A new heart

TODAY'S READING: Ephesians 4:17-24
I am fascinated by heart transplants. It is hard to imagine that doctors can take out a heart that isn't working right and replace it with a different heart. There were 2,016 heart transplants performed in the United States in 2004 and 2,057 in 2003. As of July 15, 2005, the one-year survival rate was 86.4 percent for males and 84.6 percent for females; the three-year survival rate was about 78.9 percent for males and 76.1 percent for females. In 2003, the five-year survival rate was 72 percent for males and 68.5 percent for females.
There is another kind of heart transplant that is equally amazing. It is the one that takes place when someone becomes a Christian. Paul describes the spiritual surgery that takes place.
The old heart that is removed is hardened and rotten. It is filled with impurity, greed, lust, and deception.
The new heart is shaped like God's. It's righteous, holy, and true.
It seems that Paul is writing to a church where, unfortunately, a number of people claimed to be Christians but never really had a heart transplant. Their actions don't seem to match their claims. Apparently they were unwilling to leave their old heart and old life behind.
Wouldn't it be crazy after a heart transplant to go back to the doctors and ask them to put your old heart back in? They would look at you and shake their heads in amazement. They know that putting the old heart back would lead to certain death for most.
But many Christians do the same thing spiritually. They become a Christian and claim allegiance to Jesus, but they want the old heart. They want to continue to enjoy the world they have been living in. They resist the spiritual renewal God calls us to.
As you begin the weekend, go to the Great Physician for a spiritual EKG (heart test). What is the condition of your heart? Does God need to take you into emergency surgery? Do you need bypass surgery? Or do you simply need to "eat" a little better? Remember that whatever goes into our mind impacts the condition of our heart. Are you enjoying a lot of spiritual "junk food" that is corrupting your heart?
Regardless of your condition, this is the time to take action. Every day we wait our heart's health could be getting a little worse. The new heart that God wants us to have will change how we live each day and where we spend eternity.

shine!
Jason

A new heart

TODAY'S READING: Ephesians 4:17-24
I am fascinated by heart transplants. It is hard to imagine that doctors can take out a heart that isn't working right and replace it with a different heart. There were 2,016 heart transplants performed in the United States in 2004 and 2,057 in 2003. As of July 15, 2005, the one-year survival rate was 86.4 percent for males and 84.6 percent for females; the three-year survival rate was about 78.9 percent for males and 76.1 percent for females. In 2003, the five-year survival rate was 72 percent for males and 68.5 percent for females.
There is another kind of heart transplant that is equally amazing. It is the one that takes place when someone becomes a Christian. Paul describes the spiritual surgery that takes place.
The old heart that is removed is hardened and rotten. It is filled with impurity, greed, lust, and deception.
The new heart is shaped like God's. It's righteous, holy, and true.
It seems that Paul is writing to a church where, unfortunately, a number of people claimed to be Christians but never really had a heart transplant. Their actions don't seem to match their claims. Apparently they were unwilling to leave their old heart and old life behind.
Wouldn't it be crazy after a heart transplant to go back to the doctors and ask them to put your old heart back in? They would look at you and shake their heads in amazement. They know that putting the old heart back would lead to certain death for most.
But many Christians do the same thing spiritually. They become a Christian and claim allegiance to Jesus, but they want the old heart. They want to continue to enjoy the world they have been living in. They resist the spiritual renewal God calls us to.
As you begin the weekend, go to the Great Physician for a spiritual EKG (heart test). What is the condition of your heart? Does God need to take you into emergency surgery? Do you need bypass surgery? Or do you simply need to "eat" a little better? Remember that whatever goes into our mind impacts the condition of our heart. Are you enjoying a lot of spiritual "junk food" that is corrupting your heart?
Regardless of your condition, this is the time to take action. Every day we wait our heart's health could be getting a little worse. The new heart that God wants us to have will change how we live each day and where we spend eternity.

shine!
Jason

What kind of soil are you?

TODAY'S READING: Matthew 13:1-9,18-23
This is quite possibly one of the most convicting parables Jesus tells. Although just about everything Jesus says challenges me, there is something about this lesson.
As I look at the four different types of soil Jesus speaks of, I unfortunately see more of the first three in my life than the last one. Let me share a little bit of my heart with you today.
Sometimes I fail to understand what God is trying to say to me. I read the Scriptures, I experience life, and I am more concerned about what I think than what God ultimately has to say. The problem is not God's explanation, it's my presuppositions. In a sense we all want God on our terms. We hear God, but do we really understand Him? I know that I struggle with that.
But there are times that I understand. However, it must go beyond understanding. There must be growth. This is where I find myself like the second soil at times. I am joyful for what God has done for me, but so often I become comfortable. I find joy in being where I am. I don't want to be uncomfortable and have to grow. I don't always want God's roots to dig deeper in my life. If I can keep it shallow I don't have to change the areas of my life where I like it.
Just in case we improve in those two areas, Satan has a plan "C." We may understand God and we may even let His roots start to go deeper. Well, then we fall pray to getting to attached to this world. I can engage in Bible study and pray and get all "spiritual." But am I willing to let the rubber meet the road? This is where Satan often distracts me. Sure, I want to help that person in need, but I really want that new book. Yeah, there are people starving in Africa (or even Pontiac), but Famous Dave's has great ribs. I would love to give more to support missions, but how could I live without cable TV or high-speed internet. Have I stepped on your toes yet? I am stomping on mine.
Then we get to the last soil. How many of us have brought thirty people to Jesus? Sixty? A hundred? Who among us has given more to the church than we have asked for? Do we come on Sundays hoping to be filled or wanting to be emptied? Is this "Jesus thing" ultimately about me or about others? I often fail miserably here. I struggle with wanting Christianity on my terms that makes me feel good about myself. I want to walk away from an encounter with Jesus feeling happy instead of fulfilled. Served as opposed to having served.
OK, so maybe you saw more of me than you wanted to today, but God is working hard on me. I just know that I am far short of what God wants me to be. But in the midst of frustration and disappointment with myself, I find comfort in knowing I serve a living God who is both patient and loving. Merciful and kind. And while my God is more than likely frustrated with me as much as I am, He also reaches out His hand in the person of Jesus and says, "Follow me!"

shine!
Jason

What kind of soil are you?

TODAY'S READING: Matthew 13:1-9,18-23
This is quite possibly one of the most convicting parables Jesus tells. Although just about everything Jesus says challenges me, there is something about this lesson.
As I look at the four different types of soil Jesus speaks of, I unfortunately see more of the first three in my life than the last one. Let me share a little bit of my heart with you today.
Sometimes I fail to understand what God is trying to say to me. I read the Scriptures, I experience life, and I am more concerned about what I think than what God ultimately has to say. The problem is not God's explanation, it's my presuppositions. In a sense we all want God on our terms. We hear God, but do we really understand Him? I know that I struggle with that.
But there are times that I understand. However, it must go beyond understanding. There must be growth. This is where I find myself like the second soil at times. I am joyful for what God has done for me, but so often I become comfortable. I find joy in being where I am. I don't want to be uncomfortable and have to grow. I don't always want God's roots to dig deeper in my life. If I can keep it shallow I don't have to change the areas of my life where I like it.
Just in case we improve in those two areas, Satan has a plan "C." We may understand God and we may even let His roots start to go deeper. Well, then we fall pray to getting to attached to this world. I can engage in Bible study and pray and get all "spiritual." But am I willing to let the rubber meet the road? This is where Satan often distracts me. Sure, I want to help that person in need, but I really want that new book. Yeah, there are people starving in Africa (or even Pontiac), but Famous Dave's has great ribs. I would love to give more to support missions, but how could I live without cable TV or high-speed internet. Have I stepped on your toes yet? I am stomping on mine.
Then we get to the last soil. How many of us have brought thirty people to Jesus? Sixty? A hundred? Who among us has given more to the church than we have asked for? Do we come on Sundays hoping to be filled or wanting to be emptied? Is this "Jesus thing" ultimately about me or about others? I often fail miserably here. I struggle with wanting Christianity on my terms that makes me feel good about myself. I want to walk away from an encounter with Jesus feeling happy instead of fulfilled. Served as opposed to having served.
OK, so maybe you saw more of me than you wanted to today, but God is working hard on me. I just know that I am far short of what God wants me to be. But in the midst of frustration and disappointment with myself, I find comfort in knowing I serve a living God who is both patient and loving. Merciful and kind. And while my God is more than likely frustrated with me as much as I am, He also reaches out His hand in the person of Jesus and says, "Follow me!"

shine!
Jason

Who is the real Jesus?

TODAY'S READING: Mark 6:30-52
Have you ever looked at the disciples and wondered why they never got it? Here they are walking with JESUS! They are spending every day next to the Son of God. They sit and listen to Him teach. They see Him perform miracles. They watch His conflicts with the religious leaders. But yet, they don't seem to get it.
Here we see Jesus feeding 5,000 men (which means there were probably over 10,000 people there including women and children). Then we see Jesus walking on the water and calming the waves. They saw it all too, but look at their reaction. They are astonished. They didn't understand. Their hearts were hard. They didn't believe.
What!?! Does it surprise you that men who walked with Jesus every day had this reaction?
If you think about it, it might not be that surprising. I believe that most, if not all of the disciples had misconceptions of who Jesus was. Most were expecting a military leader who would defeat the Romans. They expected another king like David that would lead them to victory. We even see this in the crowd's reaction to Jesus during the feeding. "Then Jesus told the crowd to sit down in groups on the green grass. So they sat in groups of fifty or a hundred." (Mark 6:39-40) These numbers reflect how military groups would have been organized back then.
Now let's look in the mirror for a minute. Do we misunderstand Jesus? Do we think He is someone different than He really is? Let's consider the possibilities...
Wish-granting Genie?
Nice teacher?
Insurance policy no matter how bad I live?
Rule maker?
Judgmental?
Many of us have misconceptions of Jesus. As a matter of fact, I am pretty sure none of us completely understand Him. But I do know that Jesus wants us to see Him for who He really is. And that begins when we lay aside our own assumptions and let Him speak for Himself.
Who is your Jesus? Do you need to soften your heart and allow Jesus to show you who He really is? It could be life-changing.

shine!
Jason

Who is the real Jesus?

TODAY'S READING: Mark 6:30-52
Have you ever looked at the disciples and wondered why they never got it? Here they are walking with JESUS! They are spending every day next to the Son of God. They sit and listen to Him teach. They see Him perform miracles. They watch His conflicts with the religious leaders. But yet, they don't seem to get it.
Here we see Jesus feeding 5,000 men (which means there were probably over 10,000 people there including women and children). Then we see Jesus walking on the water and calming the waves. They saw it all too, but look at their reaction. They are astonished. They didn't understand. Their hearts were hard. They didn't believe.
What!?! Does it surprise you that men who walked with Jesus every day had this reaction?
If you think about it, it might not be that surprising. I believe that most, if not all of the disciples had misconceptions of who Jesus was. Most were expecting a military leader who would defeat the Romans. They expected another king like David that would lead them to victory. We even see this in the crowd's reaction to Jesus during the feeding. "Then Jesus told the crowd to sit down in groups on the green grass. So they sat in groups of fifty or a hundred." (Mark 6:39-40) These numbers reflect how military groups would have been organized back then.
Now let's look in the mirror for a minute. Do we misunderstand Jesus? Do we think He is someone different than He really is? Let's consider the possibilities...
Wish-granting Genie?
Nice teacher?
Insurance policy no matter how bad I live?
Rule maker?
Judgmental?
Many of us have misconceptions of Jesus. As a matter of fact, I am pretty sure none of us completely understand Him. But I do know that Jesus wants us to see Him for who He really is. And that begins when we lay aside our own assumptions and let Him speak for Himself.
Who is your Jesus? Do you need to soften your heart and allow Jesus to show you who He really is? It could be life-changing.

shine!
Jason

Deceived and hardened by sin

TODAY'S READING: Hebrews 3:5-19
There are some things about sin that are just plain fun. Let's be honest. If sin wasn't so fun at times would it really be so appealing? But that is the problem. It is fun "at times." More specifically, it is fun at the moment we are in it. Unfortunately, sin has a way of keeping us focused on the fun part and forgetting about the consequences that follow.
That is exactly what happened to the nation of Israel. After God rescued them from Egypt and they ended up at Mount Sinai, they forgot about their slavery. They were only focused on the homes and material things they had in Egypt. For some reason they forgot about the chains, the taskmasters, and the whips. They were deceived. In spite of all God had done for them, they complained. Even though God had freed them from the bondage of slavery, they wanted to go back. They saw the plagues, but wanted Egypt. They watched the Red Sea part, but they wanted Egypt. They receive the manna, but they wanted Egypt.
You and I may sit here and ask why they were so foolish. But will a future generation look at us and ask the same thing?
God freed us from the need for materialism, but we still seek fulfillment in how much we have. God freed us from the need for sexual impurity, but we still seek fulfillment telling tasteless jokes, watching movies and TV shows that glorify sexuality, and from inappropriate attention from the opposite sex. God freed us from legalism, but we still seek fulfillment by pointing out other people's faults while ignoring our own.
This list could probably go on, but I think Paul says it better than I do...
"Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God's people. Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes--these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is really an idolater who worships the things of this world. Don't be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the terrible anger of God comes upon all those who disobey him. Don't participate in the things these people do. For though your hearts were once full of darkness, now you are full of light from the Lord, and your behavior should show it! For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true." (Ephesians 5:3-9)
Ultimately, we must guard our hearts against sin. If we allow sin to deceive us, our hearts will become hardened against God. We will begin to blame God for things and get angry with Him for denying things we want. As that happens our hearts start to fill with evil and we stop believing in God. Then we turn away from Him.
The good thing is that God is always there waiting for us, even when we are walking away from Him. In the midst of our struggle with sin, God remains faithful. God wants to share all He has with us, but He can't share it if we leave Him.
If you feel your heart has hardened against God, seek Him patiently and realize that it takes time for a heart to soften. If you believe your heart is beginning to harden, turn back towards God. Even if you feel your heart is not hard, continue to draw closer to God. All of us have a hardening somewhere in our heart; we are just not close enough to God to realize it yet. As we continue to grow in our faith, God will reveal to us things we need to change. No one is ever perfect, but we must always seek to know God a little better so He can continue to mold us into the people He wants us to be. But to be molded we must be softened. Let God soften your heart.

shine!
Jason

Deceived and hardened by sin

TODAY'S READING: Hebrews 3:5-19
There are some things about sin that are just plain fun. Let's be honest. If sin wasn't so fun at times would it really be so appealing? But that is the problem. It is fun "at times." More specifically, it is fun at the moment we are in it. Unfortunately, sin has a way of keeping us focused on the fun part and forgetting about the consequences that follow.
That is exactly what happened to the nation of Israel. After God rescued them from Egypt and they ended up at Mount Sinai, they forgot about their slavery. They were only focused on the homes and material things they had in Egypt. For some reason they forgot about the chains, the taskmasters, and the whips. They were deceived. In spite of all God had done for them, they complained. Even though God had freed them from the bondage of slavery, they wanted to go back. They saw the plagues, but wanted Egypt. They watched the Red Sea part, but they wanted Egypt. They receive the manna, but they wanted Egypt.
You and I may sit here and ask why they were so foolish. But will a future generation look at us and ask the same thing?
God freed us from the need for materialism, but we still seek fulfillment in how much we have. God freed us from the need for sexual impurity, but we still seek fulfillment telling tasteless jokes, watching movies and TV shows that glorify sexuality, and from inappropriate attention from the opposite sex. God freed us from legalism, but we still seek fulfillment by pointing out other people's faults while ignoring our own.
This list could probably go on, but I think Paul says it better than I do...
"Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God's people. Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes--these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is really an idolater who worships the things of this world. Don't be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the terrible anger of God comes upon all those who disobey him. Don't participate in the things these people do. For though your hearts were once full of darkness, now you are full of light from the Lord, and your behavior should show it! For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true." (Ephesians 5:3-9)
Ultimately, we must guard our hearts against sin. If we allow sin to deceive us, our hearts will become hardened against God. We will begin to blame God for things and get angry with Him for denying things we want. As that happens our hearts start to fill with evil and we stop believing in God. Then we turn away from Him.
The good thing is that God is always there waiting for us, even when we are walking away from Him. In the midst of our struggle with sin, God remains faithful. God wants to share all He has with us, but He can't share it if we leave Him.
If you feel your heart has hardened against God, seek Him patiently and realize that it takes time for a heart to soften. If you believe your heart is beginning to harden, turn back towards God. Even if you feel your heart is not hard, continue to draw closer to God. All of us have a hardening somewhere in our heart; we are just not close enough to God to realize it yet. As we continue to grow in our faith, God will reveal to us things we need to change. No one is ever perfect, but we must always seek to know God a little better so He can continue to mold us into the people He wants us to be. But to be molded we must be softened. Let God soften your heart.

shine!
Jason

Softening hard hearts

TODAY'S READING: Leviticus 26:40-45
Disobedience has consequences. As God spoke to the people of Isreal through Moses, these were his final words. After outlining his commands to the people, God wanted them to be sure of two things.
Disobedience has consequences.
Obedience offers rewards.
Today we live under a different but similar agreement with God. You may wonder...different but similar? Exactly. Under the old agreement, God expected us to be holy and faithful to Him. He provided laws, regulations, and instructions.
The biggest difference under the new agreement is Jesus. Jesus came to bring a final, eternal sacrifice. Jesus came to show us God in the flesh. Jesus came to live out what the old agreement was supposed to look like. Jesus came to show that God wants to remove limits, not set minimum expectations. Jesus was the answer to a relationship with God that had become more about rules than transformation.
Whether it's the old agreement or the new one, the bottom line is the same. Following God is much more about your heart than your outward appearance. Didn't God tell Samuel, "The LORD doesn't make decisions the way you do! People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at a person's thoughts and intentions." (1 Samuel 16:7)
So what is the purpose of consequences? Why can't a loving God just rescue us from bad choices so we don't have to suffer? Because without consequences, true change will seldom happen. God's grace cannot be fully realized without recognizing we have done wrong.
We all have two basic responses to sin and its consequences. We can harden our hearts towards God and head further and further into destruction. Or we can allow our difficulties to soften our heart and allow the grace of God to heal.
Want to see an example of the two choices lived out? Let's look at Judas and Peter.
Judas sold Jesus out. He took money to betray his friend Jesus. And after his betrayal he stayed in his sin and allowed it to drive him to the point of suicide. His guilt killed his spirit. As far as we know, he never tried to seek forgiveness.
Peter on the other hand had a broken heart. When he denied Jesus and looked into the eyes of his friend, Peter went away and wept. And on that beach one morning he shared breakfast with Jesus and found the grace of God in full measure. It was only a few weeks later that the man who denied Jesus stood in the same city and proclaimed Christ to thousands.
Is your heart hard against God in some area of your life? Do you feel guilty about something? Do you feel like God has deserted you? If you feel any of these things remember the promise God made to the Israelites. "I will not utterly reject or despise them while they are in exile in the land of their enemies. I will not cancel my covenant with them by wiping them out. I, the LORD, am their God. I will remember my ancient covenant with their ancestors, whom I brought out of Egypt while all the nations watched. I, the LORD, am their God."
We serve a God who keeps His promises. Our God is faithful and will never leave us. The question is, are our hearts hardened to the point where we might leave Him?

shine!
Jason

Softening hard hearts

TODAY'S READING: Leviticus 26:40-45
Disobedience has consequences. As God spoke to the people of Isreal through Moses, these were his final words. After outlining his commands to the people, God wanted them to be sure of two things.
Disobedience has consequences.
Obedience offers rewards.
Today we live under a different but similar agreement with God. You may wonder...different but similar? Exactly. Under the old agreement, God expected us to be holy and faithful to Him. He provided laws, regulations, and instructions.
The biggest difference under the new agreement is Jesus. Jesus came to bring a final, eternal sacrifice. Jesus came to show us God in the flesh. Jesus came to live out what the old agreement was supposed to look like. Jesus came to show that God wants to remove limits, not set minimum expectations. Jesus was the answer to a relationship with God that had become more about rules than transformation.
Whether it's the old agreement or the new one, the bottom line is the same. Following God is much more about your heart than your outward appearance. Didn't God tell Samuel, "The LORD doesn't make decisions the way you do! People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at a person's thoughts and intentions." (1 Samuel 16:7)
So what is the purpose of consequences? Why can't a loving God just rescue us from bad choices so we don't have to suffer? Because without consequences, true change will seldom happen. God's grace cannot be fully realized without recognizing we have done wrong.
We all have two basic responses to sin and its consequences. We can harden our hearts towards God and head further and further into destruction. Or we can allow our difficulties to soften our heart and allow the grace of God to heal.
Want to see an example of the two choices lived out? Let's look at Judas and Peter.
Judas sold Jesus out. He took money to betray his friend Jesus. And after his betrayal he stayed in his sin and allowed it to drive him to the point of suicide. His guilt killed his spirit. As far as we know, he never tried to seek forgiveness.
Peter on the other hand had a broken heart. When he denied Jesus and looked into the eyes of his friend, Peter went away and wept. And on that beach one morning he shared breakfast with Jesus and found the grace of God in full measure. It was only a few weeks later that the man who denied Jesus stood in the same city and proclaimed Christ to thousands.
Is your heart hard against God in some area of your life? Do you feel guilty about something? Do you feel like God has deserted you? If you feel any of these things remember the promise God made to the Israelites. "I will not utterly reject or despise them while they are in exile in the land of their enemies. I will not cancel my covenant with them by wiping them out. I, the LORD, am their God. I will remember my ancient covenant with their ancestors, whom I brought out of Egypt while all the nations watched. I, the LORD, am their God."
We serve a God who keeps His promises. Our God is faithful and will never leave us. The question is, are our hearts hardened to the point where we might leave Him?

shine!
Jason

Seeking common ground while staying grounded

TODAY'S READING: 1 Corinthians 9:17-27
I think we all live in this struggle between inadequacy and pride. There are times when I think there is no way on earth I deserve to have the love of God and I should not be a representative of Jesus. Other times I start feeling really good about myself and begin to believe that I can make it without God. Do you ever feel that way?
I believe that Paul struggled with this as well, but he found the key to balance between the two. What is this key, you ask? Self-control.
In his life of service to the Savior, Paul discovered that it's not about him. It doesn't really matter how inadequate he feels or how good he feels about himself. It's about putting our focus on the One who really matters.
But without self-control we are headed for disaster. Life in pursuit of Christ without self-control is like riding a roller coaster without restraint bars. You will either be on a ride that is so slow and tame it is not worth it or you will get thrown out and hurt.
And in the midst of all of this we see one of the most important reasons for self-control. It makes real ministry possible. Why?
Well, when we lack self-control and try to minister to those around us we can find ourselves drawn into the very things we are hoping to help pull others out of. That is what Paul trained himself to avoid.
He was only able to minister effectively to others because he learned how to live with purpose. Everything he did was Jesus-centered. Every thought he had was focused on the cross.
If we want to effectively reach those around us for Jesus we must train and develop self-control. It is only when we are properly prepared that we can be all things to all people without becoming completely like them.
Paul may have reached the Jews by relating to them where they were, but he didn't return to legalism.
Paul may have reached the Gentiles by relating to them were they were, but he didn't start worshipping idols.
Paul always looked for the common ground without sacrificing what he stood for. We must strive to do the same. If we take the message of Jesus to others while we live just like them, the message loses its power. But if we can take the message into their world and show them that Jesus is real where they are, we can change the world. Do you want the world to change you or do you want to change the world for Jesus? Developing self-control will have a lot to do with which one happens in your life.

shine!
Jason

Seeking common ground while staying grounded

TODAY'S READING: 1 Corinthians 9:17-27
I think we all live in this struggle between inadequacy and pride. There are times when I think there is no way on earth I deserve to have the love of God and I should not be a representative of Jesus. Other times I start feeling really good about myself and begin to believe that I can make it without God. Do you ever feel that way?
I believe that Paul struggled with this as well, but he found the key to balance between the two. What is this key, you ask? Self-control.
In his life of service to the Savior, Paul discovered that it's not about him. It doesn't really matter how inadequate he feels or how good he feels about himself. It's about putting our focus on the One who really matters.
But without self-control we are headed for disaster. Life in pursuit of Christ without self-control is like riding a roller coaster without restraint bars. You will either be on a ride that is so slow and tame it is not worth it or you will get thrown out and hurt.
And in the midst of all of this we see one of the most important reasons for self-control. It makes real ministry possible. Why?
Well, when we lack self-control and try to minister to those around us we can find ourselves drawn into the very things we are hoping to help pull others out of. That is what Paul trained himself to avoid.
He was only able to minister effectively to others because he learned how to live with purpose. Everything he did was Jesus-centered. Every thought he had was focused on the cross.
If we want to effectively reach those around us for Jesus we must train and develop self-control. It is only when we are properly prepared that we can be all things to all people without becoming completely like them.
Paul may have reached the Jews by relating to them where they were, but he didn't return to legalism.
Paul may have reached the Gentiles by relating to them were they were, but he didn't start worshipping idols.
Paul always looked for the common ground without sacrificing what he stood for. We must strive to do the same. If we take the message of Jesus to others while we live just like them, the message loses its power. But if we can take the message into their world and show them that Jesus is real where they are, we can change the world. Do you want the world to change you or do you want to change the world for Jesus? Developing self-control will have a lot to do with which one happens in your life.

shine!
Jason

Looking religious

TODAY'S READING: 2 Timothy 3:1-5
You know what really scares me when I read this passage? It reminds me of our culture today. It almost feels like Paul was able to watch an evening of American television in 2006. And while I may find it hard to believe, there have been many people like this for generations. The difference is that modern communications has brought much more of it to our attention and even into our homes.
It seems as though it is becoming more and more difficult to develop self-control. As the world discovers more and more ways to penetrate our mind, Satan uses them to brainwash us. What would have been thought of as unacceptable to most Christians a generation ago is now tolerated as "not so bad." Behaviors that would have been condemned when our grandparents were younger is "no big deal."
And while Christianity is much more than moral excellence, the lack of moral excellence is an indicator of where the heart is. It is a reflection of a deeper issue. There is so much about our culture that is rushed and shallow. And this attitude has even influenced the church.
Paul talks about this exact thing when he says in verse five, "They will act as if they are religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly." He reveals a problem that seems to be present today. Acting religious without acting godly.
You have seen it before. Maybe in your church. Or in your family. Or even in the mirror. The ability to look religious when necessary, but not really changing on the inside. The reality is we all struggle with this at some level. None of us are as transparent as we should be. Most of us want to maintain the status of being a "good church member." I think the words of the Casting Crowns song "Stained Glass Masquerade" describe it best...

Is there anyone that fails
Is there anyone that falls
Am I the only one in church today feelin' so small

Cause when I take a look around
Everybody seems so strong
I know they'll soon discover
That I don't belong

So I tuck it all away, like everything's okay
If I make them all believe it, maybe I'll believe it too
So with a painted grin, I play the heart again
So everyone will see me the way that I see them

Are we happy plastic people
Under shiny plastic steeples
With walls around our weakness
And smiles to hide our pain
But if the invitation's open
To every heart that has been broken
Maybe then we close the curtain
On our stained glass masquerade

Is there anyone who's been there
Are there any hands to raise
Am I the only one who's traded
In the altar for a stage

The performance is convincing
And we know every line by heart
Only when no one is watching
Can we really fall apart

But would it set me free
If I dared to let you see
The truth behind the person
That you imagine me to be

Would your arms be open
Or would you walk away
Would the love of Jesus
Be enough to make you stay

I believe this is why Paul warned Timothy. He was fearful that Timothy would be influenced by the attitude of the day. Paul was concerned that Timothy would avoid real transformation and settle for external performance.
For many Christianity has become another mask to wear. Another routine. A hobby that requires certain behaviors. We have been slowly lulled into believing that who we really are doesn't matter as long as we look the part.
The problem is that when the curtain closes and the show is over, who will you be offstage? When its time to clean off the make up and get out of the costume, who is the real you?
We must be careful to stand strong in the midst of pressure. We should examine our lives to see if the things Paul is talking about are true in our lives. Do any of these things describe you...
Loving only yourself and your money.
Boastful and proud.
Scoffing at God.
Disobedient to your parents, and ungrateful.
Consider nothing sacred.
Unloving and unforgiving.
Slandering others and having no self-control.
Cruel and having no interest in what is good.
Betraying your friends, being reckless, puffed up with pride, and loving pleasure rather than God.
I would imagine most of us struggle with something on the list above. But the question is are we willing to acknowledge it and make the change. That will determine where we go from here and impact our ability to bring a little bit of heaven to earth.

shine!
Jason

Looking religious

TODAY'S READING: 2 Timothy 3:1-5
You know what really scares me when I read this passage? It reminds me of our culture today. It almost feels like Paul was able to watch an evening of American television in 2006. And while I may find it hard to believe, there have been many people like this for generations. The difference is that modern communications has brought much more of it to our attention and even into our homes.
It seems as though it is becoming more and more difficult to develop self-control. As the world discovers more and more ways to penetrate our mind, Satan uses them to brainwash us. What would have been thought of as unacceptable to most Christians a generation ago is now tolerated as "not so bad." Behaviors that would have been condemned when our grandparents were younger is "no big deal."
And while Christianity is much more than moral excellence, the lack of moral excellence is an indicator of where the heart is. It is a reflection of a deeper issue. There is so much about our culture that is rushed and shallow. And this attitude has even influenced the church.
Paul talks about this exact thing when he says in verse five, "They will act as if they are religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly." He reveals a problem that seems to be present today. Acting religious without acting godly.
You have seen it before. Maybe in your church. Or in your family. Or even in the mirror. The ability to look religious when necessary, but not really changing on the inside. The reality is we all struggle with this at some level. None of us are as transparent as we should be. Most of us want to maintain the status of being a "good church member." I think the words of the Casting Crowns song "Stained Glass Masquerade" describe it best...

Is there anyone that fails
Is there anyone that falls
Am I the only one in church today feelin' so small

Cause when I take a look around
Everybody seems so strong
I know they'll soon discover
That I don't belong

So I tuck it all away, like everything's okay
If I make them all believe it, maybe I'll believe it too
So with a painted grin, I play the heart again
So everyone will see me the way that I see them

Are we happy plastic people
Under shiny plastic steeples
With walls around our weakness
And smiles to hide our pain
But if the invitation's open
To every heart that has been broken
Maybe then we close the curtain
On our stained glass masquerade

Is there anyone who's been there
Are there any hands to raise
Am I the only one who's traded
In the altar for a stage

The performance is convincing
And we know every line by heart
Only when no one is watching
Can we really fall apart

But would it set me free
If I dared to let you see
The truth behind the person
That you imagine me to be

Would your arms be open
Or would you walk away
Would the love of Jesus
Be enough to make you stay

I believe this is why Paul warned Timothy. He was fearful that Timothy would be influenced by the attitude of the day. Paul was concerned that Timothy would avoid real transformation and settle for external performance.
For many Christianity has become another mask to wear. Another routine. A hobby that requires certain behaviors. We have been slowly lulled into believing that who we really are doesn't matter as long as we look the part.
The problem is that when the curtain closes and the show is over, who will you be offstage? When its time to clean off the make up and get out of the costume, who is the real you?
We must be careful to stand strong in the midst of pressure. We should examine our lives to see if the things Paul is talking about are true in our lives. Do any of these things describe you...
Loving only yourself and your money.
Boastful and proud.
Scoffing at God.
Disobedient to your parents, and ungrateful.
Consider nothing sacred.
Unloving and unforgiving.
Slandering others and having no self-control.
Cruel and having no interest in what is good.
Betraying your friends, being reckless, puffed up with pride, and loving pleasure rather than God.
I would imagine most of us struggle with something on the list above. But the question is are we willing to acknowledge it and make the change. That will determine where we go from here and impact our ability to bring a little bit of heaven to earth.

shine!
Jason

Can you see clearly?

TODAY'S READING: 2 Peter 1:3-11
Have you ever been in a car that is driving in a rainstorm or a snowstorm? I would imagine all of us have been. But how many of us have been in that situation when the windshield wipers don't work? Now that is a whole different situation.
What Peter writes about here is the difference between driving through the storms of life with or without spiritual wipers. As we journey though life we will experience storms. There will be times when we are tested. The question is, can you see where you are going?
Peter provides us with a road-map for the adventure called following Jesus. It is an adventure that begins with faith but becomes so much more. Here is what Peter says...

Your faith will produce a life of moral excellence.
A life of moral excellence leads to knowing God better.
Knowing God leads to self-control.
Self-control leads to patient endurance.
Patient endurance leads to godliness.
Godliness leads to love for other Christians.
Finally you will grow to have genuine love for everyone.

The problem is that many people stop at step one or two. I have seen many Christians who think that once you have faith in Jesus you have arrived. Once you come up out of the waters of baptism it is time to set the spiritual cruise control and wait for heaven. But that is not what Peter says.
Others believe that moral excellence is the end of the road. They feel that once they become a Christian all they have to do is be a good person. Christianity becomes a list of things to do and not do. But that is not what Peter says.
Once we have faith in Jesus and begin to live it out with morality, our adventure is just beginning. This is simply a foundation upon which we get to know God better and become more like Him.
We should get to know God better and develop self-control. This means we act less like our old self and more like God. This will make us more patient and God-like. And eventually we will come to love everyone like God does. And guess what? That means we will look like Jesus. We will live and act like the One who was willing to completely give Himself away for the sake of others. Love will not just consist of "being nice" to others. It will mean we give all for others.
Is the windshield of your life blurred because you misunderstand God's goal in your life? Are you coming up short of what Peter describes? Do you need to turn on the spiritual wipers to see God more clearly?
Think about where you are along the process Peter talks about. Do you need to press on to another level? The Kingdom of God in your life will only go as far as you are willing to let it. Do you need to leave the rest stop you are at and get back on the road to discovering God? I think we all need to go a little further so we can become more like what we are called to be.

shine!
Jason

Can you see clearly?

TODAY'S READING: 2 Peter 1:3-11
Have you ever been in a car that is driving in a rainstorm or a snowstorm? I would imagine all of us have been. But how many of us have been in that situation when the windshield wipers don't work? Now that is a whole different situation.
What Peter writes about here is the difference between driving through the storms of life with or without spiritual wipers. As we journey though life we will experience storms. There will be times when we are tested. The question is, can you see where you are going?
Peter provides us with a road-map for the adventure called following Jesus. It is an adventure that begins with faith but becomes so much more. Here is what Peter says...

Your faith will produce a life of moral excellence.
A life of moral excellence leads to knowing God better.
Knowing God leads to self-control.
Self-control leads to patient endurance.
Patient endurance leads to godliness.
Godliness leads to love for other Christians.
Finally you will grow to have genuine love for everyone.

The problem is that many people stop at step one or two. I have seen many Christians who think that once you have faith in Jesus you have arrived. Once you come up out of the waters of baptism it is time to set the spiritual cruise control and wait for heaven. But that is not what Peter says.
Others believe that moral excellence is the end of the road. They feel that once they become a Christian all they have to do is be a good person. Christianity becomes a list of things to do and not do. But that is not what Peter says.
Once we have faith in Jesus and begin to live it out with morality, our adventure is just beginning. This is simply a foundation upon which we get to know God better and become more like Him.
We should get to know God better and develop self-control. This means we act less like our old self and more like God. This will make us more patient and God-like. And eventually we will come to love everyone like God does. And guess what? That means we will look like Jesus. We will live and act like the One who was willing to completely give Himself away for the sake of others. Love will not just consist of "being nice" to others. It will mean we give all for others.
Is the windshield of your life blurred because you misunderstand God's goal in your life? Are you coming up short of what Peter describes? Do you need to turn on the spiritual wipers to see God more clearly?
Think about where you are along the process Peter talks about. Do you need to press on to another level? The Kingdom of God in your life will only go as far as you are willing to let it. Do you need to leave the rest stop you are at and get back on the road to discovering God? I think we all need to go a little further so we can become more like what we are called to be.

shine!
Jason

Changing addresses

TODAY'S READING: 1 Peter 1:13-25
Imagine someone came to you and told you that your house was going to be demolished. But since that was going to happen, you were offered a house that was ten times bigger. If your bedroom is 12x12 now, it will be 35x35 in the new house. Your kitchen might be the size of the old house. The fridge will contain every food you like. The TV will be the size of a movie theater screen.
But for some reason you keep going back to the old house. Even though you are not sure when the destruction will happen, you still go back and hang out there. The power has been shut off, but you still look in the fridge for something to eat. There are no lights, but you stumble around in the darkness.
You do go to your new house a couple times a week. You never really stay that long, but you want people in the new neighborhood to know you live there. It's more of a status thing than really living there though.
Does this all sounds crazy? Would you live like that? Well, I have seen plenty of people who do.
They have been warned that this world is doomed for destruction. They have been offered a much better place to live. But they need to be willing to move there now. The Kingdom of God is not just heaven.
The Kingdom of God is something that is very real is this world. It is where God wants us to move to in this life. But so many of us are content to continue to return to the house of sin. We know there is a better place, but we find comfort in the old, dark place. We do stumble around. but for some reason we can't get away.
God's call for us is clear. And Peter describes it well. We are called to be holy. We must leave the old behind and be careful not to slip back into our old place.
This requires self-control. It means there must be real effort.
But maybe you think it's too hard. It means you have to lose friends or risk your reputation. There may have to be a change in the way you talk or treat others. You may have to let go of some possessions or attitudes.
But don't you think it was pretty hard for God to pay the price for our new place? It wasn't bought with silver or gold. He paid for it with His very own Son. The blood that bought you and me a place in eternity was from heaven itself. God was willing to do that because He wants you and me. He suffered so that we wouldn't have to. His Son died so that we could live with Him forever.
But life in God's presence doesn't start on the day we die. It starts here and now. It means leaving the old address where sin and evil live and moving to the kingdom where Jesus lives. It requires us to leave behind the old life that is headed to death and destruction. And in the process we are to become new people with a new attitude and a new way of life. Are you trying to live in both
places? More often than not, the neighbors in the old place will bring you down and keep you there. Have you made the move yet? If not, it's time to head to a better neighborhood.

shine!
Jason

Changing addresses

TODAY'S READING: 1 Peter 1:13-25
Imagine someone came to you and told you that your house was going to be demolished. But since that was going to happen, you were offered a house that was ten times bigger. If your bedroom is 12x12 now, it will be 35x35 in the new house. Your kitchen might be the size of the old house. The fridge will contain every food you like. The TV will be the size of a movie theater screen.
But for some reason you keep going back to the old house. Even though you are not sure when the destruction will happen, you still go back and hang out there. The power has been shut off, but you still look in the fridge for something to eat. There are no lights, but you stumble around in the darkness.
You do go to your new house a couple times a week. You never really stay that long, but you want people in the new neighborhood to know you live there. It's more of a status thing than really living there though.
Does this all sounds crazy? Would you live like that? Well, I have seen plenty of people who do.
They have been warned that this world is doomed for destruction. They have been offered a much better place to live. But they need to be willing to move there now. The Kingdom of God is not just heaven.
The Kingdom of God is something that is very real is this world. It is where God wants us to move to in this life. But so many of us are content to continue to return to the house of sin. We know there is a better place, but we find comfort in the old, dark place. We do stumble around. but for some reason we can't get away.
God's call for us is clear. And Peter describes it well. We are called to be holy. We must leave the old behind and be careful not to slip back into our old place.
This requires self-control. It means there must be real effort.
But maybe you think it's too hard. It means you have to lose friends or risk your reputation. There may have to be a change in the way you talk or treat others. You may have to let go of some possessions or attitudes.
But don't you think it was pretty hard for God to pay the price for our new place? It wasn't bought with silver or gold. He paid for it with His very own Son. The blood that bought you and me a place in eternity was from heaven itself. God was willing to do that because He wants you and me. He suffered so that we wouldn't have to. His Son died so that we could live with Him forever.
But life in God's presence doesn't start on the day we die. It starts here and now. It means leaving the old address where sin and evil live and moving to the kingdom where Jesus lives. It requires us to leave behind the old life that is headed to death and destruction. And in the process we are to become new people with a new attitude and a new way of life. Are you trying to live in both
places? More often than not, the neighbors in the old place will bring you down and keep you there. Have you made the move yet? If not, it's time to head to a better neighborhood.

shine!
Jason

Becoming a spiritual champion

TODAY'S READING: Titus 2:1-15
Do you ever wonder why so many people struggle with self-control? Well, I think the answer is pretty simple. Self-control is hard work. It doesn't just happen. It takes training. It takes encouragement. It takes dedication. All of those things demand sacrifice and effort.
I have tremendous respect for Jerry Rice as an athlete. If you don't know, Jerry Rice is one of the greatest football players of all time. Most people consider him the best wide receiver ever. While Jerry possessed great athletic ability, that is not what made him the best ever. There are plenty of people in this world with the potential to be a great athlete. What made Jerry great was his dedication to training. He would train harder, longer, and more intensely than almost everybody else. When others might have still been sleeping, Jerry was working out. When other might have given up for the day, Jerry ran a little longer. In the end he became a great athlete and Super Bowl champion.
If we want to develop self-control and become more spiritually strong, we must show the dedication to training that Jerry showed. We must be willing to make the sacrifice to become self-controlled. But unfortunately, many of us are willing to settle for spiritual mediocrity. We are willing to trade our comfort for life to the fullest. We would rather avoid struggle than enjoy victory. We give up long-term joy for short-term happiness.
If you really want to experience life to the extreme, live in this world with self-control. The journey will not always be easy and the price may seem high, but as you begin to experience a life of self-control you will come to know a peace that surpasses understanding. You can become a champion for God. And as you become a person of self-control, you will not only find the life you never thought you could have, you will begin to share it with others around you as well. And the impact you have on them will only make the reward even better.

shine!
Jason

Becoming a spiritual champion

TODAY'S READING: Titus 2:1-15
Do you ever wonder why so many people struggle with self-control? Well, I think the answer is pretty simple. Self-control is hard work. It doesn't just happen. It takes training. It takes encouragement. It takes dedication. All of those things demand sacrifice and effort.
I have tremendous respect for Jerry Rice as an athlete. If you don't know, Jerry Rice is one of the greatest football players of all time. Most people consider him the best wide receiver ever. While Jerry possessed great athletic ability, that is not what made him the best ever. There are plenty of people in this world with the potential to be a great athlete. What made Jerry great was his dedication to training. He would train harder, longer, and more intensely than almost everybody else. When others might have still been sleeping, Jerry was working out. When other might have given up for the day, Jerry ran a little longer. In the end he became a great athlete and Super Bowl champion.
If we want to develop self-control and become more spiritually strong, we must show the dedication to training that Jerry showed. We must be willing to make the sacrifice to become self-controlled. But unfortunately, many of us are willing to settle for spiritual mediocrity. We are willing to trade our comfort for life to the fullest. We would rather avoid struggle than enjoy victory. We give up long-term joy for short-term happiness.
If you really want to experience life to the extreme, live in this world with self-control. The journey will not always be easy and the price may seem high, but as you begin to experience a life of self-control you will come to know a peace that surpasses understanding. You can become a champion for God. And as you become a person of self-control, you will not only find the life you never thought you could have, you will begin to share it with others around you as well. And the impact you have on them will only make the reward even better.

shine!
Jason

Which path?

TODAY'S READING: Psalm 27
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by life? Do you ever look around and wonder what to do? It could be a feeling of hopelessness. Or discouragement.
I believe these are the emotions that David was struggling with as he wrote this Psalm. He seems to be on this emotional roller coaster ride. The battle between hope and despair. The conflict we all experience between the moment and the bigger picture.
We would all love to have every problem solved immediately, wouldn't we? Don't you wish that every time you faced a difficult time you could wave a magic wand and fix it? I know that there are times I feel that way.
But David realized and wrote about the real cure for struggles in life. While he still had a hard time being the man he needed to be, David understood where his real hope was found. He knew that life was not easy and challenges were inevitable. But David also knew that God is the true source of strength.
In the face of attacks, the house of the Lord provides protection.
When troubles come, God is our sanctuary.
When our enemies surround us, we offer praise to the Lord.
Even when everyone else abandons us, God is there.
And the ultimate peace is found by the way we live. Although God is always there, we must be willing to remain in His presence. Even though God is constantly faithful, our faithfulness will determine our path.
In the face of danger, David asked God to teach him how to live and guide him along the path of honesty. He remained brave and courageous because David knew he was walking with God. He patiently waited for God because God was with him and he was with God.
When we face struggles and challenges in life we tend to revert to trusting ourselves. We want things fixed on our time schedule. We ask God where He is while we walk away from Him. We have a hard time being patient as the Lord walks with us through hard times.
The next time you face a difficult time in life, which might be right now, ask yourself this one question. Am I telling God where I want Him to take me or am I listening to Him for the path He wants me to take? The answer to this question can determine the outcome of not just that situation, but of your life here on earth and into eternity.

shine!
Jason

Which path?

TODAY'S READING: Psalm 27
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by life? Do you ever look around and wonder what to do? It could be a feeling of hopelessness. Or discouragement.
I believe these are the emotions that David was struggling with as he wrote this Psalm. He seems to be on this emotional roller coaster ride. The battle between hope and despair. The conflict we all experience between the moment and the bigger picture.
We would all love to have every problem solved immediately, wouldn't we? Don't you wish that every time you faced a difficult time you could wave a magic wand and fix it? I know that there are times I feel that way.
But David realized and wrote about the real cure for struggles in life. While he still had a hard time being the man he needed to be, David understood where his real hope was found. He knew that life was not easy and challenges were inevitable. But David also knew that God is the true source of strength.
In the face of attacks, the house of the Lord provides protection.
When troubles come, God is our sanctuary.
When our enemies surround us, we offer praise to the Lord.
Even when everyone else abandons us, God is there.
And the ultimate peace is found by the way we live. Although God is always there, we must be willing to remain in His presence. Even though God is constantly faithful, our faithfulness will determine our path.
In the face of danger, David asked God to teach him how to live and guide him along the path of honesty. He remained brave and courageous because David knew he was walking with God. He patiently waited for God because God was with him and he was with God.
When we face struggles and challenges in life we tend to revert to trusting ourselves. We want things fixed on our time schedule. We ask God where He is while we walk away from Him. We have a hard time being patient as the Lord walks with us through hard times.
The next time you face a difficult time in life, which might be right now, ask yourself this one question. Am I telling God where I want Him to take me or am I listening to Him for the path He wants me to take? The answer to this question can determine the outcome of not just that situation, but of your life here on earth and into eternity.

shine!
Jason

Life purpose

TODAY'S READING: 2 Timothy 3:10-17
As Paul writes to Timothy he gets to the heart of everything that matters to him. "But you know what I teach, Timothy, and how I live, and what my purpose in life is." (1 Timothy 3:10)
Paul's life reflected what really mattered to him. His life was all about Jesus and serving God. He suffered because of his faith in Jesus. He was persecuted because of Jesus. Everything he did was because of Jesus.
What is your life purpose? What is at the core of who you are? If you are seeking an answer to those questions look at what you teach and how you live.
Paul reminded Timothy to remain faithful to his life purpose. Paul's advice was to remain faithful by trusting the One who gives us purpose. He wants us to remember that true wisdom comes from God and His word.
Most of us want to determine our own path. We want life on our terms. We want to be in control. But God calls us to wait on Him and allow Him to shape our life purpose. He has given us His word to help that shaping process. But most of us give very little time for that shaping to happen.
I would guess that most people avoid God's word because of how it will challenge us. Sure, we may say that we are too busy. But the heart of the issue for many is what God will say to us. We like life on our terms and we don't want anyone to challenge our authority, especially God.
Patience is not just something God has for us. It is something God wants us to develop towards Him. He wants to shape us and define our life purpose. But He realizes that for most of us it is not going to happen overnight. God shows such tremendous patience towards us. Does He deserve any less from us?
Take time to slow down and reflect on what God needs to say to you today. Give God time to speak with you through His word. Allow God to "teach us what is true and make us realize what is wrong in our lives." Let God's word "straighten us out and teach us to do what is right." Give God time to "prepare us in every way, fully equipping us for every good thing God wants us to do."

shine!
Jason

Life purpose

TODAY'S READING: 2 Timothy 3:10-17
As Paul writes to Timothy he gets to the heart of everything that matters to him. "But you know what I teach, Timothy, and how I live, and what my purpose in life is." (1 Timothy 3:10)
Paul's life reflected what really mattered to him. His life was all about Jesus and serving God. He suffered because of his faith in Jesus. He was persecuted because of Jesus. Everything he did was because of Jesus.
What is your life purpose? What is at the core of who you are? If you are seeking an answer to those questions look at what you teach and how you live.
Paul reminded Timothy to remain faithful to his life purpose. Paul's advice was to remain faithful by trusting the One who gives us purpose. He wants us to remember that true wisdom comes from God and His word.
Most of us want to determine our own path. We want life on our terms. We want to be in control. But God calls us to wait on Him and allow Him to shape our life purpose. He has given us His word to help that shaping process. But most of us give very little time for that shaping to happen.
I would guess that most people avoid God's word because of how it will challenge us. Sure, we may say that we are too busy. But the heart of the issue for many is what God will say to us. We like life on our terms and we don't want anyone to challenge our authority, especially God.
Patience is not just something God has for us. It is something God wants us to develop towards Him. He wants to shape us and define our life purpose. But He realizes that for most of us it is not going to happen overnight. God shows such tremendous patience towards us. Does He deserve any less from us?
Take time to slow down and reflect on what God needs to say to you today. Give God time to speak with you through His word. Allow God to "teach us what is true and make us realize what is wrong in our lives." Let God's word "straighten us out and teach us to do what is right." Give God time to "prepare us in every way, fully equipping us for every good thing God wants us to do."

shine!
Jason

Filled with Christ

TODAY'S READING: Colossians 3:12-17
So many people look at Christianity as a behavior-based religion. In other words, there are a lot of people who determine whether or not you are a Christian by how you behave. Now, while I would agree that behavior is usually a pretty good indicator, it is not the essence of being a follower of the Christ.
In this section of his letter to the church in Colosse, Paul describes the behaviors of one who is following Jesus.
Tenderhearted mercy. Kindness. Humility. Gentleness. Patience. A willingness to forgive. Love. Peace. Thankfulness.
While these are all indicative of a Christ-follower, they are not what a Christ-follower is. The true heart of a Christian goes much deeper. And someone does not grow in devotion to Christ simply by acting "religious."
No matter how good of a performance someone may put on, the real them will eventually seep out. Or else he or she will spend a lifetime being miserable living in two worlds.
If we are going to truly be followers of Jesus, we must engage in what Paul talks about in verses sixteen and seventeen. First and foremost, the words of Christ must live in our hearts. That doesn't just happen by using our Bible as a table decoration or even as a reference book once or twice a week at church. We must invest time with Jesus. We must be willing to devote ourselves to getting to know Jesus better. Time in God's word must be a part of who we are and what we do. Not because Bible reading is a good thing for a Christian to do or because they tell you to do it at church. Rather, we must desire to get to know Jesus better and make the effort.
As the words of Christ become a part of who we are, we must include them in our daily conversations. God should not be something we only discuss in Bible class. Every aspect of our lives should be directed and influenced by the word of God. If there is a disagreement in your family, consider what the words of Christ have to say. When you are walking the halls at school, let the words of Christ direct you. In those moments when you are alone, let the words of Christ control your thoughts and action. In all situations, teach and encourage one another to live more like Jesus.
Paul's next piece of advice is to let spiritual music penetrate your heart. Music is one of the most powerful tools in shaping who we are. I believe that is why Paul writes about it both here and in Ephesians 5. In both cases he is writing about things that shape the innermost person. The music we listen to influences who we are more than we can imagine. So Paul's advice is simple. Be influenced by music that will mold you into Christ's image.
As he continues, Paul reminds us to always be thankful. So often we take things for granted and have very thankless attitudes. God calls us to be thankful in all circumstances and situations. When we have a thankful heart our outlook on life can change dramatically.
And the result of all these things is what Paul describes as being a representative of the Lord Jesus in all we say or do. When our hearts and minds are filled with and shaped by God, we cannot help but speak and act more and more like Him each day.
As you look at the behaviors in your life, ask yourself two questions. Am I being real or is this a show? And, If someone could strip away all of my masks, what kind of person am I on the inside? As you consider those questions, think about how much the word of Christ is filling your heart right now and whether or not He is really your Lord.

shine!
Jason

Filled with Christ

TODAY'S READING: Colossians 3:12-17
So many people look at Christianity as a behavior-based religion. In other words, there are a lot of people who determine whether or not you are a Christian by how you behave. Now, while I would agree that behavior is usually a pretty good indicator, it is not the essence of being a follower of the Christ.
In this section of his letter to the church in Colosse, Paul describes the behaviors of one who is following Jesus.
Tenderhearted mercy. Kindness. Humility. Gentleness. Patience. A willingness to forgive. Love. Peace. Thankfulness.
While these are all indicative of a Christ-follower, they are not what a Christ-follower is. The true heart of a Christian goes much deeper. And someone does not grow in devotion to Christ simply by acting "religious."
No matter how good of a performance someone may put on, the real them will eventually seep out. Or else he or she will spend a lifetime being miserable living in two worlds.
If we are going to truly be followers of Jesus, we must engage in what Paul talks about in verses sixteen and seventeen. First and foremost, the words of Christ must live in our hearts. That doesn't just happen by using our Bible as a table decoration or even as a reference book once or twice a week at church. We must invest time with Jesus. We must be willing to devote ourselves to getting to know Jesus better. Time in God's word must be a part of who we are and what we do. Not because Bible reading is a good thing for a Christian to do or because they tell you to do it at church. Rather, we must desire to get to know Jesus better and make the effort.
As the words of Christ become a part of who we are, we must include them in our daily conversations. God should not be something we only discuss in Bible class. Every aspect of our lives should be directed and influenced by the word of God. If there is a disagreement in your family, consider what the words of Christ have to say. When you are walking the halls at school, let the words of Christ direct you. In those moments when you are alone, let the words of Christ control your thoughts and action. In all situations, teach and encourage one another to live more like Jesus.
Paul's next piece of advice is to let spiritual music penetrate your heart. Music is one of the most powerful tools in shaping who we are. I believe that is why Paul writes about it both here and in Ephesians 5. In both cases he is writing about things that shape the innermost person. The music we listen to influences who we are more than we can imagine. So Paul's advice is simple. Be influenced by music that will mold you into Christ's image.
As he continues, Paul reminds us to always be thankful. So often we take things for granted and have very thankless attitudes. God calls us to be thankful in all circumstances and situations. When we have a thankful heart our outlook on life can change dramatically.
And the result of all these things is what Paul describes as being a representative of the Lord Jesus in all we say or do. When our hearts and minds are filled with and shaped by God, we cannot help but speak and act more and more like Him each day.
As you look at the behaviors in your life, ask yourself two questions. Am I being real or is this a show? And, If someone could strip away all of my masks, what kind of person am I on the inside? As you consider those questions, think about how much the word of Christ is filling your heart right now and whether or not He is really your Lord.

shine!
Jason

Patience like Jesus

TODAY'S READING: 2 Corinthians 6:3-10
How do you tell people about Jesus? Is it by quoting a bunch of Bible? Maybe you invite them to church? Could it be bringing them to a small group? Or do we have a Bible study with them?
While there may be some good ideas in that mix, I don't think any of those are the most effective way to start the conversation about Jesus. I believe that Paul tells us where to start as he writes to the Corinthian church.
Do you want people to know about Jesus? Here is the formula...
*Patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind.
*Be beaten, be put in jail, face angry mobs, work to exhaustion, endure sleepless nights, and go without food.
*Live with purity, understanding, patience, kindness, sincere love, and the power of the Holy Spirit.
*Faithfully preach the truth.
*Serve God whether people honor you or despise you, whether they slander you or praise you.
*Be honest when people call you an impostor.
You might say, OK, but that is not the way Christians are treated today. People aren't threatening to put me in jail or beat me. Two thoughts. First of all, you may be right that Christians are not treated that way where you live, but have you been to any foreign countries lately? Christians are killed and jailed all the time in other places. It is estimated that over 100,000 followers of Jesus are killed each year for their faith.
That leads to my second thought. Are we not being mistreated because we are not living faithfully to our call? Have we sold out to our culture and accepted things that contradict the call of Christ? Are we treated like everyone else because we act like everyone else?
If that is true, we are letting down our brothers and sisters who put their lives on the line every day in other nations. And we are letting down the One who died for us and to whom we claim allegiance.
About 2,000 years ago, Jesus was falsely accused, stripped, beaten, and forced to carry a cross He didn't deserve. He was laughed at, mocked, and rejected. He was nailed to that cross and a crown of thorns was placed on His head. Jesus suffered agony and humiliation. Should we expect any less? Are we willing to settle for "comfortable" Christianity? Do we think that a little struggle is too much to ask for?
If we are going to be Jesus to this world, we need to look like Jesus. We must be willing to be mistreated, pure, kind, and so much more. We have to live like Jesus if we want to have the impact He had. Jesus did not change the world because He was popular and agreed with the culture of His day. He changed people's lives because He was different. He offered a different view on life. He offered a different way to treat people. He offered a radical form of religion. He was willing to give up everything He had so that others could have so much more.
Are we willing to do the same? Can we give up the things that make us comfortable so we can offer others the One who will bring them peace? The followers of Jesus we read about in Acts were willing to make that kind of change in their lives. And look at the difference it made.
Are we ready to be the Jesus we see in the Gospels and the disciples we read about in Acts so that we can have the life-changing impact they did?

shine!
Jason

Patience like Jesus

TODAY'S READING: 2 Corinthians 6:3-10
How do you tell people about Jesus? Is it by quoting a bunch of Bible? Maybe you invite them to church? Could it be bringing them to a small group? Or do we have a Bible study with them?
While there may be some good ideas in that mix, I don't think any of those are the most effective way to start the conversation about Jesus. I believe that Paul tells us where to start as he writes to the Corinthian church.
Do you want people to know about Jesus? Here is the formula...
*Patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind.
*Be beaten, be put in jail, face angry mobs, work to exhaustion, endure sleepless nights, and go without food.
*Live with purity, understanding, patience, kindness, sincere love, and the power of the Holy Spirit.
*Faithfully preach the truth.
*Serve God whether people honor you or despise you, whether they slander you or praise you.
*Be honest when people call you an impostor.
You might say, OK, but that is not the way Christians are treated today. People aren't threatening to put me in jail or beat me. Two thoughts. First of all, you may be right that Christians are not treated that way where you live, but have you been to any foreign countries lately? Christians are killed and jailed all the time in other places. It is estimated that over 100,000 followers of Jesus are killed each year for their faith.
That leads to my second thought. Are we not being mistreated because we are not living faithfully to our call? Have we sold out to our culture and accepted things that contradict the call of Christ? Are we treated like everyone else because we act like everyone else?
If that is true, we are letting down our brothers and sisters who put their lives on the line every day in other nations. And we are letting down the One who died for us and to whom we claim allegiance.
About 2,000 years ago, Jesus was falsely accused, stripped, beaten, and forced to carry a cross He didn't deserve. He was laughed at, mocked, and rejected. He was nailed to that cross and a crown of thorns was placed on His head. Jesus suffered agony and humiliation. Should we expect any less? Are we willing to settle for "comfortable" Christianity? Do we think that a little struggle is too much to ask for?
If we are going to be Jesus to this world, we need to look like Jesus. We must be willing to be mistreated, pure, kind, and so much more. We have to live like Jesus if we want to have the impact He had. Jesus did not change the world because He was popular and agreed with the culture of His day. He changed people's lives because He was different. He offered a different view on life. He offered a different way to treat people. He offered a radical form of religion. He was willing to give up everything He had so that others could have so much more.
Are we willing to do the same? Can we give up the things that make us comfortable so we can offer others the One who will bring them peace? The followers of Jesus we read about in Acts were willing to make that kind of change in their lives. And look at the difference it made.
Are we ready to be the Jesus we see in the Gospels and the disciples we read about in Acts so that we can have the life-changing impact they did?

shine!
Jason

Unworthy...but worthy

TODAY'S READING: 1 Timothy 1:12-17
Have you ever felt unworthy to serve as a representative of Jesus? I know I do. It may be a day when I remember my past. It could be a time when I consider my innermost thoughts. Maybe I am just having a not-so-good day looking like Jesus.
We all have those times when we feel inadequate to the task we have been called to. But I find hope in knowing that I am not alone.
Consider the apostle Paul. When Jesus met him on that road to Damascus, Paul had been killing Christians. He was leading the equivalent of religious terrorists whose primary goal was to kill followers of the Christ.
But as Paul writes this letter to Timothy things have changed. Paul has come to know who Jesus really is and what He really stands for. And what a difference it has made.
The man who once tried to kill Christians is now willing to give his life for Christ.
The man who used to think he had all the answers discovered the only Answer that really matters.
It was in his conversion that Paul discovered the real power of God. The power of forgiveness. The power of mercy. The power of patience. The power of a God who is willing to work with anyone.
Feeling insufficient? God is the One who makes you sufficient.
Feeling unworthy? God will give you your worth.
Feeling hopeless? God is hope.
When you feel like it might be time to give up, remember that our God is a patient and loving God who never gives up. He wants nothing more than to see each of us come to love Him and live for Him. And as He pursues each of us, God will be patient, loving, and merciful. And what more could you ask to live for than that?

shine!
Jason

Unworthy...but worthy

TODAY'S READING: 1 Timothy 1:12-17
Have you ever felt unworthy to serve as a representative of Jesus? I know I do. It may be a day when I remember my past. It could be a time when I consider my innermost thoughts. Maybe I am just having a not-so-good day looking like Jesus.
We all have those times when we feel inadequate to the task we have been called to. But I find hope in knowing that I am not alone.
Consider the apostle Paul. When Jesus met him on that road to Damascus, Paul had been killing Christians. He was leading the equivalent of religious terrorists whose primary goal was to kill followers of the Christ.
But as Paul writes this letter to Timothy things have changed. Paul has come to know who Jesus really is and what He really stands for. And what a difference it has made.
The man who once tried to kill Christians is now willing to give his life for Christ.
The man who used to think he had all the answers discovered the only Answer that really matters.
It was in his conversion that Paul discovered the real power of God. The power of forgiveness. The power of mercy. The power of patience. The power of a God who is willing to work with anyone.
Feeling insufficient? God is the One who makes you sufficient.
Feeling unworthy? God will give you your worth.
Feeling hopeless? God is hope.
When you feel like it might be time to give up, remember that our God is a patient and loving God who never gives up. He wants nothing more than to see each of us come to love Him and live for Him. And as He pursues each of us, God will be patient, loving, and merciful. And what more could you ask to live for than that?

shine!
Jason

Heaven in this world

TODAY'S READING: Romans 8:18-30
Have you ever started praying and you are not sure what to say? Maybe you are so overwhelmed you can't find the words. Maybe you're afraid of saying things the wrong way.
I find comfort in knowing that the Holy Spirit intercedes when I pray. The presence of God living in me that speaks to the Father for me.
Jesus told His disciples, "If you love me, obey my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth." (John 14:15-17)
I will be honest and say that I don't completely understand how He does this, but the Holy Spirit works in our life to bring us closer to God. He leads us toward truth and leads us closer to the heart of God. And in reality those two things are synonymous. Truth is the heart of God. It reveals His character.
As we allow the Holy Spirit to take control of our life we will notice a change. God will begin to shape our thoughts and change our focus. He will turn our hearts away from this world and towards eternity.
As that happens we should not just look forward to heaven. We should make every effort to bring heaven to earth. God's purpose is not just that we spend eternity with Him. His purpose for us also includes bringing the Kingdom of God into this world and helping bring all of creation closer to the way it looked before sin entered the world.
The Holy Spirit is the bridge between this world and eternity. He provides a way for us to go into God's presence and it allows God's presence to enter this world. And we are the instruments the Spirit uses to make this happen. When we are willing to allow God to work in our lives through the Holy Spirit earth will begin to look a little more like heaven.

shine!
Jason

Heaven in this world

TODAY'S READING: Romans 8:18-30
Have you ever started praying and you are not sure what to say? Maybe you are so overwhelmed you can't find the words. Maybe you're afraid of saying things the wrong way.
I find comfort in knowing that the Holy Spirit intercedes when I pray. The presence of God living in me that speaks to the Father for me.
Jesus told His disciples, "If you love me, obey my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth." (John 14:15-17)
I will be honest and say that I don't completely understand how He does this, but the Holy Spirit works in our life to bring us closer to God. He leads us toward truth and leads us closer to the heart of God. And in reality those two things are synonymous. Truth is the heart of God. It reveals His character.
As we allow the Holy Spirit to take control of our life we will notice a change. God will begin to shape our thoughts and change our focus. He will turn our hearts away from this world and towards eternity.
As that happens we should not just look forward to heaven. We should make every effort to bring heaven to earth. God's purpose is not just that we spend eternity with Him. His purpose for us also includes bringing the Kingdom of God into this world and helping bring all of creation closer to the way it looked before sin entered the world.
The Holy Spirit is the bridge between this world and eternity. He provides a way for us to go into God's presence and it allows God's presence to enter this world. And we are the instruments the Spirit uses to make this happen. When we are willing to allow God to work in our lives through the Holy Spirit earth will begin to look a little more like heaven.

shine!
Jason

American Christianity?

TODAY'S READING: Romans 8:1-17
As I read this passage again it still challenges me. I can't tell you how many times I have read Romans 8, but there is something huge here. I can't help but being convicted by the words of Paul. These words challenge me about what it means to be a Christian. They cut to the heart of what a Christian really is.
I believe that American Christianity misses the point way too often. We have turned Christianity into the "Christian American Dream." Being a Christian in America means you have a nice house, a nice career, drive a nice car, raise a couple of children, and go to church. What was meant to be a lifestyle has become a hobby for many. Church is not who we are, it is something we do. Following Jesus has come to mean being a good citizen.
Where did we lose site of what it's really about? How have we been misled? Has the American Dream stolen our hearts from God's dream? A dream of sold-out disciples who are willing to lay it all aside for the cause of the Christ.
Did Jesus die so we could be more comfortable? Did He give his life so our life could be easier? Did God sacrifice His Son simply so we could enjoy life?I want to take a minute to consider three sentences from Romans 8...
"And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them are not Christians at all."
"For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God."
"And since we are his children, we will share his treasures--for everything God gives to his Son, Christ, is ours, too. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering."
Has our culture led us to believe that we can have the treasures without the rest? Has our country's brand of Christianity bought into a lie that we don't really need to be led by the Spirit or experience suffering? Have we been deceived to the point where obedience to Christ centers around sitting in a pew on Sunday morning and engaging in a few acts of worship?
Now don't get me wrong. We should come together for times of worship and encouragement. We must help each other along on this journey called life. The body must work together and be together. But what of the Spirit-filled, sacrificial life that Paul writes about?
I am more and more convinced that Christianity is not dying in America primarily because of the moral decay of our nation. No. I think we have it backwards. I believe that moral decay is occurring because many churchgoers and churches are selling themselves short by being participants in religious activity as opposed to Spirit-filled, sold-out, sacrificial followers of the Christ. For many church has become a social club as opposed to a way of life.
I believe this generation has the ability to return to the heart of true discipleship. But there are some crucial questions to be answered. Are we willing to lay down our entire lives for the cause of Jesus? Can we let go of the possessions, materialism, and entertainment-centered culture that dominates our world? Is this a generation that will allow the Holy Spirit to lead us in every aspect of life? Are we willing to settle for a religion that is a part of our life or do we want a relationship with God that penetrates and consumes every aspect of who we are and what we do?

shine!
Jason

American Christianity?

TODAY'S READING: Romans 8:1-17
As I read this passage again it still challenges me. I can't tell you how many times I have read Romans 8, but there is something huge here. I can't help but being convicted by the words of Paul. These words challenge me about what it means to be a Christian. They cut to the heart of what a Christian really is.
I believe that American Christianity misses the point way too often. We have turned Christianity into the "Christian American Dream." Being a Christian in America means you have a nice house, a nice career, drive a nice car, raise a couple of children, and go to church. What was meant to be a lifestyle has become a hobby for many. Church is not who we are, it is something we do. Following Jesus has come to mean being a good citizen.
Where did we lose site of what it's really about? How have we been misled? Has the American Dream stolen our hearts from God's dream? A dream of sold-out disciples who are willing to lay it all aside for the cause of the Christ.
Did Jesus die so we could be more comfortable? Did He give his life so our life could be easier? Did God sacrifice His Son simply so we could enjoy life?I want to take a minute to consider three sentences from Romans 8...
"And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them are not Christians at all."
"For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God."
"And since we are his children, we will share his treasures--for everything God gives to his Son, Christ, is ours, too. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering."
Has our culture led us to believe that we can have the treasures without the rest? Has our country's brand of Christianity bought into a lie that we don't really need to be led by the Spirit or experience suffering? Have we been deceived to the point where obedience to Christ centers around sitting in a pew on Sunday morning and engaging in a few acts of worship?
Now don't get me wrong. We should come together for times of worship and encouragement. We must help each other along on this journey called life. The body must work together and be together. But what of the Spirit-filled, sacrificial life that Paul writes about?
I am more and more convinced that Christianity is not dying in America primarily because of the moral decay of our nation. No. I think we have it backwards. I believe that moral decay is occurring because many churchgoers and churches are selling themselves short by being participants in religious activity as opposed to Spirit-filled, sold-out, sacrificial followers of the Christ. For many church has become a social club as opposed to a way of life.
I believe this generation has the ability to return to the heart of true discipleship. But there are some crucial questions to be answered. Are we willing to lay down our entire lives for the cause of Jesus? Can we let go of the possessions, materialism, and entertainment-centered culture that dominates our world? Is this a generation that will allow the Holy Spirit to lead us in every aspect of life? Are we willing to settle for a religion that is a part of our life or do we want a relationship with God that penetrates and consumes every aspect of who we are and what we do?

shine!
Jason

Carry the message

TODAY'S READING: 2 Timothy 1:3-14
In 490 B.C., a soldier named Pheidippides ran from a battlefield near the town of Marathon, Greece to Athens, bringing news of a Greek victory over the Persians. Legend has it that Pheidippides delivered the momentous message "Niki!" ("victory"), then collapsed and died. To this day millions of people all over the world run marathons that originated from this one man's run.We as Christians have been entrusted with a message as well. And as I think about Paul writing about "running the race," I wonder if he was thinking about the story of Pheidippides.
Here Paul is writing another letter to his "son in the faith," Timothy. As Paul writes what many consider to be his farewell address, he concentrates on communicating to Timothy the things of greatest importance.
In the passage we read today, Paul is reminding Timothy of the great message he has been entrusted to carry and deliver. Here is the message as Paul summarizes it in verses nine and ten...

It is God who saved us and chose us to live a holy life. He did this not because we deserved it, but because that was his plan long before the world began--to show his love and kindness to us through Christ Jesus. And now he has made all of this plain to us by the coming of Christ Jesus, our Savior, who broke the power of death and showed us the way to everlasting life through the Good News.

And as Paul is encouraging Timothy by reminding him of the love of God, he also reminds Timothy that God has not left us to accomplish this task alone. We have been given the Holy Spirit to encourage and guide us on the journey.
Paul tells us that we have been given a Spirit of power, love, and self-discipline. It is virtually impossible for us to fully have any of these things on our own, but when we trust in God and allow the Spirit to control our lives, we will be filled with power, love, and self-discipline. We will be able to accomplish much more with the Holy Spirit that we can do without Him.
In addition, the Holy Spirit is there to help us guard what we have been given. He will help us in the way we deliver and live out the message. The Holy Spirit will help us when we are not sure what to say or how to live. But this will only happen when we accept the Spirit's presence and provide a spiritually healthy environment.
I believe that the ability of the Holy Spirit to work in our lives is much like the ability of a plant to grow. If we don't feed, water, and provide good soil for a plant, it will wither up and be weak. The same will happen if we don't feed, water, and provide good spiritual soil for the Holy Spirit.
We can never weaken God, but we can weaken His ability to work in our lives. He has given us the freedom to decide whether or not we will fully commit to Him. And when we use that freedom to deny Him, we will be weakened.
We have all been entrusted with a message that means life and death to us and those around us. And we have been given the Holy Spirit to help us along the way. But the question is, how are we treating our Helper? Are we providing the right environment so He can fill us with the power, love, and self-discipline that will allow us to finish the race and deliver the message of "Victory?" That part is up to you.

shine!
Jason

Carry the message

TODAY'S READING: 2 Timothy 1:3-14
In 490 B.C., a soldier named Pheidippides ran from a battlefield near the town of Marathon, Greece to Athens, bringing news of a Greek victory over the Persians. Legend has it that Pheidippides delivered the momentous message "Niki!" ("victory"), then collapsed and died. To this day millions of people all over the world run marathons that originated from this one man's run.We as Christians have been entrusted with a message as well. And as I think about Paul writing about "running the race," I wonder if he was thinking about the story of Pheidippides.
Here Paul is writing another letter to his "son in the faith," Timothy. As Paul writes what many consider to be his farewell address, he concentrates on communicating to Timothy the things of greatest importance.
In the passage we read today, Paul is reminding Timothy of the great message he has been entrusted to carry and deliver. Here is the message as Paul summarizes it in verses nine and ten...

It is God who saved us and chose us to live a holy life. He did this not because we deserved it, but because that was his plan long before the world began--to show his love and kindness to us through Christ Jesus. And now he has made all of this plain to us by the coming of Christ Jesus, our Savior, who broke the power of death and showed us the way to everlasting life through the Good News.

And as Paul is encouraging Timothy by reminding him of the love of God, he also reminds Timothy that God has not left us to accomplish this task alone. We have been given the Holy Spirit to encourage and guide us on the journey.
Paul tells us that we have been given a Spirit of power, love, and self-discipline. It is virtually impossible for us to fully have any of these things on our own, but when we trust in God and allow the Spirit to control our lives, we will be filled with power, love, and self-discipline. We will be able to accomplish much more with the Holy Spirit that we can do without Him.
In addition, the Holy Spirit is there to help us guard what we have been given. He will help us in the way we deliver and live out the message. The Holy Spirit will help us when we are not sure what to say or how to live. But this will only happen when we accept the Spirit's presence and provide a spiritually healthy environment.
I believe that the ability of the Holy Spirit to work in our lives is much like the ability of a plant to grow. If we don't feed, water, and provide good soil for a plant, it will wither up and be weak. The same will happen if we don't feed, water, and provide good spiritual soil for the Holy Spirit.
We can never weaken God, but we can weaken His ability to work in our lives. He has given us the freedom to decide whether or not we will fully commit to Him. And when we use that freedom to deny Him, we will be weakened.
We have all been entrusted with a message that means life and death to us and those around us. And we have been given the Holy Spirit to help us along the way. But the question is, how are we treating our Helper? Are we providing the right environment so He can fill us with the power, love, and self-discipline that will allow us to finish the race and deliver the message of "Victory?" That part is up to you.

shine!
Jason