Supernatural Strength

“The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1, KJV

Have you ever felt like you didn’t have the strength to finish the task? Ever felt weak - so weak that a hundred cups of coffee wouldn’t help? It seems like we all face times or even seasons when we feel like that. When we do, we need to remember the powerful words from today’s text:

“The Lord is the strength of my life.”

Those are some pretty powerful words-- words that you can bank on. Jesus has never run out of strength. In His weakest moment while being tempted in the wilderness He had the strength to stare down the devil and laugh off every temptation. That’s all well and good, but how does that help us? Well, here’s the good news, are you ready? His strength is available to us. I like what Psalm 18:32 says, “It is God who arms me with strength, And makes my way perfect.”

When the Apostle Paul was going through some stuff that weakened him greatly, he turned to God and this was God’s response, “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Let’s not forget that God designed us to be dependent upon Him, and that’s a good thing. Relying on the strength of God is not a sign of weakness, it is an expression of faith. God is all we need, He is more than enough, and His strength is indeed sufficient for all of us.

So lean on Him today. Call upon the name of Jesus, and see how much you can accomplish when you trust God to bring you all the strength you need.

Call of Duty

“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” Ecclesiastes 12:13, KJV

Believe it or not, this one verse changed the course of my life. Have you ever gotten to the point where you just said, “God, I really need some clear direction for where I’m heading and what I’m doing with my life. I really, really, really need you to speak to me.” I did, and then I read this verse.

Isn’t it amazing how God can wrap up your whole life mission and purpose and hand it to you with a bow on top with one simple phrase? That’s what He did for me with today’s text, “…fear God and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.”

Wow, is that it God? My whole duty can be wrapped up into two simple assignments: fear God and keep His commandments? Don’t you think that’s a staggering revelation? I’m expecting a long dissertation, and God gives me two things. They are the same two things that He gives to all of us. Fear Him and keep His commandments. So let’s talk about that.

(1) Fear God

Now that doesn’t mean fear like you have to live your whole life afraid of God, waiting from Him to drop the hammer on you. The word really just means to respect, or to have a reverence for. In other words, it’s a choice that we make to honor God, to honor His word, and to respect the things of God. It means moving past the point of being a once-a-week casual observer of Him to becoming a fully devoted follower of Him through His son Jesus everyday of your life. And trust me after thirty years of seeking after Him with my whole heart; it’s been worth every minute of it.

(2) Keep His commandments

You’d think this would be pretty easy, but a lot of people don’t know His commandments. It all starts with the Bible, the Word of God. It’s the road map for life, and the guidebook for becoming who God intended you to be. It’s all found right there in the Book. So, if you’re willing to allow God to use it for shaping and molding you, it won’t take long to see an amazing transformation of your character. But, it requires some effort on your part.  You’ve got to read it, study it, and when you come to something that slaps you across the face, you have to suck it up and do what it says.

So today, let’s remember that our call of duty requires two simple things. Fear God and keep His commandments—it’s our duty.

If You Don’t Quit - You Win!

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."  Joshua 1:9, NKJV

Well, here we are, it’s only the second Friday of 2013. Last year is now in the history books-- it’s over, finished, another year gone, and a new one is here. The slate is clean and it’s time for a fresh start.

Did you know that the course of this new year is more dependent upon what you do today than what you did all of last year, combined? Today is important because the decisions that you and I make today will set the stage for what 2013 will look like.

That’s why I love today’s text from Joshua. It’s a charge from God himself to be strong and of good courage as we look ahead. But in the same breath He also reminds us to not be afraid, nor dismayed at our future, because He promises that He’s never going to leave us alone.

What would be possible in 2013 if God was helping you, every day, to fulfill His vision and His purpose in your life? Just imagine what you could accomplish if everything you put your hand to prospered this year. What’s stopping you from thinking BIG, from thinking POSSIBLE, from thinking YES rather than NO, from thinking JUMP rather than STAY? Who said you can’t change? Who said you can’t accomplish great things?

Don’t even think about playing it safe this year. In Joshua’s case, it would have been much easier to stay in the desert, to maintain the status quo, but there was so much more that God had for him and the children of Israel. God had a land filled with milk and honey waiting for them if they didn’t quit, if they pushed ahead, if they really trusted God and didn’t quit before they even got started.

Listen, you can do it. Your life can be different, you can reach those goals of yours. Stop putting it off another day, another month, another year. It’s time to think bigger than you’ve ever thought before, it’s time to dream beyond where you’ve ever dreamed before. You’ve got all it takes when you’ve got God on your side. He is more than able to help, more than able to supply what you need, if you’ll believe it and receive it.

So, be strong and of good courage, don’t quit on yourself or on God. Push forward beyond the restraints of fear. You can make it, if you don’t quit-- you win!

The Prince of Peace

“For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6, NKJV

Have you ever spent time with someone who always seems to be at peace?  I’m not talking about the lazy bum who sits around doing nothing, but the guy or gal who, in the midst of a lot of action, always carries with them a sense a peace. Have you noticed that when you are around them that you tend to chill out a bit yourself? Isn’t that an awesome feeling? I don’t know about you, but I’d rather spend my time with people who are full of peace rather than with people who are all stressed out.

That my friend is what having a relationship with Jesus brings to our lives. He is peace, and when we hang out with him His peace gets all over us. In fact, according to today’s text, He is the Prince of Peace. Man I love that about Jesus, He is the Master of Peace, the Peace Ambassador, the essence of peace in the midst of chaos.

When He arrived on the earth and His mom and dad had to turn a stable into a birthing suite the angels cried out in Luke 2:14, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.”  In a few days we’re going to celebrate Christmas, the birth of our Savior, and the one who brought peace to this earth, and peace to our lives.

I love what Jesus told his disciples just before he was to be arrested and ultimately sent to the cross:

“Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”  John 14:27, NKJV

He knew that they were going to freak out when He was arrested, beaten and then crucified. He knew that their worlds were going to be turned upside down, and He wanted them to know that in the midst of all that, they could have peace.

If that peace was available to the disciples, then that same peace is available to us. So whether you’re running through the mall looking for last minute gifts-- be at peace. If you’re driving in wild traffic, that feels like you’ve stumbled onto a Nascar track-- be at peace. If you’re at that family gathering that feels more like a cage fight than a Hallmark moment-- be at peace. Because the good news is, the Prince of Peace lives in you. He brings you a peace that the world can’t offer you.  He brings a peace that, according to Philippians 4:7, “...surpasses all understanding.”

So today let’s walk in the peace that only comes through our relationship with Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.

Enjoy Life, It’s Shorter Than You Think

“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.” 1 Timothy 6:17 KJV

Are you enjoying your life? No really, are you? Or are you just “faking it till you make it”, with the “making it” part always just out of reach? That’s no way to live your life.

Today’s text is a great reminder that God has given us this precious gift called life and He is expecting us to enjoy it. I don’t know what’s happening around you, but it seems like I’ve run into a slew of people lately who are really fighting depression.

I want to give some advice to any of you who are struggling with depression or are just feeling down. Well, it’s time to break that cloak of depression, get happy, and start enjoying your life.

Now, understand that it may be easier said than done. But here’s the deal. It’s just a choice-- and the choice is all about where you put your hope. In this verse God is simply telling all of us to keep our hope in Him and not in things. Things come and go but God is really the only constant that we have in life. So, be happy in Him today.

Be happy that He loves you even though others don’t. Be happy that He will never leave you nor forsake you, even though others have. Be happy that He promises to supply all of your needs according to His riches rather than yours. Be happy that His grace is sufficient for you, when you feel like yours is all dried up. Be happy that He is more than enough, when you don’t feel you have enough. Be happy that you can have the mind of Christ, when yours feels fried. Be happy that His peace can be yours, when your world is in complete chaos. Be happy that He always has a plan for you, when your plans have fallen apart. Be happy that His strength is there, when yours is gone.

How is that possible? Well, it’s quite simple, just place your hope on the ONE who brought hope to this world 2,000 years ago. Jesus Christ. Today, make a decision to place all of your hope and all of your trust in Him, He is the hope of the world. Make the words of this old hymn your confession for the day. Read them slowly and let them minister to your soul:

My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus' name.

On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand;
all other ground is sinking sand.

When Darkness veils his lovely face, I rest on his unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale, my anchor holds within the veil.

His oath, his covenant, his blood, supports me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way, he then is all my hope and stay.

When he shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in him be found!
Dressed in his righteousness alone, faultless to stand before the throne!

I don’t know about you, but I just got happy! So let’s do it, let’s put our hope in Jesus, enjoy the day, and be happy.

Heart Attack

“Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it springs the issues of life.” Proverbs 4:23 NKJV

What happens to you when you hear that a close friend has had a heart attack? More than likely, you are concerned and hope that your friend has been spared of any major heart damage. Because, we all know the physical struggles that a person must go through when their heart’s been damaged.

The best way for us to avoid a heart attack, and subsequent heart damage, is by doing our best to keep our hearts healthy through a healthy lifestyle and healthy choices. Today’s text is not speaking of our natural hearts-- but of our spiritual hearts. It speaks of the importance of being intentional to “keep,” or really “guard,” our spiritual hearts the same way that we do our natural ones.

Why is that so important? Well, it tells us right here in the text-- “...for out of it (our hearts) springs the issues of life.” The New Living Translation says it this way, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.”

I want to share with your three ways to keep your spiritual heart healthy:

(1) Eat Right

Jesus said in Matthew 4:4, “...Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” (NKJV) In the same way that we can’t eat junk food all the time and expect to stay healthy, we need to always be feeding on the pure and healthy Word of God.

That doesn’t mean that you can’t read other things, but just think of those other things as snacks, or a dessert, but our main course should always be the Bible.

“Your words were found, and I ate them, And Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart; For I am called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts.”  Jeremiah 15:16, NKJV

A daily diet of God’s word brings us spiritual strength and helps us to maintain a spiritually healthy heart.

(2) Be Forgiving

Nothing brings on a heart attack and ultimately heart damage faster than unforgiveness. People can mess with us, so we really need to diligently guard our hearts from unforgiveness. While we can’t stop people from saying things or doing things that hurt us, we can protect our hearts from it.

Jesus said in Matthew 11:25,  “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive them, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.” (NKJV)

So make it a point to be forgiving-- forgive quickly, and forgive often. If someone hurts you or offends you, loose them and let them go. Your heart will be thankful that you did.

(3) Exercise Through Worship

We all know the importance of exercise. Some of us are great at it, others--- and you know who you are-- are not so great at it. But again, just like we need physical exercise, we need to spiritually exercise on a regular basis. One of the best ways to engage our hearts with the Lord is through times of daily worship.

“So I will sing praise to Your name forever, That I may daily perform my vows.” Psalm 61:8, NKJV

This is just another reminder that every day is a good day to worship God through song. It’s a great way to keep your heart healthy.

Jesus said in Matthew 22:37, "'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.'” (NKJV)

So let’s make today a heart healthy day, by reading God’s Word, being quick to forgive, and experiencing a bit of worship throughout the day.

Say It: “God I thank You for a strong and healthy heart. Today I will do what it takes to keep my heart in good shape, I will read Your Word, I will be quick forgive when others wrong me, and I will worship You with my whole heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen!”

Living Water

“Then you will seek me, inquire for, and require me [as a vital necessity] and find me when you search for me with all of your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13, AMP

It doesn’t seem like there is any place for “park” or even “neutral” when it comes to seeking after God. The bottom line is that it’s going to require effort--a lot of it, and it’s going to require all of your heart.

I would like you to consider whether or not you think the following statement is true:

“We’re either running to God, or we’re running from God.”

I actually believe that statement to be true and here’s why: God is at the center of everything. He is the center of our worlds, whether we acknowledge it or not. In other words, just because an atheist doesn’t believe in God-- doesn’t mean God doesn’t exist. God’s existence doesn’t depend on our beliefs. God simply “is”, end of story. Now whether or not we connect our lives with Him on a daily basis is totally up to us and it’s based on our willingness of seek Him with all of our hearts. This is important because if we’re not running after God, then we’re more than likely drifting away from Him.

It reminds me of the story of the woman at the well in John chapter 4. The woman came seeking water and she found something of much greater value: Jesus. Because she found Him, she found what He called living water and she was never, ever the same. Listen to what Jesus promised her in verses 13 and 14:

Jesus answered and said to her, “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”

Jesus pointed to that well and told her that she’d never be satisfied with just natural water. Our souls thirst for something much more valuable, and that is a relationship with Him. He described this relationship as living water, and He said it would be inside of us, springing up every day, to give us spiritual vitality. Natural water, water that comes from the outside, is necessary to us physically. Well, so too is that living water, that springs up from within, necessary for us spiritually. It’s that living water that begins to shape us into who we will become. But it doesn’t just happen, we have to seek it, run for it, like a vital necessity. Do you know that most of us could go without food for nearly 40 days? But after just three days without water, we’d be near death.

That’s why God put this story of the woman at the well in the Bible, for us to see just how important it was to seek God above all else. It reminds me of what Jesus said in Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you.”

We all need the refreshing living water that only Jesus can bring. He’s the living water that all of us seek. When we seek Him with all of our hearts, He begins to shape us into the people we were created to be. So run after Jesus today with all you’ve got and just watch what He will do.

You see our faith in Jesus Christ isn’t defined by something we do-- but by the someone we become through Him. So let’s seek that living water today!

Stay Filled

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled.” Matthew 5:6, NKJV

Let’s face it, our schedules are about to be jammed packed for the next 5 weeks. For most of us, this is by far the busiest season of our lives-- our calendars are about to be filled. Today’s text is a reminder that even though our calendars are full of meetings, holiday parties and gatherings with family and friends, sometimes we can still feel empty. Nothing can ever replace our need to have time with God.

The fact that you are reading this is a good sign that you don’t want that to happen to you. Jesus encourages us to stay hungry and thirsty for Him. He also said the result of seeking Him, is a life filled with blessings. That’s a pretty cool promise.

Do you remember what He said in Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (NKJV)

He knew that there would be many things in life that would call for our attention and try to distract us. Many things that we could and would seek after. Now don’t misunderstand what Jesus was saying. He wasn’t saying that we shouldn’t seek after things, He was merely saying that our priority, the first thing, should be seeking after Him. Again, you see the results of this are pretty obvious, it’s a life filled with Him.

So, I want to challenge you to an experiment. Are you up for a little seeking? Are you hungry and thirsty enough for a little spiritual exercise? Would you be willing to take a little spiritual journey with me starting on Monday, November 26th? By the way, that’s 30 days before Christmas. Let’s do two things. First, let’s commit to read through the book of Proverbs, reading one chapter per day leading up to Christmas. Then, let’s commit to pray three times per day, not long prayers, just a short one-- no longer than a minute. Put a reminder in your calendar to pray at 9:00am, 12:00pm, and 3:00pm. At 9:00am - pray for the nation, at 12:00pm - pray for your families, and at 3:00pm - pray for one of your friends. Every time that little “beep” goes off it will be our reminder to take a minute and pray.

You up for it? A Proverb a day, followed by three short purposeful prayers throughout the day. Let’s see if doing something so simple and easy will help us stay filled with God this busy holiday season!

Being A Godly Leader

"And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues.” 1 Corinthians 12:28, NKJV

I love leaders and I love to watch them lead. Although they are all gifted differently their gifts all come from the same source— God.

Today's text lists a variety of gifts within the Body of Christ; did you notice that leadership is one of them? It's found in the word, "Administrations." In Latin, the word administration means, "to steer." It is a great and simple definition of what a good leader does, they steer the organization.

Sometimes people misunderstand the importance of administrative positions within a church and think they are not very spiritual. However, spirit-led leadership is essential and it is what guides the church to success.

I want to share with you three things that successful Godly leaders bring their organizations.

#1 - They Chart The Course

A good ministry leader understands that people often come with their own agendas and their own vision, so it’s the leaders job to get everyone on board with one vision. Then, they need to steer the ship properly. To do this successfully they know three things:

They know where they are going. What's the target that everyone is shooting for?

They know what they need to get there. What human and financial resources will it take to get there?

They know who needs to be where. Who is on the team and how can they be best utilized?

#2 - They Seek Wisdom

“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.” Proverbs 4:7, NKJV

What kind of wisdom is this verse talking about? We find the answer in James 3:17:

“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.” NKJV

Wisdom from above is of great value to a leader. That kind of wisdom is purse, it's peaceable, it's gentle, not pushy, and it's extremely fruitful to the organization. To be successful in any leadership position you have to get wisdom and understanding, and then operate in it. This word "understanding" is an interesting one; it means to “separate mentality.” To do this requires three things:

Think Strategically. Break things down into smaller pieces.

Think Systematically. Whatever systems you create make sure that they are so simple, anyone could do it— repeatedly.

Think Successfully. Always think win not lose, think yes not no. As a leader, people will follow your confidence and enthusiasm.

How do we get this kind of wisdom? Well, according to God it's pretty simple: just ask for it.

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5, NKJV

Isn't that awesome? God just told us that if we're smart enough to know that we don't know everything, we can ask Him and he will give us all the wisdom that we need.

The other way we get wisdom: seek the counsel of others.

“Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” Proverbs 11:14, NKJV

My wife and I, for decades, have sought the counsel of people who are doing what we're doing but are just further down the road. It's amazing what you can learn from other people's successes and even from their mistakes.

#3 - They Maintain Organizational Focus

“Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper where you go.” Joshua 1:7, NKJV

Godly leaders understand that people and circumstances will often try to pull the leader, as well as the organization, off course. So they are constantly helping their people maintain focus. They help keep everyone's eye on the ball.

So today, let's thank God for the grace that He has given the leaders in our life and let's pray for them.

Finish Strong!

"But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God." Acts 20:24, NKJV

Have you ever noticed that there are a lot of people who start out strong, but don’t finish strong? In this verse God is reminding us that there are a lot of things, situations, conflicts, even people that try to “move us” off course. But God designed us to finish our races and do it with joy so that our lives are a testament of the gospel of the grace of God. So, today I want to share with you 8 things that have helped me to stay focused on my race. I hope you find them helpful. By the way, these are not necessarily in order, because whichever one is needed at the time—is the most important at the time:

(1) Be Led by the Holy Spirit

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.” Romans 8:14, NKJV

Jesus told us that He wouldn’t leave us alone but that He would send another just like Him. So, don’t forget that the role of the Holy Spirit is to help guide us through every decision we make. He won’t shout at you, but He will nudge you when you need it. I’ve been living off the Holy Spirit’s nudging for 30 years.

(2) Pray Always

“Pray without ceasing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17, NKJV

Wow, a pretty small sentence with an extremely powerful message. God wants us to know that He is always there, ready to hear, and ready to respond, if we’ll pray—about everything. And when you’re done, pray more.

(3) Read The Word

“But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’” Matthew 4:4, NKJV

The Bible is God’s primary method of communication, so if we want to hear from Him on a regular basis, then we need to read the Bible on a regular basis. We need to get His Word off those pages and into our hearts. It’s not just going to happen…so come on, crack the book and read it! It won’t read itself.

(4) Walk by Faith

“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” 2 Corinthians 5:7, NKJV

There are lots of things in life that can distract us from finishing our races. So we need to keep our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, and learn to trust in what we believe more than in what we see. Circumstances can shout you down, emotions can drag you down, but living by faith can’t keep you down!

(5) Live For An Audience of One

“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.”  Colossians 3:23, NKJV

Have you figured out yet that people are fickle? One day they are with you and the next they are gone…bye-bye, see you, don’t want to be you. Or else they love you one day and despise you the next. So no matter what you do, remember to always live for an audience of One. Because on the last day of your life you will stand alone in front of Him, and Him alone…so we might as well be living for Him now.

(6) Focus on the Family

“…But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15, NKJV

Time spent with your family is never wasted time. People come and go in life, but you’ll always have family. As we reflect on 20 years of ministry our greatest fruit are the four kids that God allowed us to raise here at home. So, don’t build your business or your ministry on the backs of your spouse or your kids. You can reach for the stars, but always keep one hand at home.

(7) Walk in Love

“Love never fails….” 1 Corinthians 13:8, NKJV

Jesus told us that a fulfilled life is one that’s built on loving God and loving people. I don’t know about you, but I’ve failed in a lot of ways. But love never fails, it bears all things, it believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. So, when all else fails, love God with all your heart, and turn around and choose to love the people that God has placed in your world. Because love works, love wins!

(8) Stay In Your Lane

“…But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves are not wise.” 2 Corinthians 10:12, NKJV

Every sprinter knows that if they run outside of their assigned lane they will be disqualified. But don’t we do that all the time? We’re always comparing ourselves to other people, and then we get our eyes on who we aren’t rather than who we are…on the gifts we don’t have rather than on the ones we do. God made every one of us different for a reason, so let’s celebrate our uniqueness, stay in our lanes and finish strong!

Get Some Rest

“And He said to them, “ Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” For there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.” Mark 6:31, NKJV

Have you ever found yourself so busy that you didn't even have the time to eat? I think many of us do and unfortunately we rarely use the kind of wisdom that Jesus shows us here in today's text.

His ministry was cranking, the demands of the people were great but Jesus knew that if He or His disciples were going to be effective then they were going to need some rest. Jesus knew the importance of rest and that you can't help anyone if your tank is empty. Getting rest is nothing new, we first see it in the book of Genesis when God rested on the seventh day. Did God need rest? I don't think so, He's God, He never slumbers or sleeps, but He did show us a pattern for work and for rest.

For thousands of years, Jewish people have practiced resting on the Sabbath. Beginning on Friday evening and lasting until Saturday evening, it is a time for them to take their eyes off the busyness of life and put their focus back on The Lord.

Beth and I have always been firm believers in taking time to rest. None of us were designed to live constantly under the stresses and demands of life. So we have unapologetically taken appropriate levels of time off over the last 21 years of our ministry. We needed the rest and so does the congregation that we have the privilege to serve. We're no good trying to minister from an empty well. We all need rest-- our bodies need it, our minds need it and our emotions need it. That's one of the reasons that we like to get together with friends that we can laugh with. God tells us that laughter is like a medicine and that it ministers to our souls and is health to our flesh.

We spent this week in the Palm Springs area. We talked, we took walks, we prayed together, we explored, met with some friends, and yes we laughed a lot. But most of all we got some rest from our normal go-go-go lives. Jesus was spot on about needing to get away, there's something refreshing about getting out from under your normal environment so you can find rest.

So when was the last time that you scheduled some time to get away and rest? If it's been a while then I want you to heed the words of Jesus and, "Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while." And don't feel like you have to apologize for it. Get away for a few days, rest, laugh, pray, read your bible, and let God help you put your life back into balance. Get some rest, that's an order!

It’s Good Work

“This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop he desires a good work.” 1 Timothy 3:1, NKJV

Did you know that the month of October is “Pastors Appreciation Month”? With that in mind, today’s devotional is a shout out to our pastor friends around the country and around the world. We appreciate who you are and what you do, it’s good work.

After graduating from Bible School we met with one of our instructors for some counsel as we sought God’s will for our future. We had some options facing us to either stay in the business world or pursue a future in ministry. This seasoned minister listened to us share our story and then asked a question that would change our lives forever. He asked, “If success were a guarantee, and money wasn’t an issue what would you want to do?” Immediately the answer came out of me, “No question about it I’d be a pastor, but doesn’t everybody?” He smiled and then politely said, “No, actually NORMAL people would never want to be a pastor.”

Well, that explains a lot. It must be the reason that I have a deep love for pastors-- all pastors, especially those who’ve been serving for decades.  Whether you’re the lead dog or you serve as a staff pastor in a church, you need to know that God sees what you do as good work, even though you are probably far from normal. In fact, there is nothing normal about what you do. Let’s think about it for a minute.

Normal people go to work for the money-- you go to work for one reason alone-- obedience. There’s no plan B for you. You’re called, you’re compelled, you’re committed and you’re a bit crazy because there is no guarantee that you are ever going to be paid well to do it. Actually you’ll spend your entire career apologizing for the little money that you do make.

You don’t have normal hours. You are expected to work 24-7-365 because when your people need you they need you NOW. Honestly most of them wonder what in the world you do all week long, because they only see you speak for a few minutes on the weekend. But, you run the daily business of the church, you manage your staff and volunteers, yet you set all that aside when an emergency happens. And emergencies happen all the time, because life happens all the time. And then, once your normal work week is done, you are expected to bring a fresh, God inspired message full of life, power and the Holy Spirit each and every weekend. So, no matter what you are doing throughout the week you always have that voice in the back of your mind saying, “Sunday’s coming....Sunday’s coming.”

You are not allowed to have normal expectations. You are expected to be an outstanding visionary, an eloquent communicator, a savvy fund-raiser, and a counselor’s-counselor. You need to be an MBA, a CPA, have a PHD, all the while you’re trying to hide the fact that you’re a little ADHD. You are expected to be the model spouse, the perfect parent of perfect children, and on top of that you need make time to be everyone’s friend. “Hey Pastor, what’s your cell number, let’s text, let’s have coffee, why didn’t you answer me right away on Facebook, where do you live, can I stop by?” Are you getting my drift here?

The criticism you receive isn’t normal. You get criticized for having vision, for bringing change, for not talking enough or for talking too much, or even for saying what needs to be said. You are criticized for making a decision and then criticized for not making a decision. You are criticized for being too spiritual and you are criticized for not being spiritual enough. But you’ve gotten used to it because you are the point person-- you’ve learned to take the punches and protect your family, your staff and volunteers from the cruelty of people who say the most hurtful things.

Your disappointments in life are not normal. You’ve been hurt deeply by the very people that you’ve been called to serve. Hurts that you have to keep between you and God because normal people won’t understand. You’ve poured your life into folks, got them back on their feet, healthy and whole and headed in the right direction only to have them tell you that God is “moving” them to another church. You’ve learned to smile and hide those hurts, you’ve learned to have tough skin while keeping a tender heart. You’ve learned to play hurt.

But pastor you need to know that all though you are not normal, you are incredibly special to God and the church family He has called you to serve. You have been graced by God to love His people the way He does. To be there for them through the highs and lows of life. To lead them and to feed them, and to produce fruit in their lives that will remain forever. You do something that normal people can’t do. So I want to thank you for answering the call. Thank you for those late nights in the emergency room and for those early morning counseling sessions over a cup of coffee. Thank you for laying your life down for the sheep. We appreciate you more than you’ll ever know. Because what you do really does matters, what you do is good work.

Say It: “Father, I thank you for our pastors. God we ask You to help all of them know how pleased You are with them and the good work they do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!”

By the Hand

"Father’s, don’t exasperate your children by coming down hard on them. Take them by the hand and lead them in the way of the Master.” Ephesians 6:4, The Message

One of the greatest and most rewarding responsibilities that any of us can have is that of a parent. Beth and I love what we do as pastors, we love our church, we love our calling, but way above all of that, we love being parents. What an awesome opportunity God has given us to lead our kids in the way of the Master.

I first learned today’s text in the King James version, which tells parents and particularly Dad’s what our role as parents should be-- “but bring them (our kids) up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”

Let’s take a look at those words, nurture and admonition.

#1 Nurture - To nurture is simply to teach, to train and to coach our kids by our actions. Our actions speak way louder than our words. We can’t expect to raise balanced kids if our words and our actions are out of balance. We need to be the real thing in front of our kids. If we want our kids to be loving, than we need to be loving. If we want our kids to be forgiving, then we need to be forgiving. If we want our kids to be generous, than we need to be generous. The list goes on and on, but I think you get the picture.

#2 Admonition - It’s one of those words that has a couple of different meanings, but the one I like is: to give friendly, earnest advice or encouragement. I think we all get that our kids need to be taught and coached, but we need to remember that the words we speak to them and over them, have a huge affect on how they see themselves. Our words can either motivate or demotivate. They can encourage or discourage. They can build our kids up or they can tear them down. And words are like bullets in a gun, once you pull the trigger it’s too late to stop them.

So let’s take a quick inventory of our life as parents.... Are your actions lining up with your words? Are your kids seeing you being the kind of person that you are asking them to be? What are you saying to your kids and about your kids? Sometimes it’s easier to pick out the things that your kids are doing wrong, rather than intentionally looking for what they are doing right. Let them know how proud you are of them and how much they mean to you. Your words of admonition can help guide them for years to come.

Right actions mixed with right words produce great kids. So take those kids by the hand and lead them in the way of the Master. You won’t regret it.

Say It: “Father, I thank You for my kids and appreciate Your guidance as I bring them up in the nurture and admonition of You. Help me to be a great example of someone who has submitted their life to You. I pray that my words and my actions both say the same thing. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Right actions mixed with right words produce great kids. @jrjones

How Bad Do You Want It?

"For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, where he has enough to finish it?" Luke 14:28, NKJV

Ask yourself the questions, “How bad do I want to succeed? How bad do I want to fulfill God’s will and God’s purpose in my life?” In Luke 14:28, Jesus wasn’t just talking about a physical building, He was talking about counting the cost of building a life of significance.

It seems like many of us aren’t willing to admit that the reason we didn’t make the team, get that promotion, and the reason that we aren’t moving forward in life is that we aren’t willing to put forth the effort and do the hard stuff. Doing the hard stuff means that there are times when everyone else has gone home that we stay after hours and get our work done. How hard are you willing to work at life? Here’s something to consider—No one is going to work harder for your success than you are. Not your boss, not your peers and certainly not those who work for you. It reminds me of an old saying, “If it’s going to be, then it’s up to me.” Now I am not discounting God in all of this, but really, do we think God’s going to work harder at our success than we are? Do you think He’s standing up there in Heaven waiting to come down here and help you out because you’re a little tired? He’s the Redeemer of the lost, not the Rescuer of the lazy. Come on now; let’s count the cost!

If we’re ever going to fulfill God’s will for our lives then we need to count the cost. Have you figured out yet that living for Jesus is going to cost you something? And if you’re going to be a success in life it’s going to cost you even more? Jim Morin, a dear member of our church family, once said, “Everything that I value in my life, has cost me something.” It reminds me of that verse in Galatians 6:7 (NKJV), “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” In other words, whatever we put into life will cost us something; but there is a payback, a reaping based on the degree of our efforts.

My wife, Beth, is by far the hardest working person that I have ever known, and I know a lot of people. There may be people out there that want to enjoy the benefits that Beth enjoys, but they don’t have a clue of how hard she has worked over so many years. Literally, it’s quite common for her to work 16-18 hour days for weeks and months on end. Now that costs something, but the benefit is a very successful and fruitful life. She’s reaping today because she was willing to count the cost and do the hard stuff, even when she didn’t feel like it.

So today, let’s tap into all that God has for us and work a little harder, stay a little later, carry a little more of the load, and honor Jesus Christ by our work ethic and our willingness to do the hard things.

Say It: “Father, I want to make a difference with my life. I’m committed to counting the cost and doing the hard things. I ask You to give me wisdom, insight and strategy to not only work hard, but to work smart. May my life glorify You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen!”

If we’re ever going to fulfill God’s will for our lives then we need to count the cost. @jrjones

No Strings Attached

When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, ‘This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.’" Matthew 3:16-17, NKJV

I love the timing of the words that God spoke over His Son Jesus as He was being baptized. Jesus had yet to perform a single miracle. He hadn’t turned water into wine. He hadn’t walked on water. He hadn’t healed a single person, nor spent one second in public ministry. He was just God’s son and that alone pleased His Father.

Did you know that God sees you the exact same way? You are a wonderfully designed creation of the Great Almighty and He is well pleased with you. You can’t do anything to earn God’s love, nor do anything to lose it. He just flat out loves you. Let that sink in for a minute, it will warm your soul. We so often connect some kind of behavior or human effort to receiving God’s affection, but actually it’s not tied to anything we do. He just loves us with no strings attached.

So today, just relax and know that you are loved by God. It’s that knowledge that helps us return that affection back toward Him.

“We love Him, because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19, NKJV)

Wow, isn’t that awesome? God is reminding us that we don’t have to manufacture a love for Him, we can simply reflect the love He has for us back to Him. So enjoy your day and walk in the security that God loves you with no strings attached. Let His words, “this is my beloved son (or daughter) in whom I am well pleased” ring in your ears, and satisfy your heart.

“Father, thank you for loving me for who I am. I appreciate the security that I feel in my heart knowing that I don’t need to do anything to earn Your love. And because of it I choose to direct my affection back towards You. In Jesus’ Name. Amen!”

20 Seconds of Insane Courage

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”  Joshua 1:9, NKJV

There is a great line in the movie, We Bought A Zoo, where Matt Damon's character says,

“You know, sometimes all you need is twenty seconds of insane courage. Just literally twenty seconds of embarrassing bravery. And I promise you, something great will come of it.”

Isn’t that God’s challenge in today’s text? I can see at least four things in this verse that will help you to have 20 seconds of insane courage:

#1  Courage is a command not a suggestion

Have you ever noticed that when God speaks it’s usually not a suggestion? That’s right, God knows the score, He knows what’s good for you, He is on your side and when He speaks our job is to listen and obey. So, when God says that you are to have courage - that settles it and don’t settle for anything less. Courage is the ability to confront fear, pain, danger, uncertainty or intimidation. So whatever you are facing today, do it with courage.

#2  Strength alone is not enough

Did you know that God always gives us the strength to accomplish every one of our God-given dreams and visions? Of course He does, that’s not even up for debate. The God who created the universe and created you understands what it takes to accomplish a task. He’s never going to give you a dream that you don’t have the strength and the ability to achieve. He wouldn’t waste your time. But sometimes our own lack of courage will stop us before we even get started. Courage is nothing more than putting our faith into action. Don’t ever forget that when God told us in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me,” he meant what He said. So get started today, not just in your strength but His.

#3  Don’t let fear stop you

Right after God tells us to be strong and of good courage He tells us not to be afraid nor dismayed. I think we all know that fear does its very best to stop us before we can even get started. And if we get in the habit of letting fear have its way, then it leads to dismay and discouragement. The word “dismay” literally means to lie down. If fear builds a big enough stronghold in our lives it can ultimately cause us to lie down and give up before we get a chance to run after our dreams. Don’t ever let fear do that to you.

#4  God will see you through

I love how God finishes this verse. He reminds us that He will be with us wherever we go. He will be with you every single step of the way. He’s not just there at your first step, He’ll be there at the beginning and He’ll be there at the end. Remember, Jesus is the Author and the Finisher of our faith. He will be with you wherever you go. From the starting line to the finish line He’ll cheer you on with every step.

So, what would things look like a year from now if you exercised 20 seconds of divinely inspired courage? Are you just one decision away from the biggest move of your life? What’s stopping you? What’s the worst that can happen? It’s time for you to throw caution to the wind and see what you and God can accomplish. It’s your move, God has already made His. So be strong and of good courage, and I promise you, something great will come of it.

“Father, I choose today to believe Your word. I believe that You have commanded me to be strong and to have good courage. So I’m ready to reach for something big today. I’m not wasting the strength You have already given me, but I’m putting it into action because I have all the courage I need to see Your will and Your purpose come to pass in my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!”

Tweet it: Be strong and of good courage, and I promise you, something great will come of it. @jrjones