How many of you have had doubts about God and His plan for our eternity? Please watch this short video produced by Ben Breedlove, and never doubt again.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vw5HLT-TyRs
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, October 21, 2011
How to Make Godly Decisions
How to Make Godly DecisionsBy Dr. Dale A. Robbins
God’s Word is the Christian’s guide for making godly, successful choices in life. The Bible says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path” (Psalms 119:105). Before you make decisions, compare your desires to what the scriptures say, and ask yourself the following questions:
1. Would you be able to ask God to bless it?
Would your decision be something that you can take before God with a good conscience and ask Him to bless? Or is it something that you know the Lord would not be enthused about? “The blessing of the LORD makes one rich, And He adds no sorrow with it” (Proverbs 10:22).
2. Could you thank Him for it?
Would your decision be something that you can openly express gratefulness and thankfulness to God? Or would it be something which would seem inappropriate to thank Him for? “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him” (Col. 3:17).
3. Would it be to God’s Glory?
Would your decision be something that can bring Glory and honor to the Lord? Ask yourself how the Lord would be lifted up or blessed by your plans. “...whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31).
4. Would it be of the world?
Would your decision be an indulgence upon worldly, carnal appetites or lusts? “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (1 John 2:15).
5. Would it be a stumbling block to others?
How would your decision affect the lives of your brethren in Christ? Even if you don’t feel it’s wrong, could it offend or harm the sensitive faith of those who don’t share your convictions? “...beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak” (1 Cor. 8:9).
6. Would it be a weight or hindrance?
Would your decision be something that would drag down your Christian life or influence you toward disobedience? “...let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1).
7. Would it please God or man?
Whom do you hope to please by your decision? Will it bring pleasure to God, or will it appease self or man? “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men” (Col. 3:23).
8. How would the Devil react?
Would your decision or actions be considered a victory or a defeat by the Devil’s forces? Would Hell celebrate your choice as a fulfillment of Satan’s desires, or would the enemy be angry and disturbed? “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world” (1 Peter 5:8-9).
9. What would the consequences be?
What kind of long-term ramifications would you have to face for your decision? Remember, God will forgive sin and poor judgment, but you may have to live with the results of your decision for the rest of your life. “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap” (Gal. 6:7).
10. Would it edify you?
Would your decision or actions bring you closer to God or pull you farther away? Will it edify (build you up) in the Lord, or will it weaken your confidence of the Lord’s strength in your life? “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify” (1 Cor. 10:23).
11. Would it serve the right master?
Will your decision require you to yield to the demands of someone or something other than Christ? Will it cause you to compromise your submission and obedience to Jesus? “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon” (Matt. 6:24).
12. Would His indwelling presence agree with it?
Would your decision bring peace to your inner man, or would it create discomfort or distress? Is your choice directed by the promptings and leading of the Holy Spirit, or by the appetites of the flesh? “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth...” (John 16:13). “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh” (Gal. 5:16).
13. Would you want to be doing this when Jesus Returns?
Would you want to be doing this when Christ comes again? If Jesus would appear to inspect your decision or actions, would you be embarrassed or delighted? Would His presence make you comfortable or insecure? “Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Matt. 24:44).
14. Would it promote love?
Would your decision or actions express love and harmony, or would it reflect retribution, jealousy or injury to your neighbor? “Owe no one anything except to love one another... Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law” (Rom. 13:8, 10).
15. Have you sought the Lord about it?
The Lord promises to give leadership and direction to our life. Consult Him in prayer. Remember, God will never speak something to our heart that contradicts his written Word. “In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths” (Prov. 3:6). “There are many plans in a man’s heart, Nevertheless the Lord’s counsel; that will stand” (Prov. 19:21).
16. Have you sought Godly counsel or advice?
Ask the advice of those who live Godly lives and have a track record of experience and wise decision making. Avoid the counsel of those whose Christian life is questionable or who have experience of failure in making sound decisions. “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety” (Prov. 11:14). “Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly...” (Psa. 1:1).
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
God’s Word is the Christian’s guide for making godly, successful choices in life. The Bible says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path” (Psalms 119:105). Before you make decisions, compare your desires to what the scriptures say, and ask yourself the following questions:
1. Would you be able to ask God to bless it?
Would your decision be something that you can take before God with a good conscience and ask Him to bless? Or is it something that you know the Lord would not be enthused about? “The blessing of the LORD makes one rich, And He adds no sorrow with it” (Proverbs 10:22).
2. Could you thank Him for it?
Would your decision be something that you can openly express gratefulness and thankfulness to God? Or would it be something which would seem inappropriate to thank Him for? “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him” (Col. 3:17).
3. Would it be to God’s Glory?
Would your decision be something that can bring Glory and honor to the Lord? Ask yourself how the Lord would be lifted up or blessed by your plans. “...whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31).
4. Would it be of the world?
Would your decision be an indulgence upon worldly, carnal appetites or lusts? “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (1 John 2:15).
5. Would it be a stumbling block to others?
How would your decision affect the lives of your brethren in Christ? Even if you don’t feel it’s wrong, could it offend or harm the sensitive faith of those who don’t share your convictions? “...beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak” (1 Cor. 8:9).
6. Would it be a weight or hindrance?
Would your decision be something that would drag down your Christian life or influence you toward disobedience? “...let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1).
7. Would it please God or man?
Whom do you hope to please by your decision? Will it bring pleasure to God, or will it appease self or man? “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men” (Col. 3:23).
8. How would the Devil react?
Would your decision or actions be considered a victory or a defeat by the Devil’s forces? Would Hell celebrate your choice as a fulfillment of Satan’s desires, or would the enemy be angry and disturbed? “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world” (1 Peter 5:8-9).
9. What would the consequences be?
What kind of long-term ramifications would you have to face for your decision? Remember, God will forgive sin and poor judgment, but you may have to live with the results of your decision for the rest of your life. “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap” (Gal. 6:7).
10. Would it edify you?
Would your decision or actions bring you closer to God or pull you farther away? Will it edify (build you up) in the Lord, or will it weaken your confidence of the Lord’s strength in your life? “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify” (1 Cor. 10:23).
11. Would it serve the right master?
Will your decision require you to yield to the demands of someone or something other than Christ? Will it cause you to compromise your submission and obedience to Jesus? “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon” (Matt. 6:24).
12. Would His indwelling presence agree with it?
Would your decision bring peace to your inner man, or would it create discomfort or distress? Is your choice directed by the promptings and leading of the Holy Spirit, or by the appetites of the flesh? “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth...” (John 16:13). “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh” (Gal. 5:16).
13. Would you want to be doing this when Jesus Returns?
Would you want to be doing this when Christ comes again? If Jesus would appear to inspect your decision or actions, would you be embarrassed or delighted? Would His presence make you comfortable or insecure? “Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Matt. 24:44).
14. Would it promote love?
Would your decision or actions express love and harmony, or would it reflect retribution, jealousy or injury to your neighbor? “Owe no one anything except to love one another... Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law” (Rom. 13:8, 10).
15. Have you sought the Lord about it?
The Lord promises to give leadership and direction to our life. Consult Him in prayer. Remember, God will never speak something to our heart that contradicts his written Word. “In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths” (Prov. 3:6). “There are many plans in a man’s heart, Nevertheless the Lord’s counsel; that will stand” (Prov. 19:21).
16. Have you sought Godly counsel or advice?
Ask the advice of those who live Godly lives and have a track record of experience and wise decision making. Avoid the counsel of those whose Christian life is questionable or who have experience of failure in making sound decisions. “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety” (Prov. 11:14). “Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly...” (Psa. 1:1).
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
When You Make a Vow to God
"When you make a vow to God, do not delay to pay it; For He has no pleasure in fools. Pay what you have vowed— Better not to vow than to vow and not pay." – Ecclesiastes 5:4-5
Bill was working hard make it to the top of his profession as a photographer. When he fell ill, it came as a complete surprise to all around him. The even greater shock came when the diagnosis was cancer. After surgery, the news only got worse. Cancer became, the most aggressive kind, followed by a life measured by a couple of months.
Like many of us would do, in his quiet time during recovery, Bill found himself in depression, followed by anger, that lead into deal making. His deal: "God, if you allow me to live, I won't live every day for you, but every moment." A couple of days past when the doctor presented Bill with both good and bad news. The bad news first, was that Bill indeed had cancer, but it was the most treatable kind.
People have asked Bill if God changed his diagnosis. His reply is "perhaps." But to stop there is to miss the work God was really doing. "He needed to have a conversation with me," said Bill, "but knew that He had to get my attention to do so." And the illness was the attention-getter.
As Bill tells the story, his priorities before his illness were God, family and work. And he was lying through his teeth when he would say those things. The reality was just the opposite. Today as he lives cancer-free, his priorities truly are God, family and work. And now that God is first in his life, fame and fortune is no longer a god that Bill chases. God has not only restored his health, but blessed Bill Fortney, with a New York Best Seller: America from 500 Feet.
Bill made a vow with God, to never again live a moment in pride or in chase of fortune, but to live every moment for Him. And he never delayed in fulfilling his vow.
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Freedom of Speech for Pastors?
The First Amendment to the Bill of Rights says: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion. Where in that phrase does it say, "the separation of church and state?"
Congress shall make no law prohibiting the free exercise there of. Didn't we just read an article about a family being fined for hosting a bible study in their home? Say a prayer at a high school graduation, or at a football game, and see how you are treated by the authorities.
Congress shall make no law abridging the freedom of speech? Hmmmm. How many of you find that you are free to speak? An even better question: "How many of pastors feel that you have the freedom to speak? I suppose that really depends on whether there is a D or an R on your voter registration card.
I am saddened, sickened and ashamed for my country, by the trends that have made it popular to grant the freedoms of the First Amendment to every religion, liberal organization, and special interest group, so long as they are not Christian or Jewish. And shame on the rest of us for sheepishly allowing it to happen!
Are Pastors Free to Speak?
Alliance Defense Fund
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion. Where in that phrase does it say, "the separation of church and state?"
Congress shall make no law prohibiting the free exercise there of. Didn't we just read an article about a family being fined for hosting a bible study in their home? Say a prayer at a high school graduation, or at a football game, and see how you are treated by the authorities.
Congress shall make no law abridging the freedom of speech? Hmmmm. How many of you find that you are free to speak? An even better question: "How many of pastors feel that you have the freedom to speak? I suppose that really depends on whether there is a D or an R on your voter registration card.
I am saddened, sickened and ashamed for my country, by the trends that have made it popular to grant the freedoms of the First Amendment to every religion, liberal organization, and special interest group, so long as they are not Christian or Jewish. And shame on the rest of us for sheepishly allowing it to happen!
Are Pastors Free to Speak?
Alliance Defense Fund
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Freedom of Speech, Except for Christians
"And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end shall be saved." – Mark 13:13
A couple of years ago, a friend of mine was harassed by his home owners association for having a bible study in his home. Three weeks in a row, the study was interrupted by the knock on the door from a deputy from the Hillsborough County Sheriff department. Upon the third visit, my buddy questioned the deputy about the harassment, and sited a well known Supreme Court case that protects his right to meet in his home. The deputy has not been back.
From time to time, I've felt that God has led my wife and me to home school our kids, for no other reason than to spare them the embarrassment that would surely occur from my protests over some of the things taught and not taught in public schools. And so it is, when I hear stories like the one I read about today in The Blaze, I become incensed by the abject disregard for our Christian heritage and First Amendment right.
When big brother confronts you, how will you react?
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Afflicted
It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees. The law from your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold. – Psalm 119:71-72
Anything that leads us to obey God is a blessing. Whatever leads us to receive salvation regardless of the cost, or what we must give up, we are thankful for it in the end – for nothing in this world can be "compared with the glory that will be revealed in us in heaven."
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
A Day to Remember
Please take 7 minutes and 3 seconds to listen to the words of Billy Graham, as delivered at the 9/11 memorial service – ten years ago.
"A Day to Remember"
"Shanksville, 2011"
"Meet Me in the Stairwell"
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
10 Years Ago
Ten years ago, on September 11, 2001, I had just sat down to a meeting in downtown Tampa. For some reason, Pat had the TV on in his office, when the news broke of a "small" plane hitting the Trade Center. We were both surprised by this, but the gravity of what had happened didn't immediately sink in. 10 years later, I'm stunned more by the thought (or fear) that I believe that people today, still do not understand fully, the seriousness of the enemy that encroaches on us.
So I sit here in the quiet, remembering 911 and lives that have been changed from it – like Sujo. God saved Sujo on September 11, 2011, and through the ashes of that tragedy, this man has rededicated his life. Please watch the short digital from I Am Second.
http://www.iamsecond.com/seconds/sujo-john/
http://sujojohn.com/
So I sit here in the quiet, remembering 911 and lives that have been changed from it – like Sujo. God saved Sujo on September 11, 2011, and through the ashes of that tragedy, this man has rededicated his life. Please watch the short digital from I Am Second.
http://www.iamsecond.com/seconds/sujo-john/
http://sujojohn.com/
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
The Gospel
The Gospel is not an invitation to give your life to Christ. It's a declaration that Christ gave his life for us. The blood of the goats and bulls forgave our sins, but Christ took away our sins.
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Like Father, Like Son
“Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does." – John 5:19
In verses 1-15 of Chapter 5, Jesus was accused of violating the Sabbath. In His reply, Jesus said that He cannot act apart from God because of the father/son relationship. And while father/son relationships here on earth may not be perfect, in this relationship, the Son is true to the Father, and must act in accordance with the Will of God.
The implication here, is that if Jesus is acting in obedience to God's will, then He cannot sin. So if Jesus has violated the Sabbath as accused, so then has the Father.
How often do we hear the Will of God, but act according to the world, for fear that we may stand out? The time is rapidly approaching where we will be called to take sides. We will choose to either stand with Him, or against Him.
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
War and Peace
"And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should." – Ephesians 6:18-20
> Put on the full armor of God
> For our struggle is not against flesh and blood
> When the day of evil comes, stand your ground
> Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist
> With the breastplate of righteousness in place
> Fit your feet with the readiness
> Take up the shield of faith
> Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit
In warfare, whether it is the first wave of attacks, or the second, third or fourth, if you are not fully prepared, you can be taken out at any time. But with preparation, intensity and passion, comes the staying power essential for victory.
Our spiritual enemy is extremely dangerous. He is patient, cunning and relentless. And because we can't see him coming, he is much more treacherous. He comes at you from every direction, searching your soul for weakness. If you prepare with intensity and passion, beginning each day by donning the full armor of God, grounding yourself in the gospel, shielding yourself by faith, girding yourself in truth, guarding yourself with righteousness, and protecting yourself with the salvation provided through Christ, the enemy is rendered powerless.
As Christians, we are soldiers for Christ. Prayer polishes our armor, and weakens the enemy. Pray always, unceasingly with supplication. And peace will be with you.
> Put on the full armor of God
> For our struggle is not against flesh and blood
> When the day of evil comes, stand your ground
> Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist
> With the breastplate of righteousness in place
> Fit your feet with the readiness
> Take up the shield of faith
> Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit
In warfare, whether it is the first wave of attacks, or the second, third or fourth, if you are not fully prepared, you can be taken out at any time. But with preparation, intensity and passion, comes the staying power essential for victory.
Our spiritual enemy is extremely dangerous. He is patient, cunning and relentless. And because we can't see him coming, he is much more treacherous. He comes at you from every direction, searching your soul for weakness. If you prepare with intensity and passion, beginning each day by donning the full armor of God, grounding yourself in the gospel, shielding yourself by faith, girding yourself in truth, guarding yourself with righteousness, and protecting yourself with the salvation provided through Christ, the enemy is rendered powerless.
As Christians, we are soldiers for Christ. Prayer polishes our armor, and weakens the enemy. Pray always, unceasingly with supplication. And peace will be with you.
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Monday, July 4, 2011
A Whack on the Side of the Head
"Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." – Ephesians 6:17
A warrior would never go into battle without a helmet to protect his head from blows from the sword or ax. And likewise, a Christian would never allow himself to enter a spiritual battle unprotected, leaving his mind exposed.
In the letter to the Ephesians, Paul is not just writing about salvation, but everything that is based in salvation; which includes all the promises of salvation and the ultimate promise, which is our hope. The hope is that faith founded in salvation, will save us from daily conflict and sustain us through the spiritual battles. And it is the same salvation that delivers us from the penalty of sin, and into God's Kingdom for eternity.
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
The Missile Defense Shield
"In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one."– Ephesians 6:16
All of the battle equipment that we have studied this week has been tie to, strapped to, or held in place. The shield is a defensive weapon that can be rapidly moved to the position where and when needed.
The enemy will never attack you where you are strong. But looks for the weaknesses in your soul, and strikes when you least expect it.
With faith in God shielding you, what harm could come your way? The fact is, when I become a fully obedient warrior of Christ, equipped with faith in God, not flaming arrows nor fiery missiles launched by the enemy, can pierce His defenses. To receive full protection, we must surrender to the Will of God – in full. We must choose between truth and deceit, good or evil. With God, there is no moral relativism.
God is not a god of convenience, to be compartmentalized to an hour on Sunday, or a service on Christmas Eve or Easter morning. To those who receive Him, He is 24 x 7 x 365, and present in every walk of life.
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Cleated
"and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace."– Ephesians 6:15
Roman soldiers wore thick sandals that were studded with cleats. The cleats enabled them to battle with firm footing. The Christian, to stand in the midst of deception, must also be equipped and fitted to have a solid under-footing. He must be powerfully prepared with unshakable courage, born from a deeply rooted knowledge in the gospel. Without these provisions, the battle is lost before it ever begins.
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Biblical Kevlar
"Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place"– Ephesians 6:14
Truth is that which is in accordance with fact or reality. And righteousness is that which is morally right and virtuous. As Christians, we associate both with the gospel. Truth and righteousness are everything that God is.
This verse encourages us not yield our ground, but to stand strong with the army of Christ. For the combat we are about to enter is not against humans, but darkness.
In ancient days, a Roman warrior would never go into battle without his loins tighten around his waist, nor without a breastplate. The girt supported the sword and held the armor in place. To the Christian, the belt represents the truth of the gospel, holding our Christian armor in place, protecting our heart, and supporting the sword of the Spirit.
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Armor All
"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand." – Ephesians 6:13
Some say "the day of evil" is referring to the day when the enemy begins his assault on Christ at the end times. Others say that it refers to any day when the enemy launches an assault against us. Regardless, because of the power of the enemy, we need to be prepared to withstand all that he will surely throw our way.
This is spiritual warfare with the greatest of intensity. And we had better be prepared with courage, and the strength that can only come from Him. Without God, we stand no chance. Our only defense is God's full armor.
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
War of the Worlds
"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." – Ephesians 6:12
While we may struggle in this world, the primary source of our struggle is not of this world. But an unseen wickedness that seeks to spiritually destroy us. In this war that we fight, the most advance weapons are powerless, and the strongest armies have no strength. Our only defense is found in Him and through Him.
We know that we live in a fallen world, and "they will make war on the Lamb, and the Lamb will conquer them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with him are called and chosen and faithful.” – Revelation 17:14
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Help Me with My Unbelief
"Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes." – Ephesians 6:11
Tonight I watch the movie "The Rite" with Anthony Hopkins. The movie takes part of it's theme from the experiences of two actual priests. I watched as the young man, studying to become a priest, struggled with doubt in his heart. And through some dramatic spiritual warfare, not only found his soul, but learned that his faith was very real, as IS his God.
I am going to be brutally honest with you all. For more than a year now, I have been in a season of testing and struggle. And while I have about an hour of intense conversation with God everyday, and mini prayers throughout the day, I still struggle with fear, anxiousness and doubt. I know in my heart what I believe, I know the words that I write here in BND, but the experiences of this world don't completely release its grip. I pray for God to help me with my unbelief. The unbelief that cause fear, anxiousness and doubt.
I saw the same conflict in the young priest in the movie. And as the movie unfolded, I was reminded of Ephesians 6:11-20. And with this, comes our next series of study.
I know the unbelief that lingers is a scheme of the enemy. A trick to try and convince me that God is not who He says he is. And because the enemy is constantly trying to find weaknesses in my soul, it is imperative that I am girded in God's word, His Armor, each and every day.
I encourage you to join me over the next several days as we study from Ephesians.
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
I Will Dwell in the House of the Lord Forever!
"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever." – Psalms 23:6
When we are in the midst of a heart-breaking loss, anxiousness or trying experiences, it's hard to see the goodness and mercy that follows us. But after we pass through those valleys, God's mercy becomes abundantly clear, and we realize that He was with us all along. Do you know what the coolest part is? Above all else, His gift of eternity awaits us!
I began this series with excitement, as I have always loved the prose of this passage. But having studied the verses in singularity, I am forever moved by the depth of God's graciousness and love that He has for me, for us.
The LORD is my shepherd;I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Monday, June 13, 2011
You Anoint My Head With Oil
"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over." – Psalms 23:5
He is a gracious God who provides and blesses us with much, even in times of difficulty or anxiousness. Our cup is not only full, He sees to it that it overflows with abundance. And aromatic oil is poured on our heads, a practice reserved only for the most distinguished guests.
> The Lord is my shepherd: He is my provider.
> He makes me lie down in green pastures: He is my guide and protector.
> He restores my soul: He refreshes me from my weariness.
> I will fear no evil: He is always with me.
> You anoint my head with oil: You provide for me, and you honor me.
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He
Thursday, June 9, 2011
I Fear No Evil
"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me." – Psalms 23:4
God never promises that our walk as Christians will be easy. He knows at some point in our lives, we will walk through valleys. We will be tested. And while we may walk through (not stand, but walk) the shadows of darkness, with God leading us, we have nothing to fear, because He is walking with us. For I know that in the light of God, the shadows in my life will disappear, and I will be strengthened.
> The Lord is my shepherd: He is my provider.
> He makes me lie down in green pastures: He is my guide and protector.
> He restores my soul: He refreshes me from my weariness.
> I will fear no evil: He is always with me.
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
He Restores My Soul
"He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake." – Psalms 23:3
When I am weary, worn down or melancholy, the Lord my shepherd, returns life to my soul. He refreshes me, and He restores me. He also leads me in the ways of the truth, on the path that leads me to straight to Him. Through His name, that He be honored.
> The Lord is my shepherd: He is my provider.
> He makes me lie down in green pastures: He is my guide and protector.
> He restores my soul: He refreshes me from my weariness
Seeking and Following,
Dean
You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you, wherever you are, God has put you there; He has a purpose in your being there. Christ who dwells within you has something He wants to do through you wherever you are. Believe this and go in His grace and love and power.
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