Risk Is Right 5/16

 I often avoid conflict but I’m learning that engaging in risky / Christ honoring adventures do not always end in conflict. I wonder if I have avoided engaging in Christ promoting discussions out of fear that I wi contribute to anger and division. The great commission and the two greatest commandments teach that we need to be take risks for Him. 

Boasting 5/15

 Bragging about myself is a huge temptation, only enhanced by social media and posting selfies. But how can we transform our conversations to promote the supremacy of Christ, even though we talk about what we are doing and what we like?  I want to develop greater innovation in my conversations, engaging others to think more deeply about what is important. In an age of division and an effort to reshape our values, perhaps we have more opportunities than ever. 

Anxiety’s Remedy

 It’s not possible to live an anxiety free life. We live in the here and now, not what is to come. We are still tainted by sinful desires and we live in a world at combat with sin and evil. Yet we are commanded to keep our minds clear and focused on a passion to live for Christ. Greater is He in us than the evil one of this world. Each day is presented with new challenges that clearly present fear or faith as a choice. Despite the anxiety, joy and peace can equally be present with His presence in us. Some days the joy overwhelms the fear and worry, while other days are lessons to be learned, that I need to depend on Hom far deeper than ever. . 

Crystal Clear 5/14

 I spent quite a bit of my younger self searching for God’s will in my life. As a school counselor, I’ve emphasized the importance of making wise economic, career and educational decisions with students. Helping others to choose worthy goals has been worthwhile and fulfilling. But I often wonder if I have not reminded students of their God given assignment and purpose, to glorify God in all things.  Perhaps I over analyze myself, but I do not want to waste my life at this point. John Piper has a disdain for retirees spending their vacations looking for sea shells.  I hope to avoid fruitless efforts, but look forward to your interaction on John Piper’s thoughts.

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭34:3‬ (‭CSB‬‬)

“Proclaim the Lord’s greatness with me; let us exalt his name together

Running Deep 5/13

 No matter the global location or the specific individual, sin runs deep. With no regard to economic class, background, heritage, or education, we all need the saving power of the gospel. Not just a ticket for Heaven, but each global resident needs to experience the life changing power of His Kingdom in the heart, transforming the way we do business with each other. I wonder if I’ve been disciples into a simplistic worldview, assuming that others have had the minimum of privileges like me. I judge others by my experiences. But being indifferent to each person’s need for Christ puts in question my love for Christ.  Lord, change is to be more in love with You, that we may love others with greater sincerity and intention planning  May we follow your leading and teaching, not our assumptions, in our efforts  

“Throughout the Bible, we see pictures of the global church (which includes all followers of Jesus in all locations) and the local church (which includes particular followers of Jesus in a particular location). Out of 114 times that the “church” is mentioned in the New Testament, at least ninety of them refer to specific local gatherings of believers who have banded together for fellowship and mission. God intends for every follower of Jesus to be a part of such a gathering under the servant leadership of pastors who shepherd the church for the glory of God.” - Francis Chan, Multiply: Disciples Making Disciples

Beneath The Surface 5/12

 I’m wondering if the main reason disciple making doesn’t take place in so many relationships is that we are far too surface in our conversations. Getting beneath the surface takes real effort, self disclosure and vulnerability. We all struggle with sin, our past, guilt, shame, worry, and fear of the future. One day I’m filled with fear and next day faith over rules my anxiety. So many relationships are superficial, seemingly built on the idea that I want to appear better than I am, that I’ve got my act together. But we need each other for brotherly encouragement, helping each other to filter out the world’s influence, keeping our focus on the One we love and adore for all eternity. Let’s pray that we will be men of influence on the lives of others. 

We have to be clear about what it means to help the people God has placed in our lives. We gravitate toward solutions that are quick and easy. When it comes to helping people, we often address the surface level of the problem but never get down to the heart of the matter. When someone is grieving, we might hand him a book that helped us in a difficult moment. But how many of us would take the time to really invest in his life? Would we listen on a consistent basis and offer help whenever we find a need that we are able to meet?

Francis Chan, Multiply: Disciples Making Disciples

Love Comes First 5/11

 Francis Chan has several blunt and confrontational questions. I’m guilty of having the wrong motives when I’m with others. He asks: What do you think and feel when you are in a group of people? Are you overly aware of the ones who are wealthy, attractive, or have something they can offer you? Do you worry about what people think of you? Or do you look for ways to love and opportunities to give?

I’ve had moments when I’ve sensed Gos leading me to initiate conversations that focus on Christ. I’ve had many others when I’ve wanted to be a wall flower or hunker down in self retreat. How awesome it would be if we would link arms with the goal of becoming identified as disciple makers.