The language we use expresses the condition of our heart. The writer of Scripture under the anointing of the Spirit states, "From the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." Recently, someone used a four letter word in conversation then followed that up with, "Pardon my French." Obviously, the word wasn't French. What was his heart's condition? I don't know, but something was wrong.
The media, including news, film, and entertainment, often use language that at one time was not allowed on the air ways. The standard continues to change with some networks pushing the envelop as far as they can. As followers of Jesus, it is easy to become callous to what we hear and barely take notice. When otherwise family entertainment takes on this type of language, one wonders if the old timers who preached against TV weren't right after all.
What has become even more troublesome to me is the trend by some ministers to use language for effect that will shock or startle the audience, or make them sound more hip or relevant. The use of the four letter words, you know what they are, can sometimes get a response from listeners, especially the younger generation who may be more influenced by Hollywood than by the Word of God. While I have never heard of a pastor loosing credentials because of the use of fowl language, I have heard pastors loose credibility because of an improper use of language.
We are constantly bombarded by images and ideas from the world in which we live. The Scripture, not culture, must be our source of faith and practice. God's Word still sets the standard. "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their need, that it may benefit those who listen" Ephesians 4:29.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Monday, February 9, 2009
Trust
Two names in the news struck me today as a contrast in character; Sully and A-Rod. Now, understand that I do not have personal knowledge of either of these gentlemen, however, they present a tremendous contrast for people in our nation. Sully, the reluctant hero, just did his job and saved over a hundred lives in the process. His expression to the media credited his team members with hero status, not him. One report indicated the co-pilot stated to the rescue workers, "We only got these people into the water (the Hudson), while you got them out," giving credit to the rescue workers of New York City. America looks up to these five crew members with admiration and respect. We may look at the people in the cockpit of the plane we fly in a little differently the next time we go to fly.
A-Rod was "young and naive" according to his statement in an interview. He wanted to be the best player of all time, and now... Well, all his accomplishments are suspect. He may be a great player and have set many records, but he will never be looked at in the same way again. The would-be hero and roll model has lost the respect of his fans and most of the sports world. How tragic! He may be a wonderful individual, but the shame will be a part of his record.
We that are involved in ministry were once looked on with respect and admiration. People looked to their pastor as a man of God who was worthy of respect and loyalty. From our own circle have come Jimmy Swaggart, Jim Bakker, and most recently, Ted Haggard. The lack of trust that results from such high profile individuals is disturbing to say the least. To some, we will be forever tarnished because of what in some people's minds is the association that exists between us and them. I am very happy to leave the judgement of others to the Lord, but we still must deal with the repercussions of other's actions.
When we loose the trust of those to whom we are called to serve, our ministry to them is over. We must live up to what we preach. We have a responsibility to act and live in such a way as to be an example to the flock. Some, even behind the pulpit, wish to be great and attain notoriety. Perhaps we should re-evaluate whether we are closer to A-Rod or Sully in our ambition and quest for greatness. Above all, let us be trust-worthy and honor our Lord so that our testimony will be pleasing to the Lord and we will honor Him.
A-Rod was "young and naive" according to his statement in an interview. He wanted to be the best player of all time, and now... Well, all his accomplishments are suspect. He may be a great player and have set many records, but he will never be looked at in the same way again. The would-be hero and roll model has lost the respect of his fans and most of the sports world. How tragic! He may be a wonderful individual, but the shame will be a part of his record.
We that are involved in ministry were once looked on with respect and admiration. People looked to their pastor as a man of God who was worthy of respect and loyalty. From our own circle have come Jimmy Swaggart, Jim Bakker, and most recently, Ted Haggard. The lack of trust that results from such high profile individuals is disturbing to say the least. To some, we will be forever tarnished because of what in some people's minds is the association that exists between us and them. I am very happy to leave the judgement of others to the Lord, but we still must deal with the repercussions of other's actions.
When we loose the trust of those to whom we are called to serve, our ministry to them is over. We must live up to what we preach. We have a responsibility to act and live in such a way as to be an example to the flock. Some, even behind the pulpit, wish to be great and attain notoriety. Perhaps we should re-evaluate whether we are closer to A-Rod or Sully in our ambition and quest for greatness. Above all, let us be trust-worthy and honor our Lord so that our testimony will be pleasing to the Lord and we will honor Him.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
The Big Day
Tomorrow is the day many have been looking forward to for a long time. Many hours have been spent in preparation. The opposition has been evaluated from every vantage point imaginable. The strengths and weaknesses have been scrutinized so that there will be few if any surprises. The defense is ready to go. The offense knows what to expect and how to make their plays. The plan is in place. The warriors are ready. The Big Day is almost here. Many have speculated about the potential outcome. The countdown has begun.
Tomorrow will be a day of victory for some and defeat for others. Which side will you be on? You see, lives are in the balance. Their eternal destiny is at stake. Every Sunday is Superbowl Sunday because it pits the forces of the Kingdom against the minions of hell. The preparation is the key. Just showing up to "do your things" is not acceptable. Too much is at stake! A prayer-less, careless, lethargic preacher would be like the coach leading his team into the Superbowl without any thought of a game plan for how the game should be played. The eternal risks are too great for that to happen. Individual's destiny will be determined by the results of what occurs on this most important day of the week.
The Steelers and the Cardinals will do battle on the field in Tampa Bay. They do it for the pride of the ring they hope to wear, the trophy they want to receive, and the paycheck to be enjoyed. We prepare for Sunday knowing that so much more is at stake. How can we approach this day without the overwhelming sense of the importance of what we are preparing to accomplish? Get ready! The Big Day is almost here. Let's do battle for the Lord!
Tomorrow will be a day of victory for some and defeat for others. Which side will you be on? You see, lives are in the balance. Their eternal destiny is at stake. Every Sunday is Superbowl Sunday because it pits the forces of the Kingdom against the minions of hell. The preparation is the key. Just showing up to "do your things" is not acceptable. Too much is at stake! A prayer-less, careless, lethargic preacher would be like the coach leading his team into the Superbowl without any thought of a game plan for how the game should be played. The eternal risks are too great for that to happen. Individual's destiny will be determined by the results of what occurs on this most important day of the week.
The Steelers and the Cardinals will do battle on the field in Tampa Bay. They do it for the pride of the ring they hope to wear, the trophy they want to receive, and the paycheck to be enjoyed. We prepare for Sunday knowing that so much more is at stake. How can we approach this day without the overwhelming sense of the importance of what we are preparing to accomplish? Get ready! The Big Day is almost here. Let's do battle for the Lord!
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Self-Deception
Samson may be the classic example of someone greatly used by God whose life ended in disaster. How can someone fall to such depths after experiencing the awesome power of God and moving in the gifts of God? Sadly, things don't seem to change much. Today, ministers fall into the enemies traps just as Samson did. No one is beyond temptation and the enemies lies. It is too easy to believe in ones own abilities and ignore the warning signs that are often all too obvious to others.
The story of Samson and Delilah is not far removed from some in our world today. Delilah enticed Samson to explain the secret of his great strength. Three times he gave her a false explanation, each time coming closer to the truth. Each time she played him for a fool and tried his explanation to take away his strength. When he finally told her the truth, she predictably cut off his hair. What was he thinking? Why would he reveal his secret to her and expose himself to potential disaster?
Self-deception is a terrible danger. Samson fell in love and the rest was all down hill. Any time a man or woman of God allows themselves the freedom to compromise with evil and toy with the world's devises, he/she is going down a road of no return. Anyone could have seen where Samson was headed, but he didn't know what was happening. He was so confident in himself, that he did not recognize the obvious.
Sadly, the worst was yet to come. Judges 16:20 records the words, "He did not know that the Lord had left him." Self-deception can do horrible things to people. It can lead a person to trust in their own ability, be over confident in themselves, and not walk in obedience to God's Word. Humility seldom comes up as a high priority in characteristics desired in leaders. Yet, it may be one of the most neglected and most needed for leaders in the church today. Samson can teach us much about what not to do. The lesson for today is this, don't trust yourself. Walk in humility before the Lord. The alternative is self-deception which leads to disaster.
The story of Samson and Delilah is not far removed from some in our world today. Delilah enticed Samson to explain the secret of his great strength. Three times he gave her a false explanation, each time coming closer to the truth. Each time she played him for a fool and tried his explanation to take away his strength. When he finally told her the truth, she predictably cut off his hair. What was he thinking? Why would he reveal his secret to her and expose himself to potential disaster?
Self-deception is a terrible danger. Samson fell in love and the rest was all down hill. Any time a man or woman of God allows themselves the freedom to compromise with evil and toy with the world's devises, he/she is going down a road of no return. Anyone could have seen where Samson was headed, but he didn't know what was happening. He was so confident in himself, that he did not recognize the obvious.
Sadly, the worst was yet to come. Judges 16:20 records the words, "He did not know that the Lord had left him." Self-deception can do horrible things to people. It can lead a person to trust in their own ability, be over confident in themselves, and not walk in obedience to God's Word. Humility seldom comes up as a high priority in characteristics desired in leaders. Yet, it may be one of the most neglected and most needed for leaders in the church today. Samson can teach us much about what not to do. The lesson for today is this, don't trust yourself. Walk in humility before the Lord. The alternative is self-deception which leads to disaster.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Inauguration
Excitement, anticipation, and hope mark the nation as we await the inauguration of our new President. Many have set the bar so high for the new President that it is hard believe anyone could live up to the hype. Others criticize to the point of negativism with unsubstantiated rumor and gossip unbecoming for followers of Jesus. The Bible calls for believers to pray for our leaders. We need not agree with all policies to recognize our responsibility to intercede for those in authority over us. Politics have never been the real hope of America or any other nation on earth. Our hope is in the Lord. "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." The responsibility for righteousness rests with the people of God.
The media covers the events leading up to the swearing in ceremony providing a view of the party atmosphere that surrounds the event. I am reminded of another "party" that is coming, I believe in the near future. The day is coming when the King will return and begin his rule here on this planet. Economic challenges, peace in the Middle East, wars around the world will be under His dominion and control. The excitement, anticipation, and hope will be fulfilled in Jesus. We do pray for our nation and the issues that impact our world. However, our hope is in Christ. He alone will have the ultimate answers to our sin sick, disease ridden, war torn world. Even so, come Lord Jesus!
The media covers the events leading up to the swearing in ceremony providing a view of the party atmosphere that surrounds the event. I am reminded of another "party" that is coming, I believe in the near future. The day is coming when the King will return and begin his rule here on this planet. Economic challenges, peace in the Middle East, wars around the world will be under His dominion and control. The excitement, anticipation, and hope will be fulfilled in Jesus. We do pray for our nation and the issues that impact our world. However, our hope is in Christ. He alone will have the ultimate answers to our sin sick, disease ridden, war torn world. Even so, come Lord Jesus!
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Week of Prayer
The first week of each year prayer is emphasized in the Assemblies of God. While prayer should be a constant in the life of believers and Pentecostal churches all year long, the first week is a special opportunity to seek the Lord. In his short volume, Pierced by the Word, John Piper provides a meditation on Colossians 4:2-4 that is instructive for us.
Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.
At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word,
To declare the mystery of Christ...
that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.
Piper makes five points regarding prayer.
1. Continue steadfastly in prayer; perseverance in prayer yields results (Luke 11:8, 18:1-8)
2. Be watchful in your prayers; be mentally, spiritually, and physically alert in prayer (Mark 14:37-38). Being alert keeps us true to Scripture and attune to the voice of the Spirit as well as to the needs around us.
3. Be thankful in prayer; thanksgiving lifts our eyes beyond our need to the provider who can do all things.
4. Pray for an open door for the word; receptive hearts in both the church and unbelievers are essential to the work of the Spirit.
5. Pray for the preachers; no preacher, no matter the talent, can accomplish what the Spirit alone can do. Without Christ, we can do nothing.
May prayer permeate all we do throughout 2009 so that we may effectively proclaim His truth for the building of the Kingdom of God.
Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.
At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word,
To declare the mystery of Christ...
that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.
Piper makes five points regarding prayer.
1. Continue steadfastly in prayer; perseverance in prayer yields results (Luke 11:8, 18:1-8)
2. Be watchful in your prayers; be mentally, spiritually, and physically alert in prayer (Mark 14:37-38). Being alert keeps us true to Scripture and attune to the voice of the Spirit as well as to the needs around us.
3. Be thankful in prayer; thanksgiving lifts our eyes beyond our need to the provider who can do all things.
4. Pray for an open door for the word; receptive hearts in both the church and unbelievers are essential to the work of the Spirit.
5. Pray for the preachers; no preacher, no matter the talent, can accomplish what the Spirit alone can do. Without Christ, we can do nothing.
May prayer permeate all we do throughout 2009 so that we may effectively proclaim His truth for the building of the Kingdom of God.
Friday, January 2, 2009
It is finished!
Jesus' last words on the cross ring with a simplicity and profoundness that thrills his disciples and encourages their hearts, knowing that the work of salvation has once and for all been accomplished on their behalf. Nothing is missing and there is no lack in what is needed for our eternal souls. All we need do is to "work out our salvation with fear and trembling." Some might claim this is a contradiction in the Scripture; i.e. that He has done it all but that we have something to do. There is no contradiction here at all. The opportunity for us to participate in his plan provides great fulfillment, joy, and challenge to those of us who love him and desire above all things to please our Father.
Navigating the journey of life and ministry becomes so much more joyful when it is recognized that He has completed the work required but that we can join with him in his plan. As I reflect on my own life of ministry, my most frustrating times were when I took the full responsibility for ministry and momentarily shouldered the task of building the church on my own. That my friend, is a load no earthly leader can achieve. In fact, it is not up to you or me to make "His" Church grow. Only he can do that. When we find ourselves building our own church, we effectively leave him out of the process and are taking the responsibility of doing our own thing. Serving the Lord in ministry does not always mean success from a perspective of finances, numerical growth, or human achievement. I do believe that God calls us to effective ministry, but I have been around too long to believe that success in ministry can always be measured through the natural eye.
The finished work of Christ on the cross assures the believer that God is sufficient to accomplish the work he wants done. He will do that through you and me as well. We obviously have a role to play in his kingdom but don't shoulder it alone this year. We can work for him. But we must never work without him. When we work with him we find his yoke is easy and his burden is light. Whatever 2009 may have in store, this I know. Jesus has completed the work of salvation and our job is to proclaim that "It is finished!"
Navigating the journey of life and ministry becomes so much more joyful when it is recognized that He has completed the work required but that we can join with him in his plan. As I reflect on my own life of ministry, my most frustrating times were when I took the full responsibility for ministry and momentarily shouldered the task of building the church on my own. That my friend, is a load no earthly leader can achieve. In fact, it is not up to you or me to make "His" Church grow. Only he can do that. When we find ourselves building our own church, we effectively leave him out of the process and are taking the responsibility of doing our own thing. Serving the Lord in ministry does not always mean success from a perspective of finances, numerical growth, or human achievement. I do believe that God calls us to effective ministry, but I have been around too long to believe that success in ministry can always be measured through the natural eye.
The finished work of Christ on the cross assures the believer that God is sufficient to accomplish the work he wants done. He will do that through you and me as well. We obviously have a role to play in his kingdom but don't shoulder it alone this year. We can work for him. But we must never work without him. When we work with him we find his yoke is easy and his burden is light. Whatever 2009 may have in store, this I know. Jesus has completed the work of salvation and our job is to proclaim that "It is finished!"
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