7) That we speak in a way that enhances someone's life (salt)
When working with people, especially unsaved, it is imperative to remember that your words and actions have value. When you are truly listening to God and obeying His lead it can be no other way. Peter declared this when he said, "...thou hast the words of eternal life." Guess what? If you yield(open) your mouth to the Lord He has promised to fill it. In our gluttonous mindset this usually means we will get something exclusively for ourselves (our spiritual benefit) but give your mind opportunity to expand. If you allow God to fill your mouth then you possess the words of eternal life! Can you think of anything more valuable. This is what it means to speak being seasoned with salt.
Salt enhances the flavor of food and it is a preservative. Meditate on these two concepts. Think about them before you start talking with someone. You will see God transform your interactions with the unsaved. There is something about it that draws people. This world is full of people looking for opportunities to better themselves. Seldom do we find one who is genuinely trying to better another's life without the hope of their own personal gain. This is the daily reality for the unsaved.
There is such a thing as too much salt :) This is when you appear fake.Don't reach to "find" something nice to say. Seek the Lord and He will give you truth to speak that meets that person's needs. Often it may be a compliment, but it can just as easily be a rebuke (Proverbs 27:5).
8) That we may have knowledge to answer the questions of life
I'm going to be very real here but I trust in a loving manner. This is where many of us lack. It is way too easy to be busy with school,work, video games, computer activities, social media, internet surfing, reading news, listening to music, leisure reading, any hobby, and I could continue the list but I think we get the idea. I'm not against these things nor am I saying drop them all and change. What I am saying is, "Don't let them get in your way from learning answers to the questions that challenge and perplex you."
I find Christians tend to shy away from really sharing the gospel with the most needy because they are afraid of the questions they might face. The solution is rather simple. Turn down the "me time" and dig into the Word. It is one thing to read the bible and another to actually study it. When you study it you are opening yourself up to personal revelation from God. At the same time you are obtaining ammo against alternate view points, which are the heart of these questions.Don't be afraid to say, "I've never considered that and can't give you an adequate answer. Would it be possible that I could have some time to study that and get back to you?"
Remember, this world places great emphasis on knowledge. The unsaved are working from this mindset. The wisdom of God far exceeds what man has to offer. If you are going to get this wisdom you are going to have to put in the work required to obtain it. Once you get it you will have to share if you expect God to grant you more (Matthew 25:23 & Luke 19:10-26).
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Points 5 & 6
5) That we would use our time prudently (not waste it).
Time. The greatest commodity we are granted, yet so often taken for granted. Even as I write this I am reminded of how quick it can end when I consider what happened with Devon on Tuesday. You only have a short period of time here and then it is over. The works we perform is what will be judged in the end. This prayer is supposed to turn our minds towards "being about" our "father's business." This is why I am encouraging you to seek God in prayer about how you can use your time to work for Him.
This also includes knowing who we talk to and for what amount of time. The devil will gladly take your time with "good" things. I can recall several times I cast pearls before swine who really had no regard for what I was sharing. It is possible to "spin your wheels" discussing or debating religious ideas. This usually manifests itself in a doctrine "tit for tat" where people argue back in forth one scripture for another.
A good way to assess how you spend your time with someone is to seriously think about the results as well as how you feel afterwards.If you feel angry, upset, proud, and hopeless for the other person(s) chances are you have been wasting your time. Doing God's work is tiring but fulfilling, satisfying, and fills us with hope. I'm not saying you won't experience doubts about your effectiveness, but I tell you to patiently look at the results. Are the people you sharing with moving toward or away from God? It's truly that simple. Either they are moving closer to God or further away. Patiently endure.Be diligent in your efforts for God. It will bring fruit in due season.
6) That we speak in a way that treats others better than they deserve
This deals with how we communicate. It is too easy to talk "down" at people because they don't see it like we do. It is best to follow the path that Jesus set before us. He was firm with those that openly rejected him, yet so loving and encouraging to those who were truly seeking to know God. Think about Zacheus, and others who were clearly living in error yet had a desire to see Jesus. Jesus' speech caused them to feel something deep within. For the first time in his life, Zacheus felt respected and that brought hope.
We live in a time period where people are not genuinely respectful of one another. There is a general selfish tone to our modern world. Even more, many people settle into a routine based on who they think they are. The result is what governs their actions, thoughts, even their concept of who they are. All of this is shaped by a defeated god, called satan. Is it no wonder they act, talk, and think they way they do. They live in a defeated world view. We only compound their dilemma when we talk down to them, or speak in an offensive tone. Let us not hinder the power of the gospel by tainting it with poor speech. May we learn to speak hope and blessings into the lives of others.
Here are a few examples of some things I have shared with people:
"You are too smart to believe in evolution."
"God made you more special than some animal."
"I know you don't think you can...... but I can see where God has blessed you with......."
Time. The greatest commodity we are granted, yet so often taken for granted. Even as I write this I am reminded of how quick it can end when I consider what happened with Devon on Tuesday. You only have a short period of time here and then it is over. The works we perform is what will be judged in the end. This prayer is supposed to turn our minds towards "being about" our "father's business." This is why I am encouraging you to seek God in prayer about how you can use your time to work for Him.
This also includes knowing who we talk to and for what amount of time. The devil will gladly take your time with "good" things. I can recall several times I cast pearls before swine who really had no regard for what I was sharing. It is possible to "spin your wheels" discussing or debating religious ideas. This usually manifests itself in a doctrine "tit for tat" where people argue back in forth one scripture for another.
A good way to assess how you spend your time with someone is to seriously think about the results as well as how you feel afterwards.If you feel angry, upset, proud, and hopeless for the other person(s) chances are you have been wasting your time. Doing God's work is tiring but fulfilling, satisfying, and fills us with hope. I'm not saying you won't experience doubts about your effectiveness, but I tell you to patiently look at the results. Are the people you sharing with moving toward or away from God? It's truly that simple. Either they are moving closer to God or further away. Patiently endure.Be diligent in your efforts for God. It will bring fruit in due season.
6) That we speak in a way that treats others better than they deserve
This deals with how we communicate. It is too easy to talk "down" at people because they don't see it like we do. It is best to follow the path that Jesus set before us. He was firm with those that openly rejected him, yet so loving and encouraging to those who were truly seeking to know God. Think about Zacheus, and others who were clearly living in error yet had a desire to see Jesus. Jesus' speech caused them to feel something deep within. For the first time in his life, Zacheus felt respected and that brought hope.
We live in a time period where people are not genuinely respectful of one another. There is a general selfish tone to our modern world. Even more, many people settle into a routine based on who they think they are. The result is what governs their actions, thoughts, even their concept of who they are. All of this is shaped by a defeated god, called satan. Is it no wonder they act, talk, and think they way they do. They live in a defeated world view. We only compound their dilemma when we talk down to them, or speak in an offensive tone. Let us not hinder the power of the gospel by tainting it with poor speech. May we learn to speak hope and blessings into the lives of others.
Here are a few examples of some things I have shared with people:
"You are too smart to believe in evolution."
"God made you more special than some animal."
"I know you don't think you can...... but I can see where God has blessed you with......."
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Points 3 & 4
I know I said I was going to write about the others sooner, but I usually wait until I get at least one comment before doing another post. That way folks actually have time to read it and react/respond. I am more interested in responses than what I write ;)
That being said let's highlight the next two points from Col 4.
"3) That we could speak with His authority rather than my own"
It is too easy to look at a situation and think we know what is going on. It is just as easy to not share our faith because we don't know what to say or who to say it to. This is because we rely on our own authority and not God's. If you take the time to ask God who to speak to and what to say He will answer your prayer.
One particular time, I was praying for a man dying from Lou Gehrig's. During that time, the Lord burdened me with a strong desire to visit this man. The day I was supposed to meet with him (keeping in mind I had only met him 1 time, 18 years ago) God woke me up and shared with me 2 specific questions the man had. God also gave me answers to share with the man when I met with him later that day. When we go with God's authority there is a tremendous amount of courage that goes with you.
4) That we would enact the wisdom we have gained
Have you ever been in a situation where you failed or made a huge mistake? What is even more frustrating is to hear someone say, "Oh, I could have told you that wouldn't work." We usually reply by saying, "Then why didn't you tell me before I did ......" When you are the one failing you can easily get frustrated at those who hold back information vital to your success. Imagine how you would feel if your teacher told you there was a test in two weeks but never went out of their way to help you learn,maybe even just sitting at their desk. Sad to say, but this is what most Christians do. Living for God, experiencing trials and hardships teach you things about yourself and God. Rather than "sit at your desk" (just hanging around church folks/activities) get up and teach some one who continues to fail. You have learned some valuable lessons in your experiences with God. Share the wisdom.
That being said let's highlight the next two points from Col 4.
"3) That we could speak with His authority rather than my own"
It is too easy to look at a situation and think we know what is going on. It is just as easy to not share our faith because we don't know what to say or who to say it to. This is because we rely on our own authority and not God's. If you take the time to ask God who to speak to and what to say He will answer your prayer.
One particular time, I was praying for a man dying from Lou Gehrig's. During that time, the Lord burdened me with a strong desire to visit this man. The day I was supposed to meet with him (keeping in mind I had only met him 1 time, 18 years ago) God woke me up and shared with me 2 specific questions the man had. God also gave me answers to share with the man when I met with him later that day. When we go with God's authority there is a tremendous amount of courage that goes with you.
4) That we would enact the wisdom we have gained
Have you ever been in a situation where you failed or made a huge mistake? What is even more frustrating is to hear someone say, "Oh, I could have told you that wouldn't work." We usually reply by saying, "Then why didn't you tell me before I did ......" When you are the one failing you can easily get frustrated at those who hold back information vital to your success. Imagine how you would feel if your teacher told you there was a test in two weeks but never went out of their way to help you learn,maybe even just sitting at their desk. Sad to say, but this is what most Christians do. Living for God, experiencing trials and hardships teach you things about yourself and God. Rather than "sit at your desk" (just hanging around church folks/activities) get up and teach some one who continues to fail. You have learned some valuable lessons in your experiences with God. Share the wisdom.
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Col 4:1-6
I want to use this post to highlight some things God has shown me as it pertains to sharing the gospel, which is, the main thrust of this prayer. Too often we think sharing the gospel/witnessing is simply having the courage to speak to others. I have learned to pray long before that time arrives. We are encouraged to pray:
1) That God would create the opportunity
2) That we could explain the mystery of the gospel
3) That we could speak with His authority rather than my own
4) That we would enact the wisdom we have gained
5) That we would use our time prudently (not waste it).
6) That we speak in a way that treats others better than they deserve
7) That we speak in a way that enhances someone's life (salt)
8) That we may have knowledge to answer the questions of life
1) Oh how important it is that God creates the opportunity. (I kings 3:7-9, Psalms 127:1, John 6:44) It is possible for us to create our own "opportunity." This is what leads us to the place of doubt, being timid even scared, and sometimes frustrated thinking, "I am not meant for this." There is a courage that come from knowing that God created the opportunity.
2) Understand the gospel is a mystery. As a believer and follower of Christ you understand the mystery, but the lost do not. Have you ever looked at white puffy clouds and saw a representation of something else, like a lion, elephant, or dog? Then you tell a person to look at the clouds and see what you see, only to hear and watch them not see it. This is an analogy of what it means to understand the mystery. You have to see it first before you can "show"it to someone else. Note: It isn't enough just to see it. We are asking God to help us to explain it. That means pointing out the details so those who don't see it can have their eyes opened.
I will continue with the other 6 during this week. Each of these could be a sermon in their own right so I want give time and space for each. I welcome your comments, questions, or experiences.
1) That God would create the opportunity
2) That we could explain the mystery of the gospel
3) That we could speak with His authority rather than my own
4) That we would enact the wisdom we have gained
5) That we would use our time prudently (not waste it).
6) That we speak in a way that treats others better than they deserve
7) That we speak in a way that enhances someone's life (salt)
8) That we may have knowledge to answer the questions of life
1) Oh how important it is that God creates the opportunity. (I kings 3:7-9, Psalms 127:1, John 6:44) It is possible for us to create our own "opportunity." This is what leads us to the place of doubt, being timid even scared, and sometimes frustrated thinking, "I am not meant for this." There is a courage that come from knowing that God created the opportunity.
2) Understand the gospel is a mystery. As a believer and follower of Christ you understand the mystery, but the lost do not. Have you ever looked at white puffy clouds and saw a representation of something else, like a lion, elephant, or dog? Then you tell a person to look at the clouds and see what you see, only to hear and watch them not see it. This is an analogy of what it means to understand the mystery. You have to see it first before you can "show"it to someone else. Note: It isn't enough just to see it. We are asking God to help us to explain it. That means pointing out the details so those who don't see it can have their eyes opened.
I will continue with the other 6 during this week. Each of these could be a sermon in their own right so I want give time and space for each. I welcome your comments, questions, or experiences.
Thursday, August 8, 2013
That God Would Grant
Last post we watched a testimony of an Atheist named Penn. The purpose of the video was to get you to understand the power of the gospel and to grant a little reprimand, if even from one who opposes your message. It isn't often that your enemy prompts you to action.
We also talked about prayer. This post I want to point you scripture. My expectation is that you read Colossians 4:1-6. After reading this, my desire is that you pray that prayer in your own life. I look forward to your comments regarding the meaning of this scripture and/or what God is doing in your life concerning this prayer.
We also talked about prayer. This post I want to point you scripture. My expectation is that you read Colossians 4:1-6. After reading this, my desire is that you pray that prayer in your own life. I look forward to your comments regarding the meaning of this scripture and/or what God is doing in your life concerning this prayer.
Thursday, August 1, 2013
Working on the Great Commission
In an effort to continue what we began at Monark, I will be using this blog to share some things the Lord has shown me over the years. The main thrust is to give each reader some practical tools to assist them in fulfilling the great commission of reaching the lost souls that flounder around us every day.
As mentioned before, we must first be a partaker of salvation ourselves otherwise your testimony has no value. The next important key is prayer.
This can not be over-stated. This is where most of soul winning work is accomplished. It is best to begin praying for yourself. Here are a few things to ask for:
1) A divine revelation of love
2) Compassion for the lost
3) A divine revelation of hell
4) Ability to recognize God's voice/leadings
5) Boldness
6) Courage
7) Patience
I think this is a good place to start with your prayer life. When you start praying for yourself and allow God to start changing you into His image you will start to learn a key to winning souls. It isn't about molding "the lost" into your image or even thinking like you. It is about getting them connected to Jesus Christ. If you can introduce them to the real essence of Jesus you have done your job.
There is so much to talk about but I'm trying to keep each post short. My request is that you begin praying and watch this video. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdvES4_MJ5Y&feature=fvsr
I would like to discuss your reactions to the video. Here are a few thoughts to consider:
What was you reaction?
What statement impacted you the most?
What did you agree or disagree with?
This can not be over-stated. This is where most of soul winning work is accomplished. It is best to begin praying for yourself. Here are a few things to ask for:
1) A divine revelation of love
2) Compassion for the lost
3) A divine revelation of hell
4) Ability to recognize God's voice/leadings
5) Boldness
6) Courage
7) Patience
I think this is a good place to start with your prayer life. When you start praying for yourself and allow God to start changing you into His image you will start to learn a key to winning souls. It isn't about molding "the lost" into your image or even thinking like you. It is about getting them connected to Jesus Christ. If you can introduce them to the real essence of Jesus you have done your job.
There is so much to talk about but I'm trying to keep each post short. My request is that you begin praying and watch this video. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdvES4_MJ5Y&feature=fvsr
I would like to discuss your reactions to the video. Here are a few thoughts to consider:
What was you reaction?
What statement impacted you the most?
What did you agree or disagree with?
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Isaiah 30:29
"Ye shall have a song, as in the night when a holy solemnity is kept; and
gladness of heart, as when one goeth with a pipe to come into the
mountain of the LORD, to the mighty One of Israel."
Have you ever stopped to think what seven words make a birthday party special? I'll give you a hint. It is a song with the person's name inserted. That song's ability to make a person feel special is a testament to why it has been a tradition for over a century.
There is power in music and especially in song. Songs have the ability to conjure up almost any emotion. Back when I was courting my wife I chose a song that captured my feelings toward her, in an effort to express my love and devotion to her. This is exactly what God is promising here, to extend His love and devotion to you through song.
Jesus clearly taught only one doctrine would unify God's people, but God did not promise only one song. Songs are deeply connected to emotions and extremely personal. God is personal with you, hence His promise of a song that uniquely expresses His desires to you.
This promise was written for those who were experiencing great hardship and was meant to bring them consolation. The next time you feel the world crashing around you, stop and listen. God has just the right song for the moment.
Have you ever stopped to think what seven words make a birthday party special? I'll give you a hint. It is a song with the person's name inserted. That song's ability to make a person feel special is a testament to why it has been a tradition for over a century.
There is power in music and especially in song. Songs have the ability to conjure up almost any emotion. Back when I was courting my wife I chose a song that captured my feelings toward her, in an effort to express my love and devotion to her. This is exactly what God is promising here, to extend His love and devotion to you through song.
Jesus clearly taught only one doctrine would unify God's people, but God did not promise only one song. Songs are deeply connected to emotions and extremely personal. God is personal with you, hence His promise of a song that uniquely expresses His desires to you.
This promise was written for those who were experiencing great hardship and was meant to bring them consolation. The next time you feel the world crashing around you, stop and listen. God has just the right song for the moment.
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