Whoa! What a day! I feel overwhelmed and blessed by what we experienced today with our services. It was the Grand Opening of our Lebanon Campus building and I couldn't have asked for a better day. I can't say enough thanks to all the people who put in major hours and sweat to make today a possibility...it is truly a blessing to serve with such warriors!
We opened with the song "God of this City" today because that is truly what we believe about The Journey Church and what God wants to do through us to make an impact on this region. I love the fact that we have people who are willing to storm the gates of hell with a water pistol because of their love for Jesus and their desire to make him known to others. Greater things are indeed to come in the days ahead.
Next week is the beginning of the SENT series. I'm stoked about this series. Invite a friend, tell a neighbor or coworker. It is on like Donkey-Kong next week! If you missed a week of the Bailout series, be sure to watch online at the website. This week's sermon will be on there Tuesday. See below to watch the bumper video for SENT.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
Day 27: 2 Samuel 22-23
Welcome back everyone! The last day for the reading challenge is Monday. We only have one chapter remaining. On Monday, I would love to hear your concluding thoughts on 1 and 2 Samuel and what things you learned.
Today's reading is from 2 Samuel 22-23
Chapter 22:
I love David's song of praise. This is why God loved David so much and anointed him as king. David is not some to-good-to-show-his-love-for-God kind of guy. David is a warrior, but he is also a poet. He sings and celebrates all that God has done, he doesn't take credit for any of his battles or victories. This chapter is almost like a Psalm. One of my favorite lines is from vs 50 "Therefore I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations; I will sing praises to your name." This is indeed David's style. Do we openly praise God like this throughout our day. Are we too proud to acknowledge God with song or poem because of his faithfulness? This part of David's life is as magnetic as his military prowess.
Chapter 23:
I don't know which part of this chapter I like best. I'm intrigued by David's mighty men, but I can't help but want to look at David's last words. We have followed his rise to leadership, his victories, his struggles, and his heart. His last words are another indicator of what kind of man and leader he was. The part that had the most sticking power to me is when David shares what the LORD said to him, "'When one rules over men in righteousness, when he rules in the fear of God, he is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightness after rain that brings the grass from the earth." To lead in righteousness is a call worthy of giving one's life to.
Today's reading is from 2 Samuel 22-23
Chapter 22:
I love David's song of praise. This is why God loved David so much and anointed him as king. David is not some to-good-to-show-his-love-for-God kind of guy. David is a warrior, but he is also a poet. He sings and celebrates all that God has done, he doesn't take credit for any of his battles or victories. This chapter is almost like a Psalm. One of my favorite lines is from vs 50 "Therefore I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations; I will sing praises to your name." This is indeed David's style. Do we openly praise God like this throughout our day. Are we too proud to acknowledge God with song or poem because of his faithfulness? This part of David's life is as magnetic as his military prowess.
Chapter 23:
I don't know which part of this chapter I like best. I'm intrigued by David's mighty men, but I can't help but want to look at David's last words. We have followed his rise to leadership, his victories, his struggles, and his heart. His last words are another indicator of what kind of man and leader he was. The part that had the most sticking power to me is when David shares what the LORD said to him, "'When one rules over men in righteousness, when he rules in the fear of God, he is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightness after rain that brings the grass from the earth." To lead in righteousness is a call worthy of giving one's life to.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
7 Minutes with God
If you need help getting a “quiet time” established in your life, consider the following outline for spending seven minutes with God. Bob Foster, the long-time Navigator who originally wrote this outline, said, “Do not become devoted to the habit, but to the Savior. Do it not because other men are doing it—not as a spiritless duty every morning, not merely as an end in itself, but because God has granted the priceless privilege of fellowship with Himself.”
How do you spend these seven minutes?
½ Minute
Invest the first 30 seconds preparing your heart. You might pray, “Lord, cleanse my heart so You can speak to me through the Scriptures. Make my mind alert, my soul active, and my heart responsive. Surround me with Your presence during this time.”
4 Minutes
Take the next four minutes to read the Bible. Your greatest need is to hear a word from God. Allow the Word to strike fire in your heart. Meet the Author!
2½ Minutes
After God has spoken through His Book, then speak to Him in prayer. One method is to incorporate four areas of prayer that you can remember with the word ACTS.
A Adoration. This is the purest kind of prayer because it’s all for God. Tell the Lord that you love Him. Reflect on His greatness.
C Confession. Having seen Him, you now want to be sure every sin is cleansed and forsaken. “Confession” comes from a root word meaning “to agree together with.” When we apply this to prayer, it means we agree with God’s estimation of what we’ve done.
T Thanksgiving. Think of several specific things to thank Him for: your family, your business, your church—even thank Him for hardships.
S Supplication. This means to “ask for, earnestly and humbly.” Ask for others, then ask for yourself. Include people around the world, missionaries, friends, and those who have yet to hear about Jesus.
It all adds up to seven minutes. Give it a try. Soon you may discover that 7 minutes will not contain the time with are desiring to spend with our LORD.
Day 26: 2 Samuel 20-21
Home stretch! Only a few days to go before we finish these two incredible books. Keep up the pace and continue to give your feedback. I have learned a ton from everybody's comments.
Today's reading is from 2 Samuel 20-21
Chapter 20:
Apparently we are not they only ones who can sense David's weakening leadership. Uprisings are becoming a common occurrence in David's kingdom these days. Luckily for David, he has Joab on his team. Joab is a faithful and fearless companion of David. I wonder if we have people like Joab in our lives. They love us for who we are and they seek to be there for us, not because it benefits them, but because they love us. I feel blessed to have some Joab types around my life: Shawn Allen, John Griffin, Robbie Cheuvront, and Todd Bates to name a few. These are guys who serve beside me, yet have my back. That breeds confidence in a leader.
Chapter 21:
What I love about this chapter is one thing: God cares about the outsiders! People often think that God doesn't love the outsiders. "If you are not Israel and not a Christian God doesn't love you" -- not according to this passage and many others. God cared for the Gibeonites and wanted their deaths avenged, He wanted justice served. Who are the outsiders in our world today that we believe with all certainty that God hates? Be reminded that He loves those people.
What stood out to you?
Today's reading is from 2 Samuel 20-21
Chapter 20:
Apparently we are not they only ones who can sense David's weakening leadership. Uprisings are becoming a common occurrence in David's kingdom these days. Luckily for David, he has Joab on his team. Joab is a faithful and fearless companion of David. I wonder if we have people like Joab in our lives. They love us for who we are and they seek to be there for us, not because it benefits them, but because they love us. I feel blessed to have some Joab types around my life: Shawn Allen, John Griffin, Robbie Cheuvront, and Todd Bates to name a few. These are guys who serve beside me, yet have my back. That breeds confidence in a leader.
Chapter 21:
What I love about this chapter is one thing: God cares about the outsiders! People often think that God doesn't love the outsiders. "If you are not Israel and not a Christian God doesn't love you" -- not according to this passage and many others. God cared for the Gibeonites and wanted their deaths avenged, He wanted justice served. Who are the outsiders in our world today that we believe with all certainty that God hates? Be reminded that He loves those people.
What stood out to you?
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Day 25: 2 Samuel 18-19
Welcome back. Today's reading is from 2 Samuel 18-19
Chapter 18:
This is a sad chapter. Absalom had what was coming to him; after all, he was outside of God's will. The fact still remains that he was David's son and this caused great distress for David. I felt bad for David as we get to in many watch him receive the news that his son has been killed. It didn't matter if his son was trying to take his throne, his love for Absalom outweighed his desire to be king. Also, I'm ticked off at Joab for taking things into his own hands instead of doing as David asked. I'm sure he has his coming soon.
Chapter 19:
Joab was a wise military leader, but terribly too big for his own pants. The way he talked to David in this passage may have been true, but it was completely inappropriate. David is still the LORD's anointed and he just lost his son. Joab is completely insensitive to this and tells David to snap out of it. The funny thing is: David does it. I see David the strong mighty warrior beginning to become a very passive type king. This is not the David we read of earlier. It is a little disappointing.
What were your thoughts?
Chapter 18:
This is a sad chapter. Absalom had what was coming to him; after all, he was outside of God's will. The fact still remains that he was David's son and this caused great distress for David. I felt bad for David as we get to in many watch him receive the news that his son has been killed. It didn't matter if his son was trying to take his throne, his love for Absalom outweighed his desire to be king. Also, I'm ticked off at Joab for taking things into his own hands instead of doing as David asked. I'm sure he has his coming soon.
Chapter 19:
Joab was a wise military leader, but terribly too big for his own pants. The way he talked to David in this passage may have been true, but it was completely inappropriate. David is still the LORD's anointed and he just lost his son. Joab is completely insensitive to this and tells David to snap out of it. The funny thing is: David does it. I see David the strong mighty warrior beginning to become a very passive type king. This is not the David we read of earlier. It is a little disappointing.
What were your thoughts?
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Things Come Full Circle
An interesting thing happened to me the last couple of days. I was asked to participate with a few other men to be trained on how to assess new church planters. This was two days of training in which I learned a great deal about assessing planters, but also myself. It was a great reminder that there are things that I need to better develop in my own life and leadership.
For me this experience was one of those moments where things come full circle. It was nearly five years ago that I was sitting on the other side of the table being assessed by someone to determine my "ability" to plant a church. It just reminded me of God's faithfulness and goodness to me, my family, and our church over this time.
Since that time: we have led countless numbers of people to faith in Christ, baptized well over 60 people, been used by God to restore marriages, restore faith, and watch people grow deeper with Jesus. It has been an incredible ride so far, but there is so much more to come.
It really is cool to have those full circle moments. When is the last time you had one of those?
For me this experience was one of those moments where things come full circle. It was nearly five years ago that I was sitting on the other side of the table being assessed by someone to determine my "ability" to plant a church. It just reminded me of God's faithfulness and goodness to me, my family, and our church over this time.
Since that time: we have led countless numbers of people to faith in Christ, baptized well over 60 people, been used by God to restore marriages, restore faith, and watch people grow deeper with Jesus. It has been an incredible ride so far, but there is so much more to come.
It really is cool to have those full circle moments. When is the last time you had one of those?
Day 24: 2 Samuel 16-17
We are back everyone. Only a handful of reading days left. I hope everyone enjoyed your Memorial Day.
Today's reading is from 2 Samuel 16-17
Chapter 16:
The thing that stood out to me from this chapter, besides the messed up part at the end when David's son sleeps with all of his concubines in public, is when Shimei virtually heckles David as they travel. Shimei is a relative of Saul and passionately dislikes David. David chooses not to strike back at him, but takes it as a punishment from the LORD. I'm amazed at David's patience here. How many of us could truly stand by and endure insults being hurled at us? Most of these insults were undoubtedly unmerited and baseless; however, David does not strike back out of anger or rage. This makes me question how prepared I am for critics in my life. Am I ready to have critics hurl insults at me continuously? Am I prepared to simply keep going and not striking back in anger or disgust?
Chapter 17:
Oh boy...this chapter can be messy. God intervenes and thwarts the plans of Absalom by sending in a bad counselor. I'm struck by the fact that the LORD's anointing is still on David and yet David seems to have forgotten this. The LORD tricks Absalom into buying Hushai's plan instead of Ahithophel's plan, which was better. Ahithophel was so shamed by Absalom's decision that he went and hung himself --- that is taking your job seriously! There were two take-aways from this chapter for me: 1. be careful about what advice you take. 2. it is important to have good friends to have your back.
Today's reading is from 2 Samuel 16-17
Chapter 16:
The thing that stood out to me from this chapter, besides the messed up part at the end when David's son sleeps with all of his concubines in public, is when Shimei virtually heckles David as they travel. Shimei is a relative of Saul and passionately dislikes David. David chooses not to strike back at him, but takes it as a punishment from the LORD. I'm amazed at David's patience here. How many of us could truly stand by and endure insults being hurled at us? Most of these insults were undoubtedly unmerited and baseless; however, David does not strike back out of anger or rage. This makes me question how prepared I am for critics in my life. Am I ready to have critics hurl insults at me continuously? Am I prepared to simply keep going and not striking back in anger or disgust?
Chapter 17:
Oh boy...this chapter can be messy. God intervenes and thwarts the plans of Absalom by sending in a bad counselor. I'm struck by the fact that the LORD's anointing is still on David and yet David seems to have forgotten this. The LORD tricks Absalom into buying Hushai's plan instead of Ahithophel's plan, which was better. Ahithophel was so shamed by Absalom's decision that he went and hung himself --- that is taking your job seriously! There were two take-aways from this chapter for me: 1. be careful about what advice you take. 2. it is important to have good friends to have your back.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Sunday Evening Reflections
It was another great day at The Journey. Today was our last day that we are going to be together at the Mt Juliet Campus. Next Sunday we will be in our brand new building in Lebanon. The service times and locations will be Lebanon Campus 9am and Mt Juliet Campus 11am. I hope you are all able to make it out for the service next Sunday. I will be concluding the Bailout series and there are going to be some GREAT elements in next week's service. Invite a friend to the new building if you are a Lebanon Campus attendee.
Today was one the hardest sermons to give. It was as much self-inflicting as it was a challenge to everyone else. We all need to be reminded that we are rich. It doesn't matter what we might think, we have more than most in the world would ever dream of. If you missed the message, click here sometime on Tuesday to watch it.
Two quick shout outs: Molly McNeil brings the house down with 'Lead Me to the Cross' every time, today was no exception. Major props to all of our volunteers and volunteer coordinators for all the hard work at the new building. We're not done yet and still need your help. Please find a time to join us this week to help out. Someone will be at the building each night of the week. Awesome day Journey Church! Next week we take it to another level!
Today was one the hardest sermons to give. It was as much self-inflicting as it was a challenge to everyone else. We all need to be reminded that we are rich. It doesn't matter what we might think, we have more than most in the world would ever dream of. If you missed the message, click here sometime on Tuesday to watch it.
Two quick shout outs: Molly McNeil brings the house down with 'Lead Me to the Cross' every time, today was no exception. Major props to all of our volunteers and volunteer coordinators for all the hard work at the new building. We're not done yet and still need your help. Please find a time to join us this week to help out. Someone will be at the building each night of the week. Awesome day Journey Church! Next week we take it to another level!
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Not Getting Any Younger
Yesterday was my birthday. Thanks to all of you who expressed birthday wishes. I turned 29 years old yesterday and it really caused something in me to stir. I realized yesterday that I'm not getting any younger! I know it sounds profound, but it really smacked me in the face yesterday. I know some of you laugh and say, "Dude, you're only 29 years old, just wait until later!" Those of you who say that may have a valid point, BUT it does not change the reality that I am truly asking myself if I'm giving EVERYTHING I have to become and accomplish the things God has put on my heart.
Here is my promise to all of you: you will see a much more intense and motivated man from this point on. I know most of you think that I couldn't get much more intense or motivated, but the truth is: I still live with hesitancy, complacency, and fear of failure. I question whether or not I'm truly living a life of sacrifice. Not any more. I want to live full out and lead a Jesus movement like I have been called and born to do. I want to see the Savage Generation message lived out in my lifetime, and I don't know when that lifetime may come to an end, because I'm not getting any younger.
How would you live differently if you only had 5 years left to live, 1 year left to live, or less? Are you living like you have forever or do you live with urgency?
Here is my promise to all of you: you will see a much more intense and motivated man from this point on. I know most of you think that I couldn't get much more intense or motivated, but the truth is: I still live with hesitancy, complacency, and fear of failure. I question whether or not I'm truly living a life of sacrifice. Not any more. I want to live full out and lead a Jesus movement like I have been called and born to do. I want to see the Savage Generation message lived out in my lifetime, and I don't know when that lifetime may come to an end, because I'm not getting any younger.
How would you live differently if you only had 5 years left to live, 1 year left to live, or less? Are you living like you have forever or do you live with urgency?
Friday, May 22, 2009
Day 23: 2 Samuel 14-15
Welcome back everyone. We are definitely getting close to wrapping up these two books. We will finish the entire study on Friday of next week. Keep up the pace, keep giving your thoughts, and I believe it will be rewarding as we finish.
Today's reading is from 2 Samuel 14-15
Chapter 14:
Poor King David is always being deceived by others to show him the flaws of his own actions. Every time someone wants to make a point to them, they play on his sense of justice and then slam him. I really surprised that this type of deception did not cause David to be angered and lash out at those deceiving him. He truly did have a repentant heart, because that is the only reason why I can imagine he did not lash out.
Chapter 15:
I believe David's moral failures have caused him to become weak in his leadership. He essentially allows this uprising from his son to happen and flees. Can you imagine this happening only a short-time ago? I can't. I remember the powerful warrior nature of David. The problem that has happened, as had happened to previous people we have read about, David's children are acting like Eli's children and Samuel's children. Men of God who did not raise children of God. It is sad to see. I think the line in this chapter that sums it all up is when it says Absalom "stole the hearts of the men of Israel." At one time, nobody would have left the command and rule of David, but I believe sin has weakened his leadership.
What stood out to you from these passages?
Today's reading is from 2 Samuel 14-15
Chapter 14:
Poor King David is always being deceived by others to show him the flaws of his own actions. Every time someone wants to make a point to them, they play on his sense of justice and then slam him. I really surprised that this type of deception did not cause David to be angered and lash out at those deceiving him. He truly did have a repentant heart, because that is the only reason why I can imagine he did not lash out.
Chapter 15:
I believe David's moral failures have caused him to become weak in his leadership. He essentially allows this uprising from his son to happen and flees. Can you imagine this happening only a short-time ago? I can't. I remember the powerful warrior nature of David. The problem that has happened, as had happened to previous people we have read about, David's children are acting like Eli's children and Samuel's children. Men of God who did not raise children of God. It is sad to see. I think the line in this chapter that sums it all up is when it says Absalom "stole the hearts of the men of Israel." At one time, nobody would have left the command and rule of David, but I believe sin has weakened his leadership.
What stood out to you from these passages?
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
The Gospel, The Church, The Culture
Fundamentalism and Liberalism are both wrong. One excludes the culture, the other excludes the gospel. I read a very insightful book recently called: The Radical Reformission by Mark Driscoll. In the book he talks about how today's church needs to be about reaching out, without selling out. In other words, he talks about being conservative theologically and liberal culturally. His driving question in the book is: how do you proclaim the hope of Jesus Christ, the gospel message, to an ever-changing and diverse culture, without selling out the core tenants of the faith in an effort to be relevant?
I have witnessed two growing trends that concern me deeply. First, old, stagnant, traditional churches that could care less if they reached anybody, they just don't want to change anything about the way they "do" church. Second, the new, cocky, looks like every other young pastor guy who wants to plant the next "GREAT" church who doesn't even really care about the people in his community, but instead idolizes a possible position of status and greatness in the church world. In addition to this, this pastor/church have such loose or non-existent theology that they are on a dangerous slippery slope.
When I read this book, it had a couple of equations that were brilliant and profound. Check them out and weigh in about what you think.
I have witnessed two growing trends that concern me deeply. First, old, stagnant, traditional churches that could care less if they reached anybody, they just don't want to change anything about the way they "do" church. Second, the new, cocky, looks like every other young pastor guy who wants to plant the next "GREAT" church who doesn't even really care about the people in his community, but instead idolizes a possible position of status and greatness in the church world. In addition to this, this pastor/church have such loose or non-existent theology that they are on a dangerous slippery slope.
When I read this book, it had a couple of equations that were brilliant and profound. Check them out and weigh in about what you think.
- Gospel + Culture - Church = Parachurch (Promise Keepers, Women of Faith, etc.)
- Culture + Church - Gospel = Liberalism
- Church + Gospel - Culture = Fundamentalism
- Gospel + Church + Culture = A Radical Reformission
Day 22: 2 Samuel 12-13
Welcome back everyone. Today's reading is from 2 Samuel 12-13
Chapter 12:
I think this chapter gives us instruction for how we can confront the ills and behaviors of our society today and at the same time instructs us on having people in our lives that can speak truth to us. Nathan's approach to getting David to see his sin was brilliant. He used another story to get David's emotions stirred. He apparently realized the nature of David's personality and his love for justice. When David hears the story he immediately makes the declaration that justice must be done to this man. Nathan then looks at him and says, "You are that man!" We can learn a lot from Nathan's tactics in trying to help a world wandering from God find him.
The second thing that stood out to me from this chapter is that David had Nathan there to speak into his life. Yes, Nathan was a prophet, and he probably feared having to share this news with David, nonetheless, he was there. How many of us put walls up around our lives that do not allow for people to speak truth into our lives? How many of us protect ourselves from people who may say things about our character, habits, or attitudes that we don't like to hear? This is a big take-away for all of us.
Chapter 13:
This story is a bit disturbing. Amnon is in love with his sister and rapes her when she rejects him. This is horrible for Tamar because in this culture, she is now defiled, and probably will never be married or have children. Take-away: We don't think about the consequences of our sins on other people's lives. Perhaps something we are doing or not doing is causing others to not live the life they were created for.
Your thoughts?
Chapter 12:
I think this chapter gives us instruction for how we can confront the ills and behaviors of our society today and at the same time instructs us on having people in our lives that can speak truth to us. Nathan's approach to getting David to see his sin was brilliant. He used another story to get David's emotions stirred. He apparently realized the nature of David's personality and his love for justice. When David hears the story he immediately makes the declaration that justice must be done to this man. Nathan then looks at him and says, "You are that man!" We can learn a lot from Nathan's tactics in trying to help a world wandering from God find him.
The second thing that stood out to me from this chapter is that David had Nathan there to speak into his life. Yes, Nathan was a prophet, and he probably feared having to share this news with David, nonetheless, he was there. How many of us put walls up around our lives that do not allow for people to speak truth into our lives? How many of us protect ourselves from people who may say things about our character, habits, or attitudes that we don't like to hear? This is a big take-away for all of us.
Chapter 13:
This story is a bit disturbing. Amnon is in love with his sister and rapes her when she rejects him. This is horrible for Tamar because in this culture, she is now defiled, and probably will never be married or have children. Take-away: We don't think about the consequences of our sins on other people's lives. Perhaps something we are doing or not doing is causing others to not live the life they were created for.
Your thoughts?
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Day 21: 2 Samuel 10-11
Welcome back everyone. I hope this study has been as good for you as it has me. This has always been my favorite two books to read, but I have really enjoyed reading with you all and learning from your insights. Keep it up, we're almost there.
Today's reading is from 2 Samuel 10-11
Chapter 10:
We are just reminded here of the unbelievable ability of the Israelite army under the command and leadership of David. It did not seem to matter how many fronts they were surrounded by or how many men they were outnumbered by. They truly believed with David leading them and the LORD on their side, they could not be stopped. I love vs 12 from Joab, "Be courageous! Let us fight bravely to save our people and cities of our God. May the LORD's will be done." Great stuff! Also, I'm reminded of the loyalty that David has for others. At the beginning of the chapter he is sending ambassadors to express sympathy for the loss of his friend King Nahash, king of the Ammonites, but his son doesn't trust him. There is a lot for us to learn about how David viewed loyalty to friends and honoring them.
Chapter 11:
Uhhh! What do you say that hasn't already been said about this? David loses sight of obedience. It wasn't that David summoned her to his place that was a sin, these kings had many wives and concubines. It was that she was married. David tries to cover his mistakes with more bad choices. The take-away for me: one bad decision cultivates the ground for more bad decisions to follow. Disobedience can be a slippery slope.
What about you? How did these stories speak to you? What can you take-away from these today to apply to your life?
Today's reading is from 2 Samuel 10-11
Chapter 10:
We are just reminded here of the unbelievable ability of the Israelite army under the command and leadership of David. It did not seem to matter how many fronts they were surrounded by or how many men they were outnumbered by. They truly believed with David leading them and the LORD on their side, they could not be stopped. I love vs 12 from Joab, "Be courageous! Let us fight bravely to save our people and cities of our God. May the LORD's will be done." Great stuff! Also, I'm reminded of the loyalty that David has for others. At the beginning of the chapter he is sending ambassadors to express sympathy for the loss of his friend King Nahash, king of the Ammonites, but his son doesn't trust him. There is a lot for us to learn about how David viewed loyalty to friends and honoring them.
Chapter 11:
Uhhh! What do you say that hasn't already been said about this? David loses sight of obedience. It wasn't that David summoned her to his place that was a sin, these kings had many wives and concubines. It was that she was married. David tries to cover his mistakes with more bad choices. The take-away for me: one bad decision cultivates the ground for more bad decisions to follow. Disobedience can be a slippery slope.
What about you? How did these stories speak to you? What can you take-away from these today to apply to your life?
Monday, May 18, 2009
Day 20: 2 Samuel 8-9
Welcome back everyone. We are on the home stretch now. We are reading from 2 Samuel 8-9 today.
Chapter 8:
We often forget that David was a very successful and feared military leader. He has obviously come a long way from the days of tending the fields for his father while his brothers were at war. David's fame had spread across the ancient world for his military victories. Yet the Scriptures still tell us that he was fair to everyone. I don't think this is a small point to reflect on. In today's power hungry society, those in power rarely treat people with honor, dignity, and fairness. To some degree you almost expect a certain group to be treated unfairly - not in David's kingdom.
Chapter 9:
I think this chapter is a great follow-up example of David's kindness and fairness mentioned in the previous chapter. It also reminds us of David and Jonathon's powerful friendship they shared. I see this move by David to take in the son of Jonathon as a move to have Jonathon close to him again. It says that Mephibosheth lived with David and became like one of his sons. This is a dangerous move by David considering that this is Saul's grandson, heir to the throne, but he is not worried about those things. It just strikes me as an amazing example of the power of friendships, true friendship, and what they can mean in our lives and in the lives of leaders.
What are your thoughts?
Chapter 8:
We often forget that David was a very successful and feared military leader. He has obviously come a long way from the days of tending the fields for his father while his brothers were at war. David's fame had spread across the ancient world for his military victories. Yet the Scriptures still tell us that he was fair to everyone. I don't think this is a small point to reflect on. In today's power hungry society, those in power rarely treat people with honor, dignity, and fairness. To some degree you almost expect a certain group to be treated unfairly - not in David's kingdom.
Chapter 9:
I think this chapter is a great follow-up example of David's kindness and fairness mentioned in the previous chapter. It also reminds us of David and Jonathon's powerful friendship they shared. I see this move by David to take in the son of Jonathon as a move to have Jonathon close to him again. It says that Mephibosheth lived with David and became like one of his sons. This is a dangerous move by David considering that this is Saul's grandson, heir to the throne, but he is not worried about those things. It just strikes me as an amazing example of the power of friendships, true friendship, and what they can mean in our lives and in the lives of leaders.
What are your thoughts?
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Sunday Evening Reflections
Hello everyone! Man I have got to be honest with you, I'm so excited about this new Bailout series. It is only three weeks, but I feel this could do a lot for our perspective and challenge us concerning our finance in light of this state of economic crisis. I really felt people were in tune to the message today and I hope that we can all be challenged with trusting God and living with faith instead of worrying.
You will not want to be late for any of the weeks of the series. We will be opening with another surprise song next Sunday. Make an effort to find a small group to be involved in this week so you can take the lesson on worry to another level with others. Go here to find out where some groups are meeting near you: Small Groups
I also had the opportunity to conduct a wedding this afternoon. It is always neat to see people who love each other commit their life to one another. I wish them the best in their marriage together, may God bless them richly.
Have a good night Journey folks, I hope you will join us tomorrow for our continuation of the Samuel Reading Challenge.
You will not want to be late for any of the weeks of the series. We will be opening with another surprise song next Sunday. Make an effort to find a small group to be involved in this week so you can take the lesson on worry to another level with others. Go here to find out where some groups are meeting near you: Small Groups
I also had the opportunity to conduct a wedding this afternoon. It is always neat to see people who love each other commit their life to one another. I wish them the best in their marriage together, may God bless them richly.
Have a good night Journey folks, I hope you will join us tomorrow for our continuation of the Samuel Reading Challenge.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Day 19: 2 Samuel 6-7
Welcome back and happy Friday to all. Today's reading is found in 2 Samuel 6-7.
Chapter 6:
Take-away from this chapter: Though we are to praise Him, we must revere and fear Him (Uzzah is struck down), and our worship should be undignified in the fact that we are not concerned with what people think as we celebrate the LORD'S goodness.
Chapter 7:
This is one of my favorite chapters in all the Bible. I truly believe David's prayer is one of the most humble, sincere prayers throughout Scriptures and one I read regularly. I particularly like how he says, "Who am I, LORD, that you have brought me this far?" I try to pray this as often as I can. I believe if we look with humility and gratitude at all the LORD has done for us and all the ways He has blessed us it is impossible to not have this prayer as a response. I also like when he says, "Do you deal with everyone this way, O Sovereign LORD?" I can just sense David's emotion in this passage. He is overwhelmed by the moment. I just wonder if have these moments before the LORD like this as often as we should?
What about you? I would love to hear how this passage struck you.
Chapter 6:
Take-away from this chapter: Though we are to praise Him, we must revere and fear Him (Uzzah is struck down), and our worship should be undignified in the fact that we are not concerned with what people think as we celebrate the LORD'S goodness.
Chapter 7:
This is one of my favorite chapters in all the Bible. I truly believe David's prayer is one of the most humble, sincere prayers throughout Scriptures and one I read regularly. I particularly like how he says, "Who am I, LORD, that you have brought me this far?" I try to pray this as often as I can. I believe if we look with humility and gratitude at all the LORD has done for us and all the ways He has blessed us it is impossible to not have this prayer as a response. I also like when he says, "Do you deal with everyone this way, O Sovereign LORD?" I can just sense David's emotion in this passage. He is overwhelmed by the moment. I just wonder if have these moments before the LORD like this as often as we should?
What about you? I would love to hear how this passage struck you.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Day 18: 2 Samuel 4-5
We blast forward today with our reading. Keep up the pace, we are almost finished. Today's reading is from 2 Samuel 4-5
Chapter 4:
David fought many battles and was responsible for the deaths of many people in those battles. Despite this reality, David was all about justice being served. He would not stand for injustice. These acts of injustice served to fuel him taking justice back into his own hands by avenging the deaths of those done wrong, even if they were his enemies. This made me think to myself: do I care that much for justice to be served? I'm not talking simply criminal justice, I wonder if I care that much about those being mistreated, abused, ran-over, and treated unfairly in all types of situations? What about you?
Chapter 5:
David is finally anointed the king over all of Israel. He has watched as Saul fumbled through being king, yet he never tried to take the kingdom for himself. He has been anointed to be king now since he was a teenager. He's been the king of Judah for 7 years, now at 30 years old, he's THE KING. When I read this passage God encourages my heart. I want to serve and be as influential as I can with this short life I have been given. I want my life to be used to the fullest capacity imaginable. David essentially waited close to ten years or more to become king, even after he has been anointed by Samuel. It just reminds me that there is a process that must be endured as we live in between the promise and the payoff. I turn 29 years old next week and it makes me put myself in David's shoes. I would be king next year had I been David. It makes me think that perhaps my ministry season has not even truly started yet, maybe the real influence is just ahead. I just have to be patient.
What stood out to you? Heads up: tomorrow is perhaps two of my favorite chapters from this series, be sure to read and post, I want to hear your thoughts.
Chapter 4:
David fought many battles and was responsible for the deaths of many people in those battles. Despite this reality, David was all about justice being served. He would not stand for injustice. These acts of injustice served to fuel him taking justice back into his own hands by avenging the deaths of those done wrong, even if they were his enemies. This made me think to myself: do I care that much for justice to be served? I'm not talking simply criminal justice, I wonder if I care that much about those being mistreated, abused, ran-over, and treated unfairly in all types of situations? What about you?
Chapter 5:
David is finally anointed the king over all of Israel. He has watched as Saul fumbled through being king, yet he never tried to take the kingdom for himself. He has been anointed to be king now since he was a teenager. He's been the king of Judah for 7 years, now at 30 years old, he's THE KING. When I read this passage God encourages my heart. I want to serve and be as influential as I can with this short life I have been given. I want my life to be used to the fullest capacity imaginable. David essentially waited close to ten years or more to become king, even after he has been anointed by Samuel. It just reminds me that there is a process that must be endured as we live in between the promise and the payoff. I turn 29 years old next week and it makes me put myself in David's shoes. I would be king next year had I been David. It makes me think that perhaps my ministry season has not even truly started yet, maybe the real influence is just ahead. I just have to be patient.
What stood out to you? Heads up: tomorrow is perhaps two of my favorite chapters from this series, be sure to read and post, I want to hear your thoughts.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Day 17: 2 Samuel 2-3
Welcome back. We are cruising rapidly toward the end of our challenge. Stay the course, keep reading, the reward at the end will feel great.
Today's reading is from 2 Samuel 2-3
Chapter 2:
It is sad to see the Israel divided. We still see this today in other nations. When there has been a king or longtime ruler and they die, there is often a power struggle to see who will gain control and power. Unfortunately, Israel gets divided: Judah and the all the rest of Israel. Saul's son sees the throne as rightfully his, yet we have already learned that God has rejected Saul and his family and has anointed David. It is clear that "Israel" is out of God's will because they are not following David. The scene that unfolds with the killing each other is sad. It is a civil war, friend killing friend, brother killing brother. It is a reminder that things can get messy when it comes to leadership, power, and control.
Chapter 3:
Abner's prophetic words point to the coming day when David will rule all of Israel. i find it interesting that Abner was aware of the promise of God to David, yet had still chose to fight with Saul's son. He is now ready to turn to David and help make him king over all the land. However, Abner's alliance would be short-lived because his life was about to be over. When Joab and Abishai learned of Abner's presence in the kingdom, he saw a perfect opportunity to avenge the death of their brother. David is furious at their actions and his love for them is fading fast. This just reminds me that we can't always act from our emotions. We can't always look to seek revenge on others. Joab and Abishai responded from pure emotions and bitterness. We too must be careful not to harbor hate and malice toward others who have hurt us.
These are some of my thoughts. What stood out to you from these passages?
Today's reading is from 2 Samuel 2-3
Chapter 2:
It is sad to see the Israel divided. We still see this today in other nations. When there has been a king or longtime ruler and they die, there is often a power struggle to see who will gain control and power. Unfortunately, Israel gets divided: Judah and the all the rest of Israel. Saul's son sees the throne as rightfully his, yet we have already learned that God has rejected Saul and his family and has anointed David. It is clear that "Israel" is out of God's will because they are not following David. The scene that unfolds with the killing each other is sad. It is a civil war, friend killing friend, brother killing brother. It is a reminder that things can get messy when it comes to leadership, power, and control.
Chapter 3:
Abner's prophetic words point to the coming day when David will rule all of Israel. i find it interesting that Abner was aware of the promise of God to David, yet had still chose to fight with Saul's son. He is now ready to turn to David and help make him king over all the land. However, Abner's alliance would be short-lived because his life was about to be over. When Joab and Abishai learned of Abner's presence in the kingdom, he saw a perfect opportunity to avenge the death of their brother. David is furious at their actions and his love for them is fading fast. This just reminds me that we can't always act from our emotions. We can't always look to seek revenge on others. Joab and Abishai responded from pure emotions and bitterness. We too must be careful not to harbor hate and malice toward others who have hurt us.
These are some of my thoughts. What stood out to you from these passages?
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Link Love
I love to write. I keep a journal. I write Bible study curriculum for Lifeway. I write small group curriculum for The Journey. I even write curriculum for the Navigators children's ministry. On top of all that writing, I love writing on this BLOG. The thing that I love to do equally as much if not more is read. I particularly love reading the BLOGS of those who are the best practitioners and thinkers in my field, but perhaps more than that, I love reading the BLOGS of those who I know and share life with. I thought I would post a few of their links so that you too can enjoy what I have already discovered. There are many, so I'll start with a few and try to give some link love weekly.
Chad Jordan (Journey guy who brings a lot of insight) - Check out his thoughts on being an "important person" versus doing "important work" here
Shawn Allen (Executive Pastor / Providence Campus Pastor) - check out his weekly posts about important people in his life and daily thoughts on living with intentionality and prayerful focus here
Lisa Spencer (journey gal) - follow the latest happening with Lisa and her family on her regularly updated blog here
Courtney Perry (journey gal) - you can follow at the latest Perry family happenings as well as here the journey Courtney is on as she tries to be a mom, wife, and follower of Jesus - check her blog out here
Check some of these blogs out...I will post some more of the blogs I follow next week.
Chad Jordan (Journey guy who brings a lot of insight) - Check out his thoughts on being an "important person" versus doing "important work" here
Shawn Allen (Executive Pastor / Providence Campus Pastor) - check out his weekly posts about important people in his life and daily thoughts on living with intentionality and prayerful focus here
Lisa Spencer (journey gal) - follow the latest happening with Lisa and her family on her regularly updated blog here
Courtney Perry (journey gal) - you can follow at the latest Perry family happenings as well as here the journey Courtney is on as she tries to be a mom, wife, and follower of Jesus - check her blog out here
Check some of these blogs out...I will post some more of the blogs I follow next week.
Day 16: 1 Samuel 31 - 2 Samuel 1
Welcome back everyone. We are now officially in 2 Samuel. The ride is going to pick up some serious steam from this point on. From the time of Saul's death and David becoming king, the journey becomes fascinating. I can't wait to hear your thoughts.
Today's reading is from 1 Samuel 31- 2 Samuel 1
1 Samuel 31:
We have travelled with Saul for a while now. We were there when Samuel told him of his future and we saw how humbled by it he was. We were there as he made mistakes and trusted in himself rather than God. Now, we get to witness his last moment. This had to be a disheartening moment for Saul. He's in battle with his countrymen, their losing, and his sons have been killed in the battle. He is surrounded by the enemy and rather than facing shame and certain death by their hands, he falls on his sword. Saul is certainly one of those interesting people we meet in Scriptures. I think the general theme of his life is disobedience and acting from your own will instead of God's. In many ways, his life is a life of "what could have been." It is a challenge for us all to realize that we are called to lives of obedience and submission to the will of God.
2 Samuel 1:
If anything, David was a passionate man. I don't understand how he had compassion and love for Saul, but he did. Even when Saul had repeatedly attempted to kill David, he still loved him. I believe David's love for Saul had less to do with Saul and had everything to do with the fact that the LORD had anointed Saul to his position and that is what David respected. We too are called to this same level of respect for those the LORD has anointed into positions of leadership, whether it be the country, our local associations, or a church. I find myself having to check myself sometimes on this when I see something I believe to be bad or not the best decision someone has made. I get upset with some churches, especially when I believe their pastor is the problem. I have to remind myself that God has called some people into leadership and positions that I must respect, even though I don't have to agree with their actions.
What are your thoughts? What stood out to you from today's reading? What questions did it raise?
Today's reading is from 1 Samuel 31- 2 Samuel 1
1 Samuel 31:
We have travelled with Saul for a while now. We were there when Samuel told him of his future and we saw how humbled by it he was. We were there as he made mistakes and trusted in himself rather than God. Now, we get to witness his last moment. This had to be a disheartening moment for Saul. He's in battle with his countrymen, their losing, and his sons have been killed in the battle. He is surrounded by the enemy and rather than facing shame and certain death by their hands, he falls on his sword. Saul is certainly one of those interesting people we meet in Scriptures. I think the general theme of his life is disobedience and acting from your own will instead of God's. In many ways, his life is a life of "what could have been." It is a challenge for us all to realize that we are called to lives of obedience and submission to the will of God.
2 Samuel 1:
If anything, David was a passionate man. I don't understand how he had compassion and love for Saul, but he did. Even when Saul had repeatedly attempted to kill David, he still loved him. I believe David's love for Saul had less to do with Saul and had everything to do with the fact that the LORD had anointed Saul to his position and that is what David respected. We too are called to this same level of respect for those the LORD has anointed into positions of leadership, whether it be the country, our local associations, or a church. I find myself having to check myself sometimes on this when I see something I believe to be bad or not the best decision someone has made. I get upset with some churches, especially when I believe their pastor is the problem. I have to remind myself that God has called some people into leadership and positions that I must respect, even though I don't have to agree with their actions.
What are your thoughts? What stood out to you from today's reading? What questions did it raise?
Monday, May 11, 2009
Day 15: 1 Samuel 29-30
Welcome back everyone. We are now over the half-way point. We are getting ready to move into 2 Samuel tomorrow and very soon we'll be following the life of David as king. I love these two books and I hope you are enjoying this as well.
Today's readings come from 1 Samuel 29-30
Chapter 29:When everything was said and done, the Philistines don't trust David. It doesn't matter how much he has fought along side of them or proven his loyalty to the king, the commanders fear David will turn on them. I'm sure there are many lessons that could be extracted from this point, but the more I think about, the more I can't blame them for refusing to let David go to battle with them. An interesting contrast appears here with the love King Achish has for David and the lack of love Saul has for him. It is supposed to be the other way around.
Chapter 30:
Two things stick out to me from this chapter. First, David's men want to stone him because their possessions and families have been taken from them. Nowhere in the text does it indicate that it is David's fault, but so often what happens is that the one he in leadership, in charge, gets the blame when things don't go well. They also often get all the credit when things do go well, even though that is probably undeserved as well. Second, the immediate move toward greed by the soldiers who went to fight against the ones who stayed behind. Which one would you have been, like David or the men? I think that is a hard answer because I could easily see myself wanting to punish the ones who didn't go fight. David exemplifies great leadership here by setting the men straight and the Scripture's say that the rule still applied the day in which Samuel was wrote.
Those are some of my observations, what were yours? Btw, this was my 300 blog post since starting last year -- I can't believe I'm stilling doing it.
Today's readings come from 1 Samuel 29-30
Chapter 29:When everything was said and done, the Philistines don't trust David. It doesn't matter how much he has fought along side of them or proven his loyalty to the king, the commanders fear David will turn on them. I'm sure there are many lessons that could be extracted from this point, but the more I think about, the more I can't blame them for refusing to let David go to battle with them. An interesting contrast appears here with the love King Achish has for David and the lack of love Saul has for him. It is supposed to be the other way around.
Chapter 30:
Two things stick out to me from this chapter. First, David's men want to stone him because their possessions and families have been taken from them. Nowhere in the text does it indicate that it is David's fault, but so often what happens is that the one he in leadership, in charge, gets the blame when things don't go well. They also often get all the credit when things do go well, even though that is probably undeserved as well. Second, the immediate move toward greed by the soldiers who went to fight against the ones who stayed behind. Which one would you have been, like David or the men? I think that is a hard answer because I could easily see myself wanting to punish the ones who didn't go fight. David exemplifies great leadership here by setting the men straight and the Scripture's say that the rule still applied the day in which Samuel was wrote.
Those are some of my observations, what were yours? Btw, this was my 300 blog post since starting last year -- I can't believe I'm stilling doing it.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Day 14: 1 Samuel 27-28
It is Friday! That means its the last day of the reading challenge for this week. We are officially at the midway point in our study. I encourage you all to stay the course and keep reading. Also, it is not to late to join in the readings. Just because you haven't read the earlier chapters doesn't mean you can't read and gain insight into the chapters we are currently reading, so don't hesitate to join.
Today's reading is 1 Samuel 27-28
Chapter 27:
This chapter is somewhat confusing for me. David goes and strikes a deal with the Philistines to live among them. King Achish gives him a town to rule over, plus, David goes and raids neighboring towns each day. It appears that he is even raiding and killing Israelites. I'm not sure what to think about this or why David is even doing it. Is this some kind of fear tactic against Saul? Is David just trying to preserve his life? Either way, it seems to go against the nature of David, the warrior king of Israel.
Chapter 28:
Death is lurking and is near for Saul. Saul is frantic with fear as he sees the vast Philistine army, so he decides to consult a medium or psychic. These had been banned from Israel, but Saul is in a panic. Several things that this brought to mind for me: 1. obviously there is biblical evidence here that mediums and psychics can legitimately connect with the dead or the eternal - though he wasn't supposed to be doing this. 2. Saul is taking oath's in the name of the LORD, but he has no standing with God at this point. I can't imagine his oath means much in the eyes of God. 3. When Saul calls Samuel forth, he is told that soon he and his sons will be with Samuel - dead! This is some crazy stuff! This chapter leaves more questions for me than answers. I want to have the ability to ask follow-up questions about this. I don't want to read to heavily into this or get to focused on this part alone, but I'm fascinated with the idea that there are some people who may have an ability to connect with those in the afterlife; however, it is inevitably dangerous and not of God. What did this make you think?
Look forward to hearing your thoughts. Don't hesitate to post, even if you are just putting your favorite verse from the two chapters down. Believe it or not, people like to hear and know what you think, plus we can all learn from it.
Today's reading is 1 Samuel 27-28
Chapter 27:
This chapter is somewhat confusing for me. David goes and strikes a deal with the Philistines to live among them. King Achish gives him a town to rule over, plus, David goes and raids neighboring towns each day. It appears that he is even raiding and killing Israelites. I'm not sure what to think about this or why David is even doing it. Is this some kind of fear tactic against Saul? Is David just trying to preserve his life? Either way, it seems to go against the nature of David, the warrior king of Israel.
Chapter 28:
Death is lurking and is near for Saul. Saul is frantic with fear as he sees the vast Philistine army, so he decides to consult a medium or psychic. These had been banned from Israel, but Saul is in a panic. Several things that this brought to mind for me: 1. obviously there is biblical evidence here that mediums and psychics can legitimately connect with the dead or the eternal - though he wasn't supposed to be doing this. 2. Saul is taking oath's in the name of the LORD, but he has no standing with God at this point. I can't imagine his oath means much in the eyes of God. 3. When Saul calls Samuel forth, he is told that soon he and his sons will be with Samuel - dead! This is some crazy stuff! This chapter leaves more questions for me than answers. I want to have the ability to ask follow-up questions about this. I don't want to read to heavily into this or get to focused on this part alone, but I'm fascinated with the idea that there are some people who may have an ability to connect with those in the afterlife; however, it is inevitably dangerous and not of God. What did this make you think?
Look forward to hearing your thoughts. Don't hesitate to post, even if you are just putting your favorite verse from the two chapters down. Believe it or not, people like to hear and know what you think, plus we can all learn from it.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Bailout
Just a sneak peek at a series we are starting next Sunday, May 17th @ The Journey. We are so pumped up about this series. We will be dealing with God and our money. We live in a world right now where the economy is in chaos, people are living in fear, and uncertainty is at an all-time high. Invite a friend to be a part of this series and make plans to be there for all three weeks yourself.
May 17th - The Great Recession
May 24th - An Economic Awakening
May 31st - Wise Investments
Trust me, this series will be unlike any other you have ever heard in church about God and money.
May 17th - The Great Recession
May 24th - An Economic Awakening
May 31st - Wise Investments
Trust me, this series will be unlike any other you have ever heard in church about God and money.
Day 13: 1 Samuel 25-26
Welcome back. We pick up today in 1 Samuel 25-26 in our 28 Day reading challenge. I can't say enough times how much I have enjoyed reading your thoughts. Continue to share what's on your heart and mind because others will gain insight that they otherwise wouldn't have had.
Chapter 25:
I found the beginning of the chapter to be shocking. Out of nowhere Samuel dies. I don't recall hearing that his health was failing or anything of this nature, but just like that he's gone. Israel mourns for him and his funeral is undoubtedly a celebration of his service and leadership to the nation. I just thought to myself after reading the opening verse: I hope my life is lived as full as Samuel's was. The second thing from the chapter that stood out to me was the peacemaking nature of Abigail. When conflict and trouble were on the horizon she acted to dissolve the situation. We need more Abigail's in our lives, churches, and society.
Chapter 26:
I'm getting so ticked off at Saul. One minute he's trying to kill David and the next he is kissing David's butt, "Is that you, my son David?" I find myself wanting to see David just kill Saul and give him what he deserves, but David won't do it. David refuses to lay a finger on the LORD'S anointed one. What this raises in me is my own need to enact justice when it may not be my place or God's timing. If I were David, Saul would have been dead back at the cave. I need to be more reliant on God's timing than I am my own.
What stood out to you? What questions did this raise in your own life?
Chapter 25:
I found the beginning of the chapter to be shocking. Out of nowhere Samuel dies. I don't recall hearing that his health was failing or anything of this nature, but just like that he's gone. Israel mourns for him and his funeral is undoubtedly a celebration of his service and leadership to the nation. I just thought to myself after reading the opening verse: I hope my life is lived as full as Samuel's was. The second thing from the chapter that stood out to me was the peacemaking nature of Abigail. When conflict and trouble were on the horizon she acted to dissolve the situation. We need more Abigail's in our lives, churches, and society.
Chapter 26:
I'm getting so ticked off at Saul. One minute he's trying to kill David and the next he is kissing David's butt, "Is that you, my son David?" I find myself wanting to see David just kill Saul and give him what he deserves, but David won't do it. David refuses to lay a finger on the LORD'S anointed one. What this raises in me is my own need to enact justice when it may not be my place or God's timing. If I were David, Saul would have been dead back at the cave. I need to be more reliant on God's timing than I am my own.
What stood out to you? What questions did this raise in your own life?
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Day 12: 1 Samuel 23-24
Hello everyone, you are doing awesome at the reading challenge. We are almost finished with 1 Samuel and will soon be at our half-way point. Continue to push yourself to read even when your tired, even when you are wanting to slack a day. They say it takes 21 days to create a habit. Hopefully over the course of this challenge there will be some new habits created when it comes to reading the Scriptures.
Today's reading is 1 Samuel 23-24
Chapter 23:
My biggest take-away from this passage is that David inquires of the LORD to seek his next move. It wasn't like he couldn't just act out of his instincts, and even when he did ask the LORD questions, he had to continue to ask them because he was only getting one step answers. One step answers mean you only know what God wants you to do the next step, you have to trust and wait for Him to reveal the next one. Over the course of this chapter, David asked God several times what the next step was. I think I need to rely more on God for those next step answers, even the small ones.
Chapter 24:
This passage is one of the most interesting twist in the David and Saul saga. Saul is pursuing after David to kill him, yet when he discovers that David could have killed him, he is humbled to the point of weeping. David could have finished off the guy trying to end his life, but instead, he refused to touch the LORD'S anointed. What I love about this is that David knows that he is anointed to be the next king, but rather than taking matters into his own hands, he refused to touch the one whom God has chosen, and up to this point, has kept in power. My take-away from this is that God works through authority and structure, even when I don't always like those in power (ex: the Southern Baptist Convention), but I have to trust that God will bring about change and new leadership on his timing.
What were your thoughts?
Today's reading is 1 Samuel 23-24
Chapter 23:
My biggest take-away from this passage is that David inquires of the LORD to seek his next move. It wasn't like he couldn't just act out of his instincts, and even when he did ask the LORD questions, he had to continue to ask them because he was only getting one step answers. One step answers mean you only know what God wants you to do the next step, you have to trust and wait for Him to reveal the next one. Over the course of this chapter, David asked God several times what the next step was. I think I need to rely more on God for those next step answers, even the small ones.
Chapter 24:
This passage is one of the most interesting twist in the David and Saul saga. Saul is pursuing after David to kill him, yet when he discovers that David could have killed him, he is humbled to the point of weeping. David could have finished off the guy trying to end his life, but instead, he refused to touch the LORD'S anointed. What I love about this is that David knows that he is anointed to be the next king, but rather than taking matters into his own hands, he refused to touch the one whom God has chosen, and up to this point, has kept in power. My take-away from this is that God works through authority and structure, even when I don't always like those in power (ex: the Southern Baptist Convention), but I have to trust that God will bring about change and new leadership on his timing.
What were your thoughts?
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Day 11: 1 Samuel 21-22
Welcome back everyone. We are cruising right along on this reading challenge. I hope this reading time has brought forth new insights and challenges to you. Today we are on 1 Samuel 21-22.
Chapter 21:
For me, this is the beginning signs that David was susceptible to choosing his own ways over God's ways. He lies to Ahimelech the priest and says he's on a mission for Saul, instead of truthfully telling him that he was running from Saul. He then eats the Holy Bread used for ceremonies and takes the sword of Goliath that he had slayed years prior. He then goes to enemy territory looking for refuge and pretends to be a madman in the presence of the king so that he doesn't get killed. I just find it odd that a man as trusting in the LORD as David has been up unto this point, begins to take matters into his own hands. This characteristic will hurt him later.
Chapter 22:
David is taking refuge for him and his family in Moab. Was God angry at this or was it necessary because of Saul's disobedience? It doesn't seem quite right to me. Another interesting fact is that David has about 400 men in his ranks that have joined him, even though he is wanted by the king. David had an incredible following! I can't believe Saul is ready to kill the priests! His own military refused the command. This demonstrates how power-crazy Saul had become. He truly felt he was above everything. Only Doeg was willing to kill the priests, and he did, 85 in total.
The take-away for me in these passages: how much of these things are what God wanted for David and how much of it was David winging it? These passages fail to tell us if the LORD is please or even instructing the steps of David at this point. How often do I make moves that are not directed by God in order to protect my own hide? That is my question to take-away. What about you?
Chapter 21:
For me, this is the beginning signs that David was susceptible to choosing his own ways over God's ways. He lies to Ahimelech the priest and says he's on a mission for Saul, instead of truthfully telling him that he was running from Saul. He then eats the Holy Bread used for ceremonies and takes the sword of Goliath that he had slayed years prior. He then goes to enemy territory looking for refuge and pretends to be a madman in the presence of the king so that he doesn't get killed. I just find it odd that a man as trusting in the LORD as David has been up unto this point, begins to take matters into his own hands. This characteristic will hurt him later.
Chapter 22:
David is taking refuge for him and his family in Moab. Was God angry at this or was it necessary because of Saul's disobedience? It doesn't seem quite right to me. Another interesting fact is that David has about 400 men in his ranks that have joined him, even though he is wanted by the king. David had an incredible following! I can't believe Saul is ready to kill the priests! His own military refused the command. This demonstrates how power-crazy Saul had become. He truly felt he was above everything. Only Doeg was willing to kill the priests, and he did, 85 in total.
The take-away for me in these passages: how much of these things are what God wanted for David and how much of it was David winging it? These passages fail to tell us if the LORD is please or even instructing the steps of David at this point. How often do I make moves that are not directed by God in order to protect my own hide? That is my question to take-away. What about you?
Monday, May 4, 2009
Day 10: 1 Samuel 19-20
Here we go, back to our 28 Day Reading Challenge. I know there are many of you joining us after taking the weekend to catch up on the reading, welcome. Today's reading is from 1 Samuel 19-20.
Chapter 19:
This chapter is crazy. It starts with Saul trying to kill David, only to be thwarted by the people in his own family saving David's life (Jonathon and Michal). Then it turns into a big pentecostal mess and everyone is laying in the floor prophesying. I'm not sure what to take away from this chapter other than it is good to have friends who have your back and who are looking out for you like David had.
Chapter 20:
Sometimes friendship in the LORD can be stronger than blood. Jonathon and David had a special friendship that God had brought together. Jonathon wasn't concerned about his position as waiting king, as many would had been. He was more concerned with the well being of his friend. David flees from Saul and from this point on, he'll be on the run until Saul is dead.
Do I have friends that are this close to me? I believe I really do. It is sad to them embrace at the end because they know it is probably the last time. It makes me long for friendships with that kind of depth to them. That is something for all of us to learn from.
Chapter 19:
This chapter is crazy. It starts with Saul trying to kill David, only to be thwarted by the people in his own family saving David's life (Jonathon and Michal). Then it turns into a big pentecostal mess and everyone is laying in the floor prophesying. I'm not sure what to take away from this chapter other than it is good to have friends who have your back and who are looking out for you like David had.
Chapter 20:
Sometimes friendship in the LORD can be stronger than blood. Jonathon and David had a special friendship that God had brought together. Jonathon wasn't concerned about his position as waiting king, as many would had been. He was more concerned with the well being of his friend. David flees from Saul and from this point on, he'll be on the run until Saul is dead.
Do I have friends that are this close to me? I believe I really do. It is sad to them embrace at the end because they know it is probably the last time. It makes me long for friendships with that kind of depth to them. That is something for all of us to learn from.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Sunday Evening Reflections
It was another rocking day at The Journey Church! Man, I love this church more each and every week. We have the most committed and awesome volunteers. We have a praise band and team that is second to none. We have an elder team that seeks to govern and oversee the body so that it is nourished and growing. We have an incredible staff who tend to the day-to-day operations of the church and to ensure each weekend is stellar. And the best part of it all, we have the best members/attendees of any church. Yeah I might be biased, but I love this church and the spirit of the people. I just salute everyone who is part of The Journey for adding your unique style to what we are becoming.
I thought today was a great day. The message was challenging, yet I felt everyone welcomed the challenge and embraced it. I thought the text-your-question part of the service was really cool, but I'd love to get your feedback on that too. I have never been at a church where questions were welcomed and answered and we had some good questions today, I just hope the answers I gave matched how good they were.
I'd love to get your opinion or feedback on two questions: 1. How did you like the text-your-question in segment, as well as the other interactive elements we added this series so far? 2. How have you enjoyed partaking in Communion every week of this series thus far? Don't be afraid to be honest, but I would love to hear from you.
Last things: first, if you are guy who is interested in getting together with other guys from the church to pray for a short period before starting your day, each week on Monday morning at 7am and Thursday at 8am are two opportunities for you. If interested leave a comment and I'll get with you. Second, next week is the last week of the Everyday Jesus series. I'm pumped about the message and can't wait to give it. Starting the following week, we will begin a new series called: Bailout. We are going to be dealing with God and finances for the next three weeks. Let's just say this: it will not be your typical church sermons about money...I promise. We'll show the bumper video for it next week and give you all invite cards for your friends and neighbors.
I thought today was a great day. The message was challenging, yet I felt everyone welcomed the challenge and embraced it. I thought the text-your-question part of the service was really cool, but I'd love to get your feedback on that too. I have never been at a church where questions were welcomed and answered and we had some good questions today, I just hope the answers I gave matched how good they were.
I'd love to get your opinion or feedback on two questions: 1. How did you like the text-your-question in segment, as well as the other interactive elements we added this series so far? 2. How have you enjoyed partaking in Communion every week of this series thus far? Don't be afraid to be honest, but I would love to hear from you.
Last things: first, if you are guy who is interested in getting together with other guys from the church to pray for a short period before starting your day, each week on Monday morning at 7am and Thursday at 8am are two opportunities for you. If interested leave a comment and I'll get with you. Second, next week is the last week of the Everyday Jesus series. I'm pumped about the message and can't wait to give it. Starting the following week, we will begin a new series called: Bailout. We are going to be dealing with God and finances for the next three weeks. Let's just say this: it will not be your typical church sermons about money...I promise. We'll show the bumper video for it next week and give you all invite cards for your friends and neighbors.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Day 9: 1 Samuel 17-18
Happy Friday to everyone. This is our last day of the week for our reading challenge, we'll pick back up again on Monday. Today's reading is from 1 Samuel 17-18.
These two chapters show the emergence of David onto the scene. The story of David slaying Goliath is the famous one, the one read in every Sunday school in the country. What I enjoy the most about that story is not the fact that the small undersized David beats the giant Goliath, it is why David chose to fight him to begin with. David was not seeking glory or to be the guy everyone thought was a stud. Instead, he was moved by a righteous anger that someone would dare to defy and mock the armies of the Living God. It was for the honor of God, not his own. I think that is the key to the David and Goliath story.
After the battle, Saul becomes jealous of David because he is gaining fame around Israel. David and Jonathon link up to become best friends for the rest of their lives. The next major statement that I think speaks to David's character is when Saul offers him his daughter in marriage and he says, "Who am I, and what is my family in Israel that I should be the king's son-in-law?" There is humility just dripping off that reply. This is why God has chosen David to begin with. He has a heart that reflects what is needed to lead God's people. I think it is extremely important to check ourselves routinely. Are we becoming arrogant? Do we live with too much pride or are we genuinely humble? You see, Saul started off this way too, but we now see where he is. If this aspect of our lives is not monitored daily, we can quickly become too prideful to even notice the change.
Last thought: Much of this book has been about God's anointing of these men for their service. We've also noticed what happens when God removes His anointing. A quote to leave you with for today: R.T. Kendall says, "If I do not experience a fresh anointing every day, it is only a matter of time before I will become yesterday’s man."
Your thoughts from today's reading?
These two chapters show the emergence of David onto the scene. The story of David slaying Goliath is the famous one, the one read in every Sunday school in the country. What I enjoy the most about that story is not the fact that the small undersized David beats the giant Goliath, it is why David chose to fight him to begin with. David was not seeking glory or to be the guy everyone thought was a stud. Instead, he was moved by a righteous anger that someone would dare to defy and mock the armies of the Living God. It was for the honor of God, not his own. I think that is the key to the David and Goliath story.
After the battle, Saul becomes jealous of David because he is gaining fame around Israel. David and Jonathon link up to become best friends for the rest of their lives. The next major statement that I think speaks to David's character is when Saul offers him his daughter in marriage and he says, "Who am I, and what is my family in Israel that I should be the king's son-in-law?" There is humility just dripping off that reply. This is why God has chosen David to begin with. He has a heart that reflects what is needed to lead God's people. I think it is extremely important to check ourselves routinely. Are we becoming arrogant? Do we live with too much pride or are we genuinely humble? You see, Saul started off this way too, but we now see where he is. If this aspect of our lives is not monitored daily, we can quickly become too prideful to even notice the change.
Last thought: Much of this book has been about God's anointing of these men for their service. We've also noticed what happens when God removes His anointing. A quote to leave you with for today: R.T. Kendall says, "If I do not experience a fresh anointing every day, it is only a matter of time before I will become yesterday’s man."
Your thoughts from today's reading?
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