ORDER

1 Corinthians 14:39-40 “Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. Let all things be done decently and in order.” (KJV)

ORDER

Obedience Relevance Determination Experience Restoration

            What does it mean to be eager to do something? Being excited about it is not really enough to push us toward accomplishing the goal. Taking action simply out of dogged determination will leave us callous, empty emotionally, and without a clear sense of direction if we do not understand the reason behind our desire. When faced with the never-ending uphill battles we face as Christians, everything in this world seems to be working against us reaching the finish line.

            We believe the truth of Scripture. We plan our daily activities based upon the love of God at work in our hearts, and we rush into every obstacle with the assurance that God will move Heaven and Earth to rescue us. But, have we stopped to consider the overwhelming power of God is love? The spiritual gifts operate in love. Our ability to overcome the world is in our ability to allow the free flow of the love of God into the desperate situations surrounding us. Everything we do must be done “decently and in order”.  ORDER — Obedience Relevance Determination Experience Restoration, offers us a godly context for life and our life is a ministry. (Zechariah 9:12)

            As this text is being written, there is no more needed message than the message of hope. There can be no acceptance of Godly ORDER if there is no commitment to the availability of hope. Throughout history the people of God have suffered adversity and difficulties, but the message of hope has been a sustaining factor within our lives. Though we have been pressed by war, financial collapse of world markets, and any number of natural disasters, the power of hope and the love of God strengthen us. God promises to see us through every adversity and blesses our lives.

            God becomes our fortress and stronghold. The question is will we consistently and continually return to Him. Have we truly become the prisoners of hope? Being a prisoner of hope does not confine us. It liberates us. The freedom it establishes in our lives allows us to live and move within the context of ORDER — Obedience Relevance Determination Experience Restoration. Every great person of faith began in obedience to God.

            Perhaps it may be beneficial here to examine a brief history from King David’s experience. God gave specific instructions to the Kings of Israel. They were not allowed to take a census. They should never count the fighting men of Israel because their trust should be in the Lord, not the strength of their army. David acted in disobedience and ordered a census that resulted in judgment against the nation of Israel.

            David realized his sin and repented before God. God then sent the prophet Gad to King David with a message of direction. Obedience to the message would restore order and remove the judgment form the kingdom. David had a choice to make–he could take three years of famine, three months of defeat by his enemies, or three days of plague. (1Chronicles 21:19)

            The Lord also sends His messengers into our lives to lead, guide, challenge, direct, and correct us. It is within our freedom of will to either submit or rebel. Submission brings peace, security, contentment and blessing; however, rebellion brings ultimate destruction. Our disobedience causes judgment as it did for King David, but our obedience and repentance restores godly order and blessing. Obedience is not blind. It sees beyond the current reality to the promised outcome in the spiritual realm. David repented and made an offering in obedience at the thrashing floor. Ironic, isn’t it, that the place wheat is beaten to remove the valuable kernel from the worthless chaff is where God required a sacrifice?

            Several times in life my plans have been the worthless chaff and my obedience to God’s plan the valuable kernel. The sacrifice was my selfish will. Godly ORDER begins in Obedience. The sacrifice we make will always cost us something. Just as David could not offer to the Lord what had no value to him–neither can we. God blesses a sacrifice properly offered. (2Chronicle 31:21)

            Relevance can be thought of as the value something holds. Our service to God and our faithfulness to the communities we find ourselves members of must be relevant. Nothing is more relevant than salvation. Christ is our example in both Obedience and Relevance. Everything Christ did was directed at meeting needs in the lives of people. No two ministries should be identical because the needs being met are vastly different. Yet, the hope of salvation and the development of a life of righteousness is the root of our Relevance within our cultural boundaries. (Romans 5:19)

            ORDER — Obedience Relevance Determination Experience Restoration, is the road to successful completion of the course God has plotted for every believer.  Determination, though it cannot secure success independently, keeps us headed in the right direction and by it we can fulfill the duties of our ministry. According to the scriptures, some are called to preach, others to teach, some as evangelists, a few as prophets, and even an occasional apostle; but all are called to serve. (1Chronicles 23:28)

            The five-fold ministry does not constitute every relevant ministry within the Church. Whoever you are and whatever your calling, you can glory in Christ and serve with passion. There are many side rooms and courtyards. There are many needs and God has someone and some way to meet each need. We simply begin with Obedience, serve with Relevance and act with Determination. (Romans 15:17)

            The Apostle Paul urges us to bear with those who are weak, build each other up in the faith and learn from the revelation that has been shared. He further teaches that we are, in his estimation, well able to teach Godliness. In that ability we can glory in Christ. Because Christ has made us able to fulfill the calling into ministry we can Experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:25)

            Wherever God leads us, throughout the world, we achieve results by following and establishing Christian ORDER. As we move under His direction, we are empowered to change the world through Obedience Relevance Determination and Experience. Not everyone will accept our message, but the presence of signs, wonders and miracles confirm God’s call. With that confirmation well established Restoration begins. (Romans 15:31)

            We have heard it said, “Experience is the best teacher.” The Experience of answered prayer should teach us to rely upon the gifts God has placed in operation within the Church. All these gifts in combination create a beautiful concert of relevant experiences to fuel our obedience and determination to serve. (1Corinthians 12:5)

            Again, we need to recognize all Spirit-Led Ministry will not look the same. Every gift is given to the Church, or more specifically, its membership to build up, encourage, guide, direct, and heal. Often the rewards of service are confused with financial rewards. We are not saying God does not reward us financially, just that there are other less tangible more beneficial measures of prosperity. Still confusion on this issue has been a stumbling block to many. (Job 34:33)

            When we fall prey to the deception of the enemy there is forgiveness available. Once we bow in submission repentance quickly re-establishes ORDER — Obedience Relevance Determination Experience Restoration. God in His wisdom has firmly established order within His creation. We tremble not in the fear that has to do with torment. We tremble in reverence awaiting the restoration that is promised. (1Chronicles 16:30)

            The process of Restoration affects all creation. We, as children of God, are regenerated, cleansed, renewed, and our lives are set in ORDER because God reigns. There is a time of judgment facing everyone on Earth but we have “passed from death into life”. (Psalm 9:7)

            Where God’s system of order is concerned truth is eternally established. Our responsibility is to pass that revelation on to the next generation. If we do not flow within Obedience Relevance Determination Experience and Restoration how can we expect our children to reverence and honor God. (Psalm 78:5)

            God will be the Judge of our service to Him. Again, it comes down to a personal choice. We must exercise determination, powerfully express the truth of our experience, as we declare the availability of restoration. This generation can grasp the hope of the gospel. Will we choose to say with the Psalmist that God’s love stands firm and He has established faithfulness? (Psalm 89:2)

            Once we have fully committed to that decision (to declare the love of God) we can take the message of hope to the rest of the world. ORDER — Obedience Relevance Determination Experience Restoration, becomes the driving force. As God brings about His judgment there will be equity, justice, and mercy. Through Obedience to the Lordship of Christ, Relevance to the societal setting we are in, the Determination to keep going forward, being positively affirmed by our Experience and committed to Restoration of hope, we impact the world.  ORDER is a worthy pursuit.  Evangelism quickly follows. (Psalm 96:10)

            God brought order into our lives when we were reconciled in our relationship to Him. We are no longer subject to the accusations from our life before Christ. Whatever we have done — the sins and shortcomings — all washed away by the work of Christ upon the cross. We are liberated by the hope of salvation. We like Paul have become servants of a Holy God. More than servants, we have enlisted in God’s great army bringing restoration and hope to the nations. (Colossians 1:22-23)

            What army can perform its duty without discipline and order? God trains us by allowing difficulties into our lives. Just as He arranged training exercises in the book of Judges for the children of Israel, He arranges similar training exercises for us. As you may recall, when Israel entered the Promised Land they were given instructions to wipeout every nation that lived wickedly. They did not make a clean sweep and fulfill their mission, but God even uses failure (otherwise known as disobedience) to teach His people. Those nagging problems in our lives just may be God’s boot camp.

            When we fail to obey God and accomplish the task we are given our failure will come back to haunt both the subsequent generations and us. Often our children or grandchildren face these same struggles we failed to overcome. It is not that God has abandoned us; a lesson must be learned. Every generation must learn to put their trust in God and live according to His spiritual order. (Judges 3:1, 2 & 4)

            Experience becomes our teacher and the lesson is complete dependence upon God. Everything we need is available, attainable, and accepted through faith. God is working in us to build a strong, healthy, and restored people. In the book of Isaiah we are promised perfect peace if we keep our minds on God. Throughout the Psalms we are promised provision, rest, and Restoration. (Psalm 41:3)

            Salvation is more than a conversion experience. The Christian life is more than a list of approved activities. Being truly saved means that the joy of the Lord becomes our strength. Regardless of the affliction we face, emotional, financial, or physical, if we have experienced Salvation we know Restoration is on its way. Our willingness to display Godly ORDER — Obedience Relevance Determination Experience Restoration, establishes and sustains us even when of the surface things are not going according to our plan. (Psalm 51:12)

            If you find yourself at a low point in the tide of life allow the grace of God to come in like a flood. If, on the other hand, you are at the top of your game realize God has blessed you and thank Him. Continue on the path of Obedience. Find Relevance in meeting real needs. Exercise Determination and overcome problematic circumstances. Use Holy Spirit encounters as Experience to build expectation for the future. Give and receive Restoration as God empowers you. (Nahum 2:2)

            Encouragement is literally everywhere when we walk in the liberty and freedom God grants to us. He is our defensive fallback position. Isn’t that what a fortress is? Return often to the hope that we have experienced. What we have now is only the down payment of the glorious future God offers. Keep your life in ORDER. Eagerly fulfill your calling and live a life of ministry. (Zechariah 9:12)

Building a House of Prayer pt4

 Isaiah 56:7 Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people. (KJV)

The Provision of Prayer

Supernaturally ­ Matthew 21:22

Unlimited ­ John 15:15-­17

Promised ­ Matthew 18:18-­20

Potential ­ John 1:11-­13

Lovingly ­ John 3:16­-20

Yours ­ Romans 8:28­-30

            As we pray God faithfully makes provision for us. This series on prayer would not be complete if we neglected to build a covering over our house of prayer. Purpose was our foundation in REST. We gave the house of prayer walls in the process to STAND. We cut in doors and windows to MOVE with passion in our prayers.

            Our Father in Heaven has promised us a Supernaturally Unlimited supply to meet the needs of our lives and ministry.  Simply “love one another” and ask God for whatever is needed (Matthew 21:22 & John 15:15-17). In my early years of ministry, I worked with Pastor James Ward. This man had great faith and took God at His Word. The church was extremely small but in spite of that fact, we had WHATEVER was needed through prayer. Time after time God supplied. His promises are TRUE.

Philippians 4:19-20 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. 20 Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen. (KJV)

            God has made promises concerning you. They go beyond material possessions. Your life has potential. It is lovingly offered by God Himself. And the best part is it is exclusively yours. Jesus will reveal God’s plan for your life to you. He will tell us God’s plan. He has called us friends – Not slaves. If we will seek God’s will and not dogmatically hold on to our own understanding, God will work miracles among us. That is our potential!

            Everything God does is done in love. He offered us salvation in love. He provides for us in love. Love is yours through Christ and His love will change the world through you and me.

Romans 8:28­-30 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. 29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. (KJV)

            The roof on the house of prayer is God’s provision for us through His supernatural SUPPLY. It covers everything we need and more than we can ask or even think. Nothing can limit God’s ability to reach us, so this roof does not block God’s accessibility – It shields our inability – It protects the Supernaturally Unlimited Promised Potential Lovingly Yours!

Building a House of Prayer pt3

Ezekiel 37:13 Then you will know that I am the Lord, when I have opened your graves and caused you to come up out of your graves, My people. (NASB)

The Passion of Prayer

Meet with God on His terms ­ Ezekiel 37:1-­3

Overcome doubt & fear ­ Isaiah 1:17-­19

Vanquish the enemy ­ Jeremiah 1:17-19; 1 Samuel 2:10

Exalt God's Majesty & glory ­ Psalm 30:1-­3

            God is the source of life – all life – eternal life! As we build a house of prayer, we cannot neglect the passion which drives our desire to accomplish the will of God. Building this house we began with the foundation of purpose in our prayers -REST, we erected sturdy walls by discussing the process of our prayers - STAND, and today we will cut in windows and door by exploring passion in our prayers - MOVE. Passion is the driving force motivated by what we see, believe, experience.

Ezekiel 37:1-3 The hand of the Lord was upon me, and carried me out in the spirit of the Lord, and set me down in the midst of the valley which was full of bones, 2 And caused me to pass by them round about: and, behold, there were very many in the open valley; and, lo, they were very dry. 3 And he said unto me, Son of man, can these bones live? And I answered, O Lord God, thou knowest. (KJV)

            Are we moved by what we see in the world? Injustice, violence, poverty, disease, hunger, and oppression surround us. As we look at what is going on our eyes behold the effects of sin and death upon this world. We may feel as Ezekiel did surrounded by those dry bones.

            Ezekiel was moved into that place by the Spirit of God. His (Ezekiel’s) final words in verse three “O Lord God, Thou knowest” say to us, “He was meeting with God on His (God’s) terms.” Passion in our prayers begins with Meeting with God on His terms. Passion in our prayers is achieved when we Overcome doubt and fear.

Isaiah 1:17-19 Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow. 18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. 19 If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: (KJV)

            Perfect love, according to 1 John 4:18, will overcome fear. It also lets us know there is NO fear in love. When we apply the love of God in our prayers, we will not fear. We will be moved into a response to God’s call. We will see the situations around us change to conform to the will of God. “That we should prosper and be in health, even as our souls prosper.” (3 John 1:2)

            Vanquishing the enemy of our souls becomes the focus of the Holy Spirit working in us. As we obediently follow God’s instructions, our enemies are overcome – Not by our might, but by the Spirit of God. See Jeremiah 1:17-19 and 1 Samuel 2:10.

The only thing left for us to do is Exalt God's majesty & glory!

Psalm 30:1-­3 I will extol thee, O Lord; for thou hast lifted me up, and hast not made my foes to rejoice over me. 2 O Lord my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me. 3 O Lord, thou hast brought up my soul from the grave: thou hast kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit. (KJV)

PEACE

John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (KJV)

PEACE

Patience Exercised Activates Christian Endurance

            There are two things that seem to be in short supply in our society today. One is peace and the other is patience. We can see this any time we go to the store, drive down the streets of any city, or walk through the halls of any school. People are always in a hurry and the qualities of peace and patience are lost.

            Jesus said He was giving us His peace, and James instructed the early church to consider it pure joy when they faced struggles of any kind. Problems in our lives are designed to test our faith and develop in us patience. The development of patience is the painstaking task of a lifetime; however, it is attainable. Peace, patience and perseverance are spiritual attributes of mature Christian character that will sustain us in the most difficult circumstances, but we must learn to exercise them. (James 1:1-3)

            There is only one way to develop patience. That is to persevere. Going through the hard times while trusting the Lord’s plan will help us grow in wisdom. Wisdom gives us patience, but maturity in the faith is the only thing that will enable us to overlook an offence. Daily, in fact, several times each day we come upon situations that can upset or offend us but our reaction to each situation, when it lines up with the word of God, can be a crowning moment of His glory in our lives. (Proverbs 19:11)

            Although we live in a society where almost everything is instant, ministry is one thing that is not instant. We don’t like to wait for anything, and when we do have to wait we get offended, but ministry is based on relationship and building a relationship takes time. Pride and patience battle within us to influence and control our actions. Our pride is the attribute that gets offended and stops us from exercising patience, but patience is the attribute that will get us safely to the final destination on our journey of faith. Endurance, the ability to hang in there and finish the task seems to be lacking because we lose focus so quickly. We begin any project with great anticipation and high expectation, but somewhere in the process from the beginning to the end we lose heart, get distracted, or our pride gets offended and we do not finish what we so eagerly started. (Ecclesiastes 7:8)

            If we are going to see the end that is promised in scripture, that end which is better than the beginning we must develop the attributes of Christian character that feed endurance. Every day we get up and get dressed before we begin our activities. We choose our outfits carefully. We check our attire to be sure it fits the task at hand. There are not too many of us that would appear in public without clothing that matches our surroundings. We like to fit in. We do not wear a tux or ball gown to muck out a stable. We spend time making sure that we are dressed properly. We understand the importance of outward garments. How much more important is it that our spirit is dressed appropriately? (Colossians 3:12)

            Once we have the right outfit for the job we can begin the workout. (Workout now there is a word associated with exercise!) We are looking for the promise of God and we must exercise patience to receive our inheritance. The promise does not just show up over night. We have to work for it. We have all heard our mothers say, “If a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing right.” or our fathers say, “To do the job right, you need the right tools.” Doing the job of being a Christian requires that we exercise both faith and patience. (Hebrews 6:12)

            There are some things we love to exercise and other things we do not love to exercise. For example, we love to exercise authority. We love, at least in America, to exercise our rights, and sometimes we even love to exercise our options or opinions, but Patience Exercised Activates Christian Endurance.

            Jesus said He was not giving us what the world would give and again He taught that we would be different form them in the way we attain greatness. Ministry is all about service, and living a Christian life is having that service exercised. People, being the imperfect creatures of habit that we are, will put our patience to the test every time we serve. (Mark 10:42-45)

            The Spirit of life brings liberty; experiencing liberty and freedom is very empowering, but there is a limitation. The limitation to our liberty is this: We cannot allow our liberty to become a stumbling block to others. Our patience affects everyone around us and our freedom may lead others into sin. The Spirit of God deals with individuals at the rate that fits His plan for their life, and we have not been given the insight and depth of understanding necessary to judge another’s liberty. (1Corinthians 8:9)

            There are actions and activities that are clearly sin according to the scripture, but others are a matter of conscience. As the Spirit leads us we obey! Obedience is important in the development of patience because it demonstrates our trust in the Lord. Working out our salvation activates boldness when we share our faith. (Philippians 2:12-13)

            Understanding where we individually and corporately draw the line on spiritual as well as emotionally charged moral issues brings us to the point where we can with grace and tact “work out our own salvation”. The use of this phrase does not imply that we are each free to choose what is right for us. Scripture is not of any private, manmade, interpretation. It is opened to us through the leading of the Holy Spirit.

            Patience Exercised Activates Christian Endurance. God works in us according to His purposes for our lives. One of those purposes is sharing our faith in Jesus; another is putting to use every gift available through the Holy Spirit. We have access to every good thing through Christ.  (Philemon Verse 6)

            Nothing sums up the goal more clearly than David’s admonition to Solomon, “… do the work.” Doing the work means that we will be active. God does not fail and He does not leave us alone or helpless to accomplish the task. (1Chronicles 28:20)

            Getting off the back pew and intentionally reaching the world with the message of salvation calls for skill, motivation, and endurance. Skill is acquired through training and can take years to fully realize. Our motivation must be the love of God. He does not want anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance, according to Second Peter chapter 3 and verse 9. Endurance only comes from commitment and faith. (Proverbs 22:29)

            We need to begin to see those we minister to the way God sees them. The Bible says that the people of God are kings and priests. The members of our congregations, and those being converted to the faith are not obscure unimportant people they are kings and priests. As faith is developed we are able to stand firm and endure the hardships that test our commitment to Christ. We all work together with joy. (2Corinthians 1:24)

            If being a Christian meant a problem free existence there would be no need to talk about endurance, but the fact is Christians suffer problems. The difference is in the reason we suffer and the way we react to the suffering. (1Peter 4:12-16)

            Sadly, not everyone will accept the message of salvation, and to win some may take more time than we have. Preach the truth. Endure both difficult times and difficult people and exercise patience in all things. Do not misunderstand. These are not attempts to diminish our responsibility. We must always reach out, but we need to realize not everyone will respond. (Acts 26:28)

            God pours out hope, encouragement and overwhelming love on us as we press on through whatever difficulties arise. One tangible way we can understand this is by applying the scriptures. (Romans 15:4)

            Hope in Christ keeps us going. PEACE — Patience Exercised Activates Christian Endurance. We cannot have patience without hope. We cannot reach the world without love and the distress we endure cannot bring glory to God unless we realize why we are suffering. Relationships teach us many lessons: 1. They take time to develop, 2. They involve sacrifice, 3. They will produce something — comfort, suffering, salvation, patience, endurance — something. (2Corinthians 1:6)

            As the end draws closer we will go through many distressing moments, but God is faithful and we will overcome all of them. It is His promise and we know that God does not lie. Hold fast until the end and see the deliverance of the Lord. (Revelation 14:12)

            We can depend upon the peace that Jesus gives to us. Our hearts do not need to be troubled about any circumstances. God is not surprised by any situation and we are secure in Christ’s love. As we remain faithful, we will find His PEACE — Patience Exercised Activates Christian Endurance.

Building a House of Prayer pt2

Mark 11:17 And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves. (KJV)

The Process of Prayer

Separate from evil ­ 2 Corinthians ­7:1

Talk to God from your heart Matthew 6:5-­8

Allow God time to answer Daniel 10:11-­13

Never lose hope ­ Romans 8:24-­26

Devote yourself to prayer daily Colossians 4:2-3; Galatians 6:8-­10

            Yesterday the foundation for the “house of prayer” was laid out. Today without going into too much detail we will attempt to frame in some of the walls. Since this message will be presented Sunday evening at Calvary Assembly of God in Winterhaven, CA let’s hope this devotional thought won’t be too much of a spoiler.

            When we are approaching a Holy God the first thing we must do is separate ourselves from evil. We should openly and honestly search ourselves and our surroundings in the light of God’s revelation of His Word. Not a ceremonial cleansing – A spiritual awakening of conviction and commitment.

            Communication with God comes from our heart; so, once we are Separate from evil, we can Talk to God from our hearts. God will not turn away a broken and contrite heart. We are able to make our requests to Him with thanksgiving and expectation. We do not need flowing words, or lengthy time restraints – Just clear heart-to-heart conversation.

            The answer will arrive according to God’s schedule. Allow Him time to answer. Do not get impatient or lose focus. Certainly don’t treat God as if His is an operator at a call center – Thinking, “This call we be answered in the order it was received. Please stay on the line for the next available operator.”

            We Never lose hope because the Holy Spirit prays through us even when we don’t understand the needs we are up against. We can Devote ourselves to prayer daily. Giving our prayers the foundation of Purpose through REST and engaging in the Process of prayer we are building a “house of prayer” with walls that will STAND.

Building a House of Prayer pt1

Mark 11:17 And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves. (KJV)

The Purpose of Prayer            

Repentance ­ Deuteronomy 4:27-­31            

Encouragement ­ 1 Chronicles 16:10­-16

Strength ­ Ephesians 6:18-­20

Transformation ­ 2 Chronicles 7:14

Jesus was referencing text from Isaiah 56:7 when He was driving out the corrupt practitioners who were turning the Temple Courts into a disreputable market place. God’s house, the church, should be a “house of prayer.” All people should be able to enter into His house and receive answers to their petitions.

So, what are the basic components of a dwelling? How is a house built?

Not being an architect, an engineer, nor a contractor, this explanation will be simple. It will not delve into the planning, or construction aspects of building. However, it will hopefully paint a mental picture and make some sense.

After the blueprints are drawn, and materials selected a foundation is established to support the weight and give stability to the structure. When building a “house of prayer” we should begin with a solid foundation. The thing that will create stability and support the weight of our prayers is purpose. The purpose of prayer is REST – Not the feet up laid back in the recliner rest – But Repentance, Encouragement, Strength, and Transformation.

We seem to ignore God’s direction for our lives all too often and follow a cyclical pattern of rebellion, enslavement, repentance and liberty. This has been the human condition for a longtime. Even after being delivered from slavery in Egypt the Israelites were told in Deuteronomy 4:27-31 they would follow this pattern, but they would find God once they came to a place of true repentance.

Once we have found Repentance and turned back to God, He begins to encourage us. Christ told the disciples He would not leave them comfortless. We have access to the promise of the Holy Spirit. He is our Encourager. As we remember what God has done for us, we experience encouragement. See 1 Chronicles 16:10­-16.

Moving from that place of Repentance and Encouragement, we are built up in God’s Strength to accomplish the calling He has placed upon our lives. We stay in house of prayer and God does the work through us. His joy becomes our strength. Read, Ephesians 6:18-­20.

The work is the Transformation of this world. Watching the lives around us being healed and filled with Faith, Hope, and Love is the final element in the purpose of prayer. The strong foundation which brings support and stability to the “house of prayer” really is REST. Consider 2 Chronicles 7:14. Be encouraged to find Repentance –Encouragement – Strength – Transformation as your purpose in prayer today.

TREE

Isaiah 61:1-4 The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; 2 To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; 3 To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified. 4 And they shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall repair the waste cities, the desolations of many generations. (KJV)

TREE

Towering

Righteousness

Expanding

Exponentially

There is a popular trend floating around cyber space. It hits us from every angle and multiple times throughout the day. At least once a week someone posts, or reposts questions similar to: “If you were a _______, what kind of a _______ would you be?” It seems that everyone jumps on the band wagon and sends the question out. To which we are all expected to answer with our favorite responses and that response in some way will define us psychologically. We all spend hours upon hours attempting to discover who we are. We want to know what our families think of us, what our friends think of us, and eventually what the entire world thinks of us.

Have we ever stopped to think that Christ asked the, “Who am I”, question upside down to our way of thinking? In Luke chapter 9, Jesus asks, “Who do men say that I am?” Followed by the individualized question to the disciples, “Who do you say that I am?”

Do we realize, this is the same chapter that begins with Jesus giving power and authority to the twelve?

Our identity is hidden with Christ. We are His representatives equipped with power and authority. He came to make us trees of righteousness. He empowered us to rebuild wasted lives and a desolate generation.

Colossians 3:3 For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. (NLT)

The forest of God’s grace is full of TREEs, Towering Righteousness Expanding Exponentially. The example of each individual life is refreshing fruit of righteousness. We have deep roots in FAITH and strong branches offering shade to many, until the day they too become a TREE, Towering Righteousness Expanding Exponentially.

Psalm 1:3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. (KJV)

Choose to be a “good tree” and share the righteousness Christ has imparted to you. Exponential fruit is the goal.  

PLAY

Psalm 137:3 For there they that carried us away captive required of us a song; and they that wasted us required of us mirth, saying, Sing us one of the songs of Zion. (KJV)

PLAY

Pray…

Listen…

Adjust…

Yield…

How often have we heard, “Make your passion your profession and you will never have to work a day in your life?”

To some extent the statement is true, but it’s not all fun and games. We can be overrun by stress, overwhelmed by demands, and outraged by injustice. Ministry should be the passion of every Christian, especially for those of us in professional positions as servants of God.

How can we turn the work of the ministry into PLAY?

Most people outside the church assume there is really nothing to preparing a sermon, comforting the grieving, visiting the sick, or motivating God’s people to activate their faith. The reality is it’s not easy – It’s impossible! Prayer is the first step, the last step and every step in between. Prayer is not the presentation of our desires to God. Prayer is seeking His desire in EVERYTHING we do.

   

1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing. (KJV)

Mastering the art of prayer requires speaking and listening. As a teacher in a classroom, I have fought the temptation to tell students, “God gave you two ears, but only one mouth because He wants you to listen twice as much as you speak.” That thought is NOT original but it holds a deep truth. I have used it in Sunday school classrooms and one or two counseling sessions.  When we stop telling God what we are going to do, and stop telling Him what He should do, He will speak to us. He will direct our paths.

Isaiah 30:21 Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” (NIV)

Oops…there was a huge typo in that last line. It is a sad state of affairs when the line reads, “We will direct our paths.” However, that seems to be the essence of HUMAN nature. We must adjust our will to follow His plan.

Hebrews 3:15 As has just been said: “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion.” (NIV)

There are only four sweetly simple phases to turn ALL ministry into child’s PLAY. Pray seeking God’s will and direction. Listen to His plan. Adjust our will to match His desire. Yield ALL the glory for the outcome to HIM. It can be that easy. Just PLAY.

Mark 12:17 And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. And they marvelled at him. (KJV)

SERVE

Psalm 4:5 “Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD.” (KJV)

SERVE

Sanctified, Empowered, Renewed, (able to) Volunteer, (and) Equipped

            There are several outstanding service organizations known to us today. Lions Club, Rotary Club, The Gideon’s, and The Full Gospel Businessman’s Association are a few of these types of organizations. We talk about being the servants of God but what does it really mean to serve? For our study today, there are a few things we will explore. First of all, to serve is an act or action. That means that something is going to be done. Second, to serve, as long as it is service we are talking about and not slavery, is voluntary. We cannot be forced to serve.

            After delivering the Israelites from the bondage of slavery God established the system of sanctification and sacrifices to be used by His people in worship. They were rituals that identified the Israelites as being set apart and holy. Through these rituals God was recognized as “the LORD who makes you holy.” He is forever and always the same. He is making us holy as we commit our lives to Him. (Exodus 31:13)

            The process of becoming holy is sanctification. We are being sanctified, made holy, by the grace, power and Spirit of God. Every area of our life should be committed to the calling God has placed within us individually. As we answer the call of God, He works to purify our hearts and keep us blameless before Him. Each of our individual callings fit together into the fully functioning, highly effective and gloriously beautiful Kingdom of God. (1Thessalonians 5:23)

            God has chosen each of us to serve Him. The requirements of our sanctification are met in Christ, and God directs us according to His plan for us. Sampson was a judge, set apart from birth. The circumstances of his birth demonstrate the miraculous power of God. The end of Sampson’s story speaks to us about the grace of God after we repent. Each part of this story teaches us that we must be set apart, holy and sanctified. (Judges 13:3-5)

            The source of Sampson’s might was the presence of the Lord. The same is true for us today without the presence of the Lord and commitment to following God’s plan we cannot be sanctified and we will have no real power to impact the world for Christ. If we do not surrender our plans to His and serve Him completely, the empowerment of the Holy Spirit is not available to us. God called us to be set apart for Him. When we live by His standard He promises to receive us. (2Corinthians 6:17)

            We have access to the awesome power of God through our relationship with Jesus Christ. As we serve Him we experience His power, in fact, He gives power to us.

            There is an old chorus that tells us about the Spirit that raised Christ from the dead and it says, “It shall quicken your mortal bodies if that Spirit dwell in you.” When that Spirit quickens us and His word gives us strength we can proclaim the awesomeness of God. (Psalm 68:35)

            The empowerment He offers brings us true prosperity. We are not promoting any kind of “Name it and claim it”, or “Blab it and grab it” theology of God making millionaires. We do expect our souls and our physical being to prosper by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. According to scripture, God is the ruler of all things and He bestows His great gifts on all believers. Those gifts become our inheritance as the children of God. He lifts us up as we live to serve Him but the blessing is infinitely more than financial. (1Chronicles 29:12)

            The unfortunate reality is that we do not always live up to God’s standard. Though we have access to the power of God we do not always depend upon it. That is where we get into trouble and it is not too far from that point in our journey we begin to realize the need to repent. When we repent God hears us and we are renewed. (Jeremiah 31:18-20)

            As we repent and our lives are changed by the presence and power of God we are renewed. We live out the profession of our faith in service to God. We are built up by the word of grace and we are able to apply our inheritance to our lives along with our brothers and sisters in the family of God. The inheritance is not a vast fortune left to us by relatives who have died, but the living hope we have in Christ. It is faith, hope, love and forgiveness. (Acts 20:32-35)

            To serve God is to give to others. We are renewed and strengthened daily in order that we can do the will of God. As we stated before, no one can be forced to serve. Service must flow from the love we have toward God. God expects that we will help those in need and work together to build His Kingdom. Do we recognize the value of our gift of service? SERVE — Sanctified, Empowered, Renewed, (able to) Volunteer, (and) Equipped. When we have been set apart, empowered and renewed, by the Holy Spirit, we experience the vitality and refreshment that allows us to serve voluntarily. We choose to take the next step and “GO” be disciples. (Ecclesiastes 5:1-3)

            When we volunteer it should not be out of overwhelming emotionalism, or ambition because those things will lead us into trouble. We should carefully evaluate the needs we attempt to meet. We often make faith pledges within the church to get involved with projects, or support ministries that we feel strongly about, but our promises become “the sacrifice of fools” if we do not live up to them and serve. (Ecclesiastes 5:6-7)

            For as long as I can remember there have only ever been two things I wanted to be when I grew up. They are both related fields and I have been able to accomplish both as I submitted to the leading and direction of our Lord. One thing I wanted to be was a teacher, and the other was a preacher. How did I get where I am? Have you ever asked yourself that question?

            And the answer is: Our God truly is an awesome God! He does not ask anything of us that He will not equip us for. Most people, most of the time, do not protest serving if the areas of service are easily noticeable, but avoid like the plague the simple day-to-day tasks of ministry that are less glamorous. Unfortunately, God calls us to serve wherever there is a need. (Deuteronomy 22:4)

            We may find ourselves in ministry saying, “I never signed up for this.” Being equipped to serve is a painstaking process through which God accessorizes our lives. We never know which life lesson God will choose to use for His glory but we know all our serving is going to build the Kingdom of God when it is pleasing to Him. We all know the quickest way to please someone is — just do what is asked. There is no task too small to be noticed by God. He is at work in our lives making sure that we are equipped for every good and pleasing service. He is accessorizing us! (Hebrews 13:20-21)

            One key to effective service is worship. God speaks to us as we worship Him. He calls each of us to a specific ministry before Him. We are all Sanctified, Empowered, Renewed, (able to) Volunteer, (and) Equipped when we faithfully answer God’s call upon our lives. (Acts 13:2)

            Service pulls us into unity. The faith we share stretches us beyond our comfort zones and we become mature functioning members of the body of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11-13)

            As God’s people we are being made ready to serve by the teaching and training available from the many gifted pastors and teachers God has given us, but the message should challenge, empower, and equip us for the work of serving God. We have been sanctified, set apart and made holy, by the will of God. We have been empowered by the Spirit of God. We are renewed daily by the grace of God. We are able to volunteer by acts of our free will, and we are equipped for service by the word of God. What better use of our time can there be but to serve? SERVE — Sanctified, Empowered, Renewed, (able to) Volunteer, (and) Equipped — go ahead you know you want to!

HOPE

Job 5:15-16 “But he saveth the poor from the sword, from their mouth, and from the hand of the mighty. So the poor hath hope, and iniquity stoppeth her mouth.” (KJV)

HOPE

Healing Oppressed People Everywhere

            Hopelessness seems to be a trademark of this generation; yet, God gives hope! Cutting off injustice and delivering people from those more powerful at first glance is the basic job description of a super hero, but Christians are called to the task of Healing Oppressed People Everywhere. Sin is a very powerful captor and many suffer from its effects in their physical body. Spiritual oppression and stress often leave us feeling as if there is no hope but God has invited us through His word to live a life of hope and promise.

            Throughout our lifetime we may have learned that what a person says is not always what they mean, but God is not a man and His word can be trusted. God saves us from ourselves and from those more powerful. In the arena of life it is interesting that what we say can become a sword that without the intervention of God would become our undoing. We are, at times, our own worst enemy. (Proverbs 12:18)

            Jesus taught that His words give life. If we have received them, then we have life and hope. Our spirits are given life by His Holy Spirit and the physical discomforts we experience cannot be allowed to distract us from the mission of sharing the Word of Life. (John 6:63)

            Being an ambassador for the Kingdom of God places each of us in a position of authority. God has granted to us the responsibility of taking His message to the nations. As His envoys we have the message of Hope, but freewill put the choice of delivery in our laps. (Proverbs 13:17)

            This proverb lets us know that if we change the message we can expect trouble in our lives, but if we faithfully deliver the message of hope, healing will follow. Healing Oppressed People Everywhere means that we are willing to become a trustworthy envoy of HOPE. An envoy is a person given the responsibility of representing another usually in matters of government. In the business world it has been said that a task can be delegated but responsibility cannot. Jesus gave us the authority to act in His name based upon His authority.  He holds on the the responsibility for the outcome. We act in His name -- He accomplishes the work through the Holy Spirit. (Luke 9:1-2)

            God has not changed. The authority of the church has not changed but the world by all accounts is getting worse. There is a real need for the message of hope. Proverbs again tells us that our speech is a two-sided coin. (Proverbs 15:4)

            The phrase, “It’s a coin toss.” might take on a whole new meaning if we apply it to the words we speak. Healing should be the desire of our hearts. Setting people free from oppression begins with the way we speak to them. (Proverbs 16:24)

            The power of our words can heal or hurt. Many of us have at times been blinded by pain and, as a result, we have not been faithful in healing others. Problems and pain no matter what their source can cause us to give up. As Christians we are given hope through salvation and our responsibility is to share that HOPE — Healing Oppressed People Everywhere. It is impossible to give another what we do not have; therefore, in order to be busy about the task of Healing Oppressed People Everywhere we must overcome oppression in our own lives.

            Perhaps we can identify with the Psalm of Wisdom written by Asaph. His prayer was that God deliver the oppressed and remember those who had been redeemed. If we have been oppressed we can pray his prayer earnestly out of our deep need. If we know people who have been oppressed we can pray it sincerely on their behalf. In either case we put our faith in God alone, asking that we will not be allowed to turn and run from our problems, but rather find a reason to praise God in every situation. (Psalm 74:21)

            Again, in Psalm 82, Asaph calls upon God to defend the oppressed. What better reason to praise God can there be? He is at work in our lives delivering the oppressed. He works wonders on our behalf and we will see freedom from oppression, strength in our weakness, and our rights as children of God will be maintained as we walk in the fullness of the authority given to us in the power of the Holy Spirit. (Psalm 82:3)

            Those being oppressed and those guilty of the oppression do not know the mighty power of God. We are called to make His righteous works known among the nations. From the prayers and wisdom of Asaph we can move into a song of deliverance with David in Psalm 103. God has set us free from the oppression of sin. He has allowed us to enter into a life of hope and promise. (Psalm 103:6)

            Our redeemer is strong. There is none like Him. Who has been able to conquer Him? Who has been able to thwart His plan? When God frees us from oppression He brings us into a land of promise and rest. People are given a choice. We can either enter into the promises of God or we can continue to wander around in the dark depressing land of sin being oppressed by the devil. (Jeremiah 50:33-34)

            Healing Oppressed People Everywhere is what Jesus did and it is what He has called us to do. It is only possible through the power of the Holy Spirit. The devil cannot stand against the power of God. Sin cannot hold us captive when we put our hope in the salvation freely offered through Jesus Christ and Him only. (Acts 10:37-38)

            People have always been the priority within the Kingdom of God. He desires relationship with us. Living according to the plan of God demands that we increase the love we share. It calls us to be filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Christ, and that we live our lives to the glory of God. Placing our faith in God gives us the confidence that whatever happens to us can serve to advance the gospel. Telling the stories of our lives can offer hope to those around us because what God has done for us He will do for others. (Philippians 1:9-12)

            God has called us to become His people. The mercy we have received holds out for us hope. This mercy also heals us freeing us from the power of oppression and uniting us as the people of God. All of this generates within us thankfulness toward God. Unity pulls us together into the body of Christ and the people of God. (1Peter 2:10)

            Jesus accepted us both into God’s Kingdom and into His body, when we by faith accepted Him as the Lamb of God. As Lord, He becomes the focal point of our lives and we overflow with thankfulness. Gratitude causes us to reach out to others and share the message of HOPE — Healing Oppressed People Everywhere. (Colossians 2:6-7)

            Healing Oppressed People Everywhere means that we are willing to make people aware that there is a better way. We are marching in God’s parade, spreading the perfume of His presence everywhere. Some will choose to listen and be saved, but others will follow their own path to destruction and death. None of us in ourselves can measure up to God’s standard and no one can carry the weight of this burden. (2 Corinthians 2:14-17)

            What we lift up to the world is Jesus. What He offers is hope, healing and a future. None of these things can be peddled as goods in the market place. Prosperity of the soul cannot be traded for profit. We are messengers sent in the authority of Christ with a pure heart, speaking the word of life to a hopeless generation. Just as the first followers of Christ were sent out with the message of hope, we are being sent.

            Everywhere we go there is someone in need of hope. The Lord is working with us, and He will confirm His message. Needs will be met, lives will be changed, and the glory of the Lord will shine through our lives. (Mark 16:20)

            Miracles are God’s specialty. They mark the lives of believers everywhere and according to biblical accounts confirm God’s word. Jesus taught that by our faith we would do the types of things He did and by that same faith we will accomplish even greater things because He went to the Father. The message of the gospel has not changed. The power and presence of God have not changed, and the mission of the church did not change. (John 14:12)

            Healing Oppressed People Everywhere means that we are willing to go everywhere. Hope knows no boundaries. Love knows no limits and the matchless power of God will overcome any obstacles. The church of Jesus Christ has the only true message of hope; if we do not share it where will the world hear it? (Luke 9:6)

CARE

2Timothy 4:5 “But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” (KJV)

CARE

Compassion Awakened Restores Evangelism

            How many times have we heard the adage, “People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care”? Concern for the personal well being of individuals drives our evangelistic efforts and impacts our effectiveness. Sin has taken many captive, but God has promised to be found if we will return to Him. God’s compassion lights the path that leads back to Him. Our knowledge and expertise is worthless without compassion.

            The promise land, which is marked by God’s favor, is accessible through His compassion. The hope that we have in Jesus affords us the privilege of sharing that hope with others. We represent God’s grace and mercy, and will not be effective in ministry unless we keep our heads, fulfill our commitments, and freely demonstrate the love of God.

            Caring about people is more than preaching to them. Caring about people is more than praying for them. Caring about people is coming alongside them and walking with them through the difficulties of life. As we walk with them three things happen: 1. The burden becomes lighter, 2. Working together we begin to understand each other, and 3. God delivers us from our captors. Through this process sin loses its power over us. God focuses His attention upon us, and we travel the path that leads to redemption. Our soul is renewed as self-indulgent nature gives way to love. God’s attention is captured by our repentance. (2Chronicles 30:9)

            God is continually at work bringing us back, or taking us deeper into a relationship with Him through Christ. When we wandered into sin, God turned His attention away from us, but when we repented, He poured out His mercy upon us. He leads us with everlasting kindness and compassion. We experience the grace of God and are able to share compassion with others because of what God does in our lives. The lyrics of the songs we sing reflect profound theological truth. “If I never had a problem, I’d never know that God could solve them” we may not remember the title, but the truth rings through.  (Isaiah 54:7-8)

            God is drawing us out into the world not as a participant in its evil but as beacons of hope in the darkness. Telling people about the blessings available to us through a vibrant relationship with Jesus Christ is powerful when it is demonstrated through compassion. (Isaiah 63:7)

            Allow the Holy Spirit to awaken compassion within us. It will overcome the world. God’s compassion poured out into our lives has eternal results. People are often blinded by their sin. They set on the sidelines of life and never experience the fullness of God’s grace. As we come alongside them, and reach out with grace, they hear in our testimonies the hope that we have. They feel the love of God, and they begin to believe that God will meet their deepest needs. CARE –– Compassion Awakened Restores Evangelism. (Matthew 20:34)

            Just as the awareness of those blind men was awakened and they recognized their need and called out to the Lord, the awareness of those around us must be awakened. They are moved to awareness by our compassion. They are not awakened by either our condemnation or our expertise. “People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care.”

            Once people recognize their condition, it is easy to reach out as examples of holy compassion and corporately begin to call out to the Lord for redemption. God never fails to rescue those who call upon Him from a repentant heart. His promises are sure and His love is unfailing. (Psalm 44:26)

            There is a wakeup call that is going out. God is moving among His children to awaken us. He is asking us to stand up for His principles. He is strengthening us to stand against evil.  God is beginning to stir us to revival. What is revival if it is not an awakening? (Psalm 94:16)

            The Lord is doing things today that are worthy of praise. He is active and working in our lives. When we praise Him for what He is doing, turn from our self-indulgent nature and CARE for those around us with compassion awakened, God begins to restore our lives, and our lives become tools for evangelism. Begin to CARE for the people around us, praise God and watch Him restore our lives. (Psalm 57:8)

            Once we awaken our souls and employ our talents praising God. It is not difficult to realize that God has brought us through trouble before and did not disappoint us. Our faith is built up, our emotions are perked up, and we can stand up. There is no problem situation in life outside of God’s power to restore. If we skip the trial we never know the power of restoration available in our relationship with God.

            God uses the situations in our lives to test our character. Trust builds in us as we see the power and presence of God overcome these problems. The Psalmist said, God made him see troubles. If we accept that God gave mankind a free will, we should understand that the vast majority of our troubles are the direct result of our choices. Still, the promise remains, God will restore.

            Clearly God’s promise is this: He will lift us up. We will again see the light of His love. Only God can take what the devil means for harm and completely transform it. God both will, and has brought us to life again in Christ. Resurrection power is the power of total restoration into a relationship with God. (Psalm 71:20)

            Compassion awakens us spiritually to the reality of God. It moves us to believe He is active in our lives; or that He is willing to become active as we commit to Him. God restores us to a relationship with Him and calls us into service. Our relationship was lost as a result of sin. Once relationship is restored through the redemption offered in Christ, we are called to serve. That service is evangelism – sharing the message of hope.

            As we learn how much God CAREs for us, we develop our ability to CARE for others. Calling upon God to renew His fame in our day and remember mercy even in His wrath directs our prayer for the lost. Compassion moves us into action. (Habakkuk 3:2)

            We freely share the message of God’s restoration power because God has given us hope. In every prophetic message there are the elements of now and not yet. Now God is at work restoring the lives of the believers; however, the total restoration will not be realized until we change our address permanently and enter eternity. Now there is healing, and provision for our needs. Now we can be satisfied, but the fullness of this promise cannot be experienced until He calls us home. Joy can become our trademark.

            God has given us reason to praise Him. Every problem is an opportunity for His mighty works to be demonstrated in our lives. Depending upon God is the only road to salvation, wholeness and health. Oil and wine in the Bible is a symbol of healing. God will repay the years we have lost to sin when we return to Him as our God. (Joel 2:24-26)

            We have first-hand knowledge of the forgiveness and mercy of God. We are examples of His miracles. Every day that we live, becomes a testimony of His power and authority. Compassion Awakened Restores Evangelism — CARE. God uses our experiences to reach out to those around us.

            Jesus commanded those who witnessed His miracles to proclaim them to the world. We are each one of His miracles.  In Christ we are set free from the law of sin and death. We have experienced, and witnessed His power and authority in our lives. His strength is made perfect in our weakness. For that reason, evangelism is the logical next step as we begin to CARE for those around us. (Acts 10:42)

            A person with 20:20 vision is said to have perfect vision. This type of clarity in our vision should extend to our vision in ministry. It happens when we do not hesitate to proclaim what is helpful both publicly and in private. Ministry that matters is ministry that CAREs. (Acts 20:20)

            Previously the scripture reference from Joel said, “Never again will my people be ashamed.”  When we are standing up for the cause of Christ and proclaiming the good news among the nations we can have complete confidence in the message. Jesus saves! He holds nothing back and as the people of God, we should be willing to tell others what they need to hear whether they appreciate the message or not.

            The lack of shame and the ambition to share the message and knowledge of the Truth moves us with compassion to openly proclaim the good news of salvation to everyone without regard to race, intellectual ability, or social standing. We are all created in the image of God and He has lavished His love upon us. The reality of God’s love for us matures into both eagerness and an obligation to preach the Truth in that love. (Romans 1:13-16)

            How we respond to the Great Commission is predicated on our acceptance of the authority of Christ. If we acknowledge His Lordship we will build His Kingdom. He is with us always. God is running this world on an eternal clock and the signs of the end of this age are discernible to all through the Bible. Therefore we cannot avoid the call to evangelism. Without regard to rank, privilege, race or position Jesus called us all to make disciples according to His teachings. Ministry that will fulfill that responsibility is ministry that CAREs. (Matthew 28:18-20)