Firm Foundation with Bryan Hudson
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Episodes
Sunday Dec 30, 2018
Forward & Upward. Pt. 1, Getting Clear for the New Year
Sunday Dec 30, 2018
Sunday Dec 30, 2018
Pressing Forward. Moving Upward. Part One - Getting Clear for the New Year
Download Worksheet:http://www.newcovenant.org/Pressing_Forward_Worksheet.pdf
Philippians 3:12 Not that I have already attained or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. 13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you.
A new year is an opportunity, if you are focused on making progress and making a difference. If your focus is on settling, a new year is just another day.
Charles Dickens “A Tale of Two Cities” which I never read, begins with a famous sentance set in London and Paris during the French Revolution in the late 1790’s.
Dickens's famous opening sentence introduces the universal approach of the book, the French
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way—in short, the period was so far like the present period,”
It is always easier to remember the “worst of times,” but I challenge you to think about the “best of times.” You always have a choice, so choose wisely.
It is very important that you not focus on the “worst of times” even though you may have to deal the aftermath.
Champion athletes have the ability to forget about losses and mistakes, while learning from it. They quickly detach themselves from those things and focus forward. (Show Scanlon Video)
This is why Paul said: “But one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead…”
You too are a champion in God’s Kingdom!
Fear is the expectation of danger and harm. FEAR False Evidence Appearing Real
“God has not given me a spirit of fear, but power, love, and a sound mind”
Three Keys for Getting Clear for the New Year: POWER, PERSPECTIVE, PRIZE
Paul reminded us a about POWER = “…That I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me..”
You were designed by God to possess everything he designed for you to have.”
Paul gave us a PERSPECTIVE = I am not perfected, but I press on. I don’t focus on what I cannot do, I focus on what I can do. I am reminded of the manager who would not take his pitcher out of the game, even though he been pitching poorly. A couple of inning later he caught fire and began to strike out batters. In the post game, a reporter asked him “why did you leave him in the game when do was doing poorly.” The manager said, “I was not looking at he was not doing. I was looking at what he was going to do.”
Paul gave us a PRIZE = The upward or high call of God. This is kind of like the Christmas season as a child. Whatever else may have happened, the child looks forward to Christmas day and opening of gifts. It is kind of prize for the emotions.
Pressing forward for the prize of God’s purpose in your life, helps you put everything else in perspective. It’s like my wife and looking forward to returning to Hawaii for our 40 wedding anniversary. We last went for our 25th wedding anniversary. We all need something to look forward to.
What to Get Clear for the New Year:
All of this can be done through prayer and a quality decisions to act by faith.
A quality decision is the thing that gets done because you are committed to it. Like I also tell you, if someone ask you to do something and you say, “I’ll try” or “I might try” that is a non-quality decision. The Bible says “let your yes be yes, or no be no.” Matt 5:37, Just say a simple, 'Yes, I will,' or 'No, I won't.' Anything beyond this is from the evil one.
The hindrance of self-imposed limitations resulting from broken principles and neglect of the Kingdom of God. Much of what impedes our progress has to do with neglecting a key principle or tolerating a condition that we can change. Not praying. Not giving. Not serving, etc.
The pain and disappointment introduced by difficult and draining situations
The shackles of low expectation introduced by “apparent” failure
The residue of bad encounters, disrespectful, and missed opportunities
The feeling of worthlessness resulting from a lack of engagement with the Lord and with your purpose
The sense of being drained by debts and unnecessary expenses. Form your plan to retire debts and eliminate unneccessary expenses
Determine to move straight ahead. Beware of situations that demand you to not run "straight ahead.” Philippians 3:14 So I run straight toward the goal in order to win the prize, which is God's call through Christ Jesus to the life above. (Good News Translation)
Do a “So What” exercise (From Paul Scanlon)
Make a statement then ask yourself at the end of it, “SO WHAT?”
“He was disrespectful to me ...SO WHAT?”
“They don’t appreciate me...SO WHAT?”
“I failed in that area...SO WHAT?”
“I missed that opportunity.. SO WHAT?”
“I’ll never be included...SO WHAT?”
“I’m afraid of this new season..SO WHAT?”
Your ‘SO WHATS’ will help you realize that it’s not worth doing drama about so many things.
“Greater is He who is in you that He who is in the world.” 1 John 4:4
Philippians 3:12 Not that I have already attained or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. 13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you.
Sunday Dec 16, 2018
Good Tidings of Great Joy
Sunday Dec 16, 2018
Sunday Dec 16, 2018
Good Tidings of Great Joy
by Pastor Bryan Hudson
Psalm 16:11 NIV
You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence,
with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Luke 2:8 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: 14 “ Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
Phil 4:4(NLT) Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! 5 Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus
Nehemiah 8:10 Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Joy is the knowledge of God’s grace through Jesus Christ.
Joy is the satisfaction of knowing you are in the will of God.
Luke 2:10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people
This is what the coming of Jesus does for people. He brings joy at the prospect on living on purpose and living at a level greater than ourselves.
Saying the words, “The joy of the Lord is your strength” sounds good. However, it is more meaningful when we understand the circumstance surrounding it.
Nehemiah 1:2 The words of Nehemiah the son of Hachaliah.It came to pass in the month of Chislev, in the twentieth year, as I was in Shushan the citadel,And they said to me, “The survivors who are left from the captivity in the province are there in great distress and reproach. The wall of Jerusalem is also broken down, and its gates are burned with fire.” 4 So it was, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned for many days; I was fasting and praying before the God of heaven.
These words came out of an experience of the fulfillment of a man’s compassion over his city and people. Nehemiah lived in Shushan the citadel. A citadel is a palace. Nehemiah lived in a palace. Shushan or “Susa” was the capital city of Elam and Persia. This word “susa” means “lill.” It is believed that the city was named for the abundance of lilies in the region.
Nehemiah was the kings cupbearer or servant. His family was brought to Babylon after the first captivity of the Jews. Nehemiah lived in blessing, abundance, and privilege---but his joy was not fulfilled because he was not living in the purpose of God.
He was away from his homeland. Some people who have blessing, abundance, and privilege, only want more for themselves. Some people forget where they have come from. Other people who blessing, abundance, and privilege, want to empower others.
This is the danger of a “comfortable captivity”....complacency and forgetting our foundations and higher purpose.
Nehemiah wanted for others what he possessed for himself: blessing, abundance, and privledge.
This passion and vision led Nehemiah and those who accompanied him back to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls to an adventure, danger, hard work, opposition for haters and enemies, but eventually to the completion of their objective.
Luke 2:11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: 14 “ Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
Sunday Dec 09, 2018
Two Liberating Words: "Thank You!"
Sunday Dec 09, 2018
Sunday Dec 09, 2018
Two Liberating Words: Thank You
Hebrews 13:12, Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people with His own blood, suffered outside the gate. 13 Therefore let us go forth to Him, outside the camp, bearing His reproach. 14 For here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come. 15 Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, [d]giving thanks to His name. 16 But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
Two of the most liberating words in our language are: “Thank You!”
Just as John taught that love is shown in deeds more than words, even so “Thank You” is always connected to what we offer or give.
This is why we celebrate birthdays with cards and gifts, because we wish to say “Thank you” for someone’s life. That’s why we celebrate Christmas with gift giving and honoring our Savior. It’s all about saying “Thank You” to the Lord for the gift of life and new life in Christ.
THANK YOU helps keep our lives clear of anxiety, sin, darkness, deception.
Ephesians 5:1 Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma. 3 But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; 4 neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather [do do something better] giving of thanks.
Philippians 4:6, Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
THANK YOU opens doors, releases gifts, empowers worship, and influences better decisions, and opens your heart to others.
Eph. 5:15 See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. [Giving Thanks] 18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, 20 giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another in the fear of God.
THANK YOU puts us in a position to allow God to transform every weakness into a strength
2 Cor. 12:9, And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
THANK YOU draws us closer to God and to others.
Psalm 35:18, I will give You thanks in the great assembly; I will praise You among many people.
In Psalm 107 "Let them sacrifice thank offerings and tell of his works with songs of joy." (NIV)
THANK YOU closes the circle of breakthrough in our lives. Lesson from the Ten Lepers: Ten were cleansed, but one was MADE WHOLE by saying "Thank You!"
Luke 17:11 Now it happened as He went to Jerusalem that He passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. 12 Then as He entered a certain village, there met Him ten men who were lepers, who stood afar off. 13 And they lifted up their voices and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” 14 So when He saw them, He said to them, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And so it was that as they went, they were cleansed. 15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned, and with a loud voice glorified God, 16 and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks. And he was a Samaritan. 17 So Jesus answered and said, “Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? 18 Were there not any found who returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?” 19 And He said to him, “Arise, go your way. Your faith has made you well.”
Sunday Dec 02, 2018
Too Blessed to Be Stressed
Sunday Dec 02, 2018
Sunday Dec 02, 2018
Matthew 11:28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
What is stress? It is a state of mental or emotional strain, pressure, or tension resulting from adverse or very demanding circumstances. Allowing high levels of stress will adversely affect you. It is known that stress and worry cause harmful physical effects. All the more reason to accept Jesus’ offer to lift the burden of negative stress from our lives.
[Click here to watch a brief video explaining the physical effects of stress]
Example: On March 3, 2010 when the engines on US Airways Flight 1549 under the control of Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, shut down after a flock of geese flew into the engines, it created a circumstance of extraordinary stress or pressure on his mind. The flight crews and passengers also experienced the worse kind of stress.
He coped with the situation and handled it in an effective manner. He turned and glided the unpowered airplane to a safe landing on the Hudson River between New York City and New Jersey.
How did Captain Sully deal with the stress?
1) The mercy of God 2) 40 years of flying experience. 3) Many hours of training in a flight simulator for the situation he faced. 4) Extreme focus on solutions, not problems 5) Confidence in his abilities and skill. He said, “I knew I could land the airplane on the river.”
This is an extreme example of stress, but there are everyday lessons we can learn from this situation. Allowing the grace of God to lead us in better spiritual, mental, emotional, and lifestyle habits help prepare us to deal with unforeseen circumstances.
Example: Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King began his career as a pastor in 1954 at the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. His ambition was to become a pastor, like his father, preaching and serving his congregation and community. Segregation experienced himself and people like Rosa Parks created a situation of stress, or pressure. He turned the stress/pressure of that situation into a God-inspired movement that positively changed our nation.
When something weighs on your mind, it is stress, but it is not necessarily something bad. God’s will for your life requires your attention. Feeling conviction about something will weigh on your heart and mind. Before coming to Christ I experienced a lot of negative stress because of my bad choices and lifestyle. Becoming a believer in Jesus and answering the call of God presented a positive stress that focused me on seeking the Lord to learn how to fulfill His assignments on my life.
Seven Keys for Walking in Blessing Rather Than Stressing
1. PROCESS the stress. Why is it? What is the source of it? Is it constructive or destructive? 1 Peter 2:20, But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.
2. PERCEIVE what God is doing to build strength into your life: 1 Peter 5:10, But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.
To suffer is to transition of another way of thinking and living. It is then to stand against what you’ve been delivered from
3. PRAY to God. Let peace fill your heart. Develop a sense of partnership with Christ: Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
1 Peter 4:12-13, Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.
James 1:2-4, My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.
4. PLAN a better path beginning with a new mindset. Think differently: Philippians 4:8, Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.
5. PURSUE new habits and lifestyle choice: Morning devotions. Seek proper comfort (help). Not old habits like “comfort” food, complaining and such. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation (stress), that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
The Holy Spirit is your Comforter, or Helper. The purpose for seeking comfort is to get some help, not to get trapped. Too much of what is presented as comfort does not provide much actual help. The biblical meaning of “helper” as it pertains the Holy Spirit is Help, ([Verb] sunantilambano) signifies "to take hold with at the side for assistance"
(Illustration: Like asking someone to help who adds something else to the burden.)
6. PUT Christ the throne of your life. Get off the throne because Jesus cares for everything he rules. People entrust me with assignments because the have confidence that I’ll get it done. Jesus can be trusted with your life!
Colossians 3:15. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.
7. PRAISE God and push back the darkness. Gain the light of “possible.”
Psalm 8:2, Out of the mouth of babes and infants have you ordained strength because of your enemies, that you might still the enemy and the avenger.
Mark 10:27, But Jesus looked at them and said, "With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible."
You are too blessed to be stressed!
Monday Nov 26, 2018
How Good Change Happens In Your Life
Monday Nov 26, 2018
Monday Nov 26, 2018
James 1:16, Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. 18 Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures.
To live is to grow and to grow is to change. Change is a part of life. We don’t believe in change for change sake, but change as a part of growing stronger in the Lord and becoming better.
There are changes which we plan and anticipate. There are also changes that we don’t plan and anticipate.
Good change happens when we experience a convergence of three factors:
1) Our willingness to go in a new way
2) The light of God’s knowledge
3) The end of the old way
Paul said this to Philemon,
Philemon 1:5, hearing of your love and faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus and toward all the saints, 6 that the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgment of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.
KEY POINT #1; Acknowledge and pay attention to the good things inside of you because of Jesus
After he talked about the reality of trials, James wrote this for clarity:
James 1:16, Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. 18 Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures.
His concern about deception has to do with misunderstanding the source of change.
KEY POINT #2: All the good things come from God, even things that don’t feel good
We are changed by the “shining” of the character of Christ.
Teachers, like Paul, work to see the formation of Christ within the heart of believers.
2 Corinthians 4:6 For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
KEY POINT #3: God always brings light. Look for His light in every situation
2 Corinthians 4 :7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. 8 We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed— 10 always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body.
KEY POINT #4: You often face two different states, inward and outward. Inner strength helps you cope with outward struggles.
2 Corinthians 4:16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 18 while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
KEY POINT #5: Faith in God requires focus on things that are real, but that cannot be seen. This is the key to your daily renewal.
Sunday Oct 28, 2018
Fight the Good Fight. Keep the Faith. Finish Your Race.
Sunday Oct 28, 2018
Sunday Oct 28, 2018
Fight the Good Fight. Keep the Faith. Finish Your Race.
Watch the video "We Shall Overcome: A Jazz Tribute to Black History"
1 Tim. 6:11 But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses
2 Cor. 2:14, Now thanks be unto God, who always causes us to triumph in Christ, and makes manifest the fragrance of his knowledge by us in every place.
2 Timothy 4:6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.
Sometimes you don’t want to win for yourself. Sometimes you want to win because of who is watching. The motivation is not born of selfish pride, but you want to win because that’s your purpose and others need you to win so they can see that it is possible. That is the value of living in the light and letting people see your good works.
We don't fight the good fight of faith to win. We fight the good fight because we have already won. That's why it is a GOOD fight!
We fight a good fight because in Jesus Christ, WE WIN!
On Netflix, I watched a documentary about the new World Trade Center and the 911 memorial. In my lifetime, there was no greater single tragedy than 911. The documentary began with recounted the events of September 11, 2001. I fast forward through all of that. Because I have been to the 911 memorial and stood on ground zero beside the new World Trade Center, I wanted to see details of the good fight of faith that followed the tragedy and remember the heroism of those who perished saving others. I wanted to recount the efforts of those who rebuilt at ground zero.
I have same thoughts about our ancestors, for those who served and sacrificed for our nation in civil and military service. Most people get to focus on living our their dreams. Some among us are called to focus on helping others fulfill their dreams.
The life you live in Christ is not only about youself. Actually, after becoming a follower of Christ, it is not “your life.” It is “The life you live.”
Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. 21 I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain.”
Galatians 6:9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith
The good fight of faith is not about fighting for what you already have or already see. The good fight is about not growing weary while doing good.
The good fight of faith is all about continuing to do good, knowing that in due season you will reap....if you don't faint or lose heart. What you reap after your due season brings major blessings to your life, and more importantly, to others.
Fainting and losing heart is a major problem. I see it too often. I see it in believers. I have faced it often.
We know what physical fainting looks like. Someone who is standing suddenly falls down. Fainting in the mind or losing heart is very similar, but it is less obvious. Let me say, I can tell when someone has fainted or is about to do so.
That's why the Hebrews writer said, "Looking unto Jesus..." That's why he said, 12:3, "For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls"
Sunday Oct 21, 2018
Live in the House of Wisdom
Sunday Oct 21, 2018
Sunday Oct 21, 2018
Live in the House of Wisdom
Proverbs 24:3-4, Through wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; By knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.
1 Corinthians 1:30, But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption— 31 that, as it is written, “He who glories, let him glory in the Lord.”
“Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline, to help them understand the insights of the wise. Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is right, just, and fair. These proverbs will give insight to the simple, knowledge and discernment to the young.” (Prov. 1:2-4 NLT)
Proverbs 9:1(NLT) Wisdom has built her house; she has carved its seven columns. 2 She has prepared a great banquet, mixed the wines, and set the table. 3 She has sent her servants to invite everyone to come. She calls out from the heights overlooking the city. 4 “Come in with me,” she urges the simple. To those who lack good judgment, she says, 5 “Come, eat my food, and drink the wine I have mixed. 6 Leave your simple ways behind, and begin to live; learn to use good judgment.”
In this text, your life is compared to a house.
Built through wisdom
Established through understanding
Rooms filled with precious and pleasant riches by knowledge
God provides a place, or a house, for you, for me and to all people, when they need help. In our text, Solomon gives wisdom the personality of a woman. In fact, wisdom is like the woman who knows how to make a house, a home. She sees the need in people and knows how to meet that need.
Wisdom has a house. Live in it.
Sunday Oct 07, 2018
The Good Things That Happen In Your Hidden Seasons
Sunday Oct 07, 2018
Sunday Oct 07, 2018
The Good Things the Happen In Your Hidden Season
Galatians 1:11, I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that the gospel I preached is not of human origin. 12 I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ.
13 For you have heard of my previous way of life in Judaism, how intensely I persecuted the church of God and tried to destroy it. 14 I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people and was extremely zealous for the traditions of my fathers. 15 But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace, was pleased 16 to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, my immediate response was not to consult any human being. 17 I did not go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went into Arabia. Later I returned to Damascus.
18 Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Cephas[b] and stayed with him fifteen days. 19 I saw none of the other apostles—only James, the Lord’s brother.
In this text the Apostle Paul described something that I will call his “hidden season.” A hidden season is a period of time where God draws you close to Himself to do a work inside of you.
It is a hidden season, not because you are hidden and withdrawn from people. It is a hidden season because God is doing something inside of you that no one can see and that no one might know about.
It is very important to understand this: Do not make the mistake of trying to copy what God did with Paul or others. If you withdrew from others for three years, it would not be a “hidden season,” it would be season ending with no return.
Notice this statement, Galatians 1:11, I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that the gospel I preached is not of human origin. 12 I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ.
This is very unique kind of grace reserved for apostles or other servants of God who are willing to be consecrated to God in an unusual ways. Most of the time we gain knowledge by instruction from others. “Revelation” is an accurate instruction or insights given by God to His servants. Because we have the Scriptures today, we don’t need revelation on Kingdom truth.
However, we do still receive revelation on God’s purposes for our lives. Another caution is to beware of people who say “God told me” but their lives don’t line up with the Scriptures.
Revelation is not something you have to seek, it is something that God does. Revelation comes to people who serve and seek Him.
In Proverbs 8:17 we read, “I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.”
John the Baptist blazed the trail for Jesus:
Luke 3:2 during the high-priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. 3 He went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 4 As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet:“A voice of one calling in the wilderness,
‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him. Every valley shall be filled in,
every mountain and hill made low. The crooked roads shall become straight, the rough ways smooth. And all people will see God’s salvation.’”
...15 The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John might possibly be the Messiah. 16 John answered them all, “I baptize you with[b] water. But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
...21 When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened 22 and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” 23 Now Jesus himself was about thirty years old when he began his ministry. He was the son, so it was thought, of Joseph,
Notice that the text said the Jesus was 30 years old when he began his ministry. From time he was a child to this day, we know nothing about Jesus’ life.
We only know this about Jesus first hidden season: Luke 2:52, And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.
Jesus had a second hidden season in the wilderness.
Luke 4:1, Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, 2 where for forty days he was tempted[a] by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry. 3 The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.”
Notice that Paul’s hidden season was also in a wilderness
Looking the Jesus’ and Paul’s hidden seasons, let’s learn about some of the good things that came out of those seasons:
In a hidden season:
1. You see things you could not see any other way.
2. You experience internal growth
3. You grow in wisdom and stature
4. You learn to trust trust God’s timing and become less restless
5. You learn patience
6. You learn to refocus on an audience of one, God
7. You gain the endorsement of God and no longer need the endorsement of man, “This is my Son”
8. You learn to rest in God’s endorsement, and you become less sensitive
Matthew 5:6, “Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.”
Monday Oct 01, 2018
Your Kingdom Come, You Will Be Done
Monday Oct 01, 2018
Monday Oct 01, 2018
Your Kingdom Come, Your Will Be Done, in Earth as it is in Heaven
Matt. 6:5 “And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. 6 But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. 7 And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. 8 “Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. 9 In this manner, therefore, pray:
Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
10 Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts,
As we forgive our debtors.
13 And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Life is lived one way or the other. We can live authentically or inauthentically. For someone who would become a marksman, authentic would NOT BE shooting at targets, then drawing bulls eyes around the the hole. Authentic would look like being trained, practicing and perfecting your craft.
God’s kingdom provides the foundation and framework for authentic living. One thing I have learned over all these years is the importance of trying do things the right way, even if the right way is not the most popular or most personally gratifying way.
When we see to follow God’s kingdom, we don’t have to struggle to know the “right way.”
More importantly, when we follow God’s way, we enter into a whole other set of provisions and blessings such as Ephesians 3:20-21
"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen."
The key is to get to this level: “According to the power that works in us.”
The goal is to get to a point where we see God doing above what we ask or think.
Here is one way to know: Has God ever helped you do something, and you can’t remember how you did it? That’s God’s kingdom and power at work in you.
This is what we think and say: For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Sunday Sep 16, 2018
From Conformed to Transformed
Sunday Sep 16, 2018
Sunday Sep 16, 2018
From Conformed to Transformed
Romans 12:1, Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
We have read this verse for years. It describes a process at work in you through Christ. It is NOT a “to do” list. God is working with you, where you are, as you are, with what you have now, to TRANSFORM (or transfigure) you! He doesn’t need any other ingredients other than you and Him!
You cannot conceive of what God empowered transformation will do in you, because the process has to be lived.
Getting into the process of being positively transformed begins with recognizing how you are being negatively conformed. Conformity to unhelpful things is the biggest enemy to transformation in helpful things.
Conformed definition: Fashion alike, i.e. conform to the same pattern (figuratively):—conform to, fashion self according to.
Conformity is often forced upon us or presented as “normal.” Conformity is often the price of acceptance by others.
Jesus faced it:
Luke 4:21 And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” 22 So all bore witness to Him, and marveled at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth. And they said, “Is this not Joseph’s son?”
The people were astonished at the transformation in Jesus life, but could not accept it because, in their mind, he was only Joseph’s son. They did not know what was inside him. He was more than Jospeh’s son. He was not limited to doing what Jospeh did.
Note that what the people thought and said had no bearing on who Jesus was or what he did. You are the only person who can impose a limit on your transformation.
Conformed also denotes instability. This verb has reference to that which is transitory, changeable, unstable.
Transform definition: To transfigure, to change into another form