Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.
Hebrews 13:7
I love this verse. It was one of the first verses I memorised after it replaced one of the heavy metal posters on my wall when I was 14. It contains great advice and is incredibly simple. We should exercise discernment as we consider who we want to imitate. I'm thankful for many leaders who have given me great examples for faith to follow.
A few days ago I heard that this Sunday is Pastors’ Appreciation Sunday. I thought I’d like to honour my pastor, Ps Jack Hanes, with a few words. He’s a leader who has certainly spoke the word of God to me, and I’d love to have faith like his. It seemed appropriate to honour Ps Jack’s style and go with an acrostic.
F – Faith, lots of faith. It’s not just something that he preaches.
A – Action to make the big and the tough decisions.
I – Integrity. I appreciate his preaching and example on real heart issues.
T – Truth. Always preaching the Word of God passionately and clearly.
H – Has other great attributes, like courage, humility and graciousness.
Thanks Ps Jack.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Faith & Patience
We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.
Hebrews 6:12
Over the past month or two I have been suffering from a syndrome called ITBS. Now I've never been that fond of computers but it's not what you're thinking. But the process has taught me about believing and ultimately receiving God's promises.
There is a muscle band that begins behind your hip, extends down the side of your leg and attaches itself just below the knee cap. It's the ligament that stops us from falling over sideways when we walk - I hope you appreciate it now. It's known as the iliotibial or IT band. ITBS (iliotibial band syndrome) is a runner's injury where this band becomes inflamed at the hip or the knee, becoming painful after a few minutes of jogging.
At first I was happy to ignore it - I had never heard of ITBS and the City2Surf was coming up, which I was glad to finish but not without the pain in the knee becoming excruciating. But this kind of denial wasn't going to get rid of the problem. Pretending there wasn't one wouldn't help me run freely again.
A good mate gave me a clear diagnosis and some advice about ITBS (Thanks, Enoch!). Long runs don't help, stretching does. Even so discouragement was tempting. I could stop running and miss out on something I’ve come to enjoy, or I could keep running long distances with lots of pain and make it worse. I would have to be wise about the way I use it so that it could regain strength and flexibility.
Over the next few weeks I tried a few short runs. Once or twice the pain was so bad that it was better to stop jogging and walk home. This was really disappointing, even disheartening. I couldn’t run for more than 5 minutes without pain. I wondered if I should just stop running altogether. I wondered if it would get better.
I was encouraged to learn more about stretching and that regular short runs could help to rebuild strength while doing no further damage. I did this, hoping and praying that eventually I could run without pain. I diligently stretched, even though it brought on more pain.
Over the last week I have started to be able to do longer runs without significant pain. What a relief! I was really encouraged by the verse above that now that I was seeing the evidence of faith in action I still needed to exercise patience. It is so tempting to try a much longer run but I need to continue with the shorter runs for now.
The passage from Hebrews encourages us to be diligent with our faith so that we can receive what we hope for. It’s lazy to be in denial – to ignore the problems and the promises. But it’s also lazy not to be patient while we wait to receive our promises.
I know that there are bigger and more significant promises that are in your heart (and mine) than the one I’ve described here, but I pray that you’ll be encouraged to keep believing, keep taking action on it and that you won’t give up – that takes patience.
What promise do you need to exercise faith and patience to receive?
PS – Part of the promise that I’m looking forward to is to complete the Six Foot Track (45kms through the bush from Katoomba to Jenolan Caves) in a day as part of WestCare’s Steps of Hope Fundraiser. Check out the link if you want to know more about what WestCare does for my city or if you’re keen to sponsor our efforts!
http://www.westcarepenrith.org.au/events-fundraisers
Hebrews 6:12
Over the past month or two I have been suffering from a syndrome called ITBS. Now I've never been that fond of computers but it's not what you're thinking. But the process has taught me about believing and ultimately receiving God's promises.
There is a muscle band that begins behind your hip, extends down the side of your leg and attaches itself just below the knee cap. It's the ligament that stops us from falling over sideways when we walk - I hope you appreciate it now. It's known as the iliotibial or IT band. ITBS (iliotibial band syndrome) is a runner's injury where this band becomes inflamed at the hip or the knee, becoming painful after a few minutes of jogging.
At first I was happy to ignore it - I had never heard of ITBS and the City2Surf was coming up, which I was glad to finish but not without the pain in the knee becoming excruciating. But this kind of denial wasn't going to get rid of the problem. Pretending there wasn't one wouldn't help me run freely again.
A good mate gave me a clear diagnosis and some advice about ITBS (Thanks, Enoch!). Long runs don't help, stretching does. Even so discouragement was tempting. I could stop running and miss out on something I’ve come to enjoy, or I could keep running long distances with lots of pain and make it worse. I would have to be wise about the way I use it so that it could regain strength and flexibility.
Over the next few weeks I tried a few short runs. Once or twice the pain was so bad that it was better to stop jogging and walk home. This was really disappointing, even disheartening. I couldn’t run for more than 5 minutes without pain. I wondered if I should just stop running altogether. I wondered if it would get better.
I was encouraged to learn more about stretching and that regular short runs could help to rebuild strength while doing no further damage. I did this, hoping and praying that eventually I could run without pain. I diligently stretched, even though it brought on more pain.
Over the last week I have started to be able to do longer runs without significant pain. What a relief! I was really encouraged by the verse above that now that I was seeing the evidence of faith in action I still needed to exercise patience. It is so tempting to try a much longer run but I need to continue with the shorter runs for now.
The passage from Hebrews encourages us to be diligent with our faith so that we can receive what we hope for. It’s lazy to be in denial – to ignore the problems and the promises. But it’s also lazy not to be patient while we wait to receive our promises.
I know that there are bigger and more significant promises that are in your heart (and mine) than the one I’ve described here, but I pray that you’ll be encouraged to keep believing, keep taking action on it and that you won’t give up – that takes patience.
What promise do you need to exercise faith and patience to receive?
PS – Part of the promise that I’m looking forward to is to complete the Six Foot Track (45kms through the bush from Katoomba to Jenolan Caves) in a day as part of WestCare’s Steps of Hope Fundraiser. Check out the link if you want to know more about what WestCare does for my city or if you’re keen to sponsor our efforts!
http://www.westcarepenrith.org.au/events-fundraisers
Monday, August 22, 2011
A Holy Flash Mob
A few days ago I read the story about Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Mark 11). Something about it really captured my heart. I felt a fresh excitement for it. Perhaps it was seeing how Jesus prophesied the instructions, or how His disciples obeyed. Perhaps it was seeing how a whole crowd of people began to go along with prophecy and the will of God - like some kind of holy flash mob - a viral, Spirit-led movement; a beautiful partnership between the sovereign power of God and the submission of mankind.
The story stayed on my heart and lingered in my imagination. A few mornings later I read the story again, asking God to show me why it's caught me. As God was applying the Word to my spirit I felt to ask Him, "What is the colt?" The colt carried Jesus into the town. The colt was prophetically acquired. The colt was the vehicle for Jesus, the one that He chose to enter the city on. The colt was an instrument to help many people respond to Jesus and worship Him.
At that moment, and in answer to my question, God brought to mind an idea that had been hanging around in my head, an idea that I had been praying about. God used this story to encourage me and bring some confirmation that He wants to use this idea to be a vehicle for many men to come to know Him. And, I am encouraged to believe that He could use it virally, that it could spread out for His glory - somehow like it did that day. I would so love to see this in my city.
What's the colt? Has God given you a prophetic idea that He can ride into your town?
The story stayed on my heart and lingered in my imagination. A few mornings later I read the story again, asking God to show me why it's caught me. As God was applying the Word to my spirit I felt to ask Him, "What is the colt?" The colt carried Jesus into the town. The colt was prophetically acquired. The colt was the vehicle for Jesus, the one that He chose to enter the city on. The colt was an instrument to help many people respond to Jesus and worship Him.
At that moment, and in answer to my question, God brought to mind an idea that had been hanging around in my head, an idea that I had been praying about. God used this story to encourage me and bring some confirmation that He wants to use this idea to be a vehicle for many men to come to know Him. And, I am encouraged to believe that He could use it virally, that it could spread out for His glory - somehow like it did that day. I would so love to see this in my city.
What's the colt? Has God given you a prophetic idea that He can ride into your town?
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
The rich man of Penrith
A man saw Jesus in a dream and said, "So Jesus, what can you do for me?"
"Well, with me you would have eternal life."
"I'm sure I'll be right with that. I mean, I'm good to my wife and kids, I work hard, give to charity - well sometimes; I even mow my mum's lawn."
Jesus said, "All those things are good. But it's not enough. I want your heart. I want you to give up on the idea that you've got it all together without me. I want you to stop depending on your money. I want you to stop believing whatever the world tells you."
The man walked away with a heavy heart. Waking soon after feeling disturbed.
Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!”
The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”
The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, “Who then can be saved?”
Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”
Mark 10:23-27
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Jesus - Author and Perfecter
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2
Jesus is writing a book and it has your name on it. Mine is called Mark's Faith Race. What's yours called?
The draft is complete. He has marked out a race for you. Now the Master-writer is working and re-working passages to improve the manuscript.
It takes a lot of creativity and determination to complete a book, but Jesus is up for it. Your book was His idea. He started it with excitement and He works passionately to complete it.
Our faith comes from God. It started with Him. It was His desire to impart it to us. And by His grace and strength our faith is increased and improved through every season.
Where our faith has been hindered by past experiences, carrying burdens we shouldn't be, Jesus rewrites a story of healing and freedom. Where you've doubted your faith, taking on lies from the world and the enemy, Jesus renews your mind, rewriting stories of peace and breakthrough.
It is up to Him. It is His work to build our faith. Any other philosophy will result in flagellation where we fail, or our own pats on the back where we succeed. This is dangerous territory.
Be encouraged. Jesus is the author and perfecter of our faith. He knows what He's doing. He is the one who inspires faith - turning mustardseed faith into mountain-moving faith.
Whatever shape your faith is in - as long as you're alive - the book is still being improved by the perfecter. When the race is over, and our book is published, it will be a glorious day indeed!
Friday, August 5, 2011
Character and the Spirit
This week I enjoyed a brief beginning to a worthwhile discussion that deserves a lot more. It relates to character - our role and the role of God the Spirit. My thought, this year, has been to look for every chance to honour the Holy Spirit and to challenge every chance to overlook His work so it got my attention quickly.
It is easy to over-estimate our own role in character growth. I certainly think that we have a role to play however I think it could be quite dangerous for it not to be balanced by an appreciation for all that God does to help us. Our own pats on the back could easily become self-righteousness. And on the other hand, if we think that it's up to us, then we could become disheartened when we take an honest look at ourselves and acknowledge that we can't do it on our own.
The good news is that we are not on our own. I believe that our journey of character growth has the Spirit's footprints all over it. His role is not limited to one simple download at rebirth, and neither do I see this discussion in the realm of apologetics or systematic theology. I'm talking about how the Spirit helps us in day-to-day, real life - a wonderful life where we are invited to keep in step with Him.
When we were reborn by the Spirit we were given a new nature, and with it our motivations and desires changed. With a balance of carrot and stick (or conviction and inspiration), the Spirit leads us to want to take on His character.
The Spirit leads us into and through many situations and circumstances that test our character. One way or another God allows us to go through tough times that develop patience and perseverance.
Through hard days and average days, God's Word holds us securely. The Spirit breathes on the Word, reminding us of the truth and showing us how to truly live according to it.
Everyday the Great Mentor speaks to us and coaches us. He stirs us to do one thing and He warns us to avoid another. Always positive, always believing in us.
The Spirit's power transforms us - even our character. Where we would have no hope to change a character trait, God can breakthrough - healing us and shaping us. Of course we need to keep walking in it, being renewed and continuing to choose His way as we are reformed.
There is freedom in seeing our own role as small and God's role as big. This leads me to stop contending with the flesh and to simply pray and trust. It is not up to me to change me (or to take the credit) as it is also not up to me to seek to change others but to trust God and pray for Him to have His way.
Being born of His nature means that I will naturally produce His fruit, so I can take no more credit than the branch can take for producing apples. The fruit comes by His nature, His design, His life. This also means that I don't have to strive to produce such fruit - and that such striving is fruitless.
I believe that our role is to simply submit to His wonderful love, power and will. This role is not unimportant or passive, the path to the point of submission may not be without blood. But our part is to simply say 'yes' and let His nature take it's course.
I'd love for you to add to the discussion.
It is easy to over-estimate our own role in character growth. I certainly think that we have a role to play however I think it could be quite dangerous for it not to be balanced by an appreciation for all that God does to help us. Our own pats on the back could easily become self-righteousness. And on the other hand, if we think that it's up to us, then we could become disheartened when we take an honest look at ourselves and acknowledge that we can't do it on our own.
The good news is that we are not on our own. I believe that our journey of character growth has the Spirit's footprints all over it. His role is not limited to one simple download at rebirth, and neither do I see this discussion in the realm of apologetics or systematic theology. I'm talking about how the Spirit helps us in day-to-day, real life - a wonderful life where we are invited to keep in step with Him.
When we were reborn by the Spirit we were given a new nature, and with it our motivations and desires changed. With a balance of carrot and stick (or conviction and inspiration), the Spirit leads us to want to take on His character.
The Spirit leads us into and through many situations and circumstances that test our character. One way or another God allows us to go through tough times that develop patience and perseverance.
Through hard days and average days, God's Word holds us securely. The Spirit breathes on the Word, reminding us of the truth and showing us how to truly live according to it.
Everyday the Great Mentor speaks to us and coaches us. He stirs us to do one thing and He warns us to avoid another. Always positive, always believing in us.
The Spirit's power transforms us - even our character. Where we would have no hope to change a character trait, God can breakthrough - healing us and shaping us. Of course we need to keep walking in it, being renewed and continuing to choose His way as we are reformed.
There is freedom in seeing our own role as small and God's role as big. This leads me to stop contending with the flesh and to simply pray and trust. It is not up to me to change me (or to take the credit) as it is also not up to me to seek to change others but to trust God and pray for Him to have His way.
Being born of His nature means that I will naturally produce His fruit, so I can take no more credit than the branch can take for producing apples. The fruit comes by His nature, His design, His life. This also means that I don't have to strive to produce such fruit - and that such striving is fruitless.
I believe that our role is to simply submit to His wonderful love, power and will. This role is not unimportant or passive, the path to the point of submission may not be without blood. But our part is to simply say 'yes' and let His nature take it's course.
I'd love for you to add to the discussion.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Saying no to strivenness
Not sure how it's spelt but I think I just made it up so I don't think I can be corrected.
A few weeks ago I noticed how I can easily enslave myself to striving and drivenness. I came to recognise a pattern in my life, where given some time to myself I'd fill it up with a list of things I "had" to do. I'd get to the end of that time exhausted and think that what I really needed was to relax and get renewed. Drivenness took the joy out of things. I'd do something that I didn't really need to do because I thought I should. I'd struggle through with frustration and not enjoy it at all.
Strivenness is an awful motivator.
I came to a point one evening and said no to striving and being driven in those situations. I took it easy, happy not to get anything done particularly. I've since noticed that I've been more relaxed generally with the way I've used my time. I haven't felt subject to have-tos that really aren't. I thank God because I think He set me free from something in my heart.
This lack of contentment and joy, and a sense of striving and drivenness can mess with our hearts. I can think of many times I have served others from this place and really I have been searching for some kind of fulfillment in my heart. Where being fulfilled in my Father's love I can do things out of the overflow of His life, from my heart.
I have recently been again impressed by Jesus and the way He seemed to be so secure and so different to our own culture of drivenness. He limited His time with the crowd so that He could spend time on His own with Father God. He didn't do anything to promote Himself or drum up business - He actively sought to keep many miracles quiet. Jesus didn't worry about impressing people or building momentum in His ministry. No strivenness there at all.
Any thoughts?
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Impressing Jesus
The main variable for impressing or disappointing Jesus is our faith.
Jesus was amazed at the lack of faith in His hometown and with His disciples on many occasions. At other times He was impressed with people's faith and credited to them for righteousness and healing, such as the Centurion.
Jesus was never impressed by good behaviour or shocked at poor behaviour either (although self-righteousness and it's fruit obviously got right under His skin). Of course, Jesus made it very clear that sin is our problem. His teaching shows us that we could never perform well enough to pass any tests on that front. Our only hope is to believe in Him and His righteousness. Indeed sin is a fruit of our lack of faith. And our idea that we can perform well actually destroys our connection with Him perhaps more than anything else.
I have certainly failed when it comes to sin. I have also fallen short in the area of self-righteousness for that matter. Unfortunately I have also failed miserably when it comes to faith. But I thank Jesus that He is so willing to accept me as I believe in Him, that my mustard seed of faith in Him is grounds for my forgiveness and salvation.
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 earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11:6
I'm so glad that faith is such a key to impressing our Lord Jesus. Our human efforts at achieving right behaviour will fall short; but righteousness itself is a fruit of faith. Believe right then be empowered to behave right.
Love to know your thoughts.
Jesus was amazed at the lack of faith in His hometown and with His disciples on many occasions. At other times He was impressed with people's faith and credited to them for righteousness and healing, such as the Centurion.
Jesus was never impressed by good behaviour or shocked at poor behaviour either (although self-righteousness and it's fruit obviously got right under His skin). Of course, Jesus made it very clear that sin is our problem. His teaching shows us that we could never perform well enough to pass any tests on that front. Our only hope is to believe in Him and His righteousness. Indeed sin is a fruit of our lack of faith. And our idea that we can perform well actually destroys our connection with Him perhaps more than anything else.
I have certainly failed when it comes to sin. I have also fallen short in the area of self-righteousness for that matter. Unfortunately I have also failed miserably when it comes to faith. But I thank Jesus that He is so willing to accept me as I believe in Him, that my mustard seed of faith in Him is grounds for my forgiveness and salvation.
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 earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11:6
I'm so glad that faith is such a key to impressing our Lord Jesus. Our human efforts at achieving right behaviour will fall short; but righteousness itself is a fruit of faith. Believe right then be empowered to behave right.
Love to know your thoughts.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Pentecost Love Letter
12th June 2011
Dear Holy Spirit,
It's Pentecost and I want to write to say I love You. I know You're the same everyday and everywhere. But I want to honour and celebrate You today, and hopefully appreciate You more every other day.
You are the ultimate best friend. You are always here with me. You always have a kind word. You always encourage me and build me up. You even bless me with real peace and real joy. You are amazing!
You are so gracious and loving to me. You know all my thoughts and actions yet You stay with me. You correct me gently, You heal my brokenness and forgive my strife. You never give up on me. You fill me with joy and peace again.
You whisper bold ideas into my ear then You fill me with boldness to follow through. It's always exciting to think about You and recognise You in situations. There's nothing more fulfilling than getting the chance to partner with You in Your purpose. It's fun to flow and fly with You.
Thank You for inviting me to walk with You. What a blessing. It is the best walk of my life. Your kindness and You presence mean so much to me.
I love You so much!
Mark
Dear Holy Spirit,
It's Pentecost and I want to write to say I love You. I know You're the same everyday and everywhere. But I want to honour and celebrate You today, and hopefully appreciate You more every other day.
You are the ultimate best friend. You are always here with me. You always have a kind word. You always encourage me and build me up. You even bless me with real peace and real joy. You are amazing!
You are so gracious and loving to me. You know all my thoughts and actions yet You stay with me. You correct me gently, You heal my brokenness and forgive my strife. You never give up on me. You fill me with joy and peace again.
You whisper bold ideas into my ear then You fill me with boldness to follow through. It's always exciting to think about You and recognise You in situations. There's nothing more fulfilling than getting the chance to partner with You in Your purpose. It's fun to flow and fly with You.
Thank You for inviting me to walk with You. What a blessing. It is the best walk of my life. Your kindness and You presence mean so much to me.
I love You so much!
Mark
Friday, June 3, 2011
Waiting for Pentecost
I wonder if the air was different. I wonder if it felt different when you were on your own - waking, thinking, walking. One thing is for sure - things changed very significantly on the day of Pentecost as recorded in Acts Chapter Two.
I hope in heaven that I get a chance to ask some that were there what it was like before and after. That day was a very significant shift in human history - the Holy Spirit was being poured out on all flesh - not just the few.
When the Holy Spirit was deposited in my life, when I was baptised with Him - I was completely changed. I felt new life, new desires and a new power to live His way. I never want to live without the Holy Spirit's love and power.
I'm determined this Pentecost (and my whole life for that matter) not to take the Holy Spirit for granted. I want to think about Him and desire Him - to acknowledge His presence and everything that He has done is doing for us.
I'm going to celebrate Pentecost this year be bringing the day in with a fire and a few mates in my backyard. I don't know what will happen but as we sit together I hope that we bring honour to Him as we share about what He has done for us. Any guys are welcome between 9pm and midnight.
I've decided to consider the Public Holiday on the Monday after Pentecost Sunday to be also in honour of the Holy Spirit - nice of the government to give us more time to celebrate.
How will you take some time to honour the Holy Spirit at Pentecost?
I hope in heaven that I get a chance to ask some that were there what it was like before and after. That day was a very significant shift in human history - the Holy Spirit was being poured out on all flesh - not just the few.
When the Holy Spirit was deposited in my life, when I was baptised with Him - I was completely changed. I felt new life, new desires and a new power to live His way. I never want to live without the Holy Spirit's love and power.
I'm determined this Pentecost (and my whole life for that matter) not to take the Holy Spirit for granted. I want to think about Him and desire Him - to acknowledge His presence and everything that He has done is doing for us.
I'm going to celebrate Pentecost this year be bringing the day in with a fire and a few mates in my backyard. I don't know what will happen but as we sit together I hope that we bring honour to Him as we share about what He has done for us. Any guys are welcome between 9pm and midnight.
I've decided to consider the Public Holiday on the Monday after Pentecost Sunday to be also in honour of the Holy Spirit - nice of the government to give us more time to celebrate.
How will you take some time to honour the Holy Spirit at Pentecost?
Saturday, May 28, 2011
What I've learnt about fasting
In the last few weeks I've learnt a lot about fasting from the Holy Spirit walking me through it and from a book called "Fasting" by Jentezen Franklin. I am thankful to my Pastor (Ps Jack Hanes) for again challenging our church community to fast over the last three weeks.
Fasting is a normal and important part of life as a Christian.
Although I have fasted from time to time, I've regarded it as a fairly radical and fringe activity. Jentezen's book shows through scripture that it is quite a normal and even expected part of Judaism and Christianity (among other religions). Just as I invest myself in giving or prayer, I also want to be a person for whom fasting is a regular part of my life and worship.
Fasting is for spiritual breakthrough.
Fasting makes a difference to the power of our prayers. Where prayer alone may not work, fasting can be the element that brings the authority to bring a healing or an answer to prayer. Of course, Jesus Himself said this to His disciples. Breaking through physically can precede breaking through spiritually. Same God, same purpose, same prayer - but fasting brings greater power and authority to our prayers. I want to remember this when my prayers don't seem to be answered.
Fasting is not as hard as I thought.
Fasting of any kind has never actually been as difficult as I thought it would be. Before recently I believed that I couldn't fast completely on work days, that I wouldn't have enough energy and I'd get to grumpy without some sugar in my system. Now I know that isn't close to being true. I have even found that I could do (limited) exercise while fasting completely without any side-effects. I have learnt especially how important it is for me to know why I am fasting and to decide before I start exactly how I will fast - working it out as I go has never worked for me.
Fasting is for sanctification.
Fasting is a test. It's like putting your hand up to tell God that you're ready for your character to given a bit of pressure. It is a chance for God to work in our lives to bring sanctification. In this season of fasting God has very clearly walked me through different themes as I have continued - fear, pride, flesh vs. spirit and criticism.
Fasting helps you to get carried away.
Fasting was practiced by so many of my heroes in the Bible and more modern heroes of the faith. I don't know how I haven't fully recognised before how much fasting is a key to a 'deeper' spiritual life. Those with a clear presence of God on their lives and authority and miracles in their ministries have been people who fasted regularly. I want to be a 'carried-away' Christian.
I have a desire to make fasting a regular part of my life and worship. I want to be the kind of person who is quick to fast and pray for salvations and spiritual breakthroughs. I want to be led by the Spirit as I begin to fast more often. I want to crucify the flesh so that I might walk according to the Spirit.
What have you learnt about fasting lately?
Monday, May 23, 2011
Flesh or Spirit
"Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit." Galatians 5:24-25
Fasting helps me to realise some of the desires of my flesh and hopefully to reinforce the Spirit-desires that God has put in my heart. As I've been feasting on the Word in this time of fasting God has started to speak to me and challenge me about the flesh and the Spirit. I have noticed that Paul had a lot to say about the topic, and that there is much to learn from the life of David.
Paul made it clear that the distinction and indeed the conflict between flesh and Spirit is of great importance in the life of a believer. The flesh, writes Paul in Romans 8, is hostile to God, cannot please God and leads to death - the Spirit brings life! Paul encourages us to live according to the Spirit, the kind of life that is the opposite of the flesh-life. He warns us not to use our freedom to indulge the flesh (Galatians 5).
Paul said that he put no confidence whatsoever in the flesh (Philippians 3). He listed all the wonderful reasons he had for backing himself - his intellect, his breeding, his passion and his accomplishments; but made it clear that in Christ and in truth that his flesh could still not be trusted. Rather we should look to the Spirit for motivation, guidance, and strength.
I have been impressed as I read again about the life of David, the man after God's heart, the man full of the Spirit of God. Like Paul, he could have reasonably acted according to his flesh but rather chose to honour God. David prayed about going to war, when he could have gone ahead according to the power of his army or a desire to crush his enemies. When he had a chance to take his enemy, King Saul's life, he chose to spare him in order to honour God. David didn't put confidence in his flesh which had claim to revenge, self-preservation, anger, rights and even calling. David walked according to the Spirit and trusted Father God.
I have often thought of the influence of the flesh of course as the kind of nasties listed in Galatians 5:19-21. But this has left me off the hook for so many times that I am self-directed, self-indulgent or full of self-pity. Follow the flesh and it will lead to death. Walk with the Spirit and He will give you life. There is no basis for having any confidence in our flesh, rather we should trust our heavenly Father with everything and in every way.
Fasting helps me to realise some of the desires of my flesh and hopefully to reinforce the Spirit-desires that God has put in my heart. As I've been feasting on the Word in this time of fasting God has started to speak to me and challenge me about the flesh and the Spirit. I have noticed that Paul had a lot to say about the topic, and that there is much to learn from the life of David.
Paul made it clear that the distinction and indeed the conflict between flesh and Spirit is of great importance in the life of a believer. The flesh, writes Paul in Romans 8, is hostile to God, cannot please God and leads to death - the Spirit brings life! Paul encourages us to live according to the Spirit, the kind of life that is the opposite of the flesh-life. He warns us not to use our freedom to indulge the flesh (Galatians 5).
Paul said that he put no confidence whatsoever in the flesh (Philippians 3). He listed all the wonderful reasons he had for backing himself - his intellect, his breeding, his passion and his accomplishments; but made it clear that in Christ and in truth that his flesh could still not be trusted. Rather we should look to the Spirit for motivation, guidance, and strength.
I have been impressed as I read again about the life of David, the man after God's heart, the man full of the Spirit of God. Like Paul, he could have reasonably acted according to his flesh but rather chose to honour God. David prayed about going to war, when he could have gone ahead according to the power of his army or a desire to crush his enemies. When he had a chance to take his enemy, King Saul's life, he chose to spare him in order to honour God. David didn't put confidence in his flesh which had claim to revenge, self-preservation, anger, rights and even calling. David walked according to the Spirit and trusted Father God.
I have often thought of the influence of the flesh of course as the kind of nasties listed in Galatians 5:19-21. But this has left me off the hook for so many times that I am self-directed, self-indulgent or full of self-pity. Follow the flesh and it will lead to death. Walk with the Spirit and He will give you life. There is no basis for having any confidence in our flesh, rather we should trust our heavenly Father with everything and in every way.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Humbling
Fasting
Praying
Lacking
Waiting
Hurting
Kneeling
Mourning
Worshipping
Asking
Trusting
Listening
Giving
Learning
Loving
Forgiving
God opposes the proud
but gives grace to the humble.
James 4:6
Praying
Lacking
Waiting
Hurting
Kneeling
Mourning
Worshipping
Asking
Trusting
Listening
Giving
Learning
Loving
Forgiving
God opposes the proud
but gives grace to the humble.
James 4:6
Monday, May 9, 2011
Fasting
At the beginning of the year, at the start of this journey, I knew I wanted to go deeper in my relationship with God, to become one of those people who are truly carried away – in love with God and walking in His presence. I wasn’t sure how that would happen and have been concerned that it may not really happen at all.
It’s been difficult enough just to define the goal of this journey, I mean, terms like “full on for God” or “on fire for God” are maybe helpful and worked when I was a teen but it’s hard to put it in words in a satisfying way. I’ve settled more for a vibe, a picture, or perhaps a mess of pictures. I guess the goal isn’t easy to define, like, to be able to do 100 push-ups. I want to be carried away.
But how? Well so far it’s been helpful to have this focus on my blog because it reminds to think about it and chew over it even when it doesn’t come up in may conversations. Of course, getting rhema from God’s Word and being led by the Spirit in prayer has been vital to the journey. I’ve also been thinking a lot about other people, heroes that have gone before us, who have been so devoted and passionate about God – their example and their writing is very encouraging. But right now, I’m excited about fasting!
I have been feeling led to fast and I am very encouraged that my church is fasting corporately over the next 21 days. Fasting is a big call, it’s an extreme measure. It’s a statement saying to God that He is much more important in my life than food and physical comfort. All the heroes of the Bible engaged in fasting and God achieved great things in their lives and ministries. I’ve been very encouraged as I’m reading a book on fasting by Jentezen Franklin, which discusses teaching and examples of fasting in a simple way.
I’m looking forward to seeing what God will do in this season of fasting. I’d like to be different. I believe that this time is going to cement some good things into place and overcome some things that I can do without. When I reflect on the big recurrent themes over almost 20 years of being a Christian I think of prayer and trusting God. I have regularly felt that I should pray more, and I hope to practice God’s presence in such a way that this becomes more part of my nature. And I have often been challenged in almost every season to trust in God more, I believe this season will also take me deeper in that way.
What could God do in you in a time of fasting?
It’s been difficult enough just to define the goal of this journey, I mean, terms like “full on for God” or “on fire for God” are maybe helpful and worked when I was a teen but it’s hard to put it in words in a satisfying way. I’ve settled more for a vibe, a picture, or perhaps a mess of pictures. I guess the goal isn’t easy to define, like, to be able to do 100 push-ups. I want to be carried away.
But how? Well so far it’s been helpful to have this focus on my blog because it reminds to think about it and chew over it even when it doesn’t come up in may conversations. Of course, getting rhema from God’s Word and being led by the Spirit in prayer has been vital to the journey. I’ve also been thinking a lot about other people, heroes that have gone before us, who have been so devoted and passionate about God – their example and their writing is very encouraging. But right now, I’m excited about fasting!
I have been feeling led to fast and I am very encouraged that my church is fasting corporately over the next 21 days. Fasting is a big call, it’s an extreme measure. It’s a statement saying to God that He is much more important in my life than food and physical comfort. All the heroes of the Bible engaged in fasting and God achieved great things in their lives and ministries. I’ve been very encouraged as I’m reading a book on fasting by Jentezen Franklin, which discusses teaching and examples of fasting in a simple way.
I’m looking forward to seeing what God will do in this season of fasting. I’d like to be different. I believe that this time is going to cement some good things into place and overcome some things that I can do without. When I reflect on the big recurrent themes over almost 20 years of being a Christian I think of prayer and trusting God. I have regularly felt that I should pray more, and I hope to practice God’s presence in such a way that this becomes more part of my nature. And I have often been challenged in almost every season to trust in God more, I believe this season will also take me deeper in that way.
What could God do in you in a time of fasting?
Saturday, April 30, 2011
The Man Not Caught in Adultery
Spare a thought for the man not caught in adultery. It’s certainly a horrendous suggestion. It is natural in our day and age to consider the lack of gender justice in the famous story in John 8 where Jesus saves the life, both the body and the soul, of the a woman who was caught in adultery and brought to him to judge. But I think we need to start thinking about what is happening for the man.
The Pharisees tried to set Jesus up. He couldn’t overlook the sin and still be just. He couldn’t overlook the life of the woman and still be loving. Instead, full of compassion and wisdom, Jesus offered those in the crowd a choice. “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” Those who were ready to condemn and stone the woman walked away and the woman was forgiven, given a new life by Jesus.
Many of us have wondered and commented on why the woman was brought to be condemned but the man wasn’t. It certainly reflects the culture at the time, and possibly reflects a little better on our time that we actually consider the question. The man was not brought to be publicly shamed, condemned and possibly stoned to death. The man was left – to live – but in shame, secret and darkness.
At the end of that particular day we know that the woman had met Jesus. She had been shown incredible and personal compassion by God Himself. She had been saved and literally given a new life. The man, his sin covered up by other men, whose life was not in danger that day, was still in this old life of secret sin and shame. He was bound to continue in a life of selfish cravings and temporal pleasures – empty of joy; full of bitterness.
What the Pharisees meant for evil, Jesus turned to good. The woman was saved. The Pharisees, nodding to the man’s indiscretion, ironically left him in condemnation.
The hundreds of thousands of those forced into a life of prostitution are much closer to God’s Kingdom than the men who force themselves on them. Globally, thanks to the courageous work of activists, law makers and communicators, the tide is slowly turning and many women and children are being rescued out of or protected from prostitution. But what about the men? What about the men who will sneak away in darkness only to return again?
These men, of course, do not deserve compassion, mercy, freedom or salvation. They are routinely doing something that they know must be wrong. And there is another group, like the Pharisees in the story, who reinforce the sin if the men and perpetually bring women and children to be stoned to death, as they are slowly killed in their brothels from disease and pain. It’s hard to imagine any grace for them.
The Man not caught in adultery is still caught in a life of sexual sin. His life is caught in a cycle where he has given himself over to lust and he keeps returning to commit violence on the weak. In a different way to the prostitute, this man is also a slave to sex. He is bound in his guilt. His mind and his body are instruments of darkness. As a paying client, his privilege is protected but indeed he is also being used. His soul, kept in the darkness, is beyond redemption.
Who can save such a man? Who could forgive his sin? Who would have the compassion? Who would have such grace? Who would have the wisdom?
Jesus. Just the same way He saves us. We didn’t deserve it either.
The Pharisees tried to set Jesus up. He couldn’t overlook the sin and still be just. He couldn’t overlook the life of the woman and still be loving. Instead, full of compassion and wisdom, Jesus offered those in the crowd a choice. “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” Those who were ready to condemn and stone the woman walked away and the woman was forgiven, given a new life by Jesus.
Many of us have wondered and commented on why the woman was brought to be condemned but the man wasn’t. It certainly reflects the culture at the time, and possibly reflects a little better on our time that we actually consider the question. The man was not brought to be publicly shamed, condemned and possibly stoned to death. The man was left – to live – but in shame, secret and darkness.
At the end of that particular day we know that the woman had met Jesus. She had been shown incredible and personal compassion by God Himself. She had been saved and literally given a new life. The man, his sin covered up by other men, whose life was not in danger that day, was still in this old life of secret sin and shame. He was bound to continue in a life of selfish cravings and temporal pleasures – empty of joy; full of bitterness.
What the Pharisees meant for evil, Jesus turned to good. The woman was saved. The Pharisees, nodding to the man’s indiscretion, ironically left him in condemnation.
The hundreds of thousands of those forced into a life of prostitution are much closer to God’s Kingdom than the men who force themselves on them. Globally, thanks to the courageous work of activists, law makers and communicators, the tide is slowly turning and many women and children are being rescued out of or protected from prostitution. But what about the men? What about the men who will sneak away in darkness only to return again?
These men, of course, do not deserve compassion, mercy, freedom or salvation. They are routinely doing something that they know must be wrong. And there is another group, like the Pharisees in the story, who reinforce the sin if the men and perpetually bring women and children to be stoned to death, as they are slowly killed in their brothels from disease and pain. It’s hard to imagine any grace for them.
The Man not caught in adultery is still caught in a life of sexual sin. His life is caught in a cycle where he has given himself over to lust and he keeps returning to commit violence on the weak. In a different way to the prostitute, this man is also a slave to sex. He is bound in his guilt. His mind and his body are instruments of darkness. As a paying client, his privilege is protected but indeed he is also being used. His soul, kept in the darkness, is beyond redemption.
Who can save such a man? Who could forgive his sin? Who would have the compassion? Who would have such grace? Who would have the wisdom?
Jesus. Just the same way He saves us. We didn’t deserve it either.
Monday, April 25, 2011
What’s so special about June 12?
We have just enjoyed and celebrated Easter – honouring Jesus; His sacrifice in death and His power in resurrection. I have been thinking this year about celebrating a special day for the Holy Spirit, Pentecost Sunday, which falls on June 12 this year.
While some churches do focus on the Holy Spirit on that day it seems that Pentecost Sunday doesn’t seem to have a large profile. I think it would be a good thing to honour the Holy Spirit by considering how we can celebrate Him and what He does for us on that day. I also think that it would do us good.
What do you think?
What could you / we do to honour the Holy Spirit at Pentecost?
While some churches do focus on the Holy Spirit on that day it seems that Pentecost Sunday doesn’t seem to have a large profile. I think it would be a good thing to honour the Holy Spirit by considering how we can celebrate Him and what He does for us on that day. I also think that it would do us good.
What do you think?
What could you / we do to honour the Holy Spirit at Pentecost?
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Devotion beyond devotions
Tozer is messing with me. His devotion for God was amazing. He was so determined not to be satisfied and so carried away with desire for God and His presence.
I read (and reread) part of a chapter from "The Pursuit of God" (Chapter 5). ( also online at http://www.worldinvisible.com/library/tozer/5f00.0888/5f00.0888.05.htm ).
Devotional routines are helpful but are limited when it comes to pursuing God with our whole hearts.
“A generation of Christians reared among push buttons and automatic machines is impatient of slower and less direct methods of reaching their goals. We have been trying to apply machine age methods to our relations with God. We read our :' chapter, have our short devotions and rush away, hoping to make up for our deep inward bankruptcy by attending another gospel meeting or listening to another thrilling story told by a religious adventurer lately returned from afar.”
Are we satisfied to splash about in the shallows?
“The tragic results of this spirit are all about us. Shallow lives, hollow religious philosophies, the preponderance of the element of fun in gospel meetings, the glorification of men, trust in religious externalities, quasi-religious fellowships, salesmanship methods, the mistaking of dynamic personality for the power of the Spirit: these and such as these are the symptoms of an evil disease, a deep and serious malady of the soul.”
Who is our model?
“For this great sickness that is upon us no one person is responsible, and no Christian is wholly free from blame. We have all contributed, directly or indirectly, to this sad state of affairs. We have been too blind to see, or too timid to speak out, or too self-satisfied to desire anything better than the poor average diet with which others appear satisfied. To put it differently, we have accepted one another's notions, copied one another's lives and made one another's experiences the model for our own. And for a generation the trend has been downward. Now we have reached a low place of sand and burnt wire grass and, worst of all, we have made the Word of Truth conform to our experience and accepted this low plane as the very pasture of the blessed.”
What do you think?
How can we get beyond this?
I read (and reread) part of a chapter from "The Pursuit of God" (Chapter 5). ( also online at http://www.worldinvisible.com/library/tozer/5f00.0888/5f00.0888.05.htm ).
Devotional routines are helpful but are limited when it comes to pursuing God with our whole hearts.
“A generation of Christians reared among push buttons and automatic machines is impatient of slower and less direct methods of reaching their goals. We have been trying to apply machine age methods to our relations with God. We read our :' chapter, have our short devotions and rush away, hoping to make up for our deep inward bankruptcy by attending another gospel meeting or listening to another thrilling story told by a religious adventurer lately returned from afar.”
Are we satisfied to splash about in the shallows?
“The tragic results of this spirit are all about us. Shallow lives, hollow religious philosophies, the preponderance of the element of fun in gospel meetings, the glorification of men, trust in religious externalities, quasi-religious fellowships, salesmanship methods, the mistaking of dynamic personality for the power of the Spirit: these and such as these are the symptoms of an evil disease, a deep and serious malady of the soul.”
Who is our model?
“For this great sickness that is upon us no one person is responsible, and no Christian is wholly free from blame. We have all contributed, directly or indirectly, to this sad state of affairs. We have been too blind to see, or too timid to speak out, or too self-satisfied to desire anything better than the poor average diet with which others appear satisfied. To put it differently, we have accepted one another's notions, copied one another's lives and made one another's experiences the model for our own. And for a generation the trend has been downward. Now we have reached a low place of sand and burnt wire grass and, worst of all, we have made the Word of Truth conform to our experience and accepted this low plane as the very pasture of the blessed.”
What do you think?
How can we get beyond this?
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Gift
Imagine being given a wonderful gift but never using it. Imagine being given something so precious but living as if you never received it.
I can easily imagine it. It's what I do so often with the gift of speaking in tongues.
From God
I like when my kids enjoy a gift that I’ve given them and I love to remind then that it was from me, “Zoe, who gave you that pretty dress from India?”
It means a lot to me to remember that the gift of tongues is from God, prophesied and recommended by Jesus and delivered by the Holy Spirit. I should use it thankfully and frequently. Not like wearing that awful knitted jumper because I remember that I might see the relative that gave it to me.
Builds up
Can you imagine suffering from the cold and flu all winter while never opening the vitamins you've kept in the cupboard?
Praying in tongues is a gift that builds my faith. I can spend so much time worrying when I could at least spend a few minutes praying in tongues instead.
Tunes in
I could sit in a room with a radio switched off and wonder what’s going on in the world or I could tune in.
Praying in tongues is gift that helps me to tune in to God and the things of His Spirit. Even when I don’t know what to pray I don’t have to wait for inspiration or warm fuzzies. I can let God’s Spirit lead me.
Effective prayer
I could dig a hole with my hands. My yard is full of hard clay so it would be very difficult but I could do it. What would make it daft is that I have a shovel in the shed.
God’s gift of a prayer language can prop up my prayer life and add His power to it. Unfortunately, I need all the help I can get, and knowing that His power is at work makes it exciting.
I am writing to myself. I want to be a person who appreciates and uses this gift that God has given me. Even though it didn’t seem to come easily 18 years ago, today I could go a day or a week without using it.
For those like me, I challenge you keep the dust off that gift.
For those who are curious, I encourage you to keep pursuing it.
“I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you.”1 Corinthians 14:18
I can easily imagine it. It's what I do so often with the gift of speaking in tongues.
From God
I like when my kids enjoy a gift that I’ve given them and I love to remind then that it was from me, “Zoe, who gave you that pretty dress from India?”
It means a lot to me to remember that the gift of tongues is from God, prophesied and recommended by Jesus and delivered by the Holy Spirit. I should use it thankfully and frequently. Not like wearing that awful knitted jumper because I remember that I might see the relative that gave it to me.
Builds up
Can you imagine suffering from the cold and flu all winter while never opening the vitamins you've kept in the cupboard?
Praying in tongues is a gift that builds my faith. I can spend so much time worrying when I could at least spend a few minutes praying in tongues instead.
Tunes in
I could sit in a room with a radio switched off and wonder what’s going on in the world or I could tune in.
Praying in tongues is gift that helps me to tune in to God and the things of His Spirit. Even when I don’t know what to pray I don’t have to wait for inspiration or warm fuzzies. I can let God’s Spirit lead me.
Effective prayer
I could dig a hole with my hands. My yard is full of hard clay so it would be very difficult but I could do it. What would make it daft is that I have a shovel in the shed.
God’s gift of a prayer language can prop up my prayer life and add His power to it. Unfortunately, I need all the help I can get, and knowing that His power is at work makes it exciting.
I am writing to myself. I want to be a person who appreciates and uses this gift that God has given me. Even though it didn’t seem to come easily 18 years ago, today I could go a day or a week without using it.
For those like me, I challenge you keep the dust off that gift.
For those who are curious, I encourage you to keep pursuing it.
“I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you.”1 Corinthians 14:18
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Solitude
I love being around people but from time to time I really crave solitude. I love hanging out and playing with family and friends, I even enjoy working with people but I know how much I need to spend some time on my own.
As I read John 6 the other day, it wasn't the amazing miracles that stood out to me but the way that Jesus took time on His own in-between. Jesus often got on His own to pray, to spend time with His Father. And indeed for all who recognise the Father, solitude isn't really solitude, but it is time separated to spend with Him. We are never really alone.
As Jesus' example stood out and I felt the wonderful and familiar mix of God calling me out and my own desire, I knew I needed to take some time with Him. Soon the words of Psalm 23 came to mind and to my heart. These words again washed over me refreshing my spirit and restoring my soul. Wow!
I'm blessed to be part of a group of men who get together and chew over God's Word as we let His Spirit stir our minds and our hearts. This week we fed together on Psalm 23. What a blessing to consider His love and care of us. We shared stories of special times when God has called us out to solitude, times when God has redeemed the time from our routine to have special soul-restoring moments. It was easy to become overwhelmed with treasured memories, and for our appetite to be provoked.
I remember a time when I was on holidays hear the bush. I felt kind of restless, getting fussy and irritated. Out of that a yearning developed and I began to feel such an impression to get outside and walk to a lookout. It didn't seem to be the right time because the weather was windy and rainy, but I recognised that it was His voice and I wen anyway. The view at the lookout did not overwhelm me, it was cold, the wind blustery, small rain drops stirred around my face. I didn't receive any great revelation or healing. But I felt His presence. I responded to His calling out and was rewarded with finding Him.
Take time to recall some times when and places where you've enjoyed this kind of solitude.
When is the next time? Where will it be?
It blows my mind to think that God is waiting and ready for that next opportunity.
As I read John 6 the other day, it wasn't the amazing miracles that stood out to me but the way that Jesus took time on His own in-between. Jesus often got on His own to pray, to spend time with His Father. And indeed for all who recognise the Father, solitude isn't really solitude, but it is time separated to spend with Him. We are never really alone.
As Jesus' example stood out and I felt the wonderful and familiar mix of God calling me out and my own desire, I knew I needed to take some time with Him. Soon the words of Psalm 23 came to mind and to my heart. These words again washed over me refreshing my spirit and restoring my soul. Wow!
I'm blessed to be part of a group of men who get together and chew over God's Word as we let His Spirit stir our minds and our hearts. This week we fed together on Psalm 23. What a blessing to consider His love and care of us. We shared stories of special times when God has called us out to solitude, times when God has redeemed the time from our routine to have special soul-restoring moments. It was easy to become overwhelmed with treasured memories, and for our appetite to be provoked.
I remember a time when I was on holidays hear the bush. I felt kind of restless, getting fussy and irritated. Out of that a yearning developed and I began to feel such an impression to get outside and walk to a lookout. It didn't seem to be the right time because the weather was windy and rainy, but I recognised that it was His voice and I wen anyway. The view at the lookout did not overwhelm me, it was cold, the wind blustery, small rain drops stirred around my face. I didn't receive any great revelation or healing. But I felt His presence. I responded to His calling out and was rewarded with finding Him.
Take time to recall some times when and places where you've enjoyed this kind of solitude.
When is the next time? Where will it be?
It blows my mind to think that God is waiting and ready for that next opportunity.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Forsaking all else
I seek You Lord
You are everything
I forsake
Comfort
Ease
Affirmation
I desire You
I abandon
Recognition
Promotion
Position
I yearn for You
I forget
Possessions
Ego
Ambition
I desire You.
You are everything
I forsake
Comfort
Ease
Affirmation
I desire You
I abandon
Recognition
Promotion
Position
I yearn for You
I forget
Possessions
Ego
Ambition
I desire You.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Deeper
I recently had a very natural and supernatural experience. I learnt something about myself that I really want to change.
A few weeks ago I had the chance to go on a bushwalk with some boys from school. We had already hiked into the bush in the morning and now we were walking further to go as far as the river and back. It was a hot day, very late in Spring, and actually my birthday as I recall. As we got to the river some boys predictably wanted to get into the water.
I really wanted to jump in the water, to go for a proper swim, to swim around like a fish. So I offered to the other teacher that with a few strict boundaries to keep the boys to the shallows, that I would happily supervise from within the water. I hastily got ready and quickly stepped into the water.
Then I stopped. I felt content to stand ankle deep and watch the boys splashing around. The water was cool but not uncomfortable. The water was a little murky but that hadn’t stopped me before. I was satisfied at ankle-deep.
That night was one that I had been looking forward to. Not just because I knew that we would be eating at Outback Steakhouse for my birthday but also because it was the first night in a conference at my church. A conference time dedicated to the Holy Spirit and with Ps Lee Grady sharing.
Ps Lee preached a message titled, “How deep do you want to go?” based on the test from Ezekiel 47. He shared that this was a prophetic picture of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit around the earth. The text from Ezekiel describes water flowing as a river from the temple, and how he walked with a man who measured the water at intervals. At first it was ankle-deep, then knee-deep, then waist-deep, and finally becoming an impassibly deep river.
Ps Lee skillfully and prophetically shared about the condition of the individual and the church in relation to these stages or depths. Of course greater depth reflected greater maturity and control of the Holy Spirit. Ps Lee challenged us to shake off the desire to just play in the water or to be comfortable half-way, rather to dive into the raging river where we couldn’t possibly keep our footing or trust in ourselves for control.
The message that God preached to my soul that evening reverberated in me. I have been so content to stay in the shallows of the Holy Spirit. At times my desire has been great but I have been very easily satisfied – due both to laziness and fear. I know that there is more, I know that there is another way to live, I know that He is calling me - graciously and patiently He still draws me in.
I have learnt that this satisfaction has been the greatest enemy of me truly living in all that God has promised – to live in His power, to burn away the rubbish in my life and prepare me to serve in a greater capacity.
A few weeks ago I had the chance to go on a bushwalk with some boys from school. We had already hiked into the bush in the morning and now we were walking further to go as far as the river and back. It was a hot day, very late in Spring, and actually my birthday as I recall. As we got to the river some boys predictably wanted to get into the water.
I really wanted to jump in the water, to go for a proper swim, to swim around like a fish. So I offered to the other teacher that with a few strict boundaries to keep the boys to the shallows, that I would happily supervise from within the water. I hastily got ready and quickly stepped into the water.
Then I stopped. I felt content to stand ankle deep and watch the boys splashing around. The water was cool but not uncomfortable. The water was a little murky but that hadn’t stopped me before. I was satisfied at ankle-deep.
That night was one that I had been looking forward to. Not just because I knew that we would be eating at Outback Steakhouse for my birthday but also because it was the first night in a conference at my church. A conference time dedicated to the Holy Spirit and with Ps Lee Grady sharing.
Ps Lee preached a message titled, “How deep do you want to go?” based on the test from Ezekiel 47. He shared that this was a prophetic picture of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit around the earth. The text from Ezekiel describes water flowing as a river from the temple, and how he walked with a man who measured the water at intervals. At first it was ankle-deep, then knee-deep, then waist-deep, and finally becoming an impassibly deep river.
Ps Lee skillfully and prophetically shared about the condition of the individual and the church in relation to these stages or depths. Of course greater depth reflected greater maturity and control of the Holy Spirit. Ps Lee challenged us to shake off the desire to just play in the water or to be comfortable half-way, rather to dive into the raging river where we couldn’t possibly keep our footing or trust in ourselves for control.
The message that God preached to my soul that evening reverberated in me. I have been so content to stay in the shallows of the Holy Spirit. At times my desire has been great but I have been very easily satisfied – due both to laziness and fear. I know that there is more, I know that there is another way to live, I know that He is calling me - graciously and patiently He still draws me in.
I have learnt that this satisfaction has been the greatest enemy of me truly living in all that God has promised – to live in His power, to burn away the rubbish in my life and prepare me to serve in a greater capacity.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Conductor
I have recently been amazed again at the kind of lengths that the Holy Spirit will go to in order to orchestrate His will to bring blessing and life. It’s healthy and fitting to realise how much God does in the background to show His love for us and to show us that we didn't do it ourselves.
Last week I was preparing for a short talk that I would give to the Year 9 and 10 boys on camp. Usually a main idea comes quickly, something to base the talk around, but this time while the thoughts were a little muddled I felt confident that the Holy Spirit would lead me, in time, to know what to say and how.
And He did. The talk came together but in such a way that I would not have planned it, and with a method of delivery that I would not have planned myself. I really enjoyed sharing the talk and felt so thankful to the Holy Spirit for leading it that way.
In Acts 10 the Holy Spirit works all over the place in order to bring about salvation to a family and acceptance into the church for non-Jews. Cornelius is visited by an angel. Peter has a vision while in a trance. The two men are drawn together to meet and the rest is history. No man could take the credit for what took place, the Great Conductor had orchestrated the whole thing.
At times life can seem confusing or frustrating as we only see the picture of things at the surface. Beyond what we can see, God is working, the Holy Spirit is moving to bring about His plan to save and to bless.
Can you think of an example of how the Holy Spirit has orchestrated an event in your life?
Last week I was preparing for a short talk that I would give to the Year 9 and 10 boys on camp. Usually a main idea comes quickly, something to base the talk around, but this time while the thoughts were a little muddled I felt confident that the Holy Spirit would lead me, in time, to know what to say and how.
And He did. The talk came together but in such a way that I would not have planned it, and with a method of delivery that I would not have planned myself. I really enjoyed sharing the talk and felt so thankful to the Holy Spirit for leading it that way.
In Acts 10 the Holy Spirit works all over the place in order to bring about salvation to a family and acceptance into the church for non-Jews. Cornelius is visited by an angel. Peter has a vision while in a trance. The two men are drawn together to meet and the rest is history. No man could take the credit for what took place, the Great Conductor had orchestrated the whole thing.
At times life can seem confusing or frustrating as we only see the picture of things at the surface. Beyond what we can see, God is working, the Holy Spirit is moving to bring about His plan to save and to bless.
Can you think of an example of how the Holy Spirit has orchestrated an event in your life?
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Mentor
I love the concept of mentoring. I love having mentors – some close, some far, some living, and some dead. I thank God that we can learn from others who go before us and build our faith and hope for the future.
Recently I started to think about the ultimate mentor. I started to imagine what it would be like to have one mentor with all the best qualities of all the best human mentors I can imagine and even more.
Imagine someone who knows everything, seen everything and been everywhere – someone who has been around since the very beginning of time.
Imagine someone who worked closely with great men such as King David and St Paul.
Imagine a mentor who is literally all-powerful, and is ready to share all His power and knowledge with you – willing to actually give you the power and whisper the truth into your ear.
Imagine someone who knows absolutely everything about you and yet totally believes in you anyway.
Imagine that mentor always has time for you, warmly inviting you and walking with you everyday.
Imagine a mentor who is always looking out for you, who leads you, speaking to your heart and helping you to make the best decisions, and gently warning you about the bad ones.
We couldn’t find such a resourceful and loving mentor in all the earth, if we could, we certainly couldn’t afford it. But freely He offers to mentor us, and patiently He waits for us to ask.
Recently I started to think about the ultimate mentor. I started to imagine what it would be like to have one mentor with all the best qualities of all the best human mentors I can imagine and even more.
Imagine someone who knows everything, seen everything and been everywhere – someone who has been around since the very beginning of time.
Imagine someone who worked closely with great men such as King David and St Paul.
Imagine a mentor who is literally all-powerful, and is ready to share all His power and knowledge with you – willing to actually give you the power and whisper the truth into your ear.
Imagine someone who knows absolutely everything about you and yet totally believes in you anyway.
Imagine that mentor always has time for you, warmly inviting you and walking with you everyday.
Imagine a mentor who is always looking out for you, who leads you, speaking to your heart and helping you to make the best decisions, and gently warning you about the bad ones.
We couldn’t find such a resourceful and loving mentor in all the earth, if we could, we certainly couldn’t afford it. But freely He offers to mentor us, and patiently He waits for us to ask.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Holy Spirit – the shy superhero?
The most powerful being in the world is also the most humble. God the Spirit – omnipresent and omnipotent – seems to be easily overlooked as a specific object of our worship. For example I can only think of a handful of songs that focus on the Holy Spirit.
I am wondering if the fact that the Holy Spirit is often overlooked is because of His amazing and wonderful way of deflecting attention. It seems that as you focus on Him that He prefers to give glory and honour to Christ or to the Father.
In the same way the work of the Holy Spirit makes ministers look good, or more accurately makes ministries effective as He inspires and empowers, overcomes and opens hearts.
It also seems that any encounter with the power of the Holy Spirit leaves you emboldened and more likely to focus on the needs of others – rather than simply worshipping Him.
Perhaps it is difficult for us to imagine Him as a person, and indeed I think it would be untruthful to limit Him to our concept of a person (although we are made in God’s image). While the Holy Spirit is certainly personal, we don’t often attribute to Him personal characteristics, and we don’t seem to attain to be like Him the way that we would think to imitate Christ. But why not?
While Jesus certainly performed the greatest act of service for us, the way that the Holy Spirit serves the kingdom and indeed each believer is absolutely amazing. The way that He so invisibly serves humanity is something that we should certainly seek to imitate.
We can often limit the image we have of the Holy Spirit as the support staff or agency of the Godhead, as we focus on His roles as helper, comforter, and counsellor. But He is fully and wonderfully 100% God, in Him we see the mighty power, awesome strength – and yet such willingness to serve His people.
Holy Spirit – You are amazing!
What do you think / feel / believe? I’d love to hear your comments / concerns.
I am wondering if the fact that the Holy Spirit is often overlooked is because of His amazing and wonderful way of deflecting attention. It seems that as you focus on Him that He prefers to give glory and honour to Christ or to the Father.
In the same way the work of the Holy Spirit makes ministers look good, or more accurately makes ministries effective as He inspires and empowers, overcomes and opens hearts.
It also seems that any encounter with the power of the Holy Spirit leaves you emboldened and more likely to focus on the needs of others – rather than simply worshipping Him.
Perhaps it is difficult for us to imagine Him as a person, and indeed I think it would be untruthful to limit Him to our concept of a person (although we are made in God’s image). While the Holy Spirit is certainly personal, we don’t often attribute to Him personal characteristics, and we don’t seem to attain to be like Him the way that we would think to imitate Christ. But why not?
While Jesus certainly performed the greatest act of service for us, the way that the Holy Spirit serves the kingdom and indeed each believer is absolutely amazing. The way that He so invisibly serves humanity is something that we should certainly seek to imitate.
We can often limit the image we have of the Holy Spirit as the support staff or agency of the Godhead, as we focus on His roles as helper, comforter, and counsellor. But He is fully and wonderfully 100% God, in Him we see the mighty power, awesome strength – and yet such willingness to serve His people.
Holy Spirit – You are amazing!
What do you think / feel / believe? I’d love to hear your comments / concerns.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
The Golden Arrow
A long time ago there was a boy who had what others around him recognised as potential. Although he was just seven years old he had such a gift with archery that he was able to hit an apple at thirty paces. Those around him were always quite astonished when he showed them his skills and praised him. He enjoyed their praise but he enjoyed hitting targets accurately even more.
His father had been a champion archer and he trained his son regularly, keen to shape the potential that everyone could see. Alas, the boy did not care so much for training and the pressure that his father would put him under. He began to resent the training, and eventually came to absent his father’s lessons.
His father found him sitting under a tree. He cursed him saying, “You are good for nothing. You are too lazy. Everyone says you have potential – but you don’t, they are just ordinary. You have just been lucky. And your arms are weak.”
For many years no-one saw the boy shoot an arrow. Indeed, that day with his father an unseen arrow had pierced his heart. He passed his days as apprentice to the blacksmith. He worked steadily but quietly, his head down and his shoulders hunched. The blacksmith, a large man of gentle strength, noted how the boy had faded away since he was the seven-year-old with all that potential.
There came a time when the boy was entrusted to repair and restore the sword of a beautiful young lady, she was the daughter of a nobleman. Whereas normally it was the blacksmith who would speak to the customers, the blacksmith had intentionally left his shop when it was time for the young lady to come – he hoped that somehow the boy might come back to life.
And so he did. Well, at least it was a beginning. The boy enjoyed the young lady’s words as she described what a wonderful job he had done on the sword. He started to imagine how he might see her again or gain her affection – or at least her attention.
He went out secretly with a bow that he knew his father wouldn’t miss. He found a clearing in the woods where he could set up a target and practise. His strength in his arms had grown as he worked with the blacksmith, and his technique had not been lost, but alas he struggled to even get close to the target, as if something inside him stopped him. Downcast, he returned home.
It was only a matter of days later that he heard some news both terrible and exciting. The young lady had been taken by the dhier. Now the dhier was a terrifying foe of a beast. It had the strength and body of a horse; teeth and claws like a tiger; the ability to jump so far that some thought it could fly; and the mentality of a piranha. It lived in the darkest part of the woods and that’s where it had taken her.
Everyone knew from legend that only an arrow of gold could pierce the armour-like skin of the dhier. The father of the young lady was quick to take all his gold to the blacksmith – for what else could he do to save his daughter? Murmurings went about the village wondering who would be best to take the arrow and hunt the great beast.
The blacksmith didn’t wonder. He worked quickly and accurately and when he was finished he handed the arrow to the boy. He was shocked and tried to give the arrow back to his master who simply said, “There is no time to waste. The girl must be saved. I believe in you.”
His heart was warmed with his words and with adrenaline. He hurried towards the woods with a borrowed horse. As he rode he had time to wonder – vacillating between certainty that he would do it, and a deadening fear of missing. At least the dhier would kill him quickly and he’d never have to face the humiliation.
But he wanted to save the girl. His concern for her made him focus. Now he knew he was close. He could hear the snapping of branches and felt his horse’s shoulders become tense as it sensed the movement of the beast.
Soon he could see it, but unfortunately it started to notice him. It turned and reared up in front of them, causing his horse to rear up and out of fear fall backwards before bolting away. His leg was crushed and the dhier looked determinedly angry – ready to stalk and strike this pitiful threat of a boy.
The boy’s head was spinning, his leg was throbbing, he struggled not to pass out from the pain. His eyes become focussed again on the dhier as it moved slowly towards him. He could not let it get close and he needed to kill it quickly with one shot – without hitting the young lady.
It was still twenty or more metres away. He studied its gait as it deliberately and menacingly lifted its shoulders high and thumped its feet back onto the ground. He knew that this was his opportunity. He must strike the heart as it was exposed when the dhier lifted its left leg. He watched and lifted his bow.
He could now feel the slow rhythm of the beast’s movement. He would only have one shot. He stretched the bow with the heavy golden arrow. The failure of his past fell away like some kind of enchantment. The moment came. He released the arrow. It flew straight and true – and met its mark.
The dhier felt the shock and the weight of the arrow, and just as legend had said the beast fell immediately. The young lady rushed towards the young man – her fear had left and her concern was for him. Their eyes met – they knew each other. The young man was still struggling on his hip. He gestured to the young lady towards her sword which he had brought and had fallen from the horse’s saddle. She swiftly and with some feeling took the sword, walked towards the beast and with all her might and the anger and the fear that she felt – she struck off its head.
They would always remember that day together. The experienced formed them and forged their new life together. Others regarded them with respect and even solemnity. They enjoyed their life together and loved to share their tale with the children of their children.
His father had been a champion archer and he trained his son regularly, keen to shape the potential that everyone could see. Alas, the boy did not care so much for training and the pressure that his father would put him under. He began to resent the training, and eventually came to absent his father’s lessons.
His father found him sitting under a tree. He cursed him saying, “You are good for nothing. You are too lazy. Everyone says you have potential – but you don’t, they are just ordinary. You have just been lucky. And your arms are weak.”
For many years no-one saw the boy shoot an arrow. Indeed, that day with his father an unseen arrow had pierced his heart. He passed his days as apprentice to the blacksmith. He worked steadily but quietly, his head down and his shoulders hunched. The blacksmith, a large man of gentle strength, noted how the boy had faded away since he was the seven-year-old with all that potential.
There came a time when the boy was entrusted to repair and restore the sword of a beautiful young lady, she was the daughter of a nobleman. Whereas normally it was the blacksmith who would speak to the customers, the blacksmith had intentionally left his shop when it was time for the young lady to come – he hoped that somehow the boy might come back to life.
And so he did. Well, at least it was a beginning. The boy enjoyed the young lady’s words as she described what a wonderful job he had done on the sword. He started to imagine how he might see her again or gain her affection – or at least her attention.
He went out secretly with a bow that he knew his father wouldn’t miss. He found a clearing in the woods where he could set up a target and practise. His strength in his arms had grown as he worked with the blacksmith, and his technique had not been lost, but alas he struggled to even get close to the target, as if something inside him stopped him. Downcast, he returned home.
It was only a matter of days later that he heard some news both terrible and exciting. The young lady had been taken by the dhier. Now the dhier was a terrifying foe of a beast. It had the strength and body of a horse; teeth and claws like a tiger; the ability to jump so far that some thought it could fly; and the mentality of a piranha. It lived in the darkest part of the woods and that’s where it had taken her.
Everyone knew from legend that only an arrow of gold could pierce the armour-like skin of the dhier. The father of the young lady was quick to take all his gold to the blacksmith – for what else could he do to save his daughter? Murmurings went about the village wondering who would be best to take the arrow and hunt the great beast.
The blacksmith didn’t wonder. He worked quickly and accurately and when he was finished he handed the arrow to the boy. He was shocked and tried to give the arrow back to his master who simply said, “There is no time to waste. The girl must be saved. I believe in you.”
His heart was warmed with his words and with adrenaline. He hurried towards the woods with a borrowed horse. As he rode he had time to wonder – vacillating between certainty that he would do it, and a deadening fear of missing. At least the dhier would kill him quickly and he’d never have to face the humiliation.
But he wanted to save the girl. His concern for her made him focus. Now he knew he was close. He could hear the snapping of branches and felt his horse’s shoulders become tense as it sensed the movement of the beast.
Soon he could see it, but unfortunately it started to notice him. It turned and reared up in front of them, causing his horse to rear up and out of fear fall backwards before bolting away. His leg was crushed and the dhier looked determinedly angry – ready to stalk and strike this pitiful threat of a boy.
The boy’s head was spinning, his leg was throbbing, he struggled not to pass out from the pain. His eyes become focussed again on the dhier as it moved slowly towards him. He could not let it get close and he needed to kill it quickly with one shot – without hitting the young lady.
It was still twenty or more metres away. He studied its gait as it deliberately and menacingly lifted its shoulders high and thumped its feet back onto the ground. He knew that this was his opportunity. He must strike the heart as it was exposed when the dhier lifted its left leg. He watched and lifted his bow.
He could now feel the slow rhythm of the beast’s movement. He would only have one shot. He stretched the bow with the heavy golden arrow. The failure of his past fell away like some kind of enchantment. The moment came. He released the arrow. It flew straight and true – and met its mark.
The dhier felt the shock and the weight of the arrow, and just as legend had said the beast fell immediately. The young lady rushed towards the young man – her fear had left and her concern was for him. Their eyes met – they knew each other. The young man was still struggling on his hip. He gestured to the young lady towards her sword which he had brought and had fallen from the horse’s saddle. She swiftly and with some feeling took the sword, walked towards the beast and with all her might and the anger and the fear that she felt – she struck off its head.
They would always remember that day together. The experienced formed them and forged their new life together. Others regarded them with respect and even solemnity. They enjoyed their life together and loved to share their tale with the children of their children.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Personally Pentecostal
And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” John 20:22
I have decided to make 2011 a year of Pentecost in my life. Being Pentecostal by church membership hasn’t been something that has meant so much to me and I’m certainly not attracted to some of the extreme images and clichés that have gone along with Pentecostalism.
Since I can remember I have been happier to declare that I’m a believer in Jesus and leave it at that. But this year I want to experience and pursue the Holy Spirit. I want to recognise and honour the way that He works in and around my life.
I know that it is only by His power that I have been able to be who I am and do some of the things I have done. It is easy for me think that I have done it in my own strength or because I’m a nice person but this isn’t actually true – I don’t really know what I’d be like if I didn’t have a deposit of the Holy Spirit in me.
So I want to honour Him and acknowledge Him. I am a believer who has received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. I believe that I have also experienced on occasion the infilling of the Spirit in the context of life and ministry. I am hungry to see what it is like to pursue the Holy Spirit and seek to know Him more.
I know that I have much to learn from many great men and women who have lived out such a passion in their lives, and of course from the apostles of the Bible. I seek to truly and fully be part of what Jesus Himself issued when He taught the disciples about the Spirit, to wait and to receive Him.
I know that I am also in need of the power of the Holy Spirit. I can’t be who I want to be and live the life I want to without His power in me. I need Him to pour out grace on my weaknesses and to burn away areas of sin in my life. I need Him to empower me to live and minister the way that I have been commanded to by Jesus.
As I blog I would appreciate your prayers, as well as comments and suggestions on what I share.
I have decided to make 2011 a year of Pentecost in my life. Being Pentecostal by church membership hasn’t been something that has meant so much to me and I’m certainly not attracted to some of the extreme images and clichés that have gone along with Pentecostalism.
Since I can remember I have been happier to declare that I’m a believer in Jesus and leave it at that. But this year I want to experience and pursue the Holy Spirit. I want to recognise and honour the way that He works in and around my life.
I know that it is only by His power that I have been able to be who I am and do some of the things I have done. It is easy for me think that I have done it in my own strength or because I’m a nice person but this isn’t actually true – I don’t really know what I’d be like if I didn’t have a deposit of the Holy Spirit in me.
So I want to honour Him and acknowledge Him. I am a believer who has received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. I believe that I have also experienced on occasion the infilling of the Spirit in the context of life and ministry. I am hungry to see what it is like to pursue the Holy Spirit and seek to know Him more.
I know that I have much to learn from many great men and women who have lived out such a passion in their lives, and of course from the apostles of the Bible. I seek to truly and fully be part of what Jesus Himself issued when He taught the disciples about the Spirit, to wait and to receive Him.
I know that I am also in need of the power of the Holy Spirit. I can’t be who I want to be and live the life I want to without His power in me. I need Him to pour out grace on my weaknesses and to burn away areas of sin in my life. I need Him to empower me to live and minister the way that I have been commanded to by Jesus.
As I blog I would appreciate your prayers, as well as comments and suggestions on what I share.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
On Water
I have been musing on metaphors to describe hunger. Not just the kind of hunger that comes and goes like natural hunger for food, but a constant hunger. Food hunger stirs within us but is then relatively easily satisfied. We don’t need food or hunger for that matter for a few more hours.
I know that I need and want more of God. I want to know the Holy Spirit intimately and powerfully in my life. However my spiritual hunger seems to be the same as my natural hunger, although much less frequent than three times a day.
I want to become more consistent in my hunger for the Holy Spirit but I find that my motivation goes in a cycle. It can take days or weeks after an encounter with God before I start to really yearn for Him. And when I do have such an encounter I find that despite my thoughts for renewed and consistent hunger, the satisfaction of that encounter results in me not continuing to seek Him.
Are we bound to be cyclical seekers? Fickle followers even?
Our desperate need for oxygen is perhaps a more helpful reminder of how much we need God all the time – for life. But I very rarely appreciate oxygen either.
But then I thought of Peter walking on the water. Peter was very highly and consistently motivated to stay on top of the water. He probably never thought twice while walking on dry land. Besides the odd puddle or trip hazard walking on the ground is something we can do so easily that we can take the process for granted.
A life of faith is a lot like the process of walking on water. Every step involves faith in some way. Although we start to take it for granted, we can start to live within our comfort zone as if we’re walking on dry land, times will come when we freak out and need Jesus to pull us back up onto the surface of the water.
For all of us who have responded to Jesus invitation to come out onto the water, we need to keep our eyes on Him. The life of faith is also pretty awful when we try to do it simply out of our own strength and discipline. We desperately need the moment-to-moment mentoring of the Holy Spirit – we need His power and His grace.
Let’s embrace the water-walking life, a life of faith, a life for others. I know if I appreciate the water-walk each day then I am more likely to stay hungry as I will know how much I need Him.
I know that I need and want more of God. I want to know the Holy Spirit intimately and powerfully in my life. However my spiritual hunger seems to be the same as my natural hunger, although much less frequent than three times a day.
I want to become more consistent in my hunger for the Holy Spirit but I find that my motivation goes in a cycle. It can take days or weeks after an encounter with God before I start to really yearn for Him. And when I do have such an encounter I find that despite my thoughts for renewed and consistent hunger, the satisfaction of that encounter results in me not continuing to seek Him.
Are we bound to be cyclical seekers? Fickle followers even?
Our desperate need for oxygen is perhaps a more helpful reminder of how much we need God all the time – for life. But I very rarely appreciate oxygen either.
But then I thought of Peter walking on the water. Peter was very highly and consistently motivated to stay on top of the water. He probably never thought twice while walking on dry land. Besides the odd puddle or trip hazard walking on the ground is something we can do so easily that we can take the process for granted.
A life of faith is a lot like the process of walking on water. Every step involves faith in some way. Although we start to take it for granted, we can start to live within our comfort zone as if we’re walking on dry land, times will come when we freak out and need Jesus to pull us back up onto the surface of the water.
For all of us who have responded to Jesus invitation to come out onto the water, we need to keep our eyes on Him. The life of faith is also pretty awful when we try to do it simply out of our own strength and discipline. We desperately need the moment-to-moment mentoring of the Holy Spirit – we need His power and His grace.
Let’s embrace the water-walking life, a life of faith, a life for others. I know if I appreciate the water-walk each day then I am more likely to stay hungry as I will know how much I need Him.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Sorry
I am writing to apologise for the incredibly bad timing and insensitivity of the last post which I have removed from the blog for now. I wrote it a few weeks ago and didn't think much when I posted it today until just now when I was reminded of the content. Of course, I care deeply about the current situation in QLD, what is a spiritual metaphor for me has become a nasty natural reality for many.
Again, sorry,
Mark
Again, sorry,
Mark
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Personal Pentecost
I need a personal Pentecost. I have been stirred recently to want something more than I have, to stop settling for less than all that God has made available to me. The phrase is J. Lee Grady’s from his book on the Holy Spirit. As I read the first few pages I knew what I would like to focus on in my devotions and in my blog over the next year.
After a year when I have found the end of my own resources, I have come to realise that I’ve only been scratching the surface of God’s. I have read about and seen glimpses of the power of God but I have been far too easily satisfied to be a spectator or to receive enough for what I think I need in life.
This is not about wanting more for my own sake, although God only knows just how much I have always tried to live out of my own strength. As Grady points out when the Holy Spirit is moving is someone’s life then there will be a genuine challenge to live a holy life as well as an empowering to share the Gospel of Jesus with others. I want these things and in fact, I need these to be who I want to be and who God has made me to be.
I feel that 2011 is a year for me to search this out, to pursue the Holy Spirit with the passion and determination that God has given me. I want to become the kind of radical Christian that I’ve read about. I want to see if it’s possible for me to go beyond just having a short season or of being content with just enough to be a nice guy.
And so I’m going to pray and pursue. I’m going to read and reflect. I’m going to receive and to write. I want to push past what I’ve ever experienced before. I intend to be real, transparent and practical in my approach and application of what God teaches me. I want to know how this works on a good day or a bad day; a hard day or an easy day. I am curious to see what happens. I have an inkling that God is going to respond to my hunger and indeed that it is God who is calling me out.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21
After a year when I have found the end of my own resources, I have come to realise that I’ve only been scratching the surface of God’s. I have read about and seen glimpses of the power of God but I have been far too easily satisfied to be a spectator or to receive enough for what I think I need in life.
This is not about wanting more for my own sake, although God only knows just how much I have always tried to live out of my own strength. As Grady points out when the Holy Spirit is moving is someone’s life then there will be a genuine challenge to live a holy life as well as an empowering to share the Gospel of Jesus with others. I want these things and in fact, I need these to be who I want to be and who God has made me to be.
I feel that 2011 is a year for me to search this out, to pursue the Holy Spirit with the passion and determination that God has given me. I want to become the kind of radical Christian that I’ve read about. I want to see if it’s possible for me to go beyond just having a short season or of being content with just enough to be a nice guy.
And so I’m going to pray and pursue. I’m going to read and reflect. I’m going to receive and to write. I want to push past what I’ve ever experienced before. I intend to be real, transparent and practical in my approach and application of what God teaches me. I want to know how this works on a good day or a bad day; a hard day or an easy day. I am curious to see what happens. I have an inkling that God is going to respond to my hunger and indeed that it is God who is calling me out.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Diving in
You are the open door to freedom
You are the only hope I have
The reason in my reason
The only thing that lasts
How could I begin to settle
When all within me longs
To step into the shelter
Of your everlasting arms
I wanna get carried away
I wanna get tossed by your waves
I don't care where or how deep
I'm gonna jump in with both feet
I wanna get carried away
I wanna get lost in your ways
I wanna be held by your truth
I wanna behold all of you
I'm gonna be all yours today
I wanna get carried away
You are the wisdom of the ages
You are the one who stays the same
The power in the wind
The scent left by the rain
How could I begin to make it
If all I had was me
Just take me as I am Lord
And sweep me out to sea.
Some say You're far away
But I know You're here with me
I could go anywhere
And still you'd be there with me
I know You're here with me.
Carried Away by Sonicflood 2006, hear it at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riK0uwtAc80
This is the starting point for my blogging in 2011. I am feeling stirred to consider and write about seeking to really be carried away by God. My mind and heart started buzzing on this when I was away at the beach, and the water metaphors were coming like waves. This song lyric by Sonicflood came back to me. At this stage it defines what I’m feeling better than I can so it seems like a good starting place.
What do you think your life would be like if you were 100% given to God?
You are the only hope I have
The reason in my reason
The only thing that lasts
How could I begin to settle
When all within me longs
To step into the shelter
Of your everlasting arms
I wanna get carried away
I wanna get tossed by your waves
I don't care where or how deep
I'm gonna jump in with both feet
I wanna get carried away
I wanna get lost in your ways
I wanna be held by your truth
I wanna behold all of you
I'm gonna be all yours today
I wanna get carried away
You are the wisdom of the ages
You are the one who stays the same
The power in the wind
The scent left by the rain
How could I begin to make it
If all I had was me
Just take me as I am Lord
And sweep me out to sea.
Some say You're far away
But I know You're here with me
I could go anywhere
And still you'd be there with me
I know You're here with me.
Carried Away by Sonicflood 2006, hear it at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riK0uwtAc80
This is the starting point for my blogging in 2011. I am feeling stirred to consider and write about seeking to really be carried away by God. My mind and heart started buzzing on this when I was away at the beach, and the water metaphors were coming like waves. This song lyric by Sonicflood came back to me. At this stage it defines what I’m feeling better than I can so it seems like a good starting place.
What do you think your life would be like if you were 100% given to God?
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