Rivertown Church Podcast

Join us as Pastor Dennis Lacy explores 1 Corinthians 13. Here, we discuss the three Greek words used in the Bible for love: storge, philos, and agape. From there, Pastor Dennis goes into the characteristics of true agape love.

Join us as we learn about stepping out of our comfort zone in our relationship with Christ with guest speaker Andrew Chalmers!

“FREE ...with a clear conscience.Romans 12:9, 14, 17, 18 (NASB)9Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. 14Bless those who persecute you; bless and curse not. 17Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. 18If possible, so far as it depends on you,be at peace with all men.Romans 12:9-13 (NIV)9Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13Share with the Lord's people who are in need.WHAT IS A CLEAR CONSCIENCE? A Clear Conscience is the ability to say:“There is no one that I have ever wronged, offended, or hurt in any way that I have not gone backand attempted to make right with God and with them.”THE EXCUSES: “The skin of a reason wrapped around a lie!”“It happened a long time ago.”“They have moved away.”“It's such a small thing.”“Things have gotten better.”“It will cost me money.”“I'll do it later.”“The other person wasmostly wrong.”“They're not Christians.”“I was right and they were wrong.”“It happened before I was saved.”HOW DOES A UNCLEAR CONSCIENCE AFFECT ME?No Power In Witnessing. (I Peter 3:15-16)Active At Church, But Neglecting Other Spiritual Matters. (Matt. 7:21-23)Nervousness. (Proverbs 10:24)Always On The Defensive. (Proverbs 21:2)Anxiety, Tension, Guilt, And Frustration. (Matthew 18:34, 35)Inability To Make Wise Decisions In Light Of Our Ultimate Goal. (I Tim. 1:5)Fear. (Proverbs 28:1)Unable To Concentrate. (Psalms 38:14; James 1:9)Small Circle Of Friends. (Proverbs 18:4)Depression And Fatigue. (Proverbs 20:27, Psalms 32:1-4)Judgmental Attitude. (Romans 2:1-3; Matthew 7:1-5)Self-Condemnation. (Proverbs 8:36; Proverbs 11:9)No Joy. (II Corinthians 6:3-10)IV. THE BIBLICAL PATTERNMatthew 5 23“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.The scope of your confession should be as large but only as large as the transgression.Do NOT apologize or say “I'm sorry,” SAY, “Will you please forgive me?”Put the hardest person on your list FIRST.Keep Short Sin Accounts.-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------23-24 (MSG) “This is how I want you to conduct yourself in these matters. If you enter your place of worship and, about to make an offering, you suddenly remember a grudge a friend has against you, abandon your offering, leave immediately, go to this friend and make things right. Then and only then, come back and work things out with God. 25-26“Or say you're out on the street and an old enemy accosts you. Don't lose a minute. Make the first move; make things right with him. After all, if you leave the first move to him, knowing his track record, you're likely to end up in court, maybe even jail. If that happens, you won't get out without a stiff fine.

God does not have a permissive will. grace is the provisional place we stand in.

Philippians 3:10-14 KJV200010That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; 11If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. 12Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if indeed I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 13Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.To be completely consumed… William BordenSix Words...No Reserves: “I Press On” ― Dioko No Retreats: “The Mark” ― Skopon No Regrets:  “The Prize Of The Upward Calling” ― Brabeon  /  Kleseos “The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” ― Socrates“Get on fire for God and men will come and see you burn.” ― John Wesley“We need an outbreak of holy heartburn, when hearers shall be doers, when congregations shall go out from meetings to do things for God.” ― Vance HavnerGive me the love that leads the way, The faith that nothing can dismay, The hope no disappointments tire, The passion that will burn like fire.Let me not sink to be a clod; Make me thy fuel, Flame of God. ― Amy Carmichael

I Can Put Up With A Lot If I Have A Word From The Lord.Luke 1:26-56 (NASB)Logos: General Biblical Word Of GodRhema: The word the Holy Spirit quickens to a specific person for a specific situation.WHY YOU NEED A WORD FROM THE LORD:1. THE WORD OF THE LORD WILL STRENGTHEN YOU“But He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you [My lovingkindness and My mercy are more than enough—always available—regardless of the situation]; for [My] power is being perfected [and is completed and shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness.” Therefore, I will all the more gladly boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ [may completely enfold me and] may dwell in me.”  2 Corinthians 12:9 AMP2. THE WORD OF THE LORD COMES TO RELEASE PROMISE AND ENCOURAGEMENTPsalm 37:4 – “Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.Psalm 21:2 – “You have given him his heart's desire, and have not withheld the request of his lips.3. THE WORD OF THE LORD COMES TO GIVE DIRECTION"Our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” 2 Chronicles 20:124. THE WORD OF THE LORD COMES TO DISCIPLINE OR REBUKE"and you have forgotten the divine word of encouragement which is addressed to you as sons, “My son, do not make light of the discipline of the Lord, And do not lose heart and give up when you are corrected by Him;  6For the Lord disciplines and corrects those whom He loves, And He punishes every son whom He receives and welcomes [to His heart].”  Hebrews 12:5-6 AMP5. THE WORD OF THE LORD HELPS BUILD YOUR FAITH“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:176. THE WORD OF THE LORD GIVES YOU THE ABILITY TO SUCCEED"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success." Joshua 1:8 7. THE WORD OF THE LORD KEEPS YOU FOCUSED AND FLOURISHING"The [uncompromisingly] righteous shall flourish like the palm tree [be long-lived, stately, upright, useful, and fruitful]; they shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon [majestic, stable, durable, and incorruptible]." Psalm 92:12 "For I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that Day. " 1 Timothy 1:12"For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us. 21Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, 22who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee." 2 Corinthians 1:20-21

5 Ways to Show God's Love:1.) Listening2.) Showing Generosity3.) Encouragement4.) Acts of Kindness5.) Praying

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Request.Casual Friends Are The Result Of Circumstances.    Close Friends Are The Result Of Choices.  The righteous choose their friends carefully.  Proverbs 12:26 (NIV) F.R.I.E.N.D.S.  1 Corinthians 13(F)ight for you. Does Not Delight In Evil. Rejoices In Truth. vs. 5, 6(R)espect you. Does Not Envy.  Does Not Boast.Is Not Proud.   Is Not Rude.   Is Not Selfish.Is Not Easily Angered. Keeps No Of Record Of Wrongs. vs. 4-5(I)nvolve you. "Learn the international language of a smile. If you don't know what to do or don't know what to say, the least you can do is smile.""Ask yourself seriously, 'Would You Want You As A Friend?'""Negative people have negative attitudes that repel people. Positive people have positive attitudes that attract people."(E)ncourage you. Love Is Patient.  Love Is Kind.  vs. 4(N)EED YOU. “Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another:  ‘What? You too! I Thought I was the only one'” - C.S. Lewis(D)ESERVE YOU. Always Protects. Always Trusts. Always Hopes. Always Perseveres. vs. 7(S)AVE YOU.Love Never Fails.  vs. 8      “Expressionless love is not love”     (story guy falls in hole, Dr, Rabbi)Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends.  John 15:13REMEMBER THAT PEOPLE CAN CHANGE! - The Story Of The Formerly Demon-Possessed Friend: Luke 8:26-39 

Give Up!“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”‭‭John‬ ‭3:16‬ ‭NIV‬‬God brought HIMSELF TO ME so He could bring ME TO HIMSELF. “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?”‭‭Romans‬ ‭8:32‬ ‭NIV‬‬Jesus became LIKE ME so I could become LIKE HIM. “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!”‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2:5-8‬ ‭NIV‬‬Jesus GAVE UP everything so I could GAIN everything. “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.”‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭1:3‬ ‭NIV‬‬So what should be my response? - GIVE UP!“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.”‭‭Romans‬ ‭12:1‬ ‭NKJV‬‬Salvation is FREE but it will COST ME everything. “In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.”‭‭Luke‬ ‭14:33‬ ‭NIV‬‬Giving up is not all about what I have to LOSE but is all about what I stand to GAIN. “The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor.”‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭61:1-3‬ ‭NIV‬‬Give up sadness to take up joy. Give up hopelessness to take up hope. Give up despair to take up praise. Give up heartache to take up comfort. Give up captivity to take up freedom. Give up your labels to take up your identity. Give up your dreams to take up your destiny. Give up our fears to take up faith. Give up your weaknesses to take up His strength. Give up your worries to take up His peace. Give up your problems to take up your purpose. Give up the lies to take up the Truth. Give up death to take up life.

LIES, LIES… All LIES!Famous Lies… Get Free This Morning…  Lies Are Like Chains…  (CHAINS)                       Satan is A Liar and the father of Lies!  John 8:44Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. 3For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, 4in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit.  Romans 8:1-4Lie # 1 - A true Christ-Follower Would Have Never Done That.    Lie # 2 - A Holy God Will Never Forgive Sin Like Mine (Yours)Lie # 3 - Your Family and Friends will Never Love Or Respect You Again When They Find Out What You've Done.   Lie # 4 - Your Church Will Never Open Its Arms To You Again.  Lie # 5 - You'll Never Be Eligible To Be Used By God Again.   “If any area of my life is not glistening with hope, then I am believing a lie. That area of my life has become a stronghold of the enemy.” Romans 15:13 ISVNow may God, the source of hope, fill you with all joy and peace as you believe, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.  Hope is the confident, joyful expectation that GOOD IS COMING.DO YOU BELIEVE IN HOPE?Is There CONSISTENT, TANGIBLE EVIDENCE in my WORDS, ACTIONS, and ATTITUDES that I TRULY BELIEVE... 1. There Is Always A Solution. Mat. 7:7-82. I Will Always Know What To Do. James. 1:5-8,123. I will Thrive No Matter What Happens. Phil. 4:11-134. I Will Always Have The Resources I Need To Do What Needs To Be Done. Phil.  4:195. My Mistakes Will Always Be Turned To Good. Rom. 8:28There are no hopeless circumstances, only hopeless people.Once someone gets true hope, their circumstances cannot stay the same.BELIEVE IN HOPE!  That It Matters.  Will Make A Difference.  Is The Right Direction. Every Road Without The Signpost Of Hope Leads To A Lie.

Five Ways God Speaks To Us"The hand of our God is on all those who seek him, for good; but his power and his wrath is against all those who forsake him."Ezra 8:22“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.  1 Peter 5:6-71. The Bible.  Matthew 4:4, 7, 10 2. Impressions From God's Holy Spirit. John 5:19 3. Circumstances:  Opened And Closed Doors.  Matthew 13:57, 584. Research And Reason.  John 9:3-4 5. Wise Counsel: Mature Christian Friends And My Spiritual Authorities.  Luke 7:8, 9---------------------------1. The Bible.“For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”  Hebrews 4:12b"It is written..."  Matthew 4:4, 7, 10---------------------------2. Impressions From God's Holy Spirit.“So Jesus explained, “I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself. He does only what he sees the Father doing. Whatever the Father does, the Son also does." John 5:19 (NASB)“I can do nothing on My own initiative. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me." John 5:30 (NASB)------------------------------------------------------3. Circumstances: Opened And Closed Doors.And they took offense at Him. But Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his hometown and in his own household." Matthew 13:57And He did not do many miracles there because of their unbelief. Matthew 13:58 (NASB)---------------------------------------------------------4. Research And Reason.Jesus answered, “It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was so that the works of God might be displayed in him. We must work the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming when no one can work." John 9:3-4 (NASB)----------------------------------5. Wise Counsel: Mature Christian Friends And My Spiritual Authorities.For I also am a man placed under authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to this one, 'Go!' and he goes, and to another, 'Come!' and he comes, and to my slave, 'Do this!' and he does it." Luke 7:8Now when Jesus heard this, He marveled at him, and turned and said to the crowd that was following Him, "I say to you, not even in Israel have I found such great faith." Luke 7:9 (NASB)

“Love Handles” Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.   Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:1-2 I. Love them enough to bring up the problem personally and privately.“If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confess it, you have won that person back.  Matthew 18:15 NLT II. Love them enough to get help.But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses. Matthew 18:16 NLTIII. Love them enough to broaden the circle of intervention.If the person still refuses to listen, take your case to the church. Then if he or she won't accept the church's decision, treat that person as a pagan or a corrupt tax collector.  Matthew 18:17 NLTWhat is Gossip?Sharing information that causes pain is called Gossip.  Sharing information that heals pain is called Ministry.How do I know if it's Gossip?You can know it's gossip if you haven't spoken to the person who caused the problem.You can know it's gossip if the person you are talking to is not related to the problem.You can know it's gossip if you can't give names and only speak in vague generalities.You can know it's gossip if you are making judgments about another person?Fact: If someone Gossips TO YOU, They will also Gossip ABOUT YOU.What do I do if someone gossips to me? Stop Them Abruptly – Confront Them Lovingly – Take Them To The Person.Why do people Gossip? Low Self Esteem – Pride – Fear.You will never be Free from Gossip until you are willing to risk losing a friend who gossips.IV. Love them enough to never give up on them.18“I tell you the truth, whatever you forbid on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven.  19 “I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you.  20 For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” Matthew 18:18-20 NLT

Luke 18:1-5, 2 Kings 18:45, 2 Corinthians 1:10  “The emerging picture from such studies is that 10,000 hours of practice is required to achieve a level of mastery associated with being a world class expert in anything”- Neurologist Daniel Levitin   Is Prayer Any Different?  The Bigger The Dream, The Harder You Will Have To Pray. LUKE 18:1-7 (NASB)Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not become discouraged, saying, “In a certain city there was a judge who did not fear God and did not respect any person. Now there was a widow in that city, and she kept coming to him, saying, ‘Give me justice against my opponent.' For a while he was unwilling; but later he said to himself, ‘Even though I do not fear God nor respect any person, yet because this widow is bothering me, I will give her justice; otherwise by continually coming she will wear me out.'” And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unrighteous judge said; now, will God not bring about justice for His elect who cry out to Him day and night, and will He delay long for them? I tell you that He will bring about justice for them quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?”Knocking Until Your Knuckles Are Raw. Crying Out Until Your Voice Is Lost.Pleading Until Your Tears Run Dry. Praying Hard Is Praying Through. IF YOU PRAY THROUGH, GOD WILL COME THROUGH.    Praying Hard Is Going Twelve Rounds With God. Praying Hard Is Blood, Sweat, And Tears. Praying Hard Is Praying Like It Depends On God and Working Like It Depends On You! Praying Hard Means You're Humble And Willing To Change. There Comes A Moment When You Throw Caution To The Wind, Cancel All Your Other Plans, And Draw A Line In The Sand.  STOP, DROP, AND PRAY!   The Judge Knew That There Was No Quit In The Persistent Widow. Does THE JUDGE Know That About You? The Only Question Is… How Desperate Are You?Bold Prayers Are Uncivilized Prayers. 1. Mary crashed a party 2. Nicodemus Climbed A Tree 3. The Four Friends Raised The Roof And Lowered Their Friend To Jesus.God Is Still Honoring Uncivilized Desperadoes Who Crash Parties And Climb Trees! Be Hard Charging, Hard Praying, Uncivilized And Bold! The Story of Elijah The Circle Maker - 1 Kings 18:41-46 (Ref)Now Elijah said to Ahab, “Go up, eat and drink; for there is the sound of the roar of a heavy shower.” So Ahab went up to eat and drink. But Elijah went up to the top of Carmel; and he crouched down on the earth and put his face between his knees. He said to his servant, “Go up now, look toward the sea.” So he went up and looked and said, “There is nothing.” And he said, “Go back” seven times. It came about at the seventh time, that he said, “Behold, a cloud as small as a man's hand is coming up from the sea.” And he said, “Go up, say to Ahab, ‘Prepare your chariot and go down, so that the heavy shower does not stop you.'” In a little while the sky grew black with clouds and wind, and there was a heavy shower. And Ahab rode and went to Jezreel. Then the hand of the LORD was on Elijah, and he girded up his loins and outran Ahab to Jezreel.HOLD ON TO HIS PROMISE.Pray Circles Around Bible Promises - There Are Over 3,000!God Said It, I've Circled it, That Settles It.The Only Way You Can Fail Is If You Stop Praying.Our Lack Of Persistence Is Often Just A Lack Of Prayer Material.“Every place on which the sole of your foot treads, I have given it to you, just as I spoke to Moses” Joshua 1:3

Six Things That Send Us To The CrossAnd He was saying to them all, " If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me. Luke 9:23 (NASB)I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ lives in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20 (KJV)1. EXPECTATIONMatthew 26:33-34 Peter replied, "Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will." 34"I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times." (NIV) 2. TEMPTATIONLuke 22:40-42 When He arrived at the place, He said to them, "Pray that you may not enter into temptation." 41And He withdrew from them about a stone's throw, and He knelt down and began to pray,42 "Father, if You are willing, remove this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done." (NASB)3. IRRITATIONLuke 23:34 Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." (NASB)4. HUMILIATIONMatt 27:28-30 They stripped Him and put a scarlet robe on Him. 29 And after twisting together a crown of thorns, they put it on His head, and a reed in His right hand; and they knelt down before Him and mocked Him, saying, "Hail, King of the Jews!" 30 They spat on Him, and took the reed and began to beat Him on the head. (NASB) 5. DEVASTATIONMatthew 27:46 About the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, "ELI, ELI, LAMA SABACHTHANI?" that is, "MY GOD, MY GOD, WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME?" (NASB)6. TRANSFORMATIONLuke 23:46 And Jesus, crying out with a loud voice, said, "Father, INTO YOUR HANDS I COMMIT MY SPIRIT." Having said this, He breathed His last. (NASB)*If you decided to follow Christ while listening to this podcast, please visit www.rivertownchurch.com and fill out the "Contact Us" form to tell us about your decision!

SAMSON.  The Story Of Samson Judges 13-16 God's greatest work in your life is still ahead of you!  His next step for you is already beginning.  His solution is already in your hand.  Judges 15:2-5 (NLT) “I truly thought you must hate her,” her father explained, “so I gave her in marriage to your best man. But look, her younger sister is even more beautiful than she is. Marry her instead.”  3Samson said, “This time I cannot be blamed for everything I am going to do to you Philistines.” 4Then he went out and caught 300 foxes. He tied their tails together in pairs, and he fastened a torch to each pair of tails. 5Then he lit the torches and let the foxes run through the grain fields of the Philistines. He burned all their grain to the ground, including the sheaves and the uncut grain. He also destroyed their vineyards and olive groves.Judges 15:14-17 (NLT) As Samson arrived at Lehi, the Philistines came shouting in triumph. But the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon Samson, and he snapped the ropes on his arms as if they were burnt strands of flax, and they fell from his wrists. 15Then he found the jawbone of a recently killed donkey. He picked it up and killed 1,000 Philistines with it. 16Then Samson said, "With the jawbone of a donkey, I've piled them in heaps!  With the jawbone of a donkey, I've killed a thousand men!"  17When he finished his boasting, he threw away the jawbone; and the place was named Jawbone Hill. Judges 16:28-30 (NLT) Then Samson prayed to the Lord, “Sovereign Lord, remember me again. O God, please strengthen me just one more time. With one blow let me pay back the Philistines for the loss of my two eyes.” 29Then Samson put his hands on the two center pillars that held up the temple. Pushing against them with both hands, 30he prayed, “Let me die with the Philistines.” And the temple crashed down on the Philistine rulers and all the people. So he killed more people when he died than he had during his entire lifetime.SAMSON PRINCIPLE:STOP WAITING FOR WHAT YOU WANT AND START WORKING WITH WHAT YOU HAVE!You're not waiting on God to act, He's waiting on you to start.Don't let what you can't do keep you from what you can do.  If you do what you can with what you have where you are, God will increase what you have and he won't leave you where you are!

“There is no neutral ground in the universe. Every square inch, every split second is claimed by God, and counterclaimed by Satan.” C.S. Lewis Book - Strategy of Satan by Warren WiersbeSatan is the deceiver who attacks your mind with lies.Satan is the accuser who attacks your heart with accusations.Satan is the destroyer who attacks your will with pride.“… He [the devil] was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 8:44HOW DID THE DEVIL LIE TO EVE?THE DECEIVER QUESTIONED GOD'S WORD.… He [the serpent] said to the woman, "Did God really say, 'You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?" Genesis 3:1The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden,” Genesis 3:2When you start to question the goodness of God, it's easier to disobey the will of God.THE DECEIVER TWISTED GOD'S WORD.“You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. 5 “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” Genesis 3:4-5… the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:17For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword … Hebrews 4:12Turn rocks into bread—Written—Man shall not live  on bread alone.Throw yourself down—Written—Do not put Lord to test.Bow down worship—Away—Written—Worship Lord God. Matt 4GOD'S WORD IS OUR SWORD TO FIGHT WITH!Ps 119:11 (I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin.)Before the word comes from your mouth, It must be hidden in your heart.VERSES FOR.... When you are discouraged. Psalm. 42:11Why am I so downcast oh my soul—I put my hope in God. Ps. 42:11When your Family is under attack. Isaiah 54:17, Joshua 24:15No weapon formed against us will prosper. Isaiah 54:17As for me and my house. Joshua 24:15When you don't know if I can make it another day. Galatians 6:9, Philippians 4:13Not grow weary in doing good, for in due time you will reap if you do not lose heart.  Galatians 6:9I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13When the diagnosis is not good. Matthew 19:26, Isaiah 53:5Believe with all my heart—all things are possible with God.  Matt 19:26By His stripes, we are Healed. Isaiah 53:5Not sure what to do. Proverbs 3:5-6Trust in the Lord with all my heart, Lean not on my own understanding.  Proverbs 3:5-6After what you did… Romans 8:1There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ. Romans 8:1Relationship in trouble. 1 Corinthians 13Love is patient… 1 Corinthians 13His [Jesus'] head and his hair were white like wool, as white as snow. And his eyes were like flames of fire. 15 His feet were like polished bronze refined in a furnace, and his voice thundered like mighty ocean waves. 16 He held seven stars in his right hand, and a sharp two-edged sword came from his mouth. And his face was like the sun in all its brilliance. Revelations 1:14-16 NLT

3 Objectives for Today:Love on Jesus together with you.Remind you of God's love for you.Challenge you to share the love of God with others. 7 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 9 This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 11 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.I John 4:7-12Love is visible God showed his love among us (v9)Love is an act of the will God sent his son (v9)Love is sacrificial - Love cost God his one and only son (v9)Love serves the unlovable not that we loved God but that he loved us (v10)

TRUE WORSHIP IS THE ECSTASY OF A PURE AND HOLY SACRIFICE.Nehemiah 12:27-30 Now at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought out the Levites from all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem so that they might celebrate the dedication with gladness, with hymns of thanksgiving and with songs to the accompaniment of cymbals, harps, and lyres. 28So the sons of the singers were assembled from the district around Jerusalem, and from the villages of the Netophathites, 29from Beth-gilgal, and from their fields in Geba and Azmaveth, for the singers had built themselves villages around Jerusalem. 30And the priests and the Levites purified themselves; they also purified the people, the gates, and the wall.43and on that day they offered great sacrifices and rejoiced because God had given them great joy, even the women and children rejoiced, so that the joy of Jerusalem was heard from afar.Nehemiah 9:2, 3 And the descendants of Israel separated themselves from all foreigners, and stood and confessed their sins and the iniquities of their fathers. 3While they stood in their place, they read from the book of the law of the LORD their God for a fourth of the day; and for another fourth they confessed and worshiped the LORD their God.TRUE WORSHIP RIGHTS WRONGS FROM THE PAST.8:17, 18  And the entire assembly of those who had returned from the captivity made booths and lived in them. The sons of Israel had indeed not done so from the days of Joshua the son of Nun to that day. And there was great rejoicing. 18And he read from the book of the law of God daily, from the first day to the last day. And they celebrated the feast seven days, and on the eighth day there was a solemn assembly according to the ordinance.TRUE WORSHIP IS THE RHYTHM OF PASSIONATE WORK AND CELEBRATING REST.

THE PURPOSE OF BUILDING THE WALL WAS TO CREATE A COMMUNITY OF TRUE WORSHIPERS.TRUE WORSHIP IS OBEDIENCE10:1, 28-31, 32 Now on the sealed document…28Now the rest of the people, the priests, the Levites, the gatekeepers, the singers, the temple servants, and all those who had separated themselves from the peoples of the lands to the law of God, their wives, their sons and their daughters, all those who had knowledge and understanding, 29are joining with their kinsmen, their nobles, and are taking on themselves a curse and an oath to walk in God's law, which was given through Moses, God's servant, and to keep and to observe all the commandments of GOD our Lord, and His ordinances and His statutes; 30and that we will not give our daughters to the peoples of the land or take their daughters for our sons. 31As for the peoples of the land who bring wares or any grain on the sabbath day to sell, we will not buy from them on the sabbath or a holy day; and we will forego the crops the seventh year and the exaction of every debt. 32We also placed ourselves under obligation to contribute yearly one third of a shekel for the service of the house of our God 35...bring the first fruits of our ground... fruit of every tree 36...of our cattle, ...of our herds and our flocks  37...our dough, our contributions, the fruit of every tree, the new wine and the oil. ...and the tithe of our ground to the Levites. 38...and the Levites shall bring up the tenth of the tithes to the house of our God 39...the utensils of the sanctuary, the priests who are ministering, the gatekeepers, and the singers. Thus we will not neglect the house of our God.TRUE WORSHIP IS THE ECSTASY OF A PURE AND HOLY SACRIFICE.12:27-30 Now at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought out the Levites from all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem so that they might celebrate the dedication with gladness, with hymns of thanksgiving and with songs to the accompaniment of cymbals, harps, and lyres. 28So the sons of the singers were assembled from the district around Jerusalem, and from the villages of the Netophathites, 29from Beth-gilgal, and from their fields in Geba and Azmaveth, for the singers had built themselves villages around Jerusalem. 30And the priests and the Levites purified themselves; they also purified the people, the gates, and the wall.43and on that day they offered great sacrifices and rejoiced because God had given them great joy, even the women and children rejoiced, so that the joy of Jerusalem was heard from afar.9:2, 3 And the descendants of Israel separated themselves from all foreigners, and stood and confessed their sins and the iniquities of their fathers. 3While they stood in their place, they read from the book of the law of the LORD their God for a fourth of the day; and for another fourth they confessed and worshiped the LORD their God.TRUE WORSHIP RIGHTS WRONGS FROM THE PAST.8:17, 18  And the entire assembly of those who had returned from the captivity made booths and lived in them. The sons of Israel had indeed not done so from the days of Joshua the son of Nun to that day. And there was great rejoicing. 18And he read from the book of the law of God daily, from the first day to the last day. And they celebrated the feast seven days, and on the eighth day there was a solemn assembly according to the ordinance.TRUE WORSHIP IS THE RHYTHM OF PASSIONATE WORK AND CELEBRATING REST.

TRUE WORSHIP - Nehemiah 6, 8, 12         The Purpose Of Building The Wall Was To Build A Community Of True Worshipers. True Worship Lifts Up God's Word. True Worship Is:  Sin + Grace = Holy Worship.    Not: Sin + Guilt = Selfish Shame   Nehemiah 8:9-12                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                True Worship Is Obedience.Nehemiah 10:1, 28-31, 32 True Worship Is the Ecstasy Of A Pure And Holy Sacrifice.12:27-30 Now at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought out the Levites from all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem so that they might celebrate the dedication with gladness, with hymns of thanksgiving and with songs to the accompaniment of cymbals, harps, and lyres. 28So the sons of the singers were assembled from the district around Jerusalem, and from the villages of the Netophathites, 29from Beth-gilgal, and from their fields in Geba and Azmaveth, for the singers had built themselves villages around Jerusalem. 30And the priests and the Levites purified themselves; they also purified the people, the gates, and the wall.43and on that day they offered great sacrifices and rejoiced because God had given them great joy, even the women and children rejoiced, so that the joy of Jerusalem was heard from afar.True Worship Is The Rhythm Of Passionate Work And Celebrating Rest.True Worship Rights Wrongs From The Past.8:17, 18  And the entire assembly of those who had returned from the captivity made booths and lived in them. The sons of Israel had indeed not done so from the days of Joshua the son of Nun to that day. And there was great rejoicing. 18And he read from the book of the law of God daily, from the first day to the last day. And they celebrated the feast seven days, and on the eighth day there was a solemn assembly according to the ordinance.

Nehemiah 6:5-14Then Sanballat sent his servant to me in the same manner a fifth time with an open letter in his hand. 6In it was written, “It is reported among the nations, and Gashmu says, that you and the Jews are planning to rebel; therefore you are rebuilding the wall. And you are to be their king, according to these reports. Nehemiah 6:5-6“And you have also appointed prophets to proclaim in Jerusalem concerning you, ‘A king is in Judah!' And now it will be reported to the king according to these reports. So come now, let us take counsel together.” Nehemiah 6:7Believe The Best!  Everything Falls Apart If People Stop Believing The Best. Then I sent a message to him saying, “Such things as you are saying have not been done, but you are inventing them in your own mind.” Nehemiah 6:8For all of them were trying to frighten us, thinking, “They will become discouraged with the work and it will not be done.”  But now, O God, strengthen my hands. Nehemiah 6:9Confront The Rest!  Negative And Divisive People Are Contagious Acid To A Community‘s Soul.  They must be called out personally.  And when I entered the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah, son of Mehetabel, who was confined at home, he said, “Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple, and let us close the doors of the temple, for they are coming to kill you, and they are coming to kill you at night.” Nehemiah 6:10Watch Out For The God Card.  “Where Is Judas? Close Enough To Kiss You”  And He Thinks He's Doing God's Work. But I said, “Should a man like me flee? And could one such as I go into the temple to save his life? I will not go in.” 12Then I perceived that surely God had not sent him, but he uttered his prophecy against me because Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him. Nehemiah 6:11-12He was hired for this reason, that I might become frightened and act accordingly and sin, so that they might have an evil report in order that they could reproach me. Nehemiah 6:13Believe In Who You Are.  Even If The People Closest To You Don't.  Remember, O my God, Tobiah and Sanballat according to these works of theirs, and also Noadiah the prophetess and the rest of the prophets who were trying to frighten me. Nehemiah 6:14Pray Honest Prayers.  Confess Your Weakness. Name Names.  And Get Out Of The Way!

You Have To Give Up To Go Up! - Nehemiah 5The Powerful People In Jerusalem Wanted A New Wall And A Strong Growing Nation, As Long As Their Lives Could Stay Exactly The Same.Nehemiah 5:1-13 (ESV)Now there arose a great outcry of the people and of their wives against their Jewish brothers. 2For there were those who said, “With our sons and our daughters, we are many. So let us get grain, that we may eat and keep alive.” 3There were also those who said, “We are mortgaging our fields, our vineyards, and our houses to get grain because of the famine.” 4And there were those who said, “We have borrowed money for the king's tax on our fields and our vineyards. 5Now our flesh is as the flesh of our brothers, our children are as their children. Yet we are forcing our sons and our daughters to be slaves, and some of our daughters have already been enslaved, but it is not in our power to help it, for other men have our fields and our vineyards.” 6I was very angry when I heard their outcry and these words.  7I took counsel [consulted] with myself, and I brought charges against the nobles and the officials. I said to them, “You are exacting interest, each from his brother.” And I held a great assembly against them 8and said to them, “We, as far as we are able, have bought back our Jewish brothers who have been sold to the nations, but you even sell your brothers that they may be sold to us!” They were silent and could not find a word to say. 9So I said, “The thing that you are doing is not good. Ought you not to walk in the fear of our God to prevent the taunts of the nations our enemies? 10Moreover, I and my brothers and my servants are lending them money and grain. Let us abandon this exacting of interest. 11Return to them this very day their fields, their vineyards, their olive orchards, and their houses, and the percentage of money, grain, wine, and oil that you have been exacting from them.” The “Give-Ups” That Make Us “Go-Up” ComfortControlChangeCost 12Then they said, “We will restore these and require nothing from them. We will do as you say.” And I called the priests and made them swear to do as they had promised.13I also shook out the fold of my garment and said, “So may God shake out every man from his house and from his labor who does not keep this promise. So may he be shaken out and emptied.” And all the assembly said “Amen” and praised the LORD. And the people did as they had promised.Ask God To Show You A "Give-Up To Go-Up" Today! 1. For You. 2. For Your Family. 3. For Our Church To Transform Lives And Reach The City.

STAND IN THE GAP - Nehemiah Series Part 4Gap In The Wall: An Opening I Have Allowed Or Created That Is Being Unattended Or Ignored.  OR Anything In My Life That Cooperates With The Enemy's Plan To Limit Or Destroy God's Work In And Through Me.    Nehemiah 4:6-9 (NIV) "So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart. 7But when Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites and the people of Ashdod heard that the repairs to Jerusalem's walls had gone ahead and that the gaps were being closed, they were very angry. 8They all plotted together to come and fight against Jerusalem and stir up trouble against it. 9But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat."Put Your Heart Into It.Closed Gaps = No Enemy Access. Closed Gaps Frustrate The Enemy's Plots Against You.We Must Work In Unity. Our Enemy Does.Threats Are Met By Prayer And Work. Nehemiah 4:13-15 (NIV) "Therefore I stationed some of the people behind the lowest points of the wall at the exposed places, posting them by families, with their swords, spears and bows. 14After I looked things over, I stood up and said to the nobles, the officials and the rest of the people, “Don't be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.” 15When our enemies heard that we were aware of their plot and that God had frustrated it, we all returned to the wall, each to our own work.What Kinds Of Gaps Do We Have?  What Gap Are You Personally Filling? What Family Factors Are At Stake For You?Who Are You Fighting For?  Families, Sons, Daughters, Wives, Homes.Are You Aware Of The Enemy's Specific Plot Against You?   What Work Should You Return To?   What Are You Waiting For?

WHO'S YOUR DADDY?  Authority IssuesThe Absent Father: No Authority. But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.  1 Timothy 5:8  (KJV)  | The Overbearing Father: Own Authority.  Fathers, do not irritate and provoke your children to anger [do not exasperate them to resentment]Ephesians 6:4 (Amplified) | The Wise Father: God's Authority. "For I also am a man under authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to this one, 'Go!' and he goes, and to another, 'Come!' and he comes, and to my slave, 'Do this!' and he does it."  Matthew 8:9 (NASB) Who's Your REAL Daddy?  God's Authority, Genesis 22 Your REAL Daddy Is A Higher Authority. 1Some time later God tested Abraham. He said to him, "Abraham!" "Here I am," he replied.   Your REAL Daddy Does Things You Don't Understand. 2Then God said, "Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about." Your REAL Daddy Works Through Human Authority.6Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac, and he himself carried the fire and the knife. As the two of them went on together, 7Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, "Father?" "Yes, my son?" Abraham replied. "The fire and wood are here," Isaac said, "but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?" 8Abraham answered, "God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son." And the two of them went on together.Your REAL Daddy Always Comes Through In The End.12"Do not lay a hand on the boy," he said. "Do not do anything to him. Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son."  13Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. 14So Abraham called that place The LORD Will Provide. And to this day it is said, "On the mountain of the LORD it will be provided." 

WINNING THE WAR OF WORDSDeath and life are in the power of the tongue. Proverbs 18:21 (NASB)Good People Can Be Unintentional Carriers Of Destructive Word Warfare. The Closer You Are To Someone The Deeper Their “Word Impact” Will Be.  Enemy Words Are Only Dangerous To Me If I Receive Them. -Nehemiah 4:1-5 (NASB)1Now it came about that when Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became furious and very angry and mocked the Jews. 2And he spoke in the presence of his brothers and the wealthy men of Samaria and said, “What are these feeble Jews doing?  Are they going to restore it for themselves?  Can they offer sacrifices?  Can they finish in a day? Can they revive the stones from the dusty rubble even the burned ones?” 3Now Tobiah the Ammonite was near him and he said, “Even what they are building - if a fox should jump on it, he would break their stone wall down!”4Hear, O our God, how we are despised!  Return their reproach on their own heads and give them up for plunder in a land of captivity. 5Do not forgive their iniquity and let not their sin be blotted out before Thee, FOR THEY HAVE DEMORALIZED THE BUILDERS.-     Demoralize - Def: Verb1. To deprive a person of spirit, courage, physical energy, or discipline.2. To throw a person or persons into disorder and confusion.-Bad News Always Sounds More Powerful Than Good News.You'll Never Rise Higher Than The Words You Allow To Dominate You.  Words Are The Most Common Vehicle Used To Carry Negativity, Pain, Fear, And Discouragement.-BUILDING A WALL AGAINST ENEMY WORDS:  Learn To Recognize Ungodly Ridicule And Criticism Of Yourself And Those You Love.  Realize What Real Feelings Inside Your Heart Their Words Have Activated.  Stop And Humbly Confront The Person.  Interrupt If Necessary.         Use Your Own Mouth To Fill The Air With Praise And Positivity.    Privately Pray And Claim Your Right To The Unbridled Blessing And Unconditional Love Of God.  Quote Memorized Scripture To Replace The Negative Pre-Recorded Tapes In Your Head.   Psalm 68:19, 55:22,  Romans 8:31Find A Friend.  So we built the wall and the whole wall was joined together to half its height, for the people had a mind to work. Nehemiah 4:6Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.  Romans 12:21 (NASB)

I CANNOT COME DOWN, Nehemiah Part 2The Sign Of A Great Work Of God Is Enemies.All Great People Have Enemies.  The Difference Is WHO Those Enemies Are!  Defining Your Enemies: An Enemy Is Any Distraction From God's Great Work In And Through Your Life.   Your Enemy's First Goal Is Always To Turn Your Attention Away From God's Great Work!  “I am doing a great work and I cannot come down.” - Nehemiah 6:3  My Great Work For God Is _____________.   I Cannot Come Down!    Nehemiah 2:17-20 Then I said to them, “You see the bad situation we are in, that Jerusalem is desolate and its gates burned by fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem that we may no longer be a reproach.” 18And I told them how the hand of my God had been favorable to me, and also about the king's words which he had spoken to me. Then they said, “Let us arise and build.” So they put their hands to the good work. 19But when Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the Ammonite official, and Geshem the Arab heard it, they mocked us and despised us and said, “What is this thing you are doing? Are you rebelling against the king?” 20So I answered them and said to them, “The God of heaven will give us success; therefore we His servants will arise and build, but you have no portion, right, or memorial in Jerusalem.”Nehemiah 6:1-4Now it came about when it was reported to Sanballat, Tobiah, to Geshem the Arab, and to the rest of our enemies that I had rebuilt the wall, and that no breach remained in it, although at that time I had not set up the doors in the gates, 2that Sanballat and Geshem sent a message to me, saying, “Come, let us meet together at Chephirim in the plain of Ono.” But they were planning to harm me. 3So I sent messengers to them, saying, “I am doing a great work and I cannot come down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and come down to you?” 4And they sent messages to me four times in this manner, and I answered them in the same way.“I am doing a great work and I cannot come down.” - Nehemiah 6:3  My Great Work For God Is __________________________.   I Cannot Come Down!    

WHO CARES?  Nehemiah Series."The words of Nehemiah the son of Hacaliah. Now it happened in the month Chislev, in the twentieth year, while I was in Susa the capitol, 2that Hanani, one of my brothers, and some men from Judah came; and I asked them concerning the Jews who had escaped and had survived the captivity, and about Jerusalem. 3A see nd they said to me, “The said remnant there in the province who survived the captivity are in great distress and reproach, and the wall of Jerusalem is broken down and its gates are burned with fire.”  4Now it came about when I heard these words, I sat down and wept and mourned for days; and I was fasting and praying before the God of heaven."-SIT DOWN TO WEEP"Now it came about when I heard these words, I sat down and wept and mourned for days..." Nehemiah 1:4-What Breaks Your Heart?-Your Personal Destiny Is Inextricably Tied To God's Work Through The Church In Your City.-KNEEL DOWN TO PRAY"...and I was fasting and praying before the God of Heaven."  Nehemiah 1:4b-Pray That Factors Beyond Your Control Will Turn in Your Favor.    Pray For Overwhelming Confidence!  -“Hope In The Future Gives You Power in the Present.” - John Maxwell -STAND UP TO ACTNehemiah 2:2-5"So the king said to me, “Why is your face sad though you are not sick? This is nothing but sadness of heart.” Then I was very much afraid. 3And I said to the king, “Let the king live forever. Why should my face not be sad when the city, the place of my fathers' tombs, lies desolate and its gates have been consumed by fire?” 4Then the king said to me, “What would you request?” So I prayed to the God of heaven. 5And I said to the king, “If it please the king, and if your servant has found favor before you, send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers' tombs, that I may rebuild it.” -“Be The Change You Want To See In The World.” - Mother Teresa         -OUR CITY + YOU = __________ FOR GOD'S GLORY!  

Why Do You Call Me, "Lord, Lord..."“Why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say?  Luke 6:46“WHY?”I'm Sorry, I Didn't Understand The Question.Because I Wanted To Obey When I Said It.Because It Doesn't Fit In To My Current Direction.Because I'm Afraid.  Because I'm Proud.Because I'm Ashamed.  Because I'm Comfortable.  Because I'm Tired.  Because I'll Be Bored. Because I Don't Really Trust God.  Because I Don't Have The Resources. Because I Want To Figure It Out Myself. Because I Will Fail Again. Because I Just Want Him To Do It For Me. Because I'm Not Desperate Enough To Change. Because I Want To Protect Myself.  Because I've Been Hurt Following God. Because God Hasn't Answered My Prayers.Because I Want To Please Somebody Else.Because I Love Other Things More.   Because I'm Not Sure What He Wants From Me.Because I Don't Know Enough of The Bible.    Because I Don't Recognize His Voice. Because I'm Really My Own Master.Luke 6:46-49 (NASB)“Why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say? 47Everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and acts on them, I will show you whom he is like: 48 he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid a foundation on the rock; and when a flood occurred, the torrent burst against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built. 49But the one who has heard and has not acted accordingly, is like a man who built a house on the ground without any foundation; and the torrent burst against it and immediately it collapsed, and the ruin of that house was great.”What Kind Of Servant?  A BOND SERVANT!  “It Serves Me To Serve My MASTER.” Exodus 21:5-6 (ESV)But if the slave plainly says, ‘I love my master, my wife, and my children; I will not go out free,' then his master shall bring him to God, and he shall bring him to the door or the doorpost. And his master shall bore his ear through with an awl, and he shall be his slave forever.John 13:3-8 (NASB)Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come forth from God and was going back to God, 4got up from supper, and laid aside His garments; and taking a towel, He girded Himself. 5Then He poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded. 6So He came to Simon Peter. He said to Him, “Lord, do You wash my feet?” 7Jesus answered and said to him, “What I do you do not realize now, but you will understand hereafter.” 8Peter *said to Him, “Never shall You wash my feet!” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.”John 13:12, 13  (Amplified Version)So when He had finished washing their feet and had put on His garments and had sat down again, He said to them, Do you understand what I have done to you? 13You call Me the Teacher (Master) and the Lord, and you are right in doing so, for that is what I am. 14If I then, your Lord and Teacher (Master), have washed your feet, you ought [it is your duty, you are under obligation, you owe it] to wash one another's feet.  The Giant Doors Of Opportunity Swing On The Tiny Hinges Of Obedience.  Every Miracle Has A Price.  The Currency Is Obedience.  John 13:14-1614 If I then, your Lord and Teacher (Master), have washed your feet, you ought [it is your duty, you are under obligation, you owe it] to wash one another's feet.  15 For I have given you this as an example, so that you should do [in your turn] what I have done to you.  16 I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, A servant is not greater than his master, and no one who is sent is superior to the one who sent him.

DANIEL - DISCIPLINEDaniel's Lesson Of Discipline:  Success Does Not Come From Trying Harder, But From Training Wiser.Daniel 6 (NLT)   7 We are all in agreement—we administrators, officials, high officers, advisers, and governors—that the king should make a law that will be strictly enforced. Give orders that for the next thirty days any person who prays to anyone, divine or human—except to you, Your Majesty—will be thrown into the den of lions.10 But when Daniel learned that the law had been signed, he went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs room, with its windows open toward Jerusalem. He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to his God.Daniel's First Discipline – Thanksgiving… Discipline: Any activity I can do by direct effort that will help me do what I cannot do by direct effort.   Spiritual Discipline:  Any activity I can do, that will help transform me into a person who has the spiritual power to do what I cannot do.   Learn from Daniel's Prayer LifePrayer is the gateway to all other Disciplines.  Power to Deny Self!  3 Main Disciplines Believe…Belong…Become…Fruitful Reward: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, Self Control.  Christianity Without This Kind Of Discipleship Is Always Christianity Without Character.A Disciplined Person Is Someone Who Can Do The Right Thing At The Right Time For The Right Reason.  A Disciplined Person is FREE!!! --- Free to Set Free the Person God Made Inside… Spiritual Discipline is Where You Become Your Real Self!  16 So at last the king gave orders for Daniel to be arrested and thrown into the den of lions. The king said to him, “May your God, whom you serve so faithfully, rescue you.”  19 Very early the next morning, the king got up and hurried out to the lions' den. 20 When he got there, he called out in anguish, “Daniel, servant of the living God! Was your God, whom you serve so faithfully, able to rescue you from the lions?” 21Daniel answered, “Long live the king!  22 My God sent his angel to shut the lions' mouths so that they would not hurt me, for I have been found innocent in his sight. And I have not wronged you, Your Majesty.” 23 The king was overjoyed and ordered that Daniel be lifted from the den. Not a scratch was found on him, for he had trusted in his God. Spiritual Discipline - Produce - Spiritual PowerEverything Is Spiritual… Even The Lions In Your Life!  Trying Hard can accomplish only so much…If you are serious…you will have to enter into a life of Spiritual Training.   Wise Training Begins With A Clear Decision.  KING DARIUS…26 “I decree that everyone throughout my kingdom should tremble with fear before the God of Daniel. For he is the living God, and he will endure forever. His kingdom will never be destroyed, and his rule will never end.  27 He rescues and saves his people; he performs miraculous signs and wonders in the heavens and on earth. He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions.” 28 So Daniel prospered during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian.

COURAGE The Story of Esther, Character Tour – Part 3 ESTHER'S LESSON OF COURAGE: YOU NEVER HAVE TO BE AFRAID TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT!The PLAYERS IN THIS STORYKING  XERXESEmperor of the great Mede and Persian Empire covering the vast territory from India to Ethiopia.QUEEN VASHTIThe beautiful High Queen who is removed from her position for publicly disgracing the King. She openly defied his request to attend his royal banquet.ESTHER THE NEW QUEENA bold and beautiful peasant girl with a hidden Jewish identity.She is gathered with the most alluring women of the kingdom into the palace.  In God's divine timing she is chosen as the King's true love, ascends the throne as Queen, and delivers God's people from destruction.MORDECAI The JEWThe older cousin of Esther and a leader in the Jewish community. He raised Esther as his own daughter after she was orphaned as a child.  An assassination plot against the King's life was foiled after being discovered by Mordecai.HAMANA murderous egomaniac who hates Mordecai for not bowing to him. He plots a mass genocide against all Jews from his position of second in rank to the King.Esther 4:11-14 (NIV)  11 “All the king's officials and the people of the royal provinces know that for any man or woman who approaches the king in the inner court without being summoned the king has but one law: that he be put to death. The only exception to this is for the king to extend the gold scepter to him and spare his life. But thirty days have passed since I was called to go to the king.” 12 When Esther's words were reported to Mordecai, 13 he sent back this answer: “Do not think that because you are in the king's house you alone of all the Jews will escape. 14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?”  “The Only Thing Necessary for Evil To Prevail is For Good People To Do Nothing”Esther 5:1-3 (NIV)1On the third day Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the palace, in front of the king's hall. The king was sitting on his royal throne in the hall, facing the entrance. 2 When he saw Queen Esther standing in the court, he was pleased with her and held out to her the gold scepter that was in his hand. So Esther approached and touched the tip of the scepter. 3 Then the king asked, “What is it, Queen Esther? What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be given you.” Esther 7:3-7 (NIV)3 Then Queen Esther answered, "If I have found favor with you, O king, and if it pleases your majesty, grant me my life—this is my petition. And spare my people—this is my request. 4 For I and my people have been sold for destruction and slaughter and annihilation. 5 King Xerxes asked Queen Esther, "Who is he? Where is the man who has dared to do such a thing?" 6 Esther said, "The adversary and enemy is this vile Haman." Then Haman was terrified before the king and queen. 7 The king got up in a rage, left his wine and went out into the palace garden. But Haman, realizing that the king had already decided his fate, stayed behind to beg Queen Esther for his life. 

ENDURANCE - NOAH Genesis Chapters 6 & 7NO-AH's Lesson of Endurance: You have to learn how to say “NO” if you want to get the “­­AH”Genesis 6:5 The Lord observed the extent of human wickedness on the earth, and he saw that everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil. (NLT) 8But Noah found favor with the Lord.  (AH…)  (US?)People Try To Skip NO – make their own AH… For Selves and God! You Just Can't have real AH… that lasts, fulfilling, Joy WITHOUT NO… 13So God said to Noah, “I have decided to destroy all living creatures, for they have filled the earth with violence. Yes, I will wipe them all out along with the earth! 14“Build a large boat from cypress wood and waterproof it with tar, inside and out. Then construct decks and stalls throughout its interior.ARK – 450' L (1½ X Football)   75' W (W.C.)    45' H (5 Stories)  No to Other  PLANS (Shipbuilder) ----- PEOPLE (Believe Rain?) ----- PLEASURES (Not Really Living Man!) “Ark - Graphic Illustration Noah's Life Message of Endurance”There's nothing like a HUGE BOAT to make a Point.“2 Peter 2:5 - Preacher of Righteousness” – Questions?   RAIN? Righteousness too – Do the NO-AH!  No To Friends – Family – Finances – Future.Endurance… is about the END!!!  22So Noah did everything exactly as God had commanded him.    AH AH AH AH AH AH……Genesis 7:1 When everything was ready, the Lord said to Noah, “Go into the boat with all your family, for among all the people of the earth, I can see that you alone are righteous. Endurance Sometimes Requires You to Stand Alone!    You May Stand Alone, But You'll Never Be Alone!          4Seven days from now I will make the rains pour down on the earth. And it will rain for forty days and forty nights, until I have wiped from the earth all the living things I have created.” 5So Noah did everything as the Lord commanded him. 10After seven days, the waters of the flood came and covered the earth. 11When Noah was 600 years old, on the seventeenth day of the second month, all the underground waters erupted from the earth, and the rain fell in mighty torrents from the sky. 12The rain continued to fall for forty days and forty nights.  13That very day Noah had gone into the boat with his wife and his sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—and their wives.16bThen the Lord closed the door behind them. 23bThe only people who survived were Noah and those with him in the boat. Endurance…Is A Long Obedience God In The Same Direction. How Long Will You Last?...Noah's obedience was greater than the life span of people today. The Only thing comparable to his length of obedience is our very lives.Where Will You Be When The Rain Comes Down? Are You in The Boat?

VISION: King David - Character Tour Series.Character: The Outward Reflection of an Inward Connection.  BECOMING A PERSON OF VISIONDefinition: “A Clear And Convincing Picture Of What The Future Could Be And Should Be”DAVID'S VISION: Set God's People Free to Worship Him as a Great Nation.SHEPHERD:  A Vision of Who I Am.  The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.  ~ 1 Samuel 16:7Then the LORD said, "Rise and anoint him; he is the one."  So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the LORD came upon David in power. ~ 1 Samuel 16:12,13  (NIV)WARRIOR:  A Vision of Why I'm Here.      You Discover WHY YOU ARE HERE when WHO YOU ARE CONFLICTS with WHERE YOU ARE! 1 Samuel 17:45-47  (NIV)45 David said to the Philistine, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46 This day the LORD will hand you over to me, and I'll strike you down and cut off your head. Today I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. 47 All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's, and he will give all of you into our hands."  KING: A Vision of Where I'm Going.WHO YOU ARE,  and WHY YOU'RE HERE… Will Always Determine WHERE YOU'RE GOING!  2 Samuel 7:8-9  (NASB)  8 "Now therefore, thus you shall say to My servant David, 'Thus says the LORD of hosts, "I took you from the pasture, from following the sheep, to be ruler over My people Israel.  9 "I have been with you wherever you have gone and have cut off all your enemies from before you; and I will make you a great name, like the names of the great men who are on the earth.   If You Remember where You Came From… WHO YOU ARE --- WHY YOU'RE HERE = WHERE YOU'RE GOING!2 Samuel 7:18,19, 24  (NASB)  18 Then David the king went in and sat before the LORD, and he said,"Who am I, O Lord GOD, and what is my house, that You have brought me this far?  19 "And yet this was insignificant in Your eyes, O Lord GOD, for You have spoken also of the house of Your servant concerning the distant future…” 24 "For You have established for Yourself Your people Israel as Your own people forever, and You, O LORD, have become their God.

“ONE DROP OF BLOOD”  Leviticus 17:11 (NLT)“for the life of the body is in its blood. I have given you the blood on the altar to purify you, making you right with the LORD. It is the blood, given in exchange for a life, that makes purification possible.”The average adult has about 10 PINTS OF BLOOD in his body.  Jesus Gave It All For You!  “Because Of Love! Love Is Not A Feeling! Love Is Giving Someone What They Need Most When They Deserve It The Least!”1 Peter 1:18, 19 (NLT) “For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors. And the ransom he paid was not mere gold or silver. 19It was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God.Circumstances Make Things Precious. HEALTH! vs. SICK!   /   PAIN! vs. COMFORT!   /   FOOD! vs. HUNGRY  /   WATER! vs. THIRSTY!   /   POVERTY vs. WEALTH! SIN Makes The Blood Of Christ Precious.  Redeeming Power.  The Blood Of Jesus Christ Is Precious Because Of Its Cleansing Power.  “You're Not Ready To Live Until You're Ready To Die!”    -/-    “Without The Blood, Not Ready For Death Or Life”                                               Hebrews 9:14, 22, 26-28 (NLT)14Just think how much more the blood of Christ will purify our consciences from sinful deeds so that we can worship the living God. For by the power of the eternal Spirit, Christ offered himself to God as a perfect sacrifice for our sins. 22For without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness.26But now, once for all time, he has appeared at the end of the age to remove sin by his own death as a sacrifice.27And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment, 28so also Christ died once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him.In the tomb, Beyond the shroud, beyond the blood and bandages, beyond the spices and the close, dank air, HE STOOD!  Alive once more, He stood—in six full weeks of sunlight. Then on to heaven He went, sending His spirit into our hearts, making us alive forever. Now the living Christ rules where the best flags wave, in the interior castles of our hearts, but... He IS Here!EASTER! - Hell shuddered and the world trembled - the day the living Savior stood the dumbfounded world on its ear! EASTER! - The day Christ moved out of His very temporary residence into the best and worst of palaces - the human heart. LIFE! - Christ's Life, this marvelous gift is Ours! We don't create it! We can't sustain it. This life of His learned obedience on the cross and proved its power by leaving the cold stone slab of a cave grave.Luke 24:1-7 

Checkmate1 Corinthians 15:1-10Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. 2 By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain.3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance[a]: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas,[b] and then to the Twelve. 6 After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, 8 and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.9 For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.1 Corinthians 15:5858 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

Frenemies                                                                                                                                                                                                     Matthew 2647While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people. 48Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.” 49Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him.  50Jesus replied, “Do what you came for, friend.” Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him. 1.One of the saddest moments in the life of Jesus was His betrayal by Judas... - One of Jesus' closest disciples, even one of His twelve apostles, part of Jesus' ministry.2. What led Judas to betray his Lord and Savior?  How could one who had:   been with Jesus… Seen His miracles… Heard His teachings… betray Him with a kiss?Definition: A Frenemy Is Someone Who Accesses Their Close Relationship With You As A Means To Achieve Selfishly Driven Ends.Signs Of A Frenemy:1.) When You Find Yourself Explaining Away Their Behavior.2.) When You Tell Yourself The Relationship Is Worth It Because Of Other Things They Do For You.3.) When They Treat You Good, But Other People Badly.4.) When You Feel Good About Yourself Because This Friend Needs Your Help.  5.) When You Find Yourself Repeatedly Initiating Relationship Repair.6.) When You Say, “But I Need Him/Her Right Now.”     7.) When Other Common Friends Either Warn You Or Start To Choose Sides.    John 13:1  Psalm 41:9 Rev 2:4-5  Rev 2:14-16  Rev 2:20 Rev 3:1-3  Rev 3:15-16 Rev. 2:10John 12:6  Matthew 26:15Matthew 13:22Revelation. 3:16-17 | Matt 26:49 Luke 22:48Luke 10:27Matt. 13:20-21Romans 10:17How To Be A Loyal Friend And Love Your Enemies:1.) Pray And Ask God For Wisdom And Loyal Friends. (Proverbs 18:24) 2.) Befriend And Help Everyone, But Don't Give Everyone The Same Access To Your Life. (Proverbs 4:23, Matthew 16:20)3.) Simply Do Unto Them As You Would Have Them Do Unto You.  (Matthew 7:12) 4.) Decide In Advance That You'll Never Advance Your Life At A Friend's Expense. Even If It's Done To You. (Gal. 6:7, 1 Peter, 3:9) 5.) Always Forgive And Let Go Of Every Betrayal Before You Become Infected With Bitterness And Repeat The Pattern. (Hebrews 12:15)“‘You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” Matthew 5:43-44JUDAS WAS CHOSEN BY JESUS, BUT DIDN'T CHOOSE JESUS.

FISHING LESSONS - John 21:1-18And He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Matthew 4:19DON'T FISH WITHOUT CHRIST - Vss. 1-61Later, Jesus appeared again to the disciples beside the Sea of Galilee. This is how it happened. 2Several of the disciples were there—Simon Peter, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples. 3Simon Peter said, “I'm going fishing.” “We'll come, too,” they all said. So they went out in the boat, but they caught nothing all night. 4At dawn Jesus was standing on the beach, but the disciples couldn't see who he was. 5He called out, “Fellows, have you caught any fish?” “No,” they replied. 6Then he said, “Throw out your net on the right-hand side of the boat, and you'll get some!” So they did, and they couldn't haul in the net because there were so many fish in it. NLT"I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5DON'T FRET OVER THE CATCH - Vss. 7-117Then the disciple Jesus loved said to Peter, “It's the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his tunic, jumped into the water, and headed to shore. 8The others stayed with the boat and pulled the loaded net to the shore, for they were only about a hundred yards from shore. 9When they got there, they found breakfast waiting for them—fish cooking over a charcoal fire, and some bread. 10“Bring some of the fish you've just caught,” Jesus said. 11So Simon Peter went aboard and dragged the net to the shore. There were 153 large fish, and yet the net hadn't torn. NLT John 10:27-31 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, 29for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father's hand.  30The Father and I are one.”  31Once again the people picked up stones to kill him.  DON'T FIGHT WHEN CORRECTED - Vss. 12-17 12“Now come and have some breakfast!” Jesus said. None of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. 13Then Jesus served them the bread and the fish. 14This was the third time Jesus had appeared to his disciples since he had been raised from the dead. 15After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.” “Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him. 16Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.” “Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said. 17A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.” NLT

RIGHT IN THE MIDDLEJOHN 20:19-24 (NKJV)   Then, the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. 21So Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” 22And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.” 24Now Thomas, called the Twin, one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came.So we built the wall, and the entire wall was joined together up to half its height, for the people had a mind to work. Nehemiah 4:6Then Judah said, “The strength of the laborers is failing, and there is so much rubbish that we are not able to build the wall.” Nehemiah 4:10 But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves, for the wind was contrary. Matthew 14:24In the evening of that first day of the week, the disciples had met together with doors locked for fear of the Jews. Jesus came and stood right in the middle of them and said. “Peace be with you!” John 20:19 (J.B. Phillips Translation)RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE, CALMED BY… HIS PRESENCE  For He Himself is our peace. Ephesians 2:14HIS WORDS Jesus… and said. “Peace be with you!” John 20:19  “SHALOM”  HIS WOUNDS“...He showed them His hands and His side. Then the disciples were glad…” John 20:20   “exultant joy”   (Amplified Bible) “Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.” Luke 24:39HIS MISSIONSo Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.”  John 20:21      Here they crucified him, and with him two others - one on each side and Jesus in the middle. John 19:18

Last At The Cross, First At The Tomb - Mary MagdaleneMark 16:1-7 1When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus' body. 2Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb 3and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?” 4But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. 5As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. 6“Don't be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.'”Colossians 2:15And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross. Luke 8:1-3  John 20:1-18    1On the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark. She saw that the stone had been removed from the tomb. 2So she ran to Simon Peter and to the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they have put Him!” 3At that, Peter and the other disciple went out, heading for the tomb. 4The two were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and got to the tomb first. 5Stooping down, he saw the linen cloths lying there, yet he did not go in. 6Then, following him, Simon Peter came also. He entered the tomb and saw the linen cloths lying there. 7The wrapping that had been on His head was not lying with the linen cloths but was folded up in a separate place by itself. 8The other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, then entered the tomb, saw, and believed. 9For they still did not understand the Scripture that He must rise from the dead. 10Then the disciples went home again. 11But Mary stood outside facing the tomb, crying. As she was crying, she stooped to look into the tomb. 12She saw two angels in white sitting there, one at the head and one at the feet, where Jesus' body had been lying. 13They said to her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “Because they've taken away my Lord,” she told them, “and I don't know where they've put Him.” 14Having said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, though she did not know it was Jesus. 15“Woman,” Jesus said to her, “why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Supposing He was the gardener, she replied, “Sir, if you've removed Him, tell me where you've put Him, and I will take Him away.”  16Jesus said, “Mary.” Turning around, she said to Him in Hebrew, “Rabbouni!”—which means “Teacher.” 17“Don't cling to Me,” Jesus told her, “for I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to My brothers and tell them that I am ascending to My Father and your Father—to My God and your God.” 18Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them what He had said to her.How Can We Have An Epic Easter SHE SHOWED GRATITUDE      SHE SHOWED RESILIENCE   SHE SHOWED HER WORK      SHE SHOWED THE WAY   SHE SHOWED COURAGE    SHE SHOWED EMOTION    SHE SHOWED HER TRUE COLORS   John 20:13   From The Demons To The AngelsPhilippians 2:10, 11 

ACTS 2:41-47 41Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.  42They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. 44All the believers were together and had everything in common.  45Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need.  46Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. 46b  …They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. 47b…And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.  I. HEALTHY THINGS GROW 41Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.   II. GROWING THINGS CHANGEAll Growth is Change, but not all Change is Growth… 42They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Ill. CHANGE CHALLENGES USWhat is the Challenge of Change? – THE CHALLENGE is THE NEED!!!  43Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. CHOICE… YOU can fill the need – or – GOD can fill the Need… Secret: YOU FILLED with the  WORD of GOD & SPIRIT of GOD = POWER of GOD IV. CHALLENGE FORCES US TO TRUST GOD44All the believers were together and had everything in common.  45Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need.  V. TRUST LEADS TO OBEDIENCE46Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than men!  Acts 5:29 (NIV) VI. OBEDIENCE MAKES US HEALTHYThe Chief Cause Of Failure And Unhappiness Is Trading What You Want Most For What You Want Right Now.  -  Zig Ziglar46  …They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. “As all those who sat on the High Council looked at Stephen, they found they couldn't take their eyes off him--his face was like the face of an angel!”   Acts 6:15 (The Message)   VII.  HEALTHY THINGS GROW47b…And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. 

Mustard Seed FaithMatthew 17:14-21 (NASB)And when they came to the multitude, a man came up to Him, falling on his knees before Him, and saying, 15“Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is a lunatic, and is very ill; for he often falls into the fire, and often into the water. 16“And I brought him to Your disciples, and they could not cure him.” 17And Jesus answered and said, “O unbelieving and perverted generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring him here to Me.” 18And Jesus rebuked him, and the demon came out of him, and the boy was cured at once. 19Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?” 20And He said to them, “Because of the littleness of your faith; for truly I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you shall say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,' and it shall move; and nothing shall be impossible to you. 21[“But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”]WHAT IS "LITTLE" FAITH?Little Faith Seeks Little Ends. Little Faith Trusts In Little Resources.Little Faith Seeks To Preserve Little Egos.What Is The Difference Between "Little" Faith And "Mustard Seed" Faith?Jesus says, "if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, move from here to there, and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you" [Matthew 17:20, Luke 17:6]. Jesus promises "it will move" [Matthew 17:20]; "it will be done" [Matthew 21:21]; it "shall come to pass" [Mark 11:23]; and it will "obey you" [Luke 17:6].                                        BIG God… Big Resources… NO Ego!  Mustard Seed Faith Says “Yes” When Everyone Else Says “No.”Mustard Seed Faith Is Not About Faith's Quantity, But The Quality Of Pure Faith Untainted By Doubt.Mustard Seed Faith Doesn't Focus On The Size Of The Seed, But On The Purity Of The Soil.  Faith IN Jesus! Mustard Seed Faith Goes The Distance No Matter How Difficult Or How Long It Takes.  Mustard Seed Faith Wakes Up Every Morning And Says, “Today Is The Day!”  

SEARCH MESearch me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.  24See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23-24 |    SEARCH MY HEART                     ~ REVEAL MY FEARS                                          ~ UNCOVER MY SINS                                                       ~ LEAD MESEARCH MY HEART.Search me, God, and know my heart… Psalm 139:23a The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is? Jeremiah 17:9 NLT REVEAL MY FEARS. Search me, God, and know my, heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Psalm 139:23What we fear the most reveals where we trust God the least.UNCOVER MY SINS. Other People's Sins Accuse Others And Excuse OurselvesSee if there is any offensive way in me.... Psalm 139:24What are others trying to tell me? What have I rationalized for some time? Where am I most defensive? LEAD ME.See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139: 24Psalm 139:23-241. Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and 2. know my anxious thoughts. 3. See if there is any offensive way in me, and 4. lead me in the way everlasting.

HOME FIRES BURNING1.  ACCEPT REALITY "I fasted and wept while the child was alive... But why should I fast when he is dead?  Can I bring him back to life?"  2 Sam. 12:16-23 2.  CRY OUT TO GOD"I cry out to the Lord; I plead for his mercy.  I pour out my complaints before him and tell him all my troubles.  For I am overwhelmed, and you alone know the way I should turn..."  Ps. 142:1-6 (NLT)Seek God's Comfort and Direction First – Why? So you don't do something Stupid…Ask God… Never ASSUME it's Over… 3.  LISTEN TO GOD'S WORD "I am completely discouraged... Revive me by your word."   Ps. 119:25 (LB)Me… I Get Mean… Depressed…I know why people drink and do drugs w/o GOD and HIS WORD…"I stay awake through the night, thinking about your promises."  Ps. 119:148 (LB) 2 Kinds of God's Word Defined in Bible – LOGOS / RHEMA…1 Peter 3  -  My RHEMA'S… ”Handle With Care”4.  SEEK AND GIVE FORGIVENESS"My guilt overwhelms me -- it is a burden too heavy to bear... But I confess my sins; I am deeply sorry for what I have done."  Ps. 38:4+18 (NLT)Are you sorry for what you've DONE…… Or just that you are in PAIN… "Get rid of all bitterness... forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you."  Eph. 4:31-32 (NIV)Forgiveness:  Giving up Hope for a Better Past…    Bitterness…  Get rid of Bitterness… Have a Funeral for: “What Could Have Been”  “…just as in Christ God forgave you”  We Want Forgiveness, but we don't want to give forgiveness. 5.  GET BACK ON TRACKPut your heart right, reach out to God... then face the world again, firm and courageous.  Then all your troubles will fade from your memory..."           Job 11:13-16 (GN)1 heart right… 2 reach out to God … 3 face the world again…  4 firm and courageous“Then all your troubles fade from memory…”Why Fade?  New Life!   Troubles will never fade until you start your new life!!!  GOD!!! Sometimes: Act yourself into a new way of feeling… How do you Forget?...  Getting New Memories… "God sometimes uses sorrow in our lives to help us turn away from sin and seek salvation."  2 Cor. 7:10 (NLT)God will use your Sorrows if you LET HIM!!! He doesn't barge in and take control of your life…

THREE WELLS "My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water.” Jeremiah 2:13 NIV“OH WELL” - Accepting a lifestyle of DRYNESS and THIRST.  Giving up because you believe it CANNOT BE CHANGEDOverwhelmed. | Needy.     | Passive.  | Victim. | Powerless. | No Choices. | Child.“DO WELL” - Trying to do God's WILL and produce God's PLAN in your own TIMING with my own STRENGTH. Overdone. | Greedy.     | Aggressive. | Violator. | Powerplay | All Choices. | Parent.“ALTAR WELL” -  John 4:5-15, 23-26 NASBKnowing WHO you are, WHOSE you are, and WHAT you have FROM GOD.   RESTING and RECEIVING all you need from Heaven to fulfill all your calling on EARTH. Overabundance. | FREE.  | Active. | Valuable. | Powerful. | Some Choices. | Adult.1 John 1: 8 - 9  If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.Acts 3:19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.JUST BREATHE: Learning to Constantly “Breathe Spiritually”EXHALE Your Confession. Turn away from sin and back to God.  INHALE His Forgiveness, Grace, and True Identity.  Begin immediately to live in joy and thankfulness.Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! — Isaiah. 55:1The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” . . . Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life. — Revelation. 22:17

Revival ServiceBeautifulMatthew 26:6-10While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table. When the disciples saw this, they were indignant.  "Why the waste?" they asked.  "This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor."Aware of this, Jesus said to them, "Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me.

THERE'S NO LOVE WITHOUT LOYALTYRuth 1:16-17 1. Loyal love sticks with you through the TOUGH TIMES. But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you.  Ruth 1:16  “Friends come and friends go, but a true friend sticks by you like family.” Proverbs 18:24 (MSG)  Tough Times  +  Long Time = High ValueWho's Worst Day Do YOU Show Up On? How do you get family and friends like this… By being that kind of friend first...  Then, wait and see…  Sowing & Reaping.Tip: Never Say, “Let me know if there is anything I can do.”2. Loyal love has COURAGE and gives ENCOURAGEMENT. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Ruth1:16 TED HAGGARD…   #1 Quality determined whether someone was come back was COURAGE.

A Little Different."Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."Matthew 7:13-14"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your  mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will."Romans 12:2"Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, "children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation." Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.Philippians 2:14-16

NAMELESSNAMELESS people become FAMOUS people when they matter to Jesus Christ.~ John 21:15-19 (NIV)15When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?" "Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you."  Jesus said, "Feed my lambs." 16Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?"  He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep." 17The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you." 18Jesus said, "Feed my sheep. 18…I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go."  19Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, "Follow me!" Jesus: “I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it.”  ~   Revelation 2:17 (NIV)

People Like YouWhat kind of people make up the Body of Christ?  People like you!QUOTE: If you want to build a ship, don't drum up the men to gather wood, divide the work and give orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea.Yearn for People…  18But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. 19If they were all one part, where would the body be? 20As it is, there are many parts, but one body. 1 Corinthians 12:18-20 (NIV)Three Big Questions we all face.Who Loves Me?Who Accepts Me?Who Believes In Me?21The eye cannot say to the hand, "I don't need you!" And the head cannot say to the feet, "I don't need you!" 22On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 26If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. 1 Corinthians 12:21-26 (NIV)Answer these questions and people will know that you really care:Do I Fit Here?A Question of AcceptanceDoes Anybody Want To Know Me?A Question of FriendshipAm I Needed?A Question of ValueWhat is the Advantage for Me?A Question of BenefitsWhat is Required of Me?A Question of ExpectationsWHY…  14 Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. 15 Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. 16 He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.  Ephesians 4:14-16 (NLT)What is the Goal of Our Ministry To Each Other?People Like You Become People Like Christ.

THE INNKEEPER MISSED CHRISTMASLuke 2:7 “and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”...Because He Was Too Busy. KING HEROD MISSED CHRISTMASMatthew 2:1-3  “1After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." 3When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.”   V. 12 “And having been warned by God in a dream not to return to Herod, the magi left for their own country by another way.” (NASB)...Because Of Worry, Fear And Jealousy. THE RELIGIOUS LEADERS MISSED CHRISTMASLuke 2:4-6 When he had called together all the people's chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Christ was to be born. 5"In Bethlehem in Judea," they replied, "for this is what the prophet has written: 6"'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;  for out of you will come a ruler who will be the shepherd of my people Israel."...Because Of Indifference. JERUSALEM MISSED CHRISTMASLuke 2:20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen which were just as they had been told. (NIV)...Because Of Religion. THE ROMANS MISSED CHRISTMASLuke 2:1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world.  (NIV)...Because Of False Gods.NAZARETH MISSED CHRISTMASLuke 2:39-40 When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth. 40And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon him. ...Because of Familiarity                                                                             UNBELIEF:   “He Came to His Own And they Received Him Not… John 1:11”

Sin In The CampToday: Battles within ourselves - SIN 7 DEADLY SINSLustGluttonyGreedSlothWrathEnvyPride A recent survey of Discipleship Journal readers ranked areas of greatest spiritual Challenge to them:1. Materialism.2. Pride.3. Self-centeredness.4. Laziness.5. Anger/Bitterness.5. Sexual lust.7. Envy.8. Gluttony.9. Lying.Joshua 7:2-5 (NLT)2Joshua sent some of his men from Jericho to spy out the city of Ai, east of Bethel, near Beth-aven. 3When they returned, they told Joshua, "It's a small town, and it won't take more than two or three thousand of us to destroy it. There's no need for all of us to go there." 4So approximately three thousand warriors were sent, but they were soundly defeated. The men of Ai 5chased the Israelites from the city gate as far as the quarries, and they killed about thirty-six who were retreating down the slope. The Israelites were paralyzed with fear at this turn of events, and their courage melted away.Joshua 7:10-13 (NLT)10But the Lord said to Joshua, "Get up! Why are you lying on your face like this? 11Israel has sinned and broken my covenant! They have stolen the things that I commanded to be set apart for me. And they have not only stolen them; they have also lied about it and hidden the things among their belongings. 12That is why the Israelites are running from their enemies in defeat.  For now Israel has been set apart for destruction. I will not remain with you any longer unless you destroy the things among you that were set apart for destruction.  13"Get up! Command the people to purify themselves in preparation for tomorrow. For this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: Hidden among you, O Israel, are things set apart for the Lord. You will never defeat your enemies until you remove these things.Joshua 7:18-21 (NLT)18Every member of Zimri's family was brought forward person by person, and Achan was singled out. 19Then Joshua said to Achan, "My son, give glory to the Lord, the God of Israel, by telling the truth. Make your confession and tell me what you have done. Don't hide it from me." 20Achan replied, "I have sinned against the Lord, the God of Israel. 21For I saw a beautiful robe imported from Babylon, two hundred silver coins, and a bar of gold weighing more than a pound. I wanted them so much that I took them. They are hidden in the ground beneath my tent, with the silver buried deeper than the rest."  What is sin?Man call is an accident, God calls it abomination.Man calls it a defect, God calls it a disease.Man calls it an error, God calls it an enmity.Man calls it a liberty, God calls it lawlessness. Man calls it a trifle, God calls it a tragedy.Man calls it a mistake, God calls it a madness.Man calls it a weakness, God calls it willfulnessRomans 10:13 (NIV) For, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

Can A Black Sheep Have A White Christmas?Shepherds, at the time of Jesus, were the Black Sheep of society.Woe is the lowly Black Sheep of the Family.  He is maligned ... misunderstood ... marginalized. The Black Sheep Often Sparks Debate Among The Rest Of The Flock:Shall we include him in family gatherings?  Will he finally mend his ways? How can we manage him?History Of …Criminal Conduct Financial Problems Mental Illness Ongoing Conflicts with Multiple RelativesSubstance Abuse Gambling or Other Addictions Unstable Relationships Long Periods of UnemploymentMay only differ up or down from the rest of the family in …Values & Lifestyle Professional / Educational Attainment Religious, Philosophical & Personal Values Political AffiliationIsaiah 1:18 (NASB)“Though your sins are as scarlet, They will be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They will be like wool.” Isaiah 53:6 (NASB)All of us like sheep have gone astray, Each of us has turned to his own way; But the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him.John 10:7-13 (NASB)Jesus therefore said to them again, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. 8All who came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. 9I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. 10The thief comes only to steal, and kill, and destroy; I came that they might have life, and might have it abundantly. 11I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. 12He who is a hireling, and not a shepherd, who is not the owner of the sheep, beholds the wolf coming, and leaves the sheep, and flees, and the wolf snatches them, and scatters them. 13He flees because he is a hireling, and is not concerned about the sheep.” Luke 15:4-5 (NASB)Revelation 5:9 (NASB)John 21: 16, 17 (NASB)  “Simon, son of John, do you love Me?”  Jesus said to him, “Tend My sheep.” Luke 15:8-20 (NASB 77)  And in the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields, and keeping watch over their flock by night. 9And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. 10And the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which shall be for all the people; 11for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12“And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths, and lying in a manger.” 13And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 14“Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” 15And it came about when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds began saying to one another, “Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us.” 16And they came in haste and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger. 17And when they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child. 18And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds. 19But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. 20And the shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them.