Faith.

Friends,

Let’s talk about faith. When you ask God to help strengthen your faith, He’s going to stretch you paper-thin. It’s just the way He works. Ever try praying for patience?

I really needed break-through and miracles this week. I didn’t receive them. I know this is not how I usually start my blogs, but it’s because I’ve gone so much deeper this week. Allow me to explain.

… Yet you do not have because you do not ask. James 4:2 (NKJV)

The Bible clearly states that we have not because we ask not. However, no matter how much you believe in your blessing or how successful you are at casting out your fears and doubts, you don’t always experience the “believe and receive” fruits of your faith. This can immediately cause you to wonder if you had “enough” faith to begin with. In more extreme circumstances, one might believe that God is mad at them. This is clearly a lie from the enemy. Sometimes God has other things in mind – no matter how “for-God” your plans might be.

I cleared my schedule this weekend to do something really radical for God. Of course, whenever you’re doing something for the Lord, the enemy starts to interfere. Even as I type this on a Friday afternoon, the enemy is attacking me with feelings of fatigue and illness.

Events totally out of my control drastically changed my schedule. I prayed, fasted and had other brothers and sisters in Christ standing in faith (and agreement) with me. I trusted the Lord and did everything I could in the natural to receive my blessing.

Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. James 2:17 (NKJV)

After spending a moment with God, I realized that sometimes your gift of faith is still having your faith when you’ve endured your trial. It’s protecting and maintaining your faith when things don’t go your way. I was really prepared to receive the Holy Spirit this weekend, but perhaps this weekend is more about what I can pour into others. There are people in my life that really need prayer right now. What if someone reads this and makes their way closer to the Lord? What better way to fulfill God’s purpose than to advance His kingdom – especially when the enemy does everything to stop the blessing? Besides, God is much more powerful than the enemy’s work and could have intervened at any time – but He didn’t. At first I thought God was going to strengthen my faith by making me sweat a little. Who knew He would solidify my faith by giving me the exact opposite of what I asked of Him?

One of my favorite events in the Bible takes place in the book of Daniel. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego have been captured by King Nebuchadnezzar. The king tells the three men they are about to be thrown into a fiery furnace for proclaiming their love for God and refusing to bow down to an image of gold.

Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” Daniel 3:16-18 (NIV)

Wow! Listen to what they say! They clearly have the faith that God will deliver them from the fire but state, “but even if he does not,” acknowledging that their faith would not be any less no matter what happened! Perhaps God doesn’t give us the immediate blessing so he can see how we act afterwards. Do we still put all of our trust in Him? Do we have the fruits to back up our faith? Faith is the fruit of the Spirit.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Galatians 5:22 (NIV)

Jeremy Camp wrote a beautiful song entitled, “I Still Believe.” I’ll list the lyrics below before I continue this entry.

I Still Believe – Jeremy Camp

Scattered words and empty thoughts
Seem to pour from my heart
I've never felt so torn before
Seems I don't know where to start

But it's now that I feel
Your grace falls like rain
From every fingertip, washing away my pain

[Chorus:]
I still believe in Your faithfulness
I still believe in Your truth
I still believe in Your holy word
Even when I don't see, I still believe

Though the questions still fog up my mind
With promises I still seem to bear
Even when answers slowly unwind
It's my heart I see You prepare

But its now that I feel Your grace fall like rain
From every finger tip, washing away my pain

[Chorus]
The only place I can go is into your arms

Where I throw to you my feeble prayers
In brokeness I can see that this was your will for me
Help me to know You are near

Jeremy wrote this after his wife, Melissa Lynn Camp, died of cancer.

…The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. James 5:16 (NKJV)

Do you really think that Jeremy sat idly by as he watched his wife die? I can only imagine the prayer and fasting that took place when he found out she was ill. How many brothers and sisters in Christ must have prayed with him for his wife healing? Do you think Jeremy Camp lacked the faith to save her? Did he not have enough faith? No! God’s plan is uncertain, but he still told the Lord that his trust was in Him.

Yes, I was really disappointed about the outcome of my weekend, but my faith is still in the Lord. My blessing is still on its way – and it’s bigger and better than I could have imagined.

In Christ,

James

Photo Credit:

Ugh!

Friends,

Some of you may have noticed that it has been a while since I have posted anything. A new career, the attempt to write a book, church-searching and planning a wedding has taken my focus away from blogging. However, there have been a series of events this week that have forced me to break the silence. I have two, major ideas I would like to present. Hopefully, I can successfully tie them together. If not, this will simply be two ideas under one post. We’ll see what happens.

During the Legacy Men’s Conference this year, I had the awesome opportunity to listen to Pastor Steve Kelly of Wave Church in Virginia Beach, VA. He said something that really caught my attention. He said, “God is all-sufficient, but He is not all we need.” This idea tends to refute all of the worship songs we sing in church doesn’t it? I have to admit, I was almost offended when he said this. It sounded borderline blasphemous. For some reason, the comment made its way to an old, dusty shelf in my mind and resided there for several months. A few days ago, I pulled it off the shelf and considered the comment again. I discovered Pastor Kelly was absolutely right.

God is, undoubtedly all-sufficient. But He is not all we need. What we need is people in our lives to help us out. Although God is not all we need, He provides these needs (people) for us.

But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches and glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 (KJV)

In this verse, Paul recognizes that God, though all sufficient, is not all we need. He supplies our needs according to His kingdom.

The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone, I will make a helper suitable for him.” Genesis 2:18 (NIV)

From the beginning of time, God acknowledged the importance of human relationship and the need for spiritual partners.

This week, I heard a colleague say, “I’ve really backslid, but I don’t need to go to church.” I was dumbfounded. Admittedly, going to church doesn’t make you a [better] Christian, but the accountability and act of placing yourself in the presence of followers is important.

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work. Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NIV)

Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. Matthew 18:19 (NIV)

Calling the twelve to him, he sent them out two by two and gave them authority over evil spirits. Mark 6:7 (NIV)

Am I getting through to any of you? The number two holds power in Scripture. It is not coincidence.

As I was speaking to another friend this week about her and her husband's spiritual life, she replied, “I don’t need a man to seek Jesus - I can do that on my own.” She’s right, she doesn’t need a husband, significant other, etc. to seek Jesus, but it is indeed God’s design that husbands be a spiritual leader for their wives. People and relationship are essential to walk closer with God.

But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or turn back from you. Where you go I will go and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me.” When Naomi realized that Ruth was determined to go with her, she stopped urging her. Ruth 1:16-18 (NIV)

Did God ever deal with Ruth? No! He blessed her for being so steadfast and faithful! If Ruth would have said, “I’ll just do it my own,” she would never have met Boaz. People and relationships are needed to get to Christ. When we believe and get into agreement with God, he’ll make sure those people are supplied to us. This brings me to my second point.

I admire the independence of some women. However, I’ve noticed that it is getting a little extreme. This over compensated behavior is starting to sabotage society. The event is a vicious cycle that is corroding the differences between genders.

God did create man and woman equal. We were created by a perfect, unchanging God in His own image.

So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27 (NIV)

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17 (NIV)

This being said, God created us equal but different. Matthew Henry said it best. “Eve was not taken out of Adam’s head to top him, neither out of his feet to be trampled by him, but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected by him, and near his heart to be loved by him.” This is exactly how I love my wife-to-be.

Chapter seven of Joshua Harris’ book, Boy Meets Girl is entitled, “If boys would be men, would girls be ladies?” It beautifully illustrates God’s intended roles of the sexes.

Right now you might be asking yourself, “Why is he making such a big deal out of this?” Allow me to share with you something that happened to me yesterday.

I went to Whataburger to pick up some food for Janell and myself. As I arrived to get my number 5 with jalapenos, I observed a couple leaving the building. The woman opened the door (of the building) for her husband. Hmm… As they approached their car, she opened the passenger door for her husband. He climbed in. She walked around the car, let herself in and drove away. What is that? I was shocked and appalled! How are men supposed to practice servant leadership when this gross display of role-reversals exists?

If men aren’t going to open car doors or pull out chairs, they’re too immature to be a spiritual leader. It is our job as men to honor women as a creation of the most-high God.

Women – you’re not off the hook. If a woman takes it upon herself to do these things, you can’t complain that chivalry is dead. You’re the one holding the murder weapon! Give men the opportunity to be servants.

I know this sounds old-fashioned. That’s the problem. It only sounds old-fashioned because we have dismissed so many values. This is only one of many. The dismissal of said values is the reason why younger generations are not only responding to the gospel at an alarmingly low rate, but have no respect or comprehension of how to be men and women. We have to set the example!

My point? God is not all we need. He supplies them through people and relationship. However, we have a spiritual and social responsibility to fulfill our roles as men and women.

Photo Credit: http://www.bagofnothing.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2007/06/weirdweddingphotos.jpeg

Emotionally advanced.

Vultures.

Friends,

I took the liberty of posting this song on my page. I wanted to share something with you and this song might help me do exactly that.

Vultures – John Mayer

Some of us, we're hardly ever here
The rest of us, we're born to disappear
How do I stop myself from
Being just a number
How will I hold my head
To keep from going under

So far, this song sounds pretty cliché. It’s the “daily grind, the same ‘ol, the rat race.” It’s no secret that we face trials in our lives.

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Romans 8:37 (NIV)

We were not put on this earth to live as victims and without purpose. God put us here to live as MORE than conquerors.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4 (NIV)

The trials will come; and they come for a reason. God puts us in some unpleasant circumstances to help us grow, but He always supplies us with the resources. Consider the children of Israel. As Moses led them to the Promiseland, God supplied them with bread and water. Yet, they were so focused on the discomfort of their journey, the 11-day trip turned into 40 years. How many times do we walk around our mountains? God can move them! Look what it says in Isaiah.

Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all mankind together will see it. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken. Isaiah 40:4-5 (NIV)

Down to the wire
I wanted water but
I'll walk through the fire

How often do we tell God when He is going to bless us? I know I do. I’m starting to learn my lesson about that, too. When it gets “down to the wire,” what do we do?

One of my favorite events in the Old Testament takes place in the book of Daniel. It’s the story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. It’s actually the second time this week that I’ll be visiting this story. Someone very close and special to me recently shared a message about this event in The Bible. Maybe I’ll be able to post it, soon? ;-)

King Nebuchadnezzar had built an idol and commanded the three men to bow to it. The men were told that if they did not, they would be thrown in the fiery furnace.

Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, o king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” Daniel 3:16-18

Notice the three men said, “the God we serve IS ABLE to save us from it.” They did not say, the God we serve WILL save us from it. We have to stop putting God in a box. We have to stop overriding His will with ours’.

If this is what it takes
To take me even higher
Then I'll come through
Like I do
When the world keeps
Testing me, testing me, testing me

Even when we think we can’t walk another step, we have to take one. If we trip or fall, God will pick us up. Our faith will be tested and tried - that is a promise.

For we do not have a high priest among us who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are – yet was without sin. Hebrews 4:15 (NIV)

The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10 (NIV)

The finished work of the cross is a give and take event. God took our sin, our shame, our transgressions and our pain. He then gave us love, life and strength to overcome anything. We will be tested. We will succeed. We will live eternally.

How did they find me here
What do they want from me
All of these vultures hiding
Right outside my door
I hear them whisperin’
They're tryin’ to ride it out
They've never gone this long
Without a kill before

I love this verse! I can only imagine how frustrated the enemy must be when we live with Christ in us. Satan has to wait longer for his kills these days. When I fall, I fall to my knees and allow God’s grace to bring me back again. If we all lived as followers of Christ, Satan would be out of a job! Could you imagine if Jesus was the Lord of the world’s hearts. Satan would have to retire!

Down to the wire
I wanted water but
I'll walk through the fire
If this is what it takes
To take me even higher
Then I'll come through
Like I do
When the world keeps
Testing me, testing me, testing me

Wheels up
I got to leave this evening
Can't seem to shake these vultures
Off of my trail
Power is made, by power being taken
So I keep on running
To protect my situation

The only power Satan has is the power we give him. Power is NOT made. Power came with God in the beginning. He then blessed His creation with power. Unfortunately, we’re so quick to give it to the enemy. Why do we do this? We should be holding on to the power God gave us.

Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing by any means shall hurt you. Luke 10:19 (NKJV)

Down to the wire
I wanted water but
I'll walk through the fire
If this is what it takes
To take me even higher
Then I'll come through
Like I do
When the world keeps
Testing me, testing me

Oooooooooooo
Oooooooooooo
Oooooooooooo
Oooooooooooo

Whatcha gonna do about it
Whatcha gonna do about it
Whatcha gonna do about it

Don't give up give up
Don't give up give up give up
Don't give up give up
Don't give up give up give up

I can’t begin to tell you the trials I’ve faced this week. However, I can say I took a stand.

Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, TO STAND. Ephesians 6:13

The question really is what we choose to do. Remember, God will give you the strength to overcome your trials, the tools (armor) that you need to do so and bless you like it was all your doing! What a wonderful God we serve!

In Christ,

James

Fasting

Friends,

I wanted to share something that has come to light this week. As I type this, I have no idea as to when it will be posted or read by others. I’ll explain this a little later.

Last week, a friend of mine proposed they would be fasting. This fast was to refrain from certain types of media and various foods. My views on fasting have been changing over the years. My friend stated that they really needed God to bless them and that fasting would put them in the proper state of mind and spirit to receive God’s blessing. So far, I understood the purpose of the fast.

Allow me to go into detail for those who might not understand why some Christians fast. As inhabitants in a fallen and imperfect world, we tend to divert our attention to people or things that take our eyes off of God. Although these things might not be sinful in nature, we are all susceptible to spending an unhealthy amount of time with these activities. For example, there is nothing wrong with watching TV. However, when our TV habits keep us from studying God’s word or performing His will, we have made an idol, of sorts that separates us from God.

O Lord, my strength and my fortress, my refuge in time of distress, to you the nations will come from the ends of the earth and say, "Our fathers possessed nothing but false gods, worthless idols that did them no good. Do men make their own gods? Yes, but they are not gods." Jeremiah 16:19 (NIV)

What kinds of things do we often put before God? TV, money, the internet – even people! In Joshua Harris’ book, I Kissed Dating Goodbye, the author warns us that even relationships with people, especially dating, can be dangerous if they take our eyes off of God. Yet, it’s so easy to get distracted. Why? Because the enemy is always trying to tempt us. The devil always makes it sound so appealing, but what you reap in the end is death – spiritual death.

The idols speak deceit, the diviners see visions that lie; they tell dreams that are false, they give comfort in vain. Therefore the people wander like sheep oppressed for lack of a shepherd. Zechariah 10:2 (NIV)

Psalm 23 is perhaps one of the most well-known chapters of the bible. David’s expression and depiction of Jehovah Rohi, the Lord our Shepherd, is romantic, captivating and comforting. Don Duncan, the senior pastor at Tree of Life Church in New Braunfels, Texas once said, "Jehovah Rohi comforts the afflicted and afflicts the comfortable." We are so thankful to have a shepherd, a God so loving. However, we cast him aside when we get too involved with activity and people.

Fasting is a great way for us to refocus our love and attention on God. It also gives us the opportunity to use our sacrifice as a blessing to others. I came across the following scripture a few months ago. It’s been marinating in my heart and mind since I read it. For some reason, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. It’s obvious that God wanted me to meditate upon it.

’We have fasted before you!’ they say. ’Why aren’t you impressed? We have been very hard on ourselves, and you don’t even notice it!’ "I will tell you why!" I respond. "It’s because you are fasting to please yourselves. Even while you fast, you keep oppressing your workers. What good is fasting when you keep on fighting and quarreling? This kind of fasting will never get you anywhere with me. You humble yourselves by going through the motions of penance, bowing your heads like reeds bending in the wind. You dress in burlap and cover yourselves with ashes. Is this what you call fasting? Do you really think this will please the LORD? No, this is the kind of fasting I want: Free those who are wrongly imprisoned; lighten the burden of those who work for you. Let the oppressed go free, and remove the chains that bind people. Share your food with the hungry, and give shelter to the homeless. Give clothes to those who need them, and do not hide from relatives who need your help. Then your salvation will come like the dawn, and your wounds will quickly heal. Your godliness will lead you forward, and the glory of the LORD will protect you from behind. Then when you call, the LORD will answer. ’Yes, I am here,’ he will quickly reply. Remove the heavy yoke of oppression. Stop pointing your finger and spreading vicious rumors! Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon. The LORD will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring. Some of you will rebuild the deserted ruins of your cities. Then you will be known as a rebuilder of walls and a restorer of homes." Isaiah 58:3-12 (NLT)

I know it’s a lengthy piece of scripture, but let’s break it down. Isaiah first condemns those who fast as a means to "appear" holy. It’s talking the talk, but not walking the walk. Insincere faith is not only an oxymoron, but it’s mocking God. Isaiah goes on to say that those who fast have an opportunity to use their sacrifice to be a blessing – to free the oppressed. Oppression has many forms, but our clarity through fasting can help us break bondage of any kind. Then, it says when we call upon our Lord, he will eagerly respond. Our fasting is a symbol of our faith. It’s an act of our faith. And when we are faithful to God, he is faithful to us, listening to our every need. Isaiah says he will quickly respond, "Yes, I am here." After the Lord blesses us, he imparts upon us a new strength, a new depth of faith that will allow us to rebuild walls and restore homes. Who wants to be known as a rebuilder and restorer for God? I know I’m typing with my hand raised!

After meditating on Isaiah’s words, God made me realize that to be a true brother in Christ to my friend, I needed to fast with them. It’s not to appear righteous. It’s not to impress anyone. It’s not to be a martyr. My friend’s arriving blessing means so much to me that I need to demonstrate my faith to God through fasting. It’s almost like agreeing with my friend in prayer.

Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree (harmonize together, make a symphony together) about whatever [anything and everything] they may ask, it will come to pass and be done for them by my Father in heaven. Matthew 18:19 (AMP)

I know that my friend is in agreement with God. And I am in agreement with them through my fasting. This act allows me to break yokes and remove chains. Do you see a pattern? It’s all for the glory of God. It’s what being a spiritual partner is all about.

Since part of this fast restricts the use of the internet, I might not get to post this for a while. That’s okay.

I want to share with you one last thing. Since I’ve started the fast, which has only been a couple of days, God has used all of the time I could be spending on the internet or indulging in food to talk to me. He has granted me wisdom and discernment in my relationships, allowed me to bless my brothers and sisters in Christ, given me opportunities to pray for and serve others and has even blessed me with the first ideas for a book I am writing. Though I live a life of self-discipline, I am truly amazed at what God has done by the simple sacrifice of a few, creature comforts. Not only that, but I know he is working behind the scenes on my friend’s behalf. I can’t wait (figuratively speaking) to see what he has in store next!

In Christ,

James

Being a spiritual Jedi.

Friends,

About a week ago, I pitched this blog to someone very special to me. Although she might have laughed at me a little bit, I found encouragement in her words. The fact of the matter is that I can be somewhat of a geek sometimes, but I’m God’s geek. Besides, anyone who doesn’t enjoy the Star Wars saga is both spiritually and intellectually devoid… Just kidding… a little.

I’m continually impressed as to how George Lucas’ story is the perfect archetype for Christianity. How? Well, allow me to explain!

In an effort to better organize my thoughts, I am going to introduce the movies and their biblical parallel in the order in which they were released.

Episode IV – A New Hope

This film and the two pictures that followed are the “New Testament,” if you will, of the saga. Luke Skywalker, a new hope. Hmm - sounds familiar. Didn’t God send us a new hope in the form of a Savior to usher in a new revival?

Luke was new to the scene and had a mentor (well, a couple). Obi-Wan Kenobi and Yoda were his counselors in the ways of the force. Jesus had His heavenly father guiding his every step, word and action. Not only that, but it just goes to show how you can’t live the Christian life alone. Even a Jedi had mentors and a counsel that he or she could seek for wisdom and advice. In the same way, it is important for us as Christians to remain in the company of other believers.

“The Lord God said, ‘it is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.’” Genesis 2:18 (NIV)

“He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.” Proverbs 13:20 (NIV)

“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17 (NIV)

God created Eve to make relationship a priority. Not only does he want us to focus on our relationship with him, but with each other. However, there are times when we face struggles with our relationships. Jesus was the perfect role model on relationships and he was denied (three times) and betrayed. Even Luke, a very likeable, just and down-to-earth man was mocked by Han Solo and betrayed by Lando Calrissian.

Darth Vader – the lost sheep. The enemy can use people just as God can. There’s only one difference; the only power Satan has is the power we give him. Darth Vader fell because he sowed to the flesh (more on this later). He surrendered his life to Darth Sidious and to evil. The enemy then used him to interfere with the rebellion (God’s kingdom). But what did Darth Vader gain? Was he ever happy? Was he ever fulfilled? No. He sowed to the flesh and almost reaped death – the eternal extermination of his soul.

“The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, self ambition dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” Galatians 5:19-21 (NIV)

Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back

This is the most depressing film of the series. It ends on such a down-note. Evil, it would seem triumphs. How many times in your life do you feel defeated by the enemy? How many of your days have ended on a down-note?

Luke and his friends are betrayed. To add insult to injury, his friend Han Solo is frozen in carbonite. Luke also realizes that Darth Vader is his father. You can only imagine how conflicted he must have felt.

As Jesus was crucified on the cross, he had been denied and betrayed. Then he cries out to his father.

“And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, ‘Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani.?’ – which means, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’” Mark 15:33 (NIV)

What were Jesus’ feelings toward God at that point? The crucifixion of Jesus Christ is the most painful, yet beautiful aspect of Christianity.

Episode VI – Return of the Jedi

A Jedi master is the most powerful being within the realm of the force. We all know the old axiom, “With great power comes great responsibility.” Have you realized that God can not only bless us and use us, but he can give us power? He can give us power through our words and actions.

“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV)

Notice how it mentions self-discipline. True power is used with wisdom and discernment.

“Dear children, let us not love in words or tongue but with actions and in truth.” 1 John 3:18 (NIV)

God gives us awesome power to advance His kingdom here on earth. He equips us with the tools, gives us the strength to carry it out and blesses us like it was all our doing. Sola Gratia!

Luke has now become a force to be reckoned with. Have you been blessed with the identity of being a Jedi for God? I know I have. I walk under the hand of our Lord and I am continually blessed, loved, protected and strengthened. God has given me tremendous power to advance His kingdom. Not only that, but he has recently blessed me with other people to help me fight the battle for souls that we are fighting. Wow, that must make the devil mad, huh?

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work.” Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NIV)

How did I get this power? Why do I have the ability to walk this earth without fear and with total confidence? Surrender. I surrendered my own power for the power of the Lord’s. All of my strength comes from Him.

“I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

In the end, Luke prevails and evil is punished. However, it does not come without its trials. Luke is continually tempted by the dark side – coerced to sow to the demon of instant gratification and surrender his life to emptiness. He has to continually remain focused on the greater good.

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are – yet was without sin.” Hebrews 4:15 (NIV)

“You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to become a friend of the world becomes and enemy of God.” James 4:4 (NIV)

Episode I – The Phantom Menace

The central theme of this film was mainly an introduction of characters that were already familiar. It’s the “Old Testament” of the saga.

Throughout the Old Testament, there are many men / women that carry-out God’s beautiful work. Moses, Abraham and David are a few that come to mind. However, none of them were able to do what Christ did for us.

Though Qui-Gon Jinn was a powerful Jedi in the ways of the force, even he was cut-down by the evil, Darth Maul. Humanity comes with its limitations…

One thing about their battle has always intrigued me. As Darth Maul and Qui-Gon Jinn are fighting, a wall of lasers separates the two from their duel. For a moment, Qui-Gon kneels, closes his eyes and meditates. How often do we do this during our day – especially in the midst of our most fearsome battles?

“Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10 (NIV)

Episode II – Attack of the Clones

Though it seems that Anakin is shaping up to be an instrument of good, you can already see his heart turning corrupt. He is a vengeful man and full of rage. After his mother’s death, he slaughters the Tusken Raiders that held her captive.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)

It’s safe to say that anything NOT of the fruit of the Spirit is the burden of the enemy. Notice how Paul says the fruit of the Spirit IS. It’s one fruit. However, the enemy’s traits are a plural burden.

An interesting aspect of this film is that it illustrates the magnitude of the clone wars. The clone wars were mentioned long after they were over. Believe it or not, we are in a war right now. The battle of good and evil isn’t to come. It’s been raging since Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit. What side are you on? Will you fight for the kingdom of God? What is your attitude? Is it, “whatever?” Or is it, “whatever it takes!?”

Episode III – Revenge of the Sith

This is a dark chapter within the saga. Anakin has now sowed to the flesh and reaped death. In fact, his actions not only cost him his spiritual life, but his body dies as well. Vader becomes a shell of a person – operating only by the help of artificial life.

This film was beautifully executed as it ties everything in the saga together. Much like the finished work of the cross and everything that preceded it, God ties it all together with His love for us.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16 (NIV)

I want to skip back to Episode VI for just a moment. At the end of the film, you see Anakin in the clouds with Obi-Wan and Yoda. Hmm. How did this happen? You see, even when Darth Vader was at the brink of death, he was able to submit himself to grace and goodness. It is NEVER too late with God.

“Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1 (NIV)

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)

In fact, the book of Revelation suggests that even those who died in sin will have the opportunity to change sides. Wow! What an awesome God we serve.

I don’t know if George Lucas planned this all out or not. But I do know this: Christianity is more than a story. The Bible is not just a book of people and events. It’s a history book. It happened! And it continues to serve as the only instruction manual we get for this life.

In Christ,

James


Photo Credit: http://www.detrasdelespejo.es/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/jedi-jesus.jpg

Happy Valentines Day.

I guess with the arrival of Valentines Day, now would be a good time to share this message. I’ve actually been meditating on the following thoughts for a couple of weeks. Now it’s time to share…

Though there are many different beliefs regarding St. Valentines and how this holiday came to be, we traditionally celebrate it as a day to exchange gifts, flowers and cards. These gestures are usually intended to express our love towards someone.

When I think about love, I immediately think of Paul’s letter in the first book of Corinthians. Although we’ve all heard the verses, I started to wonder how many times love is addressed in the bible. If you go to biblegateway.com (my favorite) and type in “love,” you will see 697 verses that refer to love! Hmm. It’s pretty safe to say that love is the main doctrine of the bible.

“And these three remain: faith hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” I Corinthians 13:13 (NIV)

I want to offer two thoughts for consideration.

Number one. If you are fortunate enough to have someone in your life in which to share this day, remember why that is.

“We love because he first loved us.” 1 John 4:19 (NIV)

The only reason we get the awesome privilege to love is because we are loved by the creator of the universe. Not only are we loved by Him, but He is head-over-heals in love with us!

“Those who are loved the best love the best.” Pastor Rob Koke, Shoreline Christian Center – Austin, TX

Isn’t this cool? Do you receive God’s love? When you accept His love and grace, you have the awesome opportunity to extend it to others.

Number two. If you are single this Valentines Day, remember that this is just a season in your life. I’ve come to realize that God usually wants me alone when he really needs to talk to me. God has used me in some pretty profound ways as a single man.

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” Deuteronomy 6:5 (NIV)

“Jesus replied, Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” Matthew 22:37 (NIV)

And you thought you were alone? Someone is thinking of you this Valentines Day. There is someone after your heart no matter what your circumstances.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)

“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,” Romans 8:1 (NIV)

Have I ever mentioned how much I love Paul’s gospels?

Maybe you’ve been single for 5 years. Maybe you’ve been married for 20 years. The truth is, not one person on this earth can love you and satisfy you like our Savior. Yes, he puts people in our path who express His love towards us, but all of Him is more than enough. God created us as relational beings. He also blessed us with free will. He did this so that we can choose to love Him. My heart goes out to anyone reading this. Please don’t miss out on the greatest romance this life has to offer – the loving relationship you can have with God. I promise you He will meet your every need.

This Valentines Day, let’s express some glory, honor, praise and love for God. Happy Valentines Day…

In Christ,

James

Seeking God: Anyone can do it!

Friends,

Last week, a friend of mine came to the house to hang out. In his hands, he was carrying a present. My initial thought was that he had brought a gift for my son (as he was celebrating his fifth birthday). As he handed it to me, my eyes glanced at the writing on the outside of the package. It read,

“James – thanks for being a great friend!”

I’m so sentimental, I didn’t even care what was under the wrapping paper. Just the message alone touched my heart. As I removed the wrapping paper, I discovered a wall hanging with a cross and some Scripture. It read,

“And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who honestly seek him.” Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)

I’ve been meditating on this Scripture for about a week now. My heart’s desire is to be a man of God.

“But now your kingdom shall not continue. The Lord has sought for Himself a man after His own heart, and the Lord has commanded him to be commander over His people, because you have not kept what the Lord has commanded you.” 1 Samuel 13:14 (NKJV)

“…a man after His own heart” This is what I think of when I picture a man of God. Of course, Samuel was referring to David. As you know, David was far from perfect. He was an adulterer and murderer.

Let me side-track for a minute. I came across this some time ago and always reflect on it when I start to feel God can’t use me.

Noah was a drunk
Abraham was too old
Isaac was a daydreamer
Jacob was a liar
Leah was ugly
Joseph was abused
Moses had a stuttering problem
Gideon was afraid
Samson had long hair and was a womanizer
Rahab was a prostitute
Jeremiah and Timothy were too young
David had an affair and was a murderer
Elijah was suicidal
Isaiah preached naked
Jonah ran from God
Naomi was a widow
Job went bankrupt
Peter denied Christ
The Disciples fell asleep while praying
Martha worried about everything
The Samaritan woman was divorced, more than once
Zaccheus was too small
Paul was too religious
Timothy had an ulcer... AND
Lazarus was dead!

Can you relate to any of these people? God has no problem using you – no matter what your circumstances. There was only one person with no sin and perfect relationships. Jesus was truly righteous to everyone and Peter denied him (three times) and Judas betrayed him.

How do you seek God? Let’s look at what Moses says to his people.

“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” Deuteronomy 6:4-5 (NIV)

I know I’ve really had to seek God this week with a myriad of things. Satan has tried to snare me in my health, finances and relationships.

“The thief comes only in order to steal, kill and destroy. I have come in order that you might have life – life in all its fullness.” John 10:10 (GN)

Yes, the enemy is real and will try to make you stumble, but here’s the good news: The enemy has no new tricks and our God is much more powerful!

Last week, I was put in several situations where I had to interact with total strangers. These introductions ranged from work to church. I then realized how dependent upon God I’ve become. Before each encounter, I prayed and meditated on this piece of Scripture:

“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5 (NIV)

What a good and faithful God we serve.

In Christ,

James

Receive your blessings!

Friends,

Those of you who know me are aware of my little ‘Starbucks” ministry. In essence, I like to visit a Starbucks with a drive-thru, place my order and pay for the order behind me. It’s just a small way that I try to be a blessing to others. Although most people will never understand why I do it, I like spreading God’s love through a cup of coffee. I don’t do it expecting anything in return. It does brighten my day, though. This sense of happiness could question whether or not any kind act is truly altruistic. That can easily turn into a heated argument that would never end, so I’ll leave it alone…

Today, I had one last gift to buy for my mother’s birthday. I wanted to give her a gift card to one of her favorite stores. As I was standing in line with my one, little gift card, the couple in front of me was nice enough to ask if I wanted to go ahead of them. The woman stated that she didn’t mind as her transaction would probably take a while. I thanked her for her generosity, but told her that I really didn’t mind the wait. After all, she was there first, right?

The checker completed her order and I paid for my gift card. As I left the store, I headed to the nearest Starbucks. Not only was I craving a Chai latte, but I was ready to bless someone with their beverage of choice!

Minutes later, I arrived at the drive-thru. The place was packed. Awesome! I was so excited. I got in line behind several other cars. As I sat in my truck, idling in the cold, I anxiously awaited my “victim.”

Nobody came.

I eventually placed my order and made my way to the window. Then, nothing… Not a single car pulled in behind me! I paid for my coffee and left. I didn’t let it show on my face, but I was kind of bummed! Why wouldn’t God want me to bless one of His children? Then, I started to think, “If I would have been here just one minute earlier, I would have had my opportunity.”

Bingo! I DID have the opportunity, but I blew it. I didn’t allow that couple to bless me. Had I accepted their blessing to let me check out before them, I WOULD have made it to Starbucks earlier. You see, blessings are a cycle. I was so eager to do something nice for someone that I didn’t realize that it was okay for someone to do something nice for me. I had stopped someone else’s blessing. Maybe that couple was just trying to brighten my day and put a smile on my face. I stopped it! Maybe I bummed them out!

I constantly proclaim that I am ready for favor, abundance and blessing. Am I? I’ve written, preached, etc. to others about having an attitude of expectance. I realized today that I need to accept the small blessings if I’m going to accept the big ones.

So, what am I saying? Am I telling you to take advantage of every situation and exploit every event for your own personal gain? Of course, not. But I am saying that it’s okay to accept a blessing every once in a while.

We are a proud society. Whether you’re a man or a woman, a lot of us have a hard time letting people do things for us. I’ve talked at length about this with a friend of mine. She kind of brought it to my attention a few days ago. Today, I lived it. Let people help you. Let them bless you. Those who are blessed are a greater blessing to others.

In Christ,

James

The awesome healing power of God.

Friends,

This post has been on my heart for a while. When you realize that the length of this publishing is all but a few paragraphs, you’ll wonder why I’ve been holding on to it for months. I ask the same question.

In the early part of 2006, I was diagnosed with a chronic illness. After experiencing some scary and concerning symptoms (I’ll spare you the gory details), I submitted myself to the care of a gastroenterologist. After reviewing my symptoms and performing a few tests, I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis. Essentially, there was an ulcer in my lower intestine. There is no cure for this disease, except in extreme cases when the lower intestine is surgically removed and replaced with an appliance (interior or exterior).

There is not any method of prevention for this disease. Though the reasons are unclear (probably genetic), I found myself, probably for the first time in my life, genuinely scared.

I was immediately put on a medication regiment comprised of Pentasa and Canasa. I was required to take (8) 500 mg. tablets of Pentasa and a single, 1000 mg. dosing of Canasa per day. For you math whizzes out there, that’s 5000 mg. of medication per day! I didn’t know I was a horse…

After I spent the first couple of weeks freaking out, learning how to take medicine every day, scaring myself with every piece of literature on the disease I could find and filling out my FMLA paperwork, I started to give the situation to God. Although this was a gradual process, I slowly felt less and less anxious about my condition. I did, however, admit myself to the ER for abdominal pains several times the first year. Then, my symptoms slowly subsided and I didn’t even think of my disease - even as I swallowed those horse pills twice a day.

I remained on the medication regiment and kept all of the appointments with my GI until November of last year. Then, I suddenly decided to quit taking my medicine. I don’t normally do this, but I hadn’t had a visit to the ER in quite a while and my symptoms were extremely faint.

I was once told that we can be delivered by something, through something or from something. I realize that the awesome power of the Lord prevails in my life. In a worst-case scenario, I could die (delivered by) from this disease. However, it seems that God has another plan for me.

I’m reminded by the story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. God delivered these three men from King Nebuchadnezzar’s fiery furnace. I was only coping with a disease, not thrown in a fire. In Daniel 3, we see how one’s faith can deliver us from anything.

I don’t know what you face in your life. I don’t know what your relationships are like. I don’t know how much money is (or is not) in your bank account. I don’t know what the latest report from your doctor says. But, I do know this. God delivers. He delivers us to wisdom through our trials. He delivers us from our trials through His grace.

In Christ,

James

2008 is going to be great!

Friends,

Anyone who posts on a regular basis will probably be posting their New Year’s Resolutions this week. I would like to offer an alternative this year.

Most people start the New Year with a list of behavioral-based desires. These are usually simple activities in their life that they would like to quit, start or modify:

“I want to quit smoking.” “I need to start exercising.” “I want to eat healthier.”

Whether we stick with them or not, these resolutions don’t address some of our biggest problems. Many of us get discouraged because we feel that it is too late for other issues in our lives. For example, we are all sinners. Every single one of us has done something we shouldn’t have. We can never take back anything we say. We lose our virginity all but once. These are bigger issues that we don’t tend to talk about. However, some of these things eat away at the very core of us. They consume us and make us miserable. We can change simple behaviors at any time, but how do we live with the events that have already taken place? I’ll tell you how most of us deal with it. Guilt.

So, why am I writing this? Is it to convict you? To make you feel bad? No. I came across some Scripture the other day that helped me ring in the BEST New Year yet. Sure, I rang it in without a special someone or a New Year’s kiss, but it’s also when I realized what was in store for me this year.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 (NIV)

Wow! Go, Paul! Where can we even start to break this down?

First of all, verses 17-19 prove to us that God is a God of restoration and reconciliation. What a perfect lesson for the New Year. It doesn’t matter who we are or what we’ve done, God’s not keeping score. He loves us just the same. He can restore our souls and make us whole again.

God reconciled with us through His son, Jesus Christ. See, you get a little Christmas and Easter passage, too! The fundamental aspects of Christianity rolled up into one piece of Scripture.

Now, look what God has in store for us. We are His ambassadors! We are righteous! Doesn’t that make you feel special? It should. Each and every one of us have the opportunity to do His work, because we are Him!

The New Year. No matter what you resolve to do, make sure that you expect this year. 2008 is going to be great because God restores us, blesses us and has only good things in store for his ambassadors – his righteous children.

“Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given to you when Jesus Christ is revealed.” 1 Peter 1:13 (NIV)

Happy New Year!

James