Do You Feel Me?

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Romans 12:14-16, The New International Version

Today's simple verse has profound implications in our modern times. "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." One of the big issues of our age is "compassion overload." We are subjected to so many heartbreaking realities through media that we can become desensitized to the pain of others.

Take for instance our current pandemic. Throughout the world, almost two and a half million people have succumbed to the coronavirus. It is easy to read that number and say, "wow," or "oh well," or argue "that not everyone died of coronavirus," etc. No matter how you take in that information, it represents two and a half million families mourning a loved one while we may remain unmoved (I am talking to myself also).

We could cite many more statistics that would shock us. $150 million dollars was spent on weight-loss today while 25,000 people died of starvation today and 850 million people went to bed hungry. You get the idea. I am simply trying to connect our hearts to our minds.

Rejoicing with those who rejoice and mourning with those who mourn is an appeal for Christ's disciples to become emotionally connected. Neither rejecting pain and enjoying the good times, or rejecting the good times and embracing the pain. We are to find ourselves living the full life of compassion and celebration.

You have probably met "holy" people without a sense of humor, or "unholy saints" who miss the opportunities to hug and encourage the broken. Both are met in Jesus. He knows how to relate to us in good times and bad.

So here is my point. Our relationship with others begins with feeling the joys and pains of others. Both can be uncomfortable, but both are needed for a true relationship. Check your heart. Have you grown cold because of our culture? Let's embrace Kingdom culture that looks at life with Jesus' eyes.

Here are our action plans today:

1. Do you know someone who is hurting? Reach out to them. Listen to them. Pray for them.

2. Do you know some who needs you to rejoice with them? Spend some time hearing their story of victory and celebrating with them.

Have a great day!

Love, Pastor Stuart

Bless! Bless! Do not Curse!

14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited..
Romans 12:14-16, The New International Version

Today's encouragement is found in a simple phrase, "Bless. Bless. Do not curse." I believe this is the Holy Spirit's way of reminding us to pause, breathe, count to ten, and remember how much we are loved by God. Once we are there, we will be able to see others like Jesus did.

In Matthew 5, Jesus is instructing His followers with similar advice. Let's listen in...

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and a tooth for tooth But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:38-45

Both Paul and Jesus understand that those who hurt us will never get true justice from us. We do not know how to give justice and must leave it into the hands of the Father. Therefore, we are instructed to bless. This way we satisfy the requirement of the Law of the Kingdom which is to love and we make room for the righteous judge to take care of things. When we step in with revenge or retribution, we only magnify the issue.

I think the reason this concept is repeated three times is that it takes that many times for us to get it. "Bless!" I said, "Bless." I said, "Do not curse." You can see him holding his hand up to us when we are angry. Let's follow the exhortation and watch the Father bring His loving justice into our relationships.

Here are our action plans today:

1. Is there someone you are having a hard time blessing right now? Pray that the Lord will bless them. Eventually, your heart will follow. Ask the Lord to forgive you for wanting to curse them.

2. As we enter into this week, there are many other ways to apply this verse. Find some ways to bless those you are not in conflict with. Everyone needs a word of encouragement.

Have a great day!

Love, Pastor Stuart

There Is Treasure There

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Romans 12:10-13, The New International Version

Today's encouragement is simply two words, "Practice hospitality." This is one of the commands that we should all gravitate to. It is like someone saying, "eat dessert." We would be glad to. These two words develop in an interesting way.

The first word, "practice" is the same word that is often translated, "to persecute." It has the sense of chasing after someone. It is an intense word that elicits pursuit, running swiftly, or trying to really catch someone. It is anything but passive.

The second word, "hospitality," comes from a word that means "love your guests," or "befriend a stranger." In the Middle Eastern culture, it is customary to open your home to strangers and serve them. Abraham modeled this for us in Genesis 18 when he hosted the three "strangers" who prophesied of Isaac’s birth. Hebrews 13:2 says that in doing so you may entertain angels.

When we put the two words together we get the challenge to pursue making friends with strangers. While it is more difficult to do this in our pandemic season, we would do well to put this in our heart. The time is coming soon to welcome new people into the household of God.

The great part about pursuing others to love them as strangers is that soon they will become friends and part of the spiritual family. We will share our meals, our stories, and our lives with gladness of heart. Let's prepare ourselves in these days of isolation for what the Lord has planned ahead for us.

Here are our action plans today:

1. There may be someone new in your life from work or another social situation. Think of a way to include them in your lives. Simply enjoy them and listen to their story.

2. Pray for the harvest that is soon coming upon the earth for the Kingdom of God. All of this isolation is creating a unique opportunity for relationship when people are set free.

3. The Sabbath is here. Cease from your labor for a day this weekend and turn to your family and God for blessing and provision of heart.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Love, Pastor Stuart

Taking Care of One Another

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Romans 12:10-13, The New International Version

Today, we come to "Share with the Lord's people who are in need." Living the Christian life requires an "others oriented" perspective. It is easy to get caught up in our consumerism society and forget that what we have is not ours but the Lord's.

There are three reasons giving and sharing should be easy for a follower of Jesus. First, we know that any abundance we have is from His hand. Second, the abundance is not ours, we are only stewards of our wealth. Third, compassion drives us as Christians. A Christian that is not a giver is an oxymoron.

Paul focuses narrowly within this passage. He has spent much of his ministry collecting money for the church in Jerusalem that was overrun with famine and persecution. He was amazed at the generosity he found when talking about other brothers and sisters in need.

In our time, we still have many opportunities to "share with the Lord's people." We always start with those closest to us. It always begins with our family. Each of those in our "first church" has needs to meet. However, don't think you fulfill this exhortation by staying there.

Next comes our church family. There are always needs both spiritually and physically to meet right there. As we devote ourselves in love to one another, we will discover how we can "share" our life with them. Some need our time. Some need our resources.

Lastly, we can sponsor a missionary, a poor child, a ministry to child trafficked people, or to a persecuted family in the world. The possibilities are endless for us to fulfill this scripture.

Each of the twenty-one exhortations in this chapter is meant to be expressed as a mini-course on who Christians are and how they act and live in the world. This one, though down the list is as essential as the others for our spiritual health and growth. Let's put it in our heart to fulfill as the Lord shows us the needs of others.

Here are our action plans today:

1. Do you have a pattern of sharing with others of your time and financial resources? If not, pray that the Lord would move you with compassion for those who are needy. Do it today.

2. Seek out someone to bless today as a way of fulfilling this exhortation.

Have a wonderful day!

Love, Pastor Stuart

Three Qualities to Carry You Through

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Romans 12:10-13, The New International Version

We have been in a long season of challenge with the Coronavirus. Today's verse gives us encouragement in times like these. Paul shares three things to do in times of stress and challenge.

The first is to "be joyful in hope." Hope is the confident assurance of a future that is bright because the Lord is sovereign over all. Our joy comes from knowing that the purposes of God will prevail even though we don't see them right now. We can be joyful in hope. This isn't wishful thinking, this is assured as a child of God.

The second encouragement is to be "patient in affliction." The word afflictions means to be squeezed. We have all been squeezed in many ways in this season. Be patient. The season will come to an end, and we will discover more of the Lord because of it.

The third encouragement is to be "faithful in prayer." The word faithful means "steadfastly attentive." The one thing we have learned in this season is to keep on praying things through. No matter how long the season, we are simply called to be steadfast. The Lord's answers are on the way.

So be joyful, patient and faithful. Those are words that build character and will carry us through the most difficult of seasons.

Here are our action plans today:

1. How is your joy? If it needs a boost, start focusing on the Lord rather than your circumstances. Know that He holds the future.

2. This season has certainly tried our patience. If you are on the edge, know that as you draw close to the Lord, He will sustain you.

3. Don't give up in your prayer life. Pray things through. The Lord is wanting to show you how He is involved in your life.

Have a wonderful day!

Love, Pastor Stuart

The Enduring Flame

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Romans 12:10-13, The New International Version

This weekend we moved a little further into Romans 12 and discovered a two-toned truth. In one way the verse stands alone and in the other, it ties back to our discussion on relationships. The verse simply says, "Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord."

On its own, this verse challenges us to stoke the flames of our spiritual lives on a daily basis. In my personal experience, I have found my spiritual fire get a bit low from time to time. Paul tells us to never allow that to happen and then gives us the keys to remedy it. He gives us two ways. First, we are to keep our spiritual fervor. This means relying on the Holy Spirit to fill us, baptize us, and motivate us with His energy. The second part is our "why" for fire; because our life is committed to serving the Lord. When the aim of our life is to please Him, we will stay on fire.

The second truth in this verse is tied to our relationships. Just like we can become cold toward the Lord, we also can become cold in other relationships. Again, in this relational context, we are challenged to press into intimacy, resolution of issues, and spiritual unity. This is all possible when we keep our spiritual life strong.

This verse is a great one to keep in front of us as we go through the seasons of life. It gives us a place to check in with ourselves and ask, "How are my relationships doing?" Let's stoke our flame and keep it burning.

Here are our action plans today:

1. Take your temperature with the Lord. Are we lukewarm or boiling? If we are not hot, ask the Holy Spirit to stoke your fire.

2. Is there someone close to you that needs some love? Reach out and don't allow your love to grow cold.

Love, Pastor Stuart

The Value of Honor

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Romans 12:9-10, The New International Version

Today, we come to the phrase, "honor one another above yourselves," The words could be more accurately stated, "take the lead in placing value upon one another." Since Jesus died for us, we have been given infinite value. Those that know Him place the same value and dignity upon the head of each person they meet.

Our world is in a crisis because we have lost this simple understanding. The various movements in our culture are trying to gain worth by demanding it from others. If we, as Christians, followed Paul's exhortation, there would be no need for demands because we would already be showing honor to others.

Of course, this practice begins in our homes, churches, and workplaces. The people we are closest to should feel the most valued. We must never take each other for granted and devalue their infinite worth.

Let's be leaders of honoring one another. The more we participate in valuing others, the faster, we can all put aside our chasing of worth and simply know how valued we are.

Here are our action plans today:

1. What can you do to show honor to someone you value today? Make them feel as special as they really are.

2. Don't forget to prepare for a Sabbath this weekend. Spend some extended connection time with the Lord and those you care for.

Have a great weekend!

Love,
Pastor Stuart

Increasing Your Emotional Connections

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Romans 12:9-10, The New International Version

Developing an emotionally healthy spirituality is the key to Christian maturity. When the Spirit of Christ comes into our lives, He teaches us to love, accept, and forgive others as a base for our relationships. However, the true depth comes when we grow in our affection for one another.

In verse 10, it states, "Be devoted to one another in love." The word devoted means to have emotions for one another like family members. As we often call one another brothers and sisters in the faith, we are expected to actually share the affection for one another as "blood" families do.

Cultivating this type of emotional bond is part of our heritage as Christians. It comes both from the Holy Spirit in a moment and in sharing in our journeys in Christ over time, Often we discover friends in the faith that are as close as our biological family members.

There are a few things that hinder building these emotional ties. First, having a guarded heart. Every one of us has been hurt multiple times by others. There is a tendency to keep from going deep with people because of fear of pain. Second, there is our own undeveloped emotional love. Many of us have lived as acquaintances even within our biological families. Part of the Christian life experience is opening up our heart to deeper emotional love.

While we are just scratching the surface of this concept today, I pray that as we continue to study relationships in this chapter that we will grow more deeply with one another. Relationships that are devoted to one another in love are like coming home. This is what Jesus offers to those in His family.

Here are our action plans today:

1. Who are you connected to emotionally? Are they part of your biological circle? Are they part of your spiritual circle? Ask yourself what it would take to grow together at the next level. Time, words of love, words of encouragement, etc.

2. Negative loving is found in unforgiveness. Forgive as the Lord has forgiven you and watch the Lord restore emotional love to you.

Love,
Pastor Stuart

Are You a Lover Who Covers?

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Romans 12:9-10, The New International Version

One of the topics we discussed on Sunday was the importance of understanding, "hate what is evil; cling to what is good," as it relates to a discussion on relationships. Taken out of context it can mean a lot of things, but in a discussion about relationships, it simply means to not be caught up in the drama of sin, toil, hardship, and evil.

Our relationships stall because of the sins of others (and ourselves), and often those who are the hurters are either unaware of the trouble they are causing because of their brokenness or too underdeveloped spiritually to walk it through at that time, just like us when Jesus found us. We were all sinners who were broken and hateful.

This is where love comes in and turns the tide. Like Christ who gave His life for us while we were dead in our sins, so we get a chance to model that to others. Let's take a look at the concept through some other verses:

Proverbs 10:12
Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers all transgressions.

James 5:20
Consider this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and cover over a multitude of sins.

1 Peter 4:8
Above all, love one another deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.

Proverbs 17:9
Whoever conceals an offense promotes love, but he who brings it up separates friends.

After reading these, we have to ask ourselves, "Am I practicing the covering of sins, or revealing them?" To hate evil is to remove it from our relationships. The best way to do that is to forgive it and/or cover it.

Here are our action plans today:

1. Take an inventory of your heart as it regards covering over sin or exposing the sins of others. Read through the verses above again and capture God's heart for atoning and covering for our sins.

2. Love covers over sins. Let's forgive the sins of others as God in Christ forgave ours.

Love,
Pastor Stuart

Pursuing Love

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Romans 12:9-10, The New International Version

In our study of Romans 12, we come to the Christian's objectives for relationships. In the next 12 verses we have 21 challenges to our discipleship. The first is simply, "Love must be sincere."

The word translated, "sincere" is the same as the word translated, "hypocrite," a word that meant in Paul's day, an actor on a stage. The people of Rome would have instantly associated this with the various play-acting that the city was known for. "Don't be an actor," when you love. You have to be genuine and authentic.

What has to be genuine? Love. This word that is mangled and thrown around casually in our day meant something much different to Jesus and the New Testament writers. It was the soil in which relationships are able to flourish. There was an unconditional and positive grace for people. Love gives us eyes to see others as the Father sees them.

Love for a disciple is the grounds of our faith. Jesus taught us, "Love one another as I have loved you," and "the world will know you are my disciples by your love for one another." (John 13:34-35) This is the ultimate test for a disciple. Do we love or do we "act" like a person who loves?

This verse is here for a reason. It is possible that we are not authentically loving. In order for our relationships to become God-glorifying, we have to get after it. Let's get started.

Here are our action plans today:

1. Take an inventory of your relationships. Are you authentic in your conversations and care for them, or are you play acting sometimes? Ask the Lord to help you get genuine.

2. Forgiving is the most powerful act of love. You cannot hold an offense and love. Forgive and then work it out if it is possible.

Let's grow in our love for others this week.

Love, Pastor Stuart

Don't Hold Back!

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
Romans 12:6-8, The New International Version

One thing stands out from Paul's discussion about gifts in these verses. Along with the description of the gifts, we get a sense that he is exhorting us to not hold back from using them. Let me explain.

Look closely at the way he modifies the gifts. "prophecy in accordance to your faith," implying that the prophecy may not be given. Or, "if it is giving, then give generously." It would seem that the person with the gift of giving would automatically give generously. Or, "if it is to lead, do it diligently, implying those with the gift of leadership can be slackers. I think we get the idea. He exhorts us after each of the gifts.

So what is the point of this challenge? Paul knows that even if we are aware of our gifts, we are also aware that we do not operate in them to the fullest extent. So he emphasizes how important it is to live our gifts fully.

If you are aware of the gifts that God has graced you with, don't hold back. Don't shrink in faith, generosity, diligence, or cheerfulness. The blessing that others receive through you is so important to His work and the extension of His Kingdom.

Here are our action plans today:

1. Ask the Lord to put you in a situation to use your gifts today.

2. At whatever level you are using your gifts, check your activity and discern whether you are holding back or giving it all.

3. Prepare for a Sabbath rest this weekend. Work six, rest one is the best way to understand God's design. Find new ways to connect to God, your family, and your friends.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Love, Pastor Stuart

The Gift of Service

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
Romans 12:6-8, The New International Version

Today, we see that Paul goes right from the gift of prophecy to the gift of serving. What may come to mind is that prophecy is much more "spiritual" or exciting than the lowly gift of service. In fact, in our hearts we may elevate the gifts of prophecy, leadership, or teaching as a higher level of giftedness than serving, encouraging, giving, or showing mercy. If we do, we make a huge mistake.

When we look at the life of Jesus, we see each of the gifts present in Him. This gives us a clue as to the importance of each of them. In fact, when discussing the gift of service, this may be the most significant gift for a few reasons. First, Jesus identified Himself as one who came to serve (Mark 10:45) Those who serve others get shaped by Him more quickly because service keeps us obscure, often invisible, and humble. As we serve, we get to work through issues of pride and comparison and finally come to the realization that we are not pleasing men but God. Service is the fast track to maturity.

As well, the gift of service has two other benefits. The first is that we are a blessing to others. This is the purpose of our lives. As we humbly serve people, we experience the heart of God for them. We also receive the refreshing that comes from refreshing others (Proverbs 11:25).

The way of Christ is always away from the spotlight to obscurity. There is no faster way to that place than serving. If you have this gift you are blessed. If you do not, you can still practice. It simply takes having open eyes to see needs, an open heart to want to bless, and open hands to share your life with others (Colossians 3:23).

Here are our action plans today:

1. Serving is easy. You can do it at home, at work, or anywhere in the world. Make a point of serving someone today.

2. Praying for people is a point of service that only you and the Lord will see on this side of heaven. Serve someone by praying for them today.

Have a great day!
Love, Pastor Stuart

Understanding Prophecy

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
Romans 12:6-8, The New International Version

After instructing us and reminding us that we are uniquely gifted by grace, Paul begins listing some "common" gifts that are given to the family of God. I think it is interesting that the Holy Spirit lists prophecy at the top.

Prophecy in the New Testament is differentiated from the prophets of the Old Testament in most cases. The prophets held an office or a position to speak for God. New Testament prophecy is a gift given to the body to reveal the heart and plans of God for people. It is a message about what God has planned for us. Instead of predicting the future, it leads us with hope to our future.

Paul puts it this way in 1 Corinthians. "Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy. The one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort." 1 Corinthians 14:1,3

Notice the emphasis of the gift: Speaking to people for their strengthening, their encouragement, and their comfort. What an opportunity that presents itself for us in these days. Imagine if we used the gift of prophecy right now, in a world that seems to be spinning out of control for so many people. Can you imagine how grounding that can be for others?

As I stated on Sunday, I believe every gift in this list is available to us to practice even if it is not "our" gift. Maybe your gift is not encouraging or giving, but we still can practice those things. Only prophecy seems "too spiritual" for that in the list.

Let me show you how to practice it, very simply, even if you don't have the gift.

• Step one: Find someone who could use some encouragement or comfort (you won't have to look far).

• Step 2: Ask the Lord how He would encourage them if He was standing there (He is. He filled you with His Spirit).

• Step 3: Strengthen them, encourage them, and comfort them with a scripture or sense you get by the Holy Spirit for them. It doesn't have to sound spiritual. It simply has to have the heart of God in it.

I'll leave you with this..."Follow the way of love and eagerly desire the gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy."

Here are our action plans today:

1. Ask the Lord to put someone on your heart (if someone isn't already).

2. Pray for them and ask God to give you a word of encouragement or scripture for them.

3. Call or text or email them and share what you sense the Lord's heart is for them. Spread some courage, strength, and comfort around today.

Have a great day!

Love, Pastor Stuart

We Are Graced to Minister

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
Romans 12:6-8, The New International Version

As we read through these verses, it becomes absolutely clear that all that God has done for us in salvation and access to a relationship with Him has an alternative goal, namely, blessing and caring for others. When we think about spiritual gifts, it is easy to allow God's gifts to become a reflection of us rather than a reflection of God and a conduit of his grace.

When Christ is revealed to us and we respond to Him with our "yes," His grace imparts different gifts to us. These gifts are an expression of His grace, to accomplish His restoration of humanity through us. Just as Abraham, our father of faith, was blessed to be a blessing, so we continue the heritage to our generation.

I love that Paul is so plainly spoken in these verses. He begins with, "We have different gifts." What could be implied are two things, such as we don't know we are "gifted" by God, or that somehow, we have the same gifts as another. This removes our uniqueness and causes us to try to imitate others, rather than Christ.

Then Paul tells us that it is according to God's grace. Everything we are able to do for the Lord ultimately comes from grace. Just like salvation, our ministry to others is "by grace through faith, and not of ourselves."

I am grateful for the gifts that God has graced us with. Each one is specially chosen for us to bring us joy as we bless others. We are graced to minister. Let's use our gifts and bless some people today.

Here are our action plans today:

1. Read through this scripture and meditate on how God has graced you and used you in the lives of others.

2. Look through the seven gifts listed in verses 7 and 8. Which stands out to you as a gift. Which ones are not a gift but a way you are being transformed into the image of Christ?

3. We are all called to minister to others. This isn't reserved for church meetings, but for families and the marketplace. Let's remove the boundaries that our gifts can be used in.

Have a great day!

Love, Pastor Stuart

We Really Are in This Together

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ, we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
Romans 12:3-5, The New International Version

One thing that everyone is looking for in this life is "belonging." We want to know we are valued, and loved, and have a place. Originally, God designed the family for this, yet due to sin, even in our families, we can experience rejection.

So God has designed a spiritual family that He calls His body. In this body, everyone has a place to rest and to serve. We have a place we can call home. I am sure you have had the experience of meeting another Christian on the job or on another occasion and instantly had a bond with them due to this mystical connection we all share in the body of Christ.

In these past months, there has been a slogan, "We are all in this together." This is never more true than in our experience as members one to another in His body. Along with this reality comes a responsibility. As we are cared for, we care. As we are prayed for, we pray. As we are served, we in turn serve with our time, talents, and treasure.

Let's remember, we are mutually one with each other. Let's love, encourage, and pray for each other as we fully embrace the Lord's vision for spiritual family.

Here are our action plans today:

1. Consider how your role as a member of Christ's body can be lived out more fully.

2. Consider how you can express unconditional, positive, regard to the people around you. Realize that God's love for you has a mission to pass through you to others.

3. Prepare for the Sabbath. Take some time to rest, disconnect from your normal routine, and spend some time loving your family and friends.

Love, Pastor Stuart

Amazing You!

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
Romans 12:3-5, The New International Version

You are unique, hand-crafted by the Lord. You are endowed with purpose and filled with the Holy Spirit. You fit perfectly in the family of God, just like your fingers fit perfectly on your hand.

Take in that last paragraph. Read it again. This is the plain, simple, and profound truth revealed in these verses. We easily forget how amazing we are and how amazing our life is with God and others.

When the bible says, "For just as each of us has one body with many parts, and these parts do not all have the same function..." it is reminding us that we are unique and have no one to compare with. If this is true, why do we spend time worrying about the opinions of others instead of celebrating the glory of God in our uniqueness? Whenever we compare, we degrade ourselves and forget God's handiwork.

This short exhortation is a challenge to be transformed in our thinking in a new way about ourselves. Don't allow any lie to return that keeps you from understanding the wonderful, graceful, gifted, and purposeful child of God you were made to be.

Here are our action plans today:

1. Read and meditate upon Ephesians 2:10
   ”For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

2. Take every thought captive today that challenges your uniqueness and pricelessness.

3. Let's pray for the marriages in our church and community. Take time to strengthen yours if you married by praying together for a greater depth of love and understanding.

Have a great day!

Love, Pastor Stuart

A Measure of Faith

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ, we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
Romans 12:3-5, The New International Version

Yesterday we saw that most people who experience the grace of transformation in their lives have seasons when pride slips in. However, there is another side of transformation that may occur. While the Holy Spirit is busy working on our lives, we look in the mirror and wonder if we have changed at all. Instead of pride, we experience disappointment with our progress.

These are both parts of our discipleship. We can neither look at the good in our life and forget God's grace or look at the lack of good in our lives and forget God's grace. The antidote for measuring our progress or lack thereof is the Lord's distribution of faith. Let me explain.

When our spiritual life is moving forward, we are pleased with the progress, but when we find ourselves in a desert, up against a wall, or shackled to an old sin or habit, we can lose hope. It is during those times that the Holy Spirit reminds us that He has given us an impartation of faith. This ability to see beyond our failures, faults, and sins and place our trust in God is a gift He gives each of us.

Now we might think that we don't have much faith. To that, He reminds us that all we need is a seed to move a mountain or move ourselves back into the arms of Jesus.

As we evaluate our lives, let's thank the Lord for His victories, and trust Him in our defeats. We know that we can trust Him to bring us through completely. "For He who began a good work in you will complete it." (Philippians 1:6)

Here are our action plans today:

1. Read through these verses a few times. See how the Holy Spirit may speak to you through them today.

2. Practice exercising your gift of faith, by choosing a difficult spot in your life and praying to the Lord about it.

3. Let's pray together for the children and young adults in our lives. Let's pray they connect with Jesus by faith and see His heart for them.

Have a great day!

Love, Pastor Stuart

Clear Thinking in 2021

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
Romans 12:3-5, The New International Version

This week we are taking a slow walk through the next three verses of Romans 12. When we left off last week, Paul was telling us that the power to know God and His will comes as our mind is renewed by the Holy Spirit.

He leads his thoughts with a caveat, telling us that what he is saying comes by the grace of God. Then he lays it on us, "Do not think more highly than you ought, but think of yourself with sober judgement, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you." Paul realized that to tell his readers not to think more highly of themselves than they ought would sound very judgmental, but Paul may have been thinking of his own history. Jesus found him when he was puffed up in pride.

You see, the more the Lord works in us and we learn his word and his ways, it is easy to start looking down upon those who have not traveled the path as far as we have. We probably can all relate to this in our walk with Jesus. So Paul warns us away from that prideful mind. He knew that faith and pride cannot coexist because one looks at the self and the other at the Lord.

Our natural man (sinful) has a tendency to allow pride in our hearts even as we see the Holy Spirit work in us. We, like Paul reminds us, must realize that any progress we make in our spiritual walk is simply because of the grace of God. Whatever good happens in our life is always because of His love and grace.

Let's take to heart his first encouragement, stay low in your heart as the Lord takes us higher in His transforming life.

Here are our action plans today:

1. Read through these verses a few times. See how the Holy Spirit may speak to you through them today.

2. Ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart for spiritual pride and replace it with an understanding of grace for you and for others.

3. Let's pray together for the concerns in our country: Resolution of the coronavirus, healing for the sick, and peace in our government. 1 Timothy 2:1-2

Have a great day!

Love, Pastor Stuart

Be Empowered to Live in God's Will

Beloved friends, what should be our proper response to God’s marvelous mercies? I encourage you to surrender yourselves to God to be his sacred, living sacrifices. And live in holiness, experiencing all that delights his heart. For this becomes your genuine expression of worship. Stop imitating the ideals and opinions of the culture around you, but be inwardly transformed by the Holy Spirit through a total reformation of how you think. This will empower you to discern God’s will as you live a beautiful life, satisfying and perfect in his eyes.
Romans 12:1-2, The Passion Translation

As we finish out the week and our meditation on Romans 12:1-2, we are lead once again to the purpose of our responding wholeheartedly to the grace and mercy of God... to know Him. Paul makes this plain as he tells us that our transformation through the renewed mind will let us see clearly what God's plans are for us. We will "discern" His will.

All too often, we can feel like God's will is a mystery to us. We want to know how He wants to use us, if we are in the right place, etc. When we are feeling like this, there are a few things we can do according to these verses.

First, we can return to Him and surrender our preconceived ideas of what His will may be for us. Second, we can make sure we are living in holiness and have confessed any area where the Holy Spirit convicts us. Third, we can simply ask to know His will. As James reminds us, "if we lack wisdom, He is ready to give it to us (James 1:5)."

Father God's will may be a mystery at times, but He is the one who will reveal and direct your heart in His timing. While we are living the "beautiful life," there are so many things that we already know are God's will for us to do. We can love, serve, care, and give. These actions honor Jesus in any season.

God's plans for us are rich. He wants to shape us into the image of His beloved Son through surrender, circumstances, and faith. Don't be afraid of the mystery, it is a part of His discipleship.

Here are our action plans today:

1. Spend time thinking about reasons to be grateful today. Write them down in your journal.

2. Be at peace where you are. Remember, that the Holy Spirit is doing the work that brings us to and leads us in the beautiful life. Cease striving and rest in Him.

3. Prepare for the Sabbath, a day to disconnect and be with God and family. Break your regular patterns and see if the Lord won't surprise you and renew you in a unique way.

Have a great day!

Love, Pastor Stuart

What will change your mind?

Beloved friends, what should be our proper response to God’s marvelous mercies? I encourage you to surrender yourselves to God to be his sacred, living sacrifices. And live in holiness, experiencing all that delights his heart. For this becomes your genuine expression of worship. Stop imitating the ideals and opinions of the culture around you, but be inwardly transformed by the Holy Spirit through a total reformation of how you think. This will empower you to discern God’s will as you live a beautiful life, satisfying and perfect in his eyes.
Romans 12:1-2 The Passion Translation

Today's reflection on Romans 12:1-2 focuses on a key component of discipleship, namely, a renewed mind. Most of the problems we have come from living out of our "worldly or fleshly mindset." These thought patterns are difficult to break because we have followed them for so long. Just like starting out on a "new year's diet" we see how easy it is for our old way of thinking to pull us back into the same habits.

The good news is that through the Holy Spirit we can receive a total reformation of how we think. When I came to Christ, I was living a very worldly life. I had no idea about the Lord's ways and thoughts. The longer I walked with Him, the more I realized most of my thinking was the exact opposite of the Lord's. Thankfully, I started reading the scriptures and seeing the plain wisdom that had been written for us from ages past.

I still had one problem. I found out that I could read the bible and not do it. This is where the promised power of the Holy Spirit comes in. When we submit ourselves as a living sacrifice, it is like a door is opened for the Holy Spirit to do His work on transforming our mind. We begin to sense His conviction and confirmation in our day to day actions.

Here is one caveat, especially for older Christians. Sometimes we integrate our old thinking and try to make it spiritual. We know this is happening when we stop sensing the conviction of the Holy Spirit when we overstep one of the Lord's desires for us. The best cure for this is to let someone know and ask them to pray for you.

Here is our action plan today:

1. Read through this scripture again in your own translation. What seems to be emphasized to you. Pray it back to the Lord.

2. Ask the Lord to convict and confirm your thoughts and actions today. Ask Him to show you how Jesus thinks about what you are thinking about.

3. Spend five minutes in silence simply loving Jesus. No requests, just being there.

Have a great day!

Love, Pastor Stuart