Michelin Star
Work out Your Salvation
A few years ago, I had the opportunity to host a breakout session at a Salvation Army Youth camp about evangelism. After the session a young guy stayed back and poured out his heart to me. He had recently given His life to Christ, but his family didn’t believe like him. He had been arguing with his sisters about how to quote “properly be baptized” and whether or not a Christian should celebrate Christmas. I could tell that all of this confusion and friction in his home was hurting him. But in this moment, I feel that God gave me the words to tell this kid to breathe and be at peace with God. Look, we don’t have to have all our theology figured out the day we accept Christ. Throughout the New Testament we see our Bible heroes working out their theology as well. For a ton of encouragement, I think the Apostle Paul says it beautifully in Philippians chapter 2. So, if this is you- go find this scripture and be blessed.
Fear
What scares you the most? Common answers may be spiders, snakes, or heights. But according to a recent study by Chapman University what people are often afraid of the most is related to other people. Corrupt government officials, home invasions, or fears that we’ll lose a loved one. If any of these fears keep you up at night- you’re not alone, but here’s some good news. The God of the heavens and the earth is not a God of fear. In fact, the term, “Do not be afraid” appears over and over in the Bible. Listen to these words from Psalm 112 “Surely the righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever. They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.” Sure, we’re all afraid of something, but when worry weighs you down, remember these words “The righteous will never be shaken”
Loyal Fans
If you follow sports, who is your favorite team? I think especially in soccer and American football you’ll meet some of the most loyal fans in all of sports. You see their dedication in their conversations, clothes, bumper stickers- you name it. There is no doubt what team they’re rooting for. Could someone say the same about your love and dedication to your Savior? I’m not saying we all need a “honk if you love Jesus” bumper sticker. But can people tell who you follow by your conversations, actions, and love? The old saying that you may be the only Bible some ever read is so true. You may never know how much of an impact a simple gesture or conversation you had with someone in the name of Jesus had on their life.
A Traitor's Kiss
A terrifying night, with burning torches, crossing swords and, of course, a friend's traitorous kiss. The most dramatic scene in the Bible is in the Garden of Gethsemane. Judas is synonymous with betrayal. You can disagree with me; But I don’t believe that Judas was created for this purpose. It wasn’t his destiny to willingly betray the Son of God. God loved Judas, the same way he loves you and me. But Luke 22:3 tells us, "Then Satan entered Judas Iscariot." And not because Judas was evil, but because even as a disciple of Jesus, he was vulnerable to the enemy. And we’re vulnerable too. But through prayer and communion with God, we can strengthen ourselves spiritually and defeat the enemy.
Insignificant
Throughout the Bible we see the seas parting, bread falling from heaven, the dead brought to life and thousands fed from a boy’s lunch. People often ask why we don’t see miracles like this today. Sure, miracles happen every day, but none more obvious than a man walking on water. So, is my life insignificant if I can't walk around performing miracles? The Bible is a collection of books filled with familiar themes. The issues the Word of God addresses are anything but insignificant. Love, sacrifice, family, war, etc. These are issues that we still live with today and that our children and their children will experience. Remember that your life, while it may seem repetitive, has something special to offer, because we were created on principles of love and made in the image of God, and that is already a miracle in itself.
A God of Emergencies
Is your relationship with God like a spare tire? You only look for Him in emergencies? Or like a doctor? And you reach out to him when you’re ill? Or- is He more like the air you breathe? And you depend on Him constantly. In the Bible, Rehoboam's spiritual life was like a spare tire, when things went wrong, he looked for God, when they went well, he forgot about Him. Like the words of the Prophet Hosea, “I fed them, and they were full, and once satisfied, they became arrogant and forgot about me.” If at the moment, things are going well for you; you have food, you’re in good health; I advise you to remember where every good and perfect gift comes from. Don’t wait to have a relationship with God when things go wrong. Praise Him in the storm and in the sunshine.
An Invitation to Move
If you’ve ever had an injury that required some form of physical therapy, chances are that you were helped by someone who studied Kinesiology. This is the study of mechanics and anatomy of human movement. These physical therapists won’t force your body to move but will guide and encourage a better range of motion as you heal. This is much like how God interacts with us. As we allow ourselves to be shaped by Him and become more like Christ- He will never force us to behave in a particular way but instead, as we learn His voice- will gently guide and encourage our steps. If you’re looking for direction, be in prayer and listen to His quiet invitation to move.
Where do We Come From?
If we know the purpose of our life, if we know both- where we came from and where we’re going. Then we’re prepared to be instruments in the hands of Almighty God.
Difficult Topics
The author, Jason Jimenez says, “Think of a disagreement with a Christian friend as more like a baseball game than a boxing match. There will be swinging- but not at each other”.
Are You Lost?
Have you ever been lost? Do you feel lost in life now? Lacking direction? The good news is that God already has a plan for your life. Ask our Heavenly Father for wisdom and He will help you get back on track.