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Showing posts with label honesty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label honesty. Show all posts

Sunday, November 23, 2014

How do we talk about Jesus in a world that does not know him?

John 3: 13-21

John 3:16 is one of the most well-known verses in the bible, even to those who do not claim to be Christ followers. The true meaning and impact of this incredible proclamation however is missed by most, and written off as just a bunch of words. OMG! Just the most significant words ever communicated, EVER!

The “Journey” (Bible for seeking God and understanding life), describes John 3:16; “This one sentence contains the greatest message, from the greatest source, describing the greatest love, demonstrated by the greatest sacrifice ever given. It contains important words for everyone, especially those who think they have to “be religious” go get God’s approval.

How do we get through to the world? In what way do we approach those who do not understand the heart of our God? What can we say or do to make an impact?

         LIVE              LOVE                REACH

Many look to accomplishments to lead them to fulfillment or spiritual security. Jesus says to us, just as he did to Nicodemus in John 6-7; “Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, you must be born again.”

When those not of Christ hear the term “born again” it scares them off. They feel as though they must suddenly submit to something foreign and scary, abruptly transforming into some sort of saintly being far beyond their capability. The truth is, it is a journey not a moment. Learning about the Lord, and submitting to His word can take a lifetime. Our faith, love, and trust in God evolves over time. We can help that truth be known through the way we approach our own life and relationships with others.

God looks to His people to be a model of Jesus, to LIVE honestly with passion, and thrive to be all we can be for his kingdom. He directs us to LOVE sincerely as He loves. Patiently walking alongside of and taking baby steps with those in this world who do not know Jesus is how we REACH others, never abandoning or giving up on them just as God has promised never to leave us.

Read/Listen to John 3:13-21

Monday, June 14, 2010

No Escape -- Psalms 139:1-12

I can recall a few childhood antics I would never want to be convicted of, a few stupid plans I would not want to be associated with now, as an adult. It is even more convicting to realize that God knows it all; God knew it all before I even contrived the plan. As a rebellious teen I felt hemmed in, stifled, and over-protected. Now, as an adult, I realize while I did pull a few things over on my parents, I never out smarted God.

The Psalmist, David writes, “I'm an open book to you; even from a distance, you know what I'm thinking. You know when I leave and when I get back; I'm never out of your sight. You know everything I'm going to say before I start the first sentence.”(Ps 139:2-4) These words are a comfort to me. As I grow in wisdom and in years I feel God’s presence in my life and don’t look at it as intrusive or confining but as loving.

Approaching each day with the understanding God knows every thought I have keeps me humble. Understanding He sees every move I make keeps me focused. Knowing He forgives me all my sins keeps me going.   I can't escape Him and I don't want to.

Read the entire text for today at Biblegateway and Psalms 139:1-12

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