Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Final Eight Principles in Developing Biblical Standards

21. The Principle of Preparedness: I must always be ready for Jesus to return.
22. The Principle of Generosity: It is godly to give.
23. The Principle of Enslavement: As a Christian, I should be controlled by God.
24. The Principle of MYOB: I must mind my own business.
25. The Principle of Worry: God wants me to pray instead of worry.
26. The Principle of Defilement: A little defiles a lot.
27. The Principle of Yieldedness: I must yield my will to God.
28. The Principle of Discipleship: I am to make disciples.

Monday, December 14, 2009

More Principles in Developing Biblical Standards


Here are ten more principles in developing Biblical standards:
11. The Principle of Doubtful Things: When in doubt – don’t!
(If it is doubtful, it is dirty.)
12. The Principle of Temptation: I must avoid temptation, not just sin.
13. The Principle of Purity: It is God’s will for me to be pure.
14. The Principle of Authority: I should follow God-ordained authority.
15. The Principle of Feelings: I must live by the Bible, not by feelings.
16. The Principle of Imitation: I am to imitate Jesus.
17. The Principle of Weights: I must lay aside weights as well as sin.
18. The Principle of Excellence: God wants me to do my best.
19. The Principle of Readiness: I should be ready and able to explain my beliefs.
20. The Principle of Concentration: Do not look back. Do not look around. Do not look down.

Friday, December 11, 2009

Principles in Developing Biblical Standards


Here are the first ten of twenty-eight principles in developing Biblical standards:
1. The Principle of Vision: The eye affects the mind, and the mind affects the body.
2. The Principle of Representation: I represent Christ in everything I do and say.
3. The Principle of Fellowship: God commands me to fellowship with other believers from my church.
4. The Principle of Holiness: Because I belong to God, I must be holy.
5. The Principle of Light and Darkness: As a Christian, I have nothing in common with the world.
6. The Principle of Impact: My actions will influence others.
7. The Principle of Replacement: Wrong must be replaced with right.
8. The Principle of Affections: I must make the eternal more important than the earthly.
9. The Principle of Association: Wrong associations lead to wrong behavior.
10. The Principle of Priorities: Jesus should be Number One.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Barriers To Knowing God's Will


God is always pleased to reveal His will to us. But at times, we cannot receive the message. Something in our life is creating a barrier to hearing Him. Obstacles to the believer include:

Self-will. Sometimes, we decide what we're going to do without God's input. We still talk to Him about our plan, even thinking it is so logical that the Lord must agree. But we have stopped listening for His will.

Influence. It's wise to seek godly counsel. But believers must be careful whom they allow to influence them. Many people will say what someone else wants to hear rather than what is actually needed.

Sin. There are two ways it hinders our ability to know God's will. First, our spirit is clouded so we cannot determine His mind. Second, the Father may not reveal the next step in His plan because He's waiting for us to repent and become willing to obey.

Distraction. One of the most subtle obstructions to knowing God's will is busyness. Our hands and our minds are so full we don't have the patience to wait and listen. The Lord does not chase after us, trying to force us to hear Him. Psalm 46:10—"Be still, and know that I am God"—is His simple solution for clearing the clutter of overbooked lives.

The next time you seem unable to determine the Lord's will, try slowing down so that you can focus on Him. Don't stop in your service to Him; rather find the non-essentials in your life and set them to the side. Then, consider whether you might have allowed one of these barriers to be constructed between you and God. Ask, and He will gladly help you to dismantle it.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Walking Worthy


Are we willing to honor a living Saviour the way we honor deceased soldiers?
Colossians 1:10, “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing…”
There is often debate amongst Christians about “standards of living” and there is a pervasive thought among Christians today that says, “I will do as I please, because I am under grace.” Whether in music, dress, lifestyle, entertainment, or even morals—many have adopted a “have it your way” brand of Christian living under the guise that God only cares about our hearts.
The fault in this thinking is that God gives such clear biblical instruction on our lifestyle—commanding us to live and walk godliness and holiness. This is called integrity—authenticity—being the same on the outside as you are on the inside. A godly heart should produce a godly lifestyle—a life that truly “walks worthy.” Yet, in this day, many Christians disregard their calling that they might “live unto themselves” (2 Cor. 5:15).
Take for example the guards that are on duty at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery near Washington DC. You might be amazed at the sacrifice and requirements that the Army has placed on all those who would serve in the sacred capacity of guarding the tomb. This position of service is no small responsibility or honor, and with it comes a great degree of personal commitment. These are some of the requirements for tomb guards:
 Guards are required to memorize 16 pages of information about Arlington Cemetery.
 Guards are required to know the locations and names of 300 graves.
 Guards are required to shave twice daily.
 Guards cut their hair every two days—on their off day.
 Guards are required to pass a 100 question test, a uniform test, and a guard change sequence test.
 The badge awarded after passing the test can be revoked if guards ever dishonor their oath.
 Guards must be between 5′10″ and 6′2″ in height.
 A guard’s waste size cannot exceed 30 inches.
 Guards must commit two years of their lives to guard the tomb.
 During their service, guards must live in barracks under the tomb.
 Guards cannot drink alcohol on or off duty for the rest of their lives.
 Guards make a vow not to swear in public for the rest of their lives.
 During his first six months, a guard cannot speak to anyone or watch TV.
 Off duty time is spent studying the 175 notable people laid to rest in Arlington.
 Guards take five to six hours to prepare their uniforms.
 A guard’s uniform must be completely free of wrinkles, folds, or lint.
 A guard’s uniform is solid wool and is worn year-round regardless of temperature.
 Guards are on duty regardless of weather conditions (including hurricanes).
 There is a meticulous 21 step ritual with a 21 second pause that is carefully repeated.
 There is a detailed changing of the guard procedure that is followed precisely
 The procedures are followed whether spectators are viewing or not
Isn’t it interesting that the army would see TV, cursing, and alcohol as dishonorable to a tomb guard. What a stark contrast to the spirit of modern day Christians in the army of the Lord. It should be convicting to think that these honorable men would make such an oath and pay such a price to “walk worthy” of their calling—all to guard the tomb of a deceased soldier. Should we not then be willing to “walk worthy of our calling” for a living Saviour!?
May God help us to recognize the high calling and responsibility that we have to be His ambassadors on this earth! May we represent Him—not as we please, but as He pleases.
2 Timothy 2:4, ”No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.”
1 Thessalonians 2:12, “That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.”

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

The Lord Is Our Light

Psalm 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Often we are reminded of light’s importance when the electricity fails during the night and we are forced to stumble around in the dark. Once we find a flashlight, however, we maneuver through the house with greater confidence and certainty than before. In a similar way, God is our light, illuminating our way and alerting us to potential danger around us. His light reveals our sin as well, so that we may confess it and find forgiveness. As the Lord’s brilliant presence floods our soul, it dispels the darkness of our doubt and despair, and we receive confidence in our Lord and Savior. May we praise God that He is our light and our salvation.

Friday, November 6, 2009

Ten Ways To Renew Your Spirit


Ever get depleted? Ever reach the bottom of the barrel when it comes to spiritual energy or passion?
Don’t overreact! It doesn’t necessarily mean you’re doing all the wrong things with your life.
You’re faith is probably still alive and well. There’s no need to go AWOL. Don’t start doubting every good decision or direction in your life.
You probably just need to restore—to let God revive your spirit. God’s Word is filled with ways to find new strength and to renew your spirit. Here is a quick glimpse at ten of them:

1. Walk with God—nothing will restore your soul like time with God. Find a place where you can have quiet and calm. No distractions, no time-limits, no pre-planned structure, no agenda—just be with Him. Get outdoors and literally walk—with God. This will change your perspective on nearly everything! (Gen. 6:9)

2. Cast Your Cares Upon Him—while you’re with God, you might as well put everything you’re carrying in His hands, including yourself! He already knows about it all. You’re not hiding anything from Him. Nothing you’re feeling or thinking will surprise Him, and He invites you to cast it all upon Him any way—so go for it! (1 Peter 5:7)

3. Meditate on Biblical Principles—choose a passage, a promise, or a verse and just rest upon it. Chew on it slowly and let it sink deep. Find a place to jot down some reflections. What you meditate upon has much to do with your attitudes and actions. (Ps. 1:2)

4. Listen to Godly Music—whether with an iPod, a CD player, or just your voice—set aside time to really listen to Christ-honoring music. Think about the message and let God’s Holy Spirit restore and encourage you. Music is one of God’s great gifts to help us walk in the Spirit. (Ps. 118:14)

5. Read an Encouraging Book—pick up something biblical and enjoyable—a biography of a great Christian or an inspirational book. Make sure it connects to some practical aspect of your life. (Prov. 25:11)

6. Serve Someone Else—could be your spouse, your kids, your neighbor, a church member, or a local restaurant owner. There’s something really refreshing about choosing to perform a random act of kindness “just because.” If you’re wondering who the Holy Spirit would have you serve, just ask Him. I promise He will bring a name to your mind almost immediately. (1 Cor. 9:19)

7. Share the Gospel with Someone—No matter what’s going on in your life, your whole perspective changes when you set the burdens aside and just share the gospel. Even if you don’t see someone saved, it’s good to know you are laboring together with God. (Eph. 6:15)

8. Rest—sounds so unspiritual compared to the others doesn’t it? But it’s not only spiritual—it’s vital! Quite often, we just run on empty, physically speaking. Sometimes the best thing you can do is “crash!” Don’t set the alarm. Actually sleep, and don’t feel guilty about it. When you’re recharged, you’ll get three times as much done than if you had continued trying to be productive on fumes! (Ps. 127:2)

9. Spend Time with Someone You Love—your spouse, your family, a godly friend. Right relationships are energizing. They have a restoring and renewing quality. Go ahead and spend yourself for others, but be sure you carve out time to be with those who strengthen you in the Lord as well. (Prov. 17:17)

10. Use Your Spiritual Gift(s)—take your unique personality combined with God’s Divine enabling(s) in your life, and put them to use for His purposes. Do what you’re really good at—but do it for God. This is “over-the-top” fun and eternally significant. Nothing puts fresh wind in your sails like investing your life and resources into eternity. (1 Peter 4:10)

When you’re engaging in biblical, renewing activities (like these) then it’s only a matter of time before God breathes new strength into your spiritual life. Patiently enjoy His presence as He renews your strength. (Isa. 40:31)
Thanks to Bro. Cary Schmidt for these insights.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

How God Answers Prayer

Too often, people view God as a great cosmic wish granter: they think of their prayers not as petitions, but as demands. Then, if God does not grant their request, they’re thrown into a faith crisis, believing He no longer answers them. The real problem, however, is that they misunderstand how God answers prayer:

Yes. We love this response! There’s nothing more exhilarating or faith-inspiring than watching the Lord move mountains in order to provide what we once saw as impossible.

No. Here is where the problems begin for us. But we must accept the fact that God says “no” to some of our requests. This is certainly not because He’s greedy or uncaring—on the contrary, He is generous, loving, and concerned about His children.

Matthew 7:11 does not say God will give “everything to those who ask Him.” No, it says that our heavenly Father will give what is good to those who ask. Quite often, giving “what is good” means that He doesn’t agree to things He knows are wrong for us.

Wait. This answer can be even harder than a flat-out “no.” Yet some things that are good and right may still be wrong for us today. Remember, God is eternal; He sees all time at the same time. If He regards tomorrow’s blessing as a not goo for us today, He’ll withhold it for a season until we’re ready to receive it.

Do not be misled if God’s response is not what you expected—or wanted—to hear. Instead, praise the Lord for answering our requests the way He knows they should be answered!

Monday, November 2, 2009

Having a Rich Prayer Life


Ephesians 3:16-19

Conversations that are repetitive can cause us to lose interest. Prayer is conversation with our heavenly Father. If we reduce our prayers to a formula or routine, the effect can weaken our desire to talk to God. Paul's prayers are just the opposite—energizing and full of life.
Consider his words as recorded in Ephesians chapter three. He asked God to help the Ephesians (and, in fact, all believers): To live life in God's supernatural power. (verse 16-17a) The most important battles take place on the inside of us—in our mind and emotions. Paul asked God to strengthen our "inner man" so we can stand firm. He desired that our conduct be increasingly controlled by the Holy Spirit. That way, we can exhibit the life of Jesus in greater measure.
The apostle also asked God to help us comprehend Christ's all-embracing love for us. (verse 17b-19) Paul wanted us to know three things about this subject: 1) We are rooted and established in the love of God, who sacrificed His Son for us, and in the love of Jesus, who died in our place; 2) Our life in Jesus is to be nourished by His unchanging affection for us; and 3) Christ's agape love is so wide and deep that it surpasses our understanding. Experiencing Jesus' love gives us confidence to face whatever God allows in our life. It also enables us to care deeply for others.
The apostle Paul based his praise and petitions on the truths of God. The result was a rich and powerful prayer life. What about your your prayer life—is it growing stale? Follow Paul's example and pray the Scriptures. Imagine how exciting it will be to see God answer your requests according to His Word.

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Making Good Decisions

Genesis 25: 27-34
Scripture confirms that the familiar expression, “You reap what you sow,” is accurate (Job 4:8; Prov. 11:18). Esau learned this truth the hard way. Famished, he returned from hunting and requested a bowl of the stew his brother was cooking. Jacob seized upon the opportunity—he agreed to share the food in exchange for his older twin’s birthright.

In Old Testament times, the firstborn enjoyed special privileges, which included authority over younger siblings, a double share of the inheritance, and the honored position as spiritual leader over the family. Yet Esau, deciding that food was more of a necessity right then, traded his birthright for dinner. He later grieved to realize what was lost, but at that point, it was too late. Like Esau, we all face critical choices at times. While God offers forgiveness for poor decisions, the consequences remain. So we must learn how to choose wisely.

We should take to heart two warnings from this story. First, to be able to distinguish our best options, we should wait until we are physically, emotionally, and spiritually stable. Esau allowed hunger to cloud his thinking.

Second, it is often important to delay gratification. For example, though a person may be eager to purchase a car, it is wise to shop around for the best deal. Though our human desires feel overwhelming at times, we should prayerfully wait for God’s timing.
Think about the longings that you have. Pray for wisdom and patience so that you can make godly decisions during critical times.

The Lord and Our Work

Ecc. 2:24-25
24 There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God. 25 For who can eat, or who else can hasten hereunto, more than I?

The Preacher (Solomon) observed the lack of joy and enthusiasm with which people in his kingdom labored. For most people, work was simply work— hard and unsatisfying. After thousands of years, not much has changed, since Adam’s curse of unsatisfying work remains today for those who have not been redeemed. Many workers today detest their job; the vast majority endures it at best. Those who follow God, however, can find purpose and satisfaction even in the routine and mundane if they perform their work as an offering before God. For, as the Preacher noted, all good pleasure comes from God. May we praise God for allowing us to find satisfaction in our work; especially HIS work!

Friday, October 30, 2009

God Shields Us With His Love

Psalm 5:12 For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield.

Using the imagery of war, David reflects on God’s protection in the battles of life. The Lord surrounds us with a shield of love that protects us from enemy attack. But even when the force of the blows knock us down, leaving us with a feeling of defeat, the Lord picks us up again and gives us strength to continue. Rest in God’s protection and thank him for his shield of love around you.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

The Lord Fights For Us


1 Samuel 7:9-10
9 And Samuel took a sucking lamb, and offered it for a burnt offering wholly unto the LORD: and Samuel cried unto the LORD for Israel; and the LORD heard him. 10 And as Samuel was offering up the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to battle against Israel: but the LORD thundered with a great thunder on that day upon the Philistines, and discomfited them; and they were smitten before Israel.

Throughout Israel’s history, God repeatedly came to the aid of his people. In this instance, God was solely responsible for Israel’s success in battle. The might and planning of the Philistine army came to no avail when the Lord chose to act for Israel. The army was routed. We can praise the Lord that he protects his people today. Just as the Israelite army called upon the name of the Lord and he answered them, so we, as members of the body of Christ, can call upon God to save us. He is our refuge and our strength, and we can be assured that he fights for us.

(Read Psalm 18:1-3)

Not Ashamed of the Lordship of Christ

Have you ever noticed that some people get a little embarrassed in a restaurant if you bow your head and mention Jesus as you ask His blessing? They rub their eyebrows or forehead when you pray. Have you ever asked yourself why they’re ashamed? I think it is because they don’t know what they’re missing in Jesus. You see, salvation is a wonderful gift. God sent His Son to die for us. He rose from the grave for us. He ascended into heaven for us. He’s coming again for us! How can we be ashamed of this?

Next time you go to a restaurant, let your prayer of blessing turn into an evangelistic opportunity with your unsaved friend.

Three Reasons to Get Godly Counsel


Isn’t it amazing how often people venture into major life-changing decisions without getting any outside, biblical advice. Why do we do this to ourselves?

Sometimes we fear that a counselor will have a private agenda and won’t counsel us honestly. At other times, we presume to know what our counselors will say, and rationalize it away without even talking to them. But the most common reason we don’t get advice is because we would rather not hear what we already know. Self deception is a scary thing—we would rather be wrong and fantasize that things will work out, than really build a good decision with plenty of outside, biblical advice.

God’s Word is clear—Proverbs 11:14, “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.”

God instructs us to bring in a multitude of counsellors on our decisions, but I find that many Christians sell godly counsel short—they don’t get the full picture of how valuable good advice can be. There are three huge dynamics in play when getting counsel. It’s not merely about getting a “yes” or “no” on a particular decision. It’s bigger than that, so let’s break it down:

1. Counsel helps define a right decision—this is the first and perhaps biggest aspect of getting advice—just determining whether a decision is right or not. I would never make a major decision in life without a team of people standing behind me saying, “Yes, that’s the right move!” It’s not about being unduly dependent upon others to make my decisions. It’s about having confirmation from the collective wisdom of a godly team of advisors.

2. Counsel helps to define the right process—we often miss this. It’s very easy to do the right thing the wrong way! Getting biblical advice is a great way to put a plan together. It’s not enough just to do the right thing—it needs to be done the right way, and a team of wise advisors will help craft a plan of attack that will give the right decision the right process.

3. Counsel helps to define the right timing—finally, it’s possible to do the right thing the right way, but at the wrong time! For instance, a young person might have found the right person and have the right plan for marriage, but the timing can be way off. Getting counsel is sometimes about waiting for God to prove the right time.
There’s nothing better than doing the right thing, the right way, at the right time! Getting godly, biblical counsel is about putting together this kind of decision. It’s a fail-safe way of finding and doing God’s will. Are you willing to hear what you don’t want to hear? Are you willing to define the right process? Are you willing to find the right time?

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Understanding Destiny

Destiny, as used here, is defined as the time God has you on this earth for the purpose of fulfilling His will. Here are some basic concepts to understand about your destiny:

1. Your destiny is unique to you.
2. Your destiny is awesome!
3. You will only be happy as you fulfill your destiny.
4. Your destiny will give you a true sense of divine security.
5. Your destiny represents true success.
6. Your destiny can be missed.
7. Your destiny is now.
8. Destiny arrives from God by faith on a need-to-know basis.
9. Destiny is a deliberate choice.

Congratulations, You Need God!

God's best for your future starts at a point of need not a point of strength. If you view yourself in a position of need, if you see the decisions you face through the eye of humility and sincerity, then you will be driven to the Lord, to His Word, and to His guidance through godly counselors.

Proverbs 8:17 I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.

LIFELINE Student Ministry Blog

The primary purpose of this blog is to help young people in junior high, high school, college, and those young adults in the early career stage understand the importance of finding and living within God's perfect will for their lives. From time to time I may post thoughts on child rearing as well. I pray this blog will be a blessing to those who read it.

FRMBC Student Ministries:

    ProTeens (Grades 7-12)
    CrossWalk (post-high school - age 29)

FRMBC Ministries