6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Worries are worries until they past away. God offers to give us comfort and the light yoke. He wants us to have faith in what He can do for us. Our egos tell us that we need to fight through everything ourselves to prove to society the rightful owner. But I for one can say that I would be nothing without God today. My fears and failures I have placed at His feet. Through that He gives me strength to better myself for His kingdom. And overall, because of a Father's love, my anxiety is lifted from my head. There is no existing ignorance on my head, but a realization that God is my ultimate provider for my life. All I need to do is have faith.
Amen.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
Be Filled With the Spirit
"... be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Ephesians 5:18-20
I've always compared my experiences with different brothers and sisters, like my church back at home compared to Cornerstone. Why are some people just so much more spiritual? This took me back to Pastor Rich's message. In that message, the two main characters of the parable of the tax collector and the pharisee, were the two members. Both were seen as different. The pharisee was obviously seen as more spiritual compared to the tax collector that swindles for a living. But the message here was made clear to me that night: regardless of where we are in our spiritual walk, we are one and the same because we are all reaching for the Highest Goal.
Although we may come from different backgrounds and have different experiences with God, God brings us together. Small group leader, praise leader, fellowship member? We are all the same.
These two verses call us to welcome the Holy Spirit as well as each other into our hearts. Speak to one another with praises. Praise the Lord and give thanks as one. The only thing that matters is that God receives the highest praise! As long as we lift each other up to the Lord, there is nothing else that matters because we are all running after Jesus Christ Himself.
Amen!
Ephesians 5:18-20
I've always compared my experiences with different brothers and sisters, like my church back at home compared to Cornerstone. Why are some people just so much more spiritual? This took me back to Pastor Rich's message. In that message, the two main characters of the parable of the tax collector and the pharisee, were the two members. Both were seen as different. The pharisee was obviously seen as more spiritual compared to the tax collector that swindles for a living. But the message here was made clear to me that night: regardless of where we are in our spiritual walk, we are one and the same because we are all reaching for the Highest Goal.
Although we may come from different backgrounds and have different experiences with God, God brings us together. Small group leader, praise leader, fellowship member? We are all the same.
These two verses call us to welcome the Holy Spirit as well as each other into our hearts. Speak to one another with praises. Praise the Lord and give thanks as one. The only thing that matters is that God receives the highest praise! As long as we lift each other up to the Lord, there is nothing else that matters because we are all running after Jesus Christ Himself.
Amen!
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Finals Week
It's finals week and studying is really taking a toll on everyone. At this time, we try to cram every little bit of information that we have learned from the beginning of the semester into a few nights of studying hoping that everything works out in the end. This is me at least. Finals week is actually not too bad for me compared to everyone else. On the other hand, my last two weeks were insane. It was then that I was really tested and put to my limit. My 24 hours was put to the test.
During that time, my priorities found their place. Regardless of being the right place or not, these priorities naturally shifted to their place in my life. The disappointing thing to me was that God did not remain on top. When things got tough, it was school work. My projects, team meetings, papers, exams, and homework became my top priority. Though those hardships, I wanted myself to turn to God regardless of my circumstance, but in my selfishness, I kept my eyes on the grades, my earthly desire.
This really struck me for the past week as my prayer, devotionals, and meetings with God has dwindled exponentially. I need to come back to God and place Him above all. Above all is where I want Him to be in my life; my desire for Him to be above everything is above all other desires as well. I will search for a verse pertaining to this later on.
Amen and Good night!
During that time, my priorities found their place. Regardless of being the right place or not, these priorities naturally shifted to their place in my life. The disappointing thing to me was that God did not remain on top. When things got tough, it was school work. My projects, team meetings, papers, exams, and homework became my top priority. Though those hardships, I wanted myself to turn to God regardless of my circumstance, but in my selfishness, I kept my eyes on the grades, my earthly desire.
This really struck me for the past week as my prayer, devotionals, and meetings with God has dwindled exponentially. I need to come back to God and place Him above all. Above all is where I want Him to be in my life; my desire for Him to be above everything is above all other desires as well. I will search for a verse pertaining to this later on.
Amen and Good night!
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Luke 1:46-80
I'm reading over these two songs from Mary and Zechariah and I can tell they were filled with the Holy Spirit. The first line of both songs glorifies God and lifts Him up. "My soul glorifies the Lord"..."Praise be to the Lord." Prayers have become very cliche sounding because of similar overused phrases are used and it really annoyed me. But my ignorance towards the Lord needs to stop here. God is to be glorified in any way. It is not exactly what comes out of our mouths, but the overflow of our heart. Anyways, my vocabulary sucks and I stick at articulating my feelings. But thank goodness God is God!
Amen.
I'm not showing up to prayer meeting tomorrow HEHE.
Amen.
I'm not showing up to prayer meeting tomorrow HEHE.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Luke 1:26-45
In these passages, the birth of Jesus was foretold. The Holy Spirit though God's almighty power preforms a miracle and gives Mary a child. The main message in these verses was the humbleness of Elizabeth, Zechariah's wife. She questioned why she was visited by such a holy, privileged Mary. Verse 45, "Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!" Her faith in what Jesus will do for her was unwavering. It even made baby Jesus leap in her womb!
Amen.
Amen.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Luke 1:1-25
Luke takes it upon himself to let the truthful accounts of Jesus to be passed on. He is passing his knowledge and his investigations down to Theophilus (name or honorary title addressed to the friends of God meaning ME and YOU). This is his mission.
There was a priest name Zechariah. He and his wife were followers of God. The two had no children. One day when Zechariah was chosen to burn incense for the alter in a temple, he was met by Gabriel, an angel from God. From verse 13, we know that Zechariah has been long praying for a son and on that day, received one by the grace of God. This child will be filled with the Holy Spirit at birth and will lead many people of Israel back to the Lord. God's promise is apparent in this passage as Zechariah is given a miracle.
Verse 22 is another act of God. Zechariah is unable to speak of the angel that he has just seen. Just as Jesus did not want the ones he has healed to boast of His miracles. I think because Christianity is strongly pillared on the basis of faith, God did not want His people to believe in Him because of the things that He can do, but for the things that He will do if we believed.
Amen.
There was a priest name Zechariah. He and his wife were followers of God. The two had no children. One day when Zechariah was chosen to burn incense for the alter in a temple, he was met by Gabriel, an angel from God. From verse 13, we know that Zechariah has been long praying for a son and on that day, received one by the grace of God. This child will be filled with the Holy Spirit at birth and will lead many people of Israel back to the Lord. God's promise is apparent in this passage as Zechariah is given a miracle.
Verse 22 is another act of God. Zechariah is unable to speak of the angel that he has just seen. Just as Jesus did not want the ones he has healed to boast of His miracles. I think because Christianity is strongly pillared on the basis of faith, God did not want His people to believe in Him because of the things that He can do, but for the things that He will do if we believed.
Amen.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Hey Thanks Jesus
This past year as a leader has put me in some tough spots. As a result, I have gotten closer to a few members more so than others. This I regret greatly, but I know that God is giving more time next semester to get to know my small group more. This is a continuous, never ending relationship between God, my small group, and I. And I for one, believe that love is patient.
In the beginning, I expected my small group to be the best. Perfect attendance, no quiet moments, and a lot of openness was just a few on my list. I expected growth and fruit bearing till they dropped like coconuts from the tree. My head was high and chin was up.
As the semester went on, something happened. Attendance dropped, people left early, excuses thrown everywhere. Where was the perfect little Small Group that I expected? All this "work" I put in and nothing.
Luke 17:11-19
This passage was given to me during the break at the Ambassadors' Thanksgiving dinner. The passage describes Jesus' encounter with 10 men who had leprosy on his way to Jerusalem. These 10 men were desperate for healing and because of their faith, was healed from their disease. The 10 men then ran off.
Just then, one of men came back praising God and threw himself at the feet of Jesus and thanked Him. Verse 17 and 18, "Jesus asked, "Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?""
I will relate this to our fellow brothers and sisters. So often, have I felt frustration towards my more apathetic brothers and sisters. Where was the passion I asked myself? Why don't you want to go to Large Group today? Does anyone care about all the work that was put into making everything work on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays? I've seen the frustration in my fellow leaders faces and I ask the same question that Jesus asked.
With those that I meet up with and try to encourage, I pray that the Holy Spirit will continue to nourish their growing hearts. But I believe that God has a plan for all of us. Even if only one person says, 'thank you Jesus' now, I know that You will never cease to work in us. Slowly, but surely. One man today, a few more tomorrow.
Amen.
PS. Never writing this late ever again. Thoughts jumbled. Incoherent. Blah.
In the beginning, I expected my small group to be the best. Perfect attendance, no quiet moments, and a lot of openness was just a few on my list. I expected growth and fruit bearing till they dropped like coconuts from the tree. My head was high and chin was up.
As the semester went on, something happened. Attendance dropped, people left early, excuses thrown everywhere. Where was the perfect little Small Group that I expected? All this "work" I put in and nothing.
Luke 17:11-19
This passage was given to me during the break at the Ambassadors' Thanksgiving dinner. The passage describes Jesus' encounter with 10 men who had leprosy on his way to Jerusalem. These 10 men were desperate for healing and because of their faith, was healed from their disease. The 10 men then ran off.
Just then, one of men came back praising God and threw himself at the feet of Jesus and thanked Him. Verse 17 and 18, "Jesus asked, "Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?""
I will relate this to our fellow brothers and sisters. So often, have I felt frustration towards my more apathetic brothers and sisters. Where was the passion I asked myself? Why don't you want to go to Large Group today? Does anyone care about all the work that was put into making everything work on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays? I've seen the frustration in my fellow leaders faces and I ask the same question that Jesus asked.
With those that I meet up with and try to encourage, I pray that the Holy Spirit will continue to nourish their growing hearts. But I believe that God has a plan for all of us. Even if only one person says, 'thank you Jesus' now, I know that You will never cease to work in us. Slowly, but surely. One man today, a few more tomorrow.
Amen.
PS. Never writing this late ever again. Thoughts jumbled. Incoherent. Blah.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Family
With Thanksgiving coming up, everyone is all giddy and excited for seeing their family back home again. When I was a Freshman at Purdue, I hated it here. Purdue was one place on earth that I did not want to be at. I missed my mom, dad, sisters, and grandma. There was no one here at Purdue for me. All my friends from my high school went to Urbana Champaign or the University of Chicago. I missed everyone so much! God, why did you place me in this deserted place?
But family isn't so hard to come by even if you are at a place like Purdue (No offense ^^). As time passed, God placed these people in my lives.
I met my first small group leader at at AAA callout. He was handing out Cornerstone bookmarks in front of the classroom of the callout. Man, as I look back at it now, this guy had balls (Holy balls). And this is how I started going to Cornerstone because of a weirdo passing out Cornerstone bookmarks at an AAA callout.
God has really shown me so much over these past years through my time here at Purdue and my time at Cornerstone. I've met all types of people, both good and bad. But God has really taught me to love these people; love them as my own, you know, like a family.
John 17:23 says, "I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me."
This verse was from Jesus' prayer for all believers that we may come in unity and reflect Jesus' love upon each other. And I have learned just that :)
Now that I'm leaving for Chicago, I'm gonna miss my family here at Purdue. Really, really. I use to say, "I'll never call Purdue my home!" But home is really where the family is and because of God, I have many :D
Praise the Lord!
Amen!
But family isn't so hard to come by even if you are at a place like Purdue (No offense ^^). As time passed, God placed these people in my lives.
I met my first small group leader at at AAA callout. He was handing out Cornerstone bookmarks in front of the classroom of the callout. Man, as I look back at it now, this guy had balls (Holy balls). And this is how I started going to Cornerstone because of a weirdo passing out Cornerstone bookmarks at an AAA callout.
God has really shown me so much over these past years through my time here at Purdue and my time at Cornerstone. I've met all types of people, both good and bad. But God has really taught me to love these people; love them as my own, you know, like a family.
John 17:23 says, "I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me."
This verse was from Jesus' prayer for all believers that we may come in unity and reflect Jesus' love upon each other. And I have learned just that :)
Now that I'm leaving for Chicago, I'm gonna miss my family here at Purdue. Really, really. I use to say, "I'll never call Purdue my home!" But home is really where the family is and because of God, I have many :D
Praise the Lord!
Amen!
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Humbled
"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14
I was definitely humbled today during Winterization. Right after Joe's message about world view and how we should take into serious consideration of how media is desensitizing many serious issues, I go and talk about The Hangover. Thank you Chris Leong. Yes the movie was hilarious, but the first thought that should come to my mind is not that it was a funny movie, but a sad and worry some topic. Instead of laughing at such moral lacking topics, I should learn to be concerned and pray.
On a side note, what a glorious day :)
Amen.
I was definitely humbled today during Winterization. Right after Joe's message about world view and how we should take into serious consideration of how media is desensitizing many serious issues, I go and talk about The Hangover. Thank you Chris Leong. Yes the movie was hilarious, but the first thought that should come to my mind is not that it was a funny movie, but a sad and worry some topic. Instead of laughing at such moral lacking topics, I should learn to be concerned and pray.
On a side note, what a glorious day :)
Amen.
Friday, November 20, 2009
tl;dr
"Do not tremble, do not be afraid. Did I not proclaim this and foretell it long ago? You are my witnesses. Is there any God besides me? No, there is no other Rock; I know not one." Isaiah 44:8
"Christians seem to have a lot of difficulty witnessing to unbelievers. It is easier to talk about the church we attend than to talk about Christ."
I blame myself a lot for not knowing enough of the Bible (which is in fact still truth). I always say that I will be a witness, but in the end, when placed in a situation with my non-Christian friends, my will disappears. Instead of explaining to them my passion for Christ, the physicality of the church is brought up. My non-Christian friends question my Friday night church attendance since service is usually only held on Sundays and the pointless conversation goes on.
It seems at though I am taking the easy way around of things; never wanting to attempt the serious stuff. A-use-to-be-close friend of mine can relate. I back down way too easily when it comes to what I believe in and what I want. When it comes to my relationship with God, there should be no hesitation. I should be able to express it freely and without shame to anyone. Instead of trembling and being afraid all the time, I need to place all myself in God and believe that He's will may be done by using me as a witness.
This blog is just a long rambling, but I hope someone reads it. My heart has been all over the place recently. When I say all over the place, my priorities have been shifted, my desires are confused; basically, there is a lot of uncertainty. As people plainly put it, you can't be a man and be uncertain. A man should have leadership qualities and is the decision maker. A leader of the church should lead his people without leaving any sheep behind.
Thank you Joe Kim for putting in so much effort in tonight's Large Group discussion. Friday nights are always the blunt end of the sword with people. As I just absorbed the message and the input, one song constantly ran through my head:
As disturbing as the 2nd video was, I was ashamed of myself for laughing so hard. I tried leading my group into a more serious discussion as well, but that was incredibly difficult since I was immature enough to poke fun at such a serious topic in Christianity. Instead of seeing suffering and sinfulness, I viewed it as another Superbad or Hangover movie. I need new glasses.
During worship, the prayer came from deep within my heart. For change, for love, and for selflessness. God, I really want to see through the eyes of Jesus. Open up my eyes to the things that you see. As little as I have given tonight in Large Group, I have received an abundance.
Thanks Joe again. Must have been really tough.
Well. There is much more to say from this foolish heart of mine, but I need to wake up in 4 hours for Winterization. If you made it this far down, let me say, "I love you."
z_z
Amen.
"Christians seem to have a lot of difficulty witnessing to unbelievers. It is easier to talk about the church we attend than to talk about Christ."
I blame myself a lot for not knowing enough of the Bible (which is in fact still truth). I always say that I will be a witness, but in the end, when placed in a situation with my non-Christian friends, my will disappears. Instead of explaining to them my passion for Christ, the physicality of the church is brought up. My non-Christian friends question my Friday night church attendance since service is usually only held on Sundays and the pointless conversation goes on.
It seems at though I am taking the easy way around of things; never wanting to attempt the serious stuff. A-use-to-be-close friend of mine can relate. I back down way too easily when it comes to what I believe in and what I want. When it comes to my relationship with God, there should be no hesitation. I should be able to express it freely and without shame to anyone. Instead of trembling and being afraid all the time, I need to place all myself in God and believe that He's will may be done by using me as a witness.
This blog is just a long rambling, but I hope someone reads it. My heart has been all over the place recently. When I say all over the place, my priorities have been shifted, my desires are confused; basically, there is a lot of uncertainty. As people plainly put it, you can't be a man and be uncertain. A man should have leadership qualities and is the decision maker. A leader of the church should lead his people without leaving any sheep behind.
Thank you Joe Kim for putting in so much effort in tonight's Large Group discussion. Friday nights are always the blunt end of the sword with people. As I just absorbed the message and the input, one song constantly ran through my head:
As disturbing as the 2nd video was, I was ashamed of myself for laughing so hard. I tried leading my group into a more serious discussion as well, but that was incredibly difficult since I was immature enough to poke fun at such a serious topic in Christianity. Instead of seeing suffering and sinfulness, I viewed it as another Superbad or Hangover movie. I need new glasses.
During worship, the prayer came from deep within my heart. For change, for love, and for selflessness. God, I really want to see through the eyes of Jesus. Open up my eyes to the things that you see. As little as I have given tonight in Large Group, I have received an abundance.
Thanks Joe again. Must have been really tough.
Well. There is much more to say from this foolish heart of mine, but I need to wake up in 4 hours for Winterization. If you made it this far down, let me say, "I love you."
z_z
Amen.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Romans 14 is Great
With some Facebook stalking, you will know why i chose to read this chapter tonight.
This chapter basically compares two types of Christians: strong and weak. From my own understanding and pride driven life, I would automatically claim myself to be a stronger Christian than others. I was even surprised when I was talking to a younger friend here at Purdue and the topic on hand was about my friends. "I thought you didn't accept younger people as your friend because you wanted to play the older brother role."
This really woke me up. This was the type of character I was playing? A self-portrayed, high and mighty know it all who, apparently, is so far from 'knowing' everything that I could not help myself from laughing... AT MYSELF as I was reading this passage!
My pride has driven me beyond who Jesus was. He was a selfless man full of humility. He knew He was the Son of God, so what? "Who are you to judge someone else's servant?" Even though we are along different wavelengths with God, we live for the same God. "He who regards one day as special, does so to the Lord...For none of us lives to himself alone and none of us dies to himself alone."
"If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord."
I have been humbled beyond belief this past summer and even right now.
Whatever we do, wherever we're at, different stages in life, different problems, etc., if you walk with God, let me walk with you.
Amen!
P.S. I was going to write about this passage in another perspective, but I was afraid people will read this. AND JUDGE HAHA ;)
This chapter basically compares two types of Christians: strong and weak. From my own understanding and pride driven life, I would automatically claim myself to be a stronger Christian than others. I was even surprised when I was talking to a younger friend here at Purdue and the topic on hand was about my friends. "I thought you didn't accept younger people as your friend because you wanted to play the older brother role."
This really woke me up. This was the type of character I was playing? A self-portrayed, high and mighty know it all who, apparently, is so far from 'knowing' everything that I could not help myself from laughing... AT MYSELF as I was reading this passage!
My pride has driven me beyond who Jesus was. He was a selfless man full of humility. He knew He was the Son of God, so what? "Who are you to judge someone else's servant?" Even though we are along different wavelengths with God, we live for the same God. "He who regards one day as special, does so to the Lord...For none of us lives to himself alone and none of us dies to himself alone."
"If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord."
I have been humbled beyond belief this past summer and even right now.
Whatever we do, wherever we're at, different stages in life, different problems, etc., if you walk with God, let me walk with you.
Amen!
P.S. I was going to write about this passage in another perspective, but I was afraid people will read this. AND JUDGE HAHA ;)
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Self-Control
People are constantly looking for our lives to be different. Whether to live a holy life worthy for God’s kingdom or a life considered to be well accepted by society and its norms. When we question ourselves and if these goals are obtainable, it often times leads down to the individual having any control in their life. Do you have your life under control so that you are able to obtain these goals? The implication of having your own life under control takes all the credit away from God, our creator. We will turn out head towards what we think will be best for us and will continue to strive for success that is not necessarily destined for us. “The Bible teaches that you already have everything you need to take charge of your life.” As Christians, we need to realize that, although God has already laid out his plan for us, we are ultimately called to pick up our cross and follow Him.
The Bible is often viewed as a storybook. It is more than this. It gives us valid, non-contradicting instructions to live a holy life in accordance to our Savior Jesus Christ. “How often we allow fatigue, loneliness, fear, anger, and other emotional and physical factors to dictate and destroy our lives—all the while hoping that someone or something will turn everything around for us without us having to do a thing.” This is a true statement. As human beings, we long for relationships and personal interactions with others. Even with this truth, have we forgotten that this love has already been offered to us? The love of our Savior who bore all our sins and saved us from eternal damnation has already allowed us a new direction in life, one that is guided by God. Because we have been crucified with Christ, we no longer have the passions nor desires of sin. Because we live with the Holy Spirit in us, it is only natural to strive after it, to know what living a Christian life with control of our lives living for God really means.
The Bible is often viewed as a storybook. It is more than this. It gives us valid, non-contradicting instructions to live a holy life in accordance to our Savior Jesus Christ. “How often we allow fatigue, loneliness, fear, anger, and other emotional and physical factors to dictate and destroy our lives—all the while hoping that someone or something will turn everything around for us without us having to do a thing.” This is a true statement. As human beings, we long for relationships and personal interactions with others. Even with this truth, have we forgotten that this love has already been offered to us? The love of our Savior who bore all our sins and saved us from eternal damnation has already allowed us a new direction in life, one that is guided by God. Because we have been crucified with Christ, we no longer have the passions nor desires of sin. Because we live with the Holy Spirit in us, it is only natural to strive after it, to know what living a Christian life with control of our lives living for God really means.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Weary
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:30-31
Wow let me say, I do not have the stress/responsibility that comes from leading a bible study every week like I felt last year and I am already breaking down. As the semester went on, I thought that I would be stead fast and strong towards my small group members. I enjoy doing one on ones very much so and thought that I would and could make the time as the semester progressed. Boy was I wrong.
From previous years, I know that I live a very procedural lifestyle. Everything is the same week by week. Class, come back home, work, study, nap, etc. I did not want anything to change at all. But then I realized my selfishness.
Christ was not selfish in discipleship. If he was, there would be nothing left for mankind. Lucky for us, our God is merciful. Whew!
These two verses from Isaiah relate to me a lot, and probably to the majority of Christians out there. Trying to abide to His laws and commands are hard especially since we live in such a tempting world. I my case, I am tempted to take the easy way out rather than lead others to Christ. I mean, its not that I don't meet with my members, but I don't sacrifice my time and do it enough. This applies to reading the Word as well.
But I hope in the Lord that He will give me strength to do His good work. And I can only count on God to supply me with wisdom, the right words to say, and the right heart to serve. Those who rely on themselves will only grow tired and weary; they will also stumble and fall. But those who hope in the Lord will soar on wings like eagles and forever run on the fuel I like to call . . .
LOVE!
Amen!
Isaiah 40:30-31
Wow let me say, I do not have the stress/responsibility that comes from leading a bible study every week like I felt last year and I am already breaking down. As the semester went on, I thought that I would be stead fast and strong towards my small group members. I enjoy doing one on ones very much so and thought that I would and could make the time as the semester progressed. Boy was I wrong.
From previous years, I know that I live a very procedural lifestyle. Everything is the same week by week. Class, come back home, work, study, nap, etc. I did not want anything to change at all. But then I realized my selfishness.
Christ was not selfish in discipleship. If he was, there would be nothing left for mankind. Lucky for us, our God is merciful. Whew!
These two verses from Isaiah relate to me a lot, and probably to the majority of Christians out there. Trying to abide to His laws and commands are hard especially since we live in such a tempting world. I my case, I am tempted to take the easy way out rather than lead others to Christ. I mean, its not that I don't meet with my members, but I don't sacrifice my time and do it enough. This applies to reading the Word as well.
But I hope in the Lord that He will give me strength to do His good work. And I can only count on God to supply me with wisdom, the right words to say, and the right heart to serve. Those who rely on themselves will only grow tired and weary; they will also stumble and fall. But those who hope in the Lord will soar on wings like eagles and forever run on the fuel I like to call . . .
LOVE!
Amen!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
No Condemnation
"I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life." John 5:24
The words condemned and convicted get thrown around a lot. In prayers, small group discussions, sermons, etc. Although there are huge differences between the two, they seem to be interchangeable sometimes. When we get convicted, it seems as if God has just struck our hearts with the realization of the sin in our lives. In this case, we are convicted to be condemned. When Christians are convicted, it will most likely lead them to a feeling of condemnation.
Because we are Christian, these words are definitely not interchangeable. Conviction deals with what you do or are doing to bring yourself closer to God. Condemnation is who you are; are you with or without Christ in your life? Did you accept the blood of Christ on the Cross and know deep down in your heart that it was He who saved you from death?
So. What you do and who you are.
As Christians, there is a clear distinction between the two. As Christians, because we believe and have given up our hearts to our Savior, there is no condemnation. Our sin have been already washed away the day we accept Christ as our Savior. Conviction will ultimately lead us to repentance and bring us back to Him. Condemnation is the feeling that we cannot come to God due to our sins and failures, a very clever tactic of the devil.
But understand that if you confess with your heart that Jesus is Lord, and believe that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved past, present, and future.
Amen!
The words condemned and convicted get thrown around a lot. In prayers, small group discussions, sermons, etc. Although there are huge differences between the two, they seem to be interchangeable sometimes. When we get convicted, it seems as if God has just struck our hearts with the realization of the sin in our lives. In this case, we are convicted to be condemned. When Christians are convicted, it will most likely lead them to a feeling of condemnation.
Because we are Christian, these words are definitely not interchangeable. Conviction deals with what you do or are doing to bring yourself closer to God. Condemnation is who you are; are you with or without Christ in your life? Did you accept the blood of Christ on the Cross and know deep down in your heart that it was He who saved you from death?
So. What you do and who you are.
As Christians, there is a clear distinction between the two. As Christians, because we believe and have given up our hearts to our Savior, there is no condemnation. Our sin have been already washed away the day we accept Christ as our Savior. Conviction will ultimately lead us to repentance and bring us back to Him. Condemnation is the feeling that we cannot come to God due to our sins and failures, a very clever tactic of the devil.
But understand that if you confess with your heart that Jesus is Lord, and believe that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved past, present, and future.
Amen!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
My Fingers Hurt
It's been stressful you know? So to de-stress, I've been playing a lot of worship on my guitar (this does not mean I can play). It is always comforting to know that there is always someone willing to lift your troubles away.
God, singing and praising to you gives me so much joy. This joy does not come from merely playing the right chords and making the music sound good; no, this is my praise to God despite the difficult, confusing, painful, tiring, and stressful times.
So I'm praising God, how does that de-stress you?
Because giving praise to my Lord and Savior brings me joy. And this joy can overcome any task/problem that I am dealing with. This joy translates to love and care that I know God has for me, and this love gives me strength. Even though this seems like a math formula, it simply says, "God is my de-stressor.
I'm a terrible singer and guitarist, but I know God doesn't mind ^^
There is no verse this time; just a little something that I do that I wanted to share. And yes, my left ring finger hurts. Anyone got some finger healing advice?
Amen!
God, singing and praising to you gives me so much joy. This joy does not come from merely playing the right chords and making the music sound good; no, this is my praise to God despite the difficult, confusing, painful, tiring, and stressful times.
So I'm praising God, how does that de-stress you?
Because giving praise to my Lord and Savior brings me joy. And this joy can overcome any task/problem that I am dealing with. This joy translates to love and care that I know God has for me, and this love gives me strength. Even though this seems like a math formula, it simply says, "God is my de-stressor.
I'm a terrible singer and guitarist, but I know God doesn't mind ^^
There is no verse this time; just a little something that I do that I wanted to share. And yes, my left ring finger hurts. Anyone got some finger healing advice?
Amen!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Wisdom
As college students, we strive for academic success. There is always the conflict of balancing God and school work in our daily schedule. I've been finding that pretty hard to do recently. With Thanksgiving break coming up, there is absolutely no mercy from any of my professors. Paper after paper, after exam, and etc. They are ruthless.
This struggle between finding time to read the Word and doing my homework continues to ensue, but I need to come to realize that God would not want me or any of us to fail out of school. The worldly wisdom mentioned in 1 Corinthians 1:20 is not unnecessary wisdom, but wisdom that is not in the same category as the wisdom of God. As Paul put it, it is "foolish wisdom of the world." He put down wise men and philosophers not because their teachings are not of any merit, but because they do not preach of Christ crucified, His life and resurrection. Take on both challenges, but place the Word of God on a lower shelf where you can just pull it out and read anytime.
Owning both types of wisdom is necessary today; without a paying job, it will prove quite difficult to get anywhere. So continue to work hard, ultimately for the good of God!
Amen.
This struggle between finding time to read the Word and doing my homework continues to ensue, but I need to come to realize that God would not want me or any of us to fail out of school. The worldly wisdom mentioned in 1 Corinthians 1:20 is not unnecessary wisdom, but wisdom that is not in the same category as the wisdom of God. As Paul put it, it is "foolish wisdom of the world." He put down wise men and philosophers not because their teachings are not of any merit, but because they do not preach of Christ crucified, His life and resurrection. Take on both challenges, but place the Word of God on a lower shelf where you can just pull it out and read anytime.
Owning both types of wisdom is necessary today; without a paying job, it will prove quite difficult to get anywhere. So continue to work hard, ultimately for the good of God!
Amen.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Living for God
Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because he who has suffered in his body is done with sin. As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.
1 Peter 4:1-2
Taking a verse and dissecting it word by word and phrase by phrase can help us understand what God is trying to tell us even further than just reading and glancing over a verse or passage.
The chapter/verse starts out with "therefore" as a means to the end. The ends referred in this passage is the done-ness of sin. The "suffering" of Christ as He hung on the cross is proof of this. Because Christ has displayed such an immense amount of love towards us in His suffering, verse 1 directs us to take upon the same attitude that Jesus had. This attitude will ultimately destroys sin and breed love.
Sorry God. I've been blogging too late and my mind is like Jello right now.
Amen.
1 Peter 4:1-2
Taking a verse and dissecting it word by word and phrase by phrase can help us understand what God is trying to tell us even further than just reading and glancing over a verse or passage.
The chapter/verse starts out with "therefore" as a means to the end. The ends referred in this passage is the done-ness of sin. The "suffering" of Christ as He hung on the cross is proof of this. Because Christ has displayed such an immense amount of love towards us in His suffering, verse 1 directs us to take upon the same attitude that Jesus had. This attitude will ultimately destroys sin and breed love.
Sorry God. I've been blogging too late and my mind is like Jello right now.
Amen.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Simply Love
I feel like I have a weekly theme that God wants me to think about. This week seemed to be about humility.
When I think about how society rules the cultural norm, humility plays no part in it. Defined from dictionary.com, humility is "the quality or condition of being humble; modest opinion or estimate of one's own importance, rank, etc." Everyone wants to be heard. Everyone needs to be noticed, to have a voice and say in something that would make them feel important. There is a constant striving of becoming the best person in selective categories such as most outspoken, most popular, wealthiest, etc. A longing to be anything less of that is non-existent in this society. You have to be someone!
As Christians, this sort of self-ism stands nowhere in what we believe in. Our Savior and role model is our prime example. If you read John 13, Jesus washes his disciple's feet. How lowly can you get! Peter acknowledges that Jesus is Christ and refuses to let the Messiah wash his feet, but Jesus insists.
This is the attitude that could save mankind. Now its not saying that all Christians should be losers and always 2nd place in school or in the market. The message that we want to send out to all the people of the world is that it is all because of Christ. The very reason that I am a Purdue student with a loving family, friends, and an immense amount of things that has occurred in my life is solely because of Christ. Because of that, I will humble myself in His presence.
And thats not the end! Being humble is great and all, so lets take this even further.
The very thing that humility breeds is love itself. Christ died for our sins simply because He humbled Himself so that we may live.
He humbled Himself and loved us to the end, the very end of His life.
Just think about it. How would someone see you as when you walk with humility? When you do a favor for someone, will they see that you are doing it out of love or other reasons? and so on.
Jesus, you have shown me true love. With that, I love others and will bless your name!
Amen!
When I think about how society rules the cultural norm, humility plays no part in it. Defined from dictionary.com, humility is "the quality or condition of being humble; modest opinion or estimate of one's own importance, rank, etc." Everyone wants to be heard. Everyone needs to be noticed, to have a voice and say in something that would make them feel important. There is a constant striving of becoming the best person in selective categories such as most outspoken, most popular, wealthiest, etc. A longing to be anything less of that is non-existent in this society. You have to be someone!
As Christians, this sort of self-ism stands nowhere in what we believe in. Our Savior and role model is our prime example. If you read John 13, Jesus washes his disciple's feet. How lowly can you get! Peter acknowledges that Jesus is Christ and refuses to let the Messiah wash his feet, but Jesus insists.
This is the attitude that could save mankind. Now its not saying that all Christians should be losers and always 2nd place in school or in the market. The message that we want to send out to all the people of the world is that it is all because of Christ. The very reason that I am a Purdue student with a loving family, friends, and an immense amount of things that has occurred in my life is solely because of Christ. Because of that, I will humble myself in His presence.
And thats not the end! Being humble is great and all, so lets take this even further.
The very thing that humility breeds is love itself. Christ died for our sins simply because He humbled Himself so that we may live.
He humbled Himself and loved us to the end, the very end of His life.
Just think about it. How would someone see you as when you walk with humility? When you do a favor for someone, will they see that you are doing it out of love or other reasons? and so on.
Jesus, you have shown me true love. With that, I love others and will bless your name!
Amen!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
The Right Words
I always find myself trying to look for the right words to say at the right time. You know, something, maybe a word or phrase, that is so applicable and comforting that you have just become a godsend for that small group member or just a random friend.
I've taken my role as a small group leader and one of the older guys at church into deep consideration. My actions and words echo. When it comes to judging, there is a certain pressure on me just because I "lead" and I'm "older". I've become frustrated and disappointed at myself for not upholding these roles in the correct fashion lately. My pride allows me to think that I know everything that has to deal with God; that because I am a leader, I am very holy (far from it). I need to snap out of it and realize that I am nothing; if it wasn't for Christ's love, I would have continued to dwell deeper into my sin.
So God, please help me to drop my pride. The words of this mouth is not from the heart that was born from your hands, but of my own selfishness. I've always had this misconstrued conception of standing so high when it was the Lord who has given me this opportunity as a leader to help others. The right words may sounds good, but I need to depend more on the Holy Spirit and God's Word[s]. I can lead with my own words, but how will it feel leading with the right heart, a heart after God's own?
Amen.
I've taken my role as a small group leader and one of the older guys at church into deep consideration. My actions and words echo. When it comes to judging, there is a certain pressure on me just because I "lead" and I'm "older". I've become frustrated and disappointed at myself for not upholding these roles in the correct fashion lately. My pride allows me to think that I know everything that has to deal with God; that because I am a leader, I am very holy (far from it). I need to snap out of it and realize that I am nothing; if it wasn't for Christ's love, I would have continued to dwell deeper into my sin.
So God, please help me to drop my pride. The words of this mouth is not from the heart that was born from your hands, but of my own selfishness. I've always had this misconstrued conception of standing so high when it was the Lord who has given me this opportunity as a leader to help others. The right words may sounds good, but I need to depend more on the Holy Spirit and God's Word[s]. I can lead with my own words, but how will it feel leading with the right heart, a heart after God's own?
Amen.
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