it in order to build a better stronger Body No Pain no gain

It is no different in growing as a Body of believers because we must walk in the truth.

Our focus for this series is Ephesians 6:10-18

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints

 

WE talked last week about the need to be strong to fight for our relationships. In order to grow often times we experience pain but pain in the hands of a surgeon leads to life God’s Word is often just the surgeon he will use to bring life to us

Paul begins his defense of our relationships by stating in verse Ephesians 6:14

Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth,

 

Truth is not something easy for us to walk in, how many times have we shared little “white lies” in order to protect some one’s feelings or big ones to keep us from getting into trouble

It is hard to always walk in the truth to maintain your integrity. I mention integrity because integrity is truth in not only what we say but what we do.

The belt of truth on a Roman soldier’s uniform is what protected his core…the focus of strength to keep the Body upright and able to function in an optimum way…The kidneys, liver, back are all protected from strong blows by the belt

How many have ever had back pain? All it takes is one time and you never want to go there again. Integrity is pivotal to our having functioning, strong, healthy, relationships.

Integrity goes against the grain of our culture and anytime you go against the culture it will cause you pain but when you stand in truth you stand with Jesus because He is truth.

Pizza business story

It is hard to restore integrity and truth when it has been ruined, it is not impossible just difficult so it is better to never fracture it.

Proverbs 10:9 and 13:6 says this

People with integrity walk safely, but those who follow crooked paths will be exposed.

Godliness guards the path of the man of integrity, but the evil are misled by sin.

When people know they can trust your word and your actions then you will always walk in safety.

The Psalmist writes in Chapter 15:4 that the one who can come into the presence of God is one who

“keep their promises even when it hurts.”

When you learn to walk in integrity you can be yourself without worrying about rejection, you know who you are and where you are going.

When you have relationships based on truth you don’t have to walk on eggshells or worry about what people are thinking because they will tell you the truth lovingly and gently.

 

Truth protects our relationships

 

People know with certainty who you are, how you will handle things and what is being spoken is true

It protects from false accusations. It doesn’t mean you won’t go through stuff but your integrity will always win the day

1 Peter 3:16

Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ.

Attorney Generals office

If you routinely lie at work or bend the truth people are going to wonder if you will do it toward them

A mother complained to me about her son being a liar because of a drug problem that he had yet she routinely would tell her son when people called home, “tell them I’m not home”

Those are the “little lies” that begin to tear at our strength

Truth and integrity are a guide for us.

The Holy Spirit is our guide into all truth and He is the spirit of truth

“But I will send you the Advocate—the Spirit of truth. He will come to you from the Father and will testify all about me. John 15:26

Proverbs 11:3 Honesty guides good people; dishonesty destroys treacherous people.

Honesty teaches you to say things in a way that is loving and true

Truth isn’t always truth either….if you are upset you may think you have a truth but in a calmer mode is not really truth

 

So real truth gives you the power to walk away from certain situations so that you can walk in real truth. The Holy Spirit will quicken in your heart what is loving, caring truth versus what may seem like truth at the moment.

See when we allow the Holy Spirit to lead us into all truth and to walk in all truth God lifts us up, promotes, vindicates and in other ways protects us from the enemy in others and his attempts to use us.

Psalm 41: 11,12

By this I know that You are well pleased with me, Because my enemy does not triumph over me.12 As for me, You uphold me in my integrity, And set me before Your face forever

 

Doing what is right and saying what is right is so foreign to our culture. That at times it can be confusing to us. So taking a breath, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide can keep us living in real truth.

This verse also shares the idea of the preserving power of integrity and truth.

Some relationships sour over time, some become broken, I believe if pressed, 99.9% of them are because of a truth or integrity problem

The Psalmist has written that as we live in truth, integrity we will be set before the Lord’s face forever. We have to be lovingly honest with each other, we must walk in truth in in that way we will preserve our relationship, they won’t sour, they won’t fall apart.

Do you see now why truth is our core, how it protects our core?

We don’t have to worry about what others are thinking or saying when we walk in truth together. We can develop real friendships and have a real body of believers moving in love because we are living by the Spirit of truth

But there is a truth I felt the Holy Spirit told me we needed to work on this morning

Many are here this morning living a lie

Here are some of the lies

I am a failure (at work, as a parent, friend)

I am ugly (if people only knew how ugly inside)

I have no value (no ne cares about me, my opinion or who I am)

I will never be anything

I am broken and will always be that way

Nothing will ever change for me

Some here this morning have even had suicidal thoughts because the enemy wants you to end your life because he is afraid of what you will become

The truth is…there are no ordinary people in this room today, because of Jesus you are all extraordinary

The truth is…it is not about your feelings it is about your character and the way God sees you.

Your parents, boss, friends, teachers and others have lied to you. God spoke to me Wednesday as I was wrapping up this teaching that God was going to break every lie and bring truth and freedom and even save someone’s life