Needing Rest
Mark 6:31
Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, [Jesus] said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest."
I can relate to the pace of activity described in this passage. Tonight, I'm going to take Jesus' command and get some rest.
Are you overbooked? Are you having difficulty squeezing meals into your schedule? It may be time for you to listen to Jesus, too.
Get some rest.
Lon
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Monday, June 04, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Content
Content
Matthew 5:5 The Message
You're blessed when you're content with just who you are - no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought.
In yesterday's Build Up on Comfort, I shared a passage from The Message, which is a Bible in contemporary language written by Eugene Peterson. I was curious about his interpretation of other passages in the section called the beatitudes. This verse caught my eye.
Contentment has been an illusive state of mind for me. I've always thought that I would find contentment around the next corner. I've suffered from what I call "If I only..." disease. If I only had a little more money, then I'd be content. If I only lost some weight, then I'd be content. If I only had a different job, then I'd be content.
Jesus calls us to accept who we are right now and we will be blessed.
Be content.
Lon
Matthew 5:5 The Message
You're blessed when you're content with just who you are - no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought.
In yesterday's Build Up on Comfort, I shared a passage from The Message, which is a Bible in contemporary language written by Eugene Peterson. I was curious about his interpretation of other passages in the section called the beatitudes. This verse caught my eye.
Contentment has been an illusive state of mind for me. I've always thought that I would find contentment around the next corner. I've suffered from what I call "If I only..." disease. If I only had a little more money, then I'd be content. If I only lost some weight, then I'd be content. If I only had a different job, then I'd be content.
Jesus calls us to accept who we are right now and we will be blessed.
Be content.
Lon
Sunday, June 03, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Comfort
Comfort
Matthew 5:4
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
In the coming week I am facing three funerals. A dear friend lost her father. A person that attends one of the churches I serve also lost her father. And a very old family friend died. This passage from Matthew has come to mind. This same passage is presented in a very interesting way in "The Message" as:
You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.
Our Lord is steadfast, trustworthy, and ever-present. He is the true shelter in the storm. For my friends and family that are mourning, I pray that you will find comfort in the arms of our everlasting Lord Jesus.
Be comforted,
Lon
Matthew 5:4
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
In the coming week I am facing three funerals. A dear friend lost her father. A person that attends one of the churches I serve also lost her father. And a very old family friend died. This passage from Matthew has come to mind. This same passage is presented in a very interesting way in "The Message" as:
You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.
Our Lord is steadfast, trustworthy, and ever-present. He is the true shelter in the storm. For my friends and family that are mourning, I pray that you will find comfort in the arms of our everlasting Lord Jesus.
Be comforted,
Lon
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Purpose
Purpose
Proverbs 19:21
Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails
What is my purpose in life? This question haunted my thoughts for most of the first 30+ years of my life. And O the plans I've had! There have been hundreds of inventions that would bring wealth to my door. There have been dozens of jobs that would lead to happiness. There have been thousands of ideas hatched, countless books read, classes passed, and conferences attended. All with the expectation that each would bring wealth into my life.
I'm beginning to wonder if life is not so much about striking it rich as it is about living richly. Rich living seems to center around doing life God's way. God's purpose is to change me so I can become the man He intended me to be. Then, as I grow, God wants to use me to change the world around me.
Despite all the paths I've taken, God seems to bring me back to His purpose of making change in and through me.
Purposefully,
Lon
Proverbs 19:21
Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails
What is my purpose in life? This question haunted my thoughts for most of the first 30+ years of my life. And O the plans I've had! There have been hundreds of inventions that would bring wealth to my door. There have been dozens of jobs that would lead to happiness. There have been thousands of ideas hatched, countless books read, classes passed, and conferences attended. All with the expectation that each would bring wealth into my life.
I'm beginning to wonder if life is not so much about striking it rich as it is about living richly. Rich living seems to center around doing life God's way. God's purpose is to change me so I can become the man He intended me to be. Then, as I grow, God wants to use me to change the world around me.
Despite all the paths I've taken, God seems to bring me back to His purpose of making change in and through me.
Purposefully,
Lon
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Unstoppable
Unstoppable
Acts 5:38-39
Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.
Gamaliel argues on behalf of Peter and the other apostles. His argument is that previous upstarts have wound up dead, so he suggests letting these guys go and wait to see what happens. After all, if they are really from God, then nothing can stop them.
Is our purpose and activity from human origin or from God? If our purpose is of human origin, it is likely to end in failure. In other words, the expected outcome for serving our own selfish desires is failure.
On the other hand, if we are living and acting in concert with God and for His purposes, then there is nothing that can keep us from succeeding. Nothing!
Make God's purpose your purpose.
Lon
Acts 5:38-39
Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.
Gamaliel argues on behalf of Peter and the other apostles. His argument is that previous upstarts have wound up dead, so he suggests letting these guys go and wait to see what happens. After all, if they are really from God, then nothing can stop them.
Is our purpose and activity from human origin or from God? If our purpose is of human origin, it is likely to end in failure. In other words, the expected outcome for serving our own selfish desires is failure.
On the other hand, if we are living and acting in concert with God and for His purposes, then there is nothing that can keep us from succeeding. Nothing!
Make God's purpose your purpose.
Lon
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Guest Encourager: Rachel Smith "Lifted"
Lifted, by Rachel Smith
Psalm 40:2
He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.
I saw Shrek the Third with my kids this past week. During most of this movie the 40th Psalm reverberated in my head. It probably has something to do with the fact that the main character, Shrek, is an ogre and chooses to live in a swamp.
That’s what I picture when I read this Psalm, the slimy, nasty, stinky pit of a swamp. There are days that this Psalm describes my mental state of being. I am stuck in thick heavy mud. I wallow in the stench and refuse to get up and move on.
But- HE- lifts me up out of the slimy pit.
Not only will God find me in my mud and mire, but His desire is to lift me out of it. I am amazed that not only will He save me forever, but also every day. He puts my feet on a rock where I can safely stand. The creator and perfector of the universe cares enough about you and I to lift us out of our slimy pits when we don’t know how to do it ourselves.
But wait, there’s more. He then gives us a firm place to stand.
Are you in the pit with Shrek or on the rock of Christ?
May He lift you today!
Rachel
Rachel is an old and dear friend. She is a wife and mother of two boys. She works at Western Illinois University and lives in Macomb Illinois where we originally began our friendship.
Psalm 40:2
He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.
I saw Shrek the Third with my kids this past week. During most of this movie the 40th Psalm reverberated in my head. It probably has something to do with the fact that the main character, Shrek, is an ogre and chooses to live in a swamp.
That’s what I picture when I read this Psalm, the slimy, nasty, stinky pit of a swamp. There are days that this Psalm describes my mental state of being. I am stuck in thick heavy mud. I wallow in the stench and refuse to get up and move on.
But- HE- lifts me up out of the slimy pit.
Not only will God find me in my mud and mire, but His desire is to lift me out of it. I am amazed that not only will He save me forever, but also every day. He puts my feet on a rock where I can safely stand. The creator and perfector of the universe cares enough about you and I to lift us out of our slimy pits when we don’t know how to do it ourselves.
But wait, there’s more. He then gives us a firm place to stand.
Are you in the pit with Shrek or on the rock of Christ?
May He lift you today!
Rachel
Rachel is an old and dear friend. She is a wife and mother of two boys. She works at Western Illinois University and lives in Macomb Illinois where we originally began our friendship.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Remember
Remember
Mark 8:18
Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don't you remember?
Memorial Day in the United States is a time for reflection. We think about things like heroism and patriotism. We remember valiant things from yesterdays gone by. We think about the sacrifices made on our behalf. We think about the amazing things people have done.
Jesus must have been shaking His head when He posed these questions to the disciples. They had seen Jesus perform miracles. Now, as they face a new challenge, suddenly they have amnesia.
I have seen God perform miracles over and over in my life, but how quickly I forget them when a new challenge looms before me. Jesus is still working miracles today. I see them. I hear them. And I forget them.
Please take a moment to reflect on the miracles God has performed in your life.
Remember them!
Lon
Mark 8:18
Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don't you remember?
Memorial Day in the United States is a time for reflection. We think about things like heroism and patriotism. We remember valiant things from yesterdays gone by. We think about the sacrifices made on our behalf. We think about the amazing things people have done.
Jesus must have been shaking His head when He posed these questions to the disciples. They had seen Jesus perform miracles. Now, as they face a new challenge, suddenly they have amnesia.
I have seen God perform miracles over and over in my life, but how quickly I forget them when a new challenge looms before me. Jesus is still working miracles today. I see them. I hear them. And I forget them.
Please take a moment to reflect on the miracles God has performed in your life.
Remember them!
Lon
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Grace Enters
Grace Enters
John 1:17
For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
The rules and ordinances of the law of Moses serve to convict us of our sinful nature. No matter how hard we try we just simply cannot live up to them. Our awareness of our sin and our inability to redeem ourselves points the way to the need for a savior.
Grace came through Jesus. Our Savior brought with Him all the grace needed to redeem us. Jesus said, "My grace is sufficient for you..." (2Corinthians12:9)
Praise God for His mercy!
Lon
John 1:17
For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
The rules and ordinances of the law of Moses serve to convict us of our sinful nature. No matter how hard we try we just simply cannot live up to them. Our awareness of our sin and our inability to redeem ourselves points the way to the need for a savior.
Grace came through Jesus. Our Savior brought with Him all the grace needed to redeem us. Jesus said, "My grace is sufficient for you..." (2Corinthians12:9)
Praise God for His mercy!
Lon
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Acorn Build Up: I Know
I Know
Psalm 51:1-3
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love, according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.
This is a Psalm that I can pray with great sincerity! I know my propensity for selfishness. I know the unclean thoughts that invade my mind. I know my impatience with which I "wait" upon the Lord. I know my capacity for judging others. And the list goes on...
It is my awareness of my sinful nature that drove me to the cross. My sin caused a gap between God and me, and there is nothing I can do to bridge that gap. It is only through God's grace that I can be cleansed. And that grace was purchased on my behalf by Jesus upon the cross.
I need the Lord, because I know...
Lon
Psalm 51:1-3
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love, according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.
This is a Psalm that I can pray with great sincerity! I know my propensity for selfishness. I know the unclean thoughts that invade my mind. I know my impatience with which I "wait" upon the Lord. I know my capacity for judging others. And the list goes on...
It is my awareness of my sinful nature that drove me to the cross. My sin caused a gap between God and me, and there is nothing I can do to bridge that gap. It is only through God's grace that I can be cleansed. And that grace was purchased on my behalf by Jesus upon the cross.
I need the Lord, because I know...
Lon
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Suffering
Suffering
1Peter 4:19
So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
We live in a world full of suffering people. For that matter, there aren't too many of us that live without suffering. Some suffer in big ways others with less drama, but we all have our seasons and episodes of suffering.
When we find ourselves in one of those seasons, we are taught to "commit" ourselves to God. We have the option to say, "OK Lord, if this is Your will, then I trust you." God is faithful and thereby our trust in Him is not misplaced. Put in the positive, trust in the Lord for He is worthy of our trust.
It's the last phrase of this passage that really caught my attention; "and continue to do good"
When I suffer, all my thoughts turn inward. Doing good for others is not on my radar. After all, I'm hurting! But God calls us to a different standard. Yes, I am suffering, but that may be the very platform from which to do some very visible good. Imagine the impact of trusting God and doing good despite our suffering.
Let's do some good!
Lon
1Peter 4:19
So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
We live in a world full of suffering people. For that matter, there aren't too many of us that live without suffering. Some suffer in big ways others with less drama, but we all have our seasons and episodes of suffering.
When we find ourselves in one of those seasons, we are taught to "commit" ourselves to God. We have the option to say, "OK Lord, if this is Your will, then I trust you." God is faithful and thereby our trust in Him is not misplaced. Put in the positive, trust in the Lord for He is worthy of our trust.
It's the last phrase of this passage that really caught my attention; "and continue to do good"
When I suffer, all my thoughts turn inward. Doing good for others is not on my radar. After all, I'm hurting! But God calls us to a different standard. Yes, I am suffering, but that may be the very platform from which to do some very visible good. Imagine the impact of trusting God and doing good despite our suffering.
Let's do some good!
Lon
Monday, May 21, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Power of Life and Death
Power of Life and Death
Proverbs18:21
The tongue has the power of life and death...
I can't count the number of times I've had ideas shot down by the power of another person's comment. Sarcasm, criticism, and plain-old meanness run rampant in our culture. Clearly, the tongue can be a weapon of great destruction
I'm guilty of killing things with my tongue, too. For example, my eight year-old daughter, Kassidy, has a very unique style of dressing herself. I regularly attack her creativity with my words.
On the other hand, a well placed word can bring forth life.
Today, I received an email from my friend Terry. His simple 26-word message was sent to encourage me to continue publishing these Daily Build Ups. His message was perfectly timed, because I read it as I was sitting down at the computer to create this post. Frankly, I was not looking forward to this project at the end of a very long day. Terry's words put life back into the project and gave me a good theme, too! Thanks, Terry!
Mind your words!
Lon
If you have a suggestion for a Daily Build Up topic, please send them to me at: Lon@AcornMinistries.com
Proverbs18:21
The tongue has the power of life and death...
I can't count the number of times I've had ideas shot down by the power of another person's comment. Sarcasm, criticism, and plain-old meanness run rampant in our culture. Clearly, the tongue can be a weapon of great destruction
I'm guilty of killing things with my tongue, too. For example, my eight year-old daughter, Kassidy, has a very unique style of dressing herself. I regularly attack her creativity with my words.
On the other hand, a well placed word can bring forth life.
Today, I received an email from my friend Terry. His simple 26-word message was sent to encourage me to continue publishing these Daily Build Ups. His message was perfectly timed, because I read it as I was sitting down at the computer to create this post. Frankly, I was not looking forward to this project at the end of a very long day. Terry's words put life back into the project and gave me a good theme, too! Thanks, Terry!
Mind your words!
Lon
If you have a suggestion for a Daily Build Up topic, please send them to me at: Lon@AcornMinistries.com
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Guest Encourager: Rachel Smith
Decisions
Psalm 33
The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.
Each and every day is made up of literally thousands of decisions; most of them appear small and insignificant. Each of our days knit together to make a week and then a month and a year and so on and on. In the course of a year the millions of decisions made appear so small they often go unnoticed.
What gym I choose and yes even what coffee shop I go to everyday has significance. Who I say ‘hi’ to with a smile and who I walk by. That one smile to that stranger could be the only thread they had left to hang on to. That one chance meeting at the grocery store could lead to a renewed friendship. The impact of it all is seemingly insignificant but all together huge. The reality is life is made up of a series of seemingly insignificant decisions.
The underlying pulse of these decisions reflects our values. What do your decisions say about you? Do your actions compliment your beliefs? Do they contradict? If I profess that family is important yet never seem to have time for those people who live in my house my decisions are not congruent with my belief system. Do my decisions honor God or get in His way?
If we trust God with the big decisions, how much more we should trust Him with the seemingly insignificant
Today choose, but choose wisely.
Rachel Smith
Rachel is an old and dear friend. She is a wife and mother of two boys. She works at Western Illinois University and lives in Macomb Illinois where we originally began our friendship.
Psalm 33
The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.
Each and every day is made up of literally thousands of decisions; most of them appear small and insignificant. Each of our days knit together to make a week and then a month and a year and so on and on. In the course of a year the millions of decisions made appear so small they often go unnoticed.
What gym I choose and yes even what coffee shop I go to everyday has significance. Who I say ‘hi’ to with a smile and who I walk by. That one smile to that stranger could be the only thread they had left to hang on to. That one chance meeting at the grocery store could lead to a renewed friendship. The impact of it all is seemingly insignificant but all together huge. The reality is life is made up of a series of seemingly insignificant decisions.
The underlying pulse of these decisions reflects our values. What do your decisions say about you? Do your actions compliment your beliefs? Do they contradict? If I profess that family is important yet never seem to have time for those people who live in my house my decisions are not congruent with my belief system. Do my decisions honor God or get in His way?
If we trust God with the big decisions, how much more we should trust Him with the seemingly insignificant
Today choose, but choose wisely.
Rachel Smith
Rachel is an old and dear friend. She is a wife and mother of two boys. She works at Western Illinois University and lives in Macomb Illinois where we originally began our friendship.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Love = Action
Love = Action
1John 3:18
Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.
When we talk about "love" most of us think about emotions or feelings. This passage from 1John seems to point to a different use of the word. Here love is presented as something to be acted out in truth.
If love is an emotion or feeling, then I find Jesus' command to "...Love your enemies..." (Matthew 5:44) a huge challenge! Until only recently I've struggled with that passage. How could I possibly feel all warm and fuzzy about the guy that just cut me off in traffic? Now I understand that Jesus is telling me to behave toward my enemy in a way that demonstrates love. In the case of the bad driver, I could slow down and make some room for him.
Love your enemy!
Lon
If you have a suggestion for a Daily Build Up topic, please send them to me at: Lon@AcornMinistries.com
1John 3:18
Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.
When we talk about "love" most of us think about emotions or feelings. This passage from 1John seems to point to a different use of the word. Here love is presented as something to be acted out in truth.
If love is an emotion or feeling, then I find Jesus' command to "...Love your enemies..." (Matthew 5:44) a huge challenge! Until only recently I've struggled with that passage. How could I possibly feel all warm and fuzzy about the guy that just cut me off in traffic? Now I understand that Jesus is telling me to behave toward my enemy in a way that demonstrates love. In the case of the bad driver, I could slow down and make some room for him.
Love your enemy!
Lon
If you have a suggestion for a Daily Build Up topic, please send them to me at: Lon@AcornMinistries.com
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Word Usage
Word Usage
Ephesians 4:29 NRSV
Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear.
The purpose of the Daily Build Up is to use scripture and a handful of additional words to build people up. I hear with increasing frequency that we are succeeding in that purpose. I praise God for the way He is moving in this ministry!
Barb recently wrote:
I just want to mention again how wonderful your Daily Build Ups are…you have been right on target for us, especially [my daughter]. She signed up to have them sent to her and she forwards them to one of her friends. You are doing wonderful work and touching hearts you don’t even know in a very profound way.
The phrase "as there is need" struck me in the Ephesians passage (above). I would love to hear from you when you are "in need". Let me know the nature of your struggle. I'll keep the details confidential, but my hope is that I could locate a passage of scripture to use that would build you up as there is need.
Build others up today!
Lon
If you have a suggestion for a Daily Build Up topic, please send them to me at:
Lon@AcornMinistries.com
Ephesians 4:29 NRSV
Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear.
The purpose of the Daily Build Up is to use scripture and a handful of additional words to build people up. I hear with increasing frequency that we are succeeding in that purpose. I praise God for the way He is moving in this ministry!
Barb recently wrote:
I just want to mention again how wonderful your Daily Build Ups are…you have been right on target for us, especially [my daughter]. She signed up to have them sent to her and she forwards them to one of her friends. You are doing wonderful work and touching hearts you don’t even know in a very profound way.
The phrase "as there is need" struck me in the Ephesians passage (above). I would love to hear from you when you are "in need". Let me know the nature of your struggle. I'll keep the details confidential, but my hope is that I could locate a passage of scripture to use that would build you up as there is need.
Build others up today!
Lon
If you have a suggestion for a Daily Build Up topic, please send them to me at:
Lon@AcornMinistries.com
Monday, May 14, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Mark's Two Cents
Greetings! I hope you're not growing too weary of this passage. I needed to share it again because of a comment made by a friend of mine. My friend, I'll call him Mark (because that's his name) suggested an additional thought about why Peter cleared the room. You can access the original post by clicking on: Clear the Room
Mark's Two Cents
Acts 9:39-40
Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that [Tabitha] had made while she was still with them. Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, "Tabitha, get up." She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up.
Mark reminded me that Peter cleared everyone from the room. "Everyone" would include the weeping widows, but also the disciples. Mark suggests that Peter removed the disciples from the room because they may have put too much hope in Peter himself.
I can imagine the disciples cheering Peter on by shouting, "Come on Peter you can do it!" or "Peter, you're the man!"
According to Mark, these well intentioned disciples may have been distracting Peter by focusing on Peter the man instead of God. Sometimes we need to clear the room of our champions because they cause us to take our focus off of God.
Thanks, Mark!
Lon
Mark's Two Cents
Acts 9:39-40
Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that [Tabitha] had made while she was still with them. Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, "Tabitha, get up." She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up.
Mark reminded me that Peter cleared everyone from the room. "Everyone" would include the weeping widows, but also the disciples. Mark suggests that Peter removed the disciples from the room because they may have put too much hope in Peter himself.
I can imagine the disciples cheering Peter on by shouting, "Come on Peter you can do it!" or "Peter, you're the man!"
According to Mark, these well intentioned disciples may have been distracting Peter by focusing on Peter the man instead of God. Sometimes we need to clear the room of our champions because they cause us to take our focus off of God.
Thanks, Mark!
Lon
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Happy 150th!
Celebrating 150 Build Ups!
Since October 2006, I have had the pleasure of posting 150 of these Daily Build Ups! Praise God for allowing me to reach this milestone! To celebrate, I've decided to re-post one of the very first Build Ups which was originally posted on October 16, 2006.
Content
Philippians 4:11-13
...I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Paul tells us that the "secret" to contentment is finding strength in Jesus. Talk about counter-cultural! We live in a world that calls us to pull ourselves up by our boot straps and make something of ourselves.
Paul tells us to rely on Jesus. When we focus on Jesus we place our expectations in God's provision, not on what the world teaches us is success. Richard Swenson, author of Margin, states it this way, "Want what you have." What we have is God's perfect provision. Can it get any better than that?
Be content!
Lon
Since October 2006, I have had the pleasure of posting 150 of these Daily Build Ups! Praise God for allowing me to reach this milestone! To celebrate, I've decided to re-post one of the very first Build Ups which was originally posted on October 16, 2006.
Content
Philippians 4:11-13
...I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Paul tells us that the "secret" to contentment is finding strength in Jesus. Talk about counter-cultural! We live in a world that calls us to pull ourselves up by our boot straps and make something of ourselves.
Paul tells us to rely on Jesus. When we focus on Jesus we place our expectations in God's provision, not on what the world teaches us is success. Richard Swenson, author of Margin, states it this way, "Want what you have." What we have is God's perfect provision. Can it get any better than that?
Be content!
Lon
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Sloth and T.D.
Sloth and T.D.
Hebrews 6:12
We do not want you to become lazy...
You may have noticed that there hasn't been a new post on this blog for a couple of days. There are two reasons: T.D. and laziness.
First, the service I use to "feed" these posts to our subscribers has had serious technical difficulty (T.D) since Tuesday. The result is that the Build Up that I posted on Monday still hasn't been sent out to the subscribers. Here's the link to that post: The "Not Yet" Answer
Second, since the subscribers were not receiving the Build Up due to the T.D., I got lazy. It happened so easily and so subtly. For the first time since October I "skipped" a couple of days of writing.
I wonder if that isn't what happens with people in other activities. I wonder if one day we skip doing what we know we should be doing. The next thing we know it has been months. Particularly, I wonder if this happens with people of faith. We skip a prayer, a worship service, a day of reading scripture, or a team meeting. The next thing we know it has been months...
Be diligent!
Lon
Hebrews 6:12
We do not want you to become lazy...
You may have noticed that there hasn't been a new post on this blog for a couple of days. There are two reasons: T.D. and laziness.
First, the service I use to "feed" these posts to our subscribers has had serious technical difficulty (T.D) since Tuesday. The result is that the Build Up that I posted on Monday still hasn't been sent out to the subscribers. Here's the link to that post: The "Not Yet" Answer
Second, since the subscribers were not receiving the Build Up due to the T.D., I got lazy. It happened so easily and so subtly. For the first time since October I "skipped" a couple of days of writing.
I wonder if that isn't what happens with people in other activities. I wonder if one day we skip doing what we know we should be doing. The next thing we know it has been months. Particularly, I wonder if this happens with people of faith. We skip a prayer, a worship service, a day of reading scripture, or a team meeting. The next thing we know it has been months...
Be diligent!
Lon
Acorn Build Up: The "Not Yet" Answer
The "Not Yet" Answer
Psalm 37:7-9
Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him;
do not fret when men succeed in their ways,
when they carry out their wicked schemes.
Refrain from anger and turn from wrath;
Do not fret - it leads only to evil.
For evil men will be cut off,
but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land.
The "no" and "not yet" answers are sometimes difficult to differentiate. For example, applying for a job that someone else gets is probably a "no"; however, it may be that a similar job is waiting for us down the road, just "not yet". Our response to either answer must be patience.
I am extremely familiar with the "not yet" answer from God. I wish I could report that I respond to "not yet" with patience and hope in the Lord. The truth is that I'm not very patient. I want the doors of my choosing open now.
However, I am learning to trust the Lord. The deeper my trust grows the more natural waiting becomes. My fretting and anger are beginning to give way to hope and patience.
Wait patiently,
Lon
Psalm 37:7-9
Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him;
do not fret when men succeed in their ways,
when they carry out their wicked schemes.
Refrain from anger and turn from wrath;
Do not fret - it leads only to evil.
For evil men will be cut off,
but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land.
The "no" and "not yet" answers are sometimes difficult to differentiate. For example, applying for a job that someone else gets is probably a "no"; however, it may be that a similar job is waiting for us down the road, just "not yet". Our response to either answer must be patience.
I am extremely familiar with the "not yet" answer from God. I wish I could report that I respond to "not yet" with patience and hope in the Lord. The truth is that I'm not very patient. I want the doors of my choosing open now.
However, I am learning to trust the Lord. The deeper my trust grows the more natural waiting becomes. My fretting and anger are beginning to give way to hope and patience.
Wait patiently,
Lon
Sunday, May 06, 2007
Acorn Build Up: The "NO" Answer
The "NO" Answer
Acts 16:6-7
Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to.
I've heard it said that God answers all our prayers with "yes", "no", or "not yet". Paul ran into a series of "no" answers. He wanted to preach in these areas and God said no. We may never know why God says no, but we must learn to trust that a closed door is according to God's plan.
If Paul had gone through one of these closed doors, then he would likely not have had the opportunity to share his message with Lydia (Acts 16:14-15). Without hearing Paul's message, Lydia and her household would not have become believers. God had a good plan!
Beyond trusting in God's plan, we must also keep in mind that a closed door suggests a different path, not the end of our journey. In other words, when God says no we must turn and find another door to try. As the old saying goes, when God closes a door He opens a window.
Try the window!
Lon
Acts 16:6-7
Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to.
I've heard it said that God answers all our prayers with "yes", "no", or "not yet". Paul ran into a series of "no" answers. He wanted to preach in these areas and God said no. We may never know why God says no, but we must learn to trust that a closed door is according to God's plan.
If Paul had gone through one of these closed doors, then he would likely not have had the opportunity to share his message with Lydia (Acts 16:14-15). Without hearing Paul's message, Lydia and her household would not have become believers. God had a good plan!
Beyond trusting in God's plan, we must also keep in mind that a closed door suggests a different path, not the end of our journey. In other words, when God says no we must turn and find another door to try. As the old saying goes, when God closes a door He opens a window.
Try the window!
Lon
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Humility
Humility
1Peter 5:6-7
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
When I served in the United States Marine Corps I bought a bumper sticker that read:
It's hard to be humble when you know you're the best!
In many ways that swagger lingers in me to this day. Today the bumper sticker would read:
It's hard to be humble when I know what's best!
I tell God almost every day how wrong He is in placing me where I am. I tell Him how bad He's made my circumstances. I tell Him how much more I could do for Him. I tell God how He's not providing enough. I tell my Lord everyday how impatient I am with His use of me. I tell God how I know best!
Humility is respecting God's plan and the timing of it. Humility is relaxing in His amazing arms. Humility is trusting that God does care about me and that that is enough. Humility is a path to peace.
In due time,
Lon
1Peter 5:6-7
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
When I served in the United States Marine Corps I bought a bumper sticker that read:
It's hard to be humble when you know you're the best!
In many ways that swagger lingers in me to this day. Today the bumper sticker would read:
It's hard to be humble when I know what's best!
I tell God almost every day how wrong He is in placing me where I am. I tell Him how bad He's made my circumstances. I tell Him how much more I could do for Him. I tell God how He's not providing enough. I tell my Lord everyday how impatient I am with His use of me. I tell God how I know best!
Humility is respecting God's plan and the timing of it. Humility is relaxing in His amazing arms. Humility is trusting that God does care about me and that that is enough. Humility is a path to peace.
In due time,
Lon
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Postscript on Prayer
Postscript on Prayer
James 1:6-7
…when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord…
In the Access God's Power series (clear the room, pray, action) I pointed to prayer as a significant part of the process. To this I want to add a postscript.
Our prayer must be without doubt. This passage of James teaches us that we must believe that God can do what we ask of Him. If I pray without confidence that God has the capacity to satisfy my request, then I shouldn't expect to receive what I've prayed for.
To access God's power we must believe that God can answer our prayer.
Pray with confidence,
Lon
James 1:6-7
…when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord…
In the Access God's Power series (clear the room, pray, action) I pointed to prayer as a significant part of the process. To this I want to add a postscript.
Our prayer must be without doubt. This passage of James teaches us that we must believe that God can do what we ask of Him. If I pray without confidence that God has the capacity to satisfy my request, then I shouldn't expect to receive what I've prayed for.
To access God's power we must believe that God can answer our prayer.
Pray with confidence,
Lon
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Access God's Power - III
Part III - Action
Acts 9:39-40
Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that [Tabitha] had made while she was still with them. Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, "Tabitha, get up." She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up.
After clearing the room and praying, Peter took a third step in the process of accessing God's power. Peter went into action. Peter called out to Tabitha and told her to get up. Then God's power arrived as Tabitha was brought back to life!
There seems to be a pattern in the way God works. It appears that He often waits for action on our part before dispensing His power.
My favorite example of this is when God instructed Joshua to send the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant ahead of the people as they crossed the Jordan River. The river continued to flow until the priests dipped their feet in the water. Then God piled up the water and the people crossed safe and dry. God's power arrived only after the priests stepped faithfully into the water.
Take a step!
Lon
Acts 9:39-40
Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that [Tabitha] had made while she was still with them. Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, "Tabitha, get up." She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up.
After clearing the room and praying, Peter took a third step in the process of accessing God's power. Peter went into action. Peter called out to Tabitha and told her to get up. Then God's power arrived as Tabitha was brought back to life!
There seems to be a pattern in the way God works. It appears that He often waits for action on our part before dispensing His power.
My favorite example of this is when God instructed Joshua to send the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant ahead of the people as they crossed the Jordan River. The river continued to flow until the priests dipped their feet in the water. Then God piled up the water and the people crossed safe and dry. God's power arrived only after the priests stepped faithfully into the water.
Take a step!
Lon
Monday, April 30, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Access God's Power - II
Part II - Pray
Acts 9:39-40
Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that [Tabitha] had made while she was still with them. Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, "Tabitha, get up." She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up.
After clearing the room, Peter "got down on his knees and prayed". This doesn't sound to me like your average run-of-the-mill prayer. You know, the ones that sound like, "Lord, please make these french fries and this double cheeseburger healthy for my body". No, Peter's prayer must have been particularly fervent.
Praying returns us to the right relationship with God. That is, when we bow our heads we return God to the throne of our lives. Simultaneously, we take ourselves off the throne.
Jesus said [John 14:13] “…I will do whatever you ask in my name…”
The second step in accessing the power of God is to pray.
Prayerfully,
Lon
Acts 9:39-40
Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that [Tabitha] had made while she was still with them. Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, "Tabitha, get up." She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up.
After clearing the room, Peter "got down on his knees and prayed". This doesn't sound to me like your average run-of-the-mill prayer. You know, the ones that sound like, "Lord, please make these french fries and this double cheeseburger healthy for my body". No, Peter's prayer must have been particularly fervent.
Praying returns us to the right relationship with God. That is, when we bow our heads we return God to the throne of our lives. Simultaneously, we take ourselves off the throne.
Jesus said [John 14:13] “…I will do whatever you ask in my name…”
The second step in accessing the power of God is to pray.
Prayerfully,
Lon
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Access God's Power - I
Part I - Clear the Room
Acts 9:39-40
Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that [Tabitha] had made while she was still with them. Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, "Tabitha, get up." She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up.
This passage of scripture demonstrates a great blueprint for accessing God’s power.
The first thing Peter does is clear the room. He removed the influence of the “weeping widows”. They mourned for the dead and Peter was there to bring her back to life. So he removed them.
The world is full of naysayers. If you've ever tried to do something extraordinary you will not find this too surprising. The surprising aspect of naysayers is that they tend to be people closest to us.
Bruce Wilkinson, in his book The Dream Giver, coined a name for people that stand at the edge of our normal lives and encourage us not to try anything extraordinary. He calls them Border Bullies.
Border Bullies often love us and actually think they’re trying to help by keeping us from harm. Unfortunately, their influence can keep us from doing extraordinary things through God's power.
The first step in accessing God's power is to clear the room.
Show them the door!
Lon
Acts 9:39-40
Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that [Tabitha] had made while she was still with them. Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, "Tabitha, get up." She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up.
This passage of scripture demonstrates a great blueprint for accessing God’s power.
The first thing Peter does is clear the room. He removed the influence of the “weeping widows”. They mourned for the dead and Peter was there to bring her back to life. So he removed them.
The world is full of naysayers. If you've ever tried to do something extraordinary you will not find this too surprising. The surprising aspect of naysayers is that they tend to be people closest to us.
Bruce Wilkinson, in his book The Dream Giver, coined a name for people that stand at the edge of our normal lives and encourage us not to try anything extraordinary. He calls them Border Bullies.
Border Bullies often love us and actually think they’re trying to help by keeping us from harm. Unfortunately, their influence can keep us from doing extraordinary things through God's power.
The first step in accessing God's power is to clear the room.
Show them the door!
Lon
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Face the Mob
Face the Mob
Acts 14:19-20
There came certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium. They won over the crowds and they stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, for they thought he was dead. While the disciples stood in a circle round him he got up and he went into the city; and on the next day with Barnabas he went away to Derbe.
William Barclay wrote:
The outstanding feature of this story is the sheer courage of Paul. When he came to his senses, his first act was to go right back into the city where he had been stoned. It was John Wesley's advice, "Always look a mob in the face." There could be no braver thing than Paul's going straight back amongst those who had tried to murder him. A deed like that would have more effect than a hundred sermons. Men were bound to ask themselves where a man got the courage to act in such a way.
If you're experiencing difficulty, face it. Demonstrate the courage that is found in Jesus the Christ by looking the "mob in the face".
Take courage!
Lon
Acts 14:19-20
There came certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium. They won over the crowds and they stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, for they thought he was dead. While the disciples stood in a circle round him he got up and he went into the city; and on the next day with Barnabas he went away to Derbe.
William Barclay wrote:
The outstanding feature of this story is the sheer courage of Paul. When he came to his senses, his first act was to go right back into the city where he had been stoned. It was John Wesley's advice, "Always look a mob in the face." There could be no braver thing than Paul's going straight back amongst those who had tried to murder him. A deed like that would have more effect than a hundred sermons. Men were bound to ask themselves where a man got the courage to act in such a way.
If you're experiencing difficulty, face it. Demonstrate the courage that is found in Jesus the Christ by looking the "mob in the face".
Take courage!
Lon
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Pray
Pray
James 5:16
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
Today, I had breakfast with a good friend, Bill Allison. Bill reminded me of the importance and the power of pray. This is a guy that walks the talk when it comes to prayer. I have the great honor of serving on his prayer team. He sends us emails that explain his current prayer needs and asks us for "RIGHT NOW" prayers.
Although it has been a while since I contacted my personal "Knee-Mail" Team, I can speak with confidence that it is awesome having people from all over the country lifting my prayer concerns to the Lord. It's time I get my Knee-Mail Team up and going agian. If you'd like to pray for me and Acorn Ministries please email me at: Lon@AcornMinistries.com
I'd love to be on your Knee-Mail Team. How can I pray for you?
Please send me your prayer requests at: Lon@AcornMinistries.com
Pray without ceasing (1Thessalonians 5:17),
Lon
James 5:16
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
Today, I had breakfast with a good friend, Bill Allison. Bill reminded me of the importance and the power of pray. This is a guy that walks the talk when it comes to prayer. I have the great honor of serving on his prayer team. He sends us emails that explain his current prayer needs and asks us for "RIGHT NOW" prayers.
Although it has been a while since I contacted my personal "Knee-Mail" Team, I can speak with confidence that it is awesome having people from all over the country lifting my prayer concerns to the Lord. It's time I get my Knee-Mail Team up and going agian. If you'd like to pray for me and Acorn Ministries please email me at: Lon@AcornMinistries.com
I'd love to be on your Knee-Mail Team. How can I pray for you?
Please send me your prayer requests at: Lon@AcornMinistries.com
Pray without ceasing (1Thessalonians 5:17),
Lon
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Foot Dipping
Foot Dipping
Joshua 3:15-16
and as soon as those bearing the ark had come as far as the Jordan, and the feet of the priests bearing the ark were dipped in the brink of the water...the waters coming down from above stood and rose up in a heap...
Once the priests' feet dipped into the Jordan God made the waters stop flowing. God required a human act of faith before He acted. I was once told that the Jordan at flood stage contained a lot of fast moving water. The priests were not dipping their toes in some small stream. They were taking a significant "step" into what appeared to be a dangerous river.
God used the faithfulness of the priests to show Israel that He was with Joshua as He had been with Moses. (Joshua 3:7) When we are faithful, God gets the glory!
God calls us into dangerous waters, too. When we faithfully dip our toes in the water, then God does amazing things. Are you standing on the bank of the river waiting for the water to stop? It might be time to take a dip.
Take a dip!
Lon
Joshua 3:15-16
and as soon as those bearing the ark had come as far as the Jordan, and the feet of the priests bearing the ark were dipped in the brink of the water...the waters coming down from above stood and rose up in a heap...
Once the priests' feet dipped into the Jordan God made the waters stop flowing. God required a human act of faith before He acted. I was once told that the Jordan at flood stage contained a lot of fast moving water. The priests were not dipping their toes in some small stream. They were taking a significant "step" into what appeared to be a dangerous river.
God used the faithfulness of the priests to show Israel that He was with Joshua as He had been with Moses. (Joshua 3:7) When we are faithful, God gets the glory!
God calls us into dangerous waters, too. When we faithfully dip our toes in the water, then God does amazing things. Are you standing on the bank of the river waiting for the water to stop? It might be time to take a dip.
Take a dip!
Lon
Monday, April 23, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Resolve
Resolve
Isaiah 50:7
Because the Sovereign LORD helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame.
I don't think anyone wants to be made to look foolish. It seems we take precautions to avoid it. For example, I have chosen not to be a swimsuit model. This decision has saved me a great deal of embarrassment. That is a risk that I should never take.
When we take risks the possibility exists that we may embarrass ourselves. Jesus often leads us into situations that, from our human perspective, look pretty risky. For that matter, they are risky if we have to depend on our own strength and wisdom to accomplish them. But we're not alone...
The truth is when God calls us into action He is our help. With God on our side, we don't have anything to fear. So when God calls us we can act with great resolve knowing that God is on our side.
Listen ~ Resolve ~ Act
Lon
Isaiah 50:7
Because the Sovereign LORD helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame.
I don't think anyone wants to be made to look foolish. It seems we take precautions to avoid it. For example, I have chosen not to be a swimsuit model. This decision has saved me a great deal of embarrassment. That is a risk that I should never take.
When we take risks the possibility exists that we may embarrass ourselves. Jesus often leads us into situations that, from our human perspective, look pretty risky. For that matter, they are risky if we have to depend on our own strength and wisdom to accomplish them. But we're not alone...
The truth is when God calls us into action He is our help. With God on our side, we don't have anything to fear. So when God calls us we can act with great resolve knowing that God is on our side.
Listen ~ Resolve ~ Act
Lon
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Believe
Believe
John 20:27
Then [Jesus] said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.
Thomas was a seeing-is-believing kind of guy. He wasn't going to believe Jesus had been resurrected until he had proof.
The Danish philosopher Kierkegaard once said that not making a decision is itself a decision. Not making a choice is itself a choice. (The Servant, by James Hunter)
We have to choose to believe that Jesus lives without one shred of physical evidence. I guess that's why we call it faith.
Later, Jesus said:
John 20:29b
...blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.
Choose to believe and be blessed!
Lon
John 20:27
Then [Jesus] said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.
Thomas was a seeing-is-believing kind of guy. He wasn't going to believe Jesus had been resurrected until he had proof.
The Danish philosopher Kierkegaard once said that not making a decision is itself a decision. Not making a choice is itself a choice. (The Servant, by James Hunter)
We have to choose to believe that Jesus lives without one shred of physical evidence. I guess that's why we call it faith.
Later, Jesus said:
John 20:29b
...blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.
Choose to believe and be blessed!
Lon
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Serve one another
Serve One Another
Galatians 5:13 ESV
...do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
In the game Hacky Sack we used to have a rule of "no self-serving". Someone would self-serve by tossing the Hacky Sack to himself instead of passing it to someone else. We would punish the self-server by pelting the offender in the chest with the Hacky Sack. Oh, the good ol' days!
We constantly face a choice between serving ourselves or serving others. Our culture tells us to serve ourselves. Grab all you can get with both hands. You deserve it. If you don't believe me, then spend some time listening closely to TV or radio advertising.
On the other hand, God calls us to live differently than this world (Romans 12:2). We are to use our freedom to serve others. If we really want to stick out in a crowd, we should serve someone other than ourselves.
Serve one another!
Lon
Galatians 5:13 ESV
...do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
In the game Hacky Sack we used to have a rule of "no self-serving". Someone would self-serve by tossing the Hacky Sack to himself instead of passing it to someone else. We would punish the self-server by pelting the offender in the chest with the Hacky Sack. Oh, the good ol' days!
We constantly face a choice between serving ourselves or serving others. Our culture tells us to serve ourselves. Grab all you can get with both hands. You deserve it. If you don't believe me, then spend some time listening closely to TV or radio advertising.
On the other hand, God calls us to live differently than this world (Romans 12:2). We are to use our freedom to serve others. If we really want to stick out in a crowd, we should serve someone other than ourselves.
Serve one another!
Lon
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Paradigm Shift
Paradigm Shift
Luke 10:41-42
"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."
Mary wasn't helping and there was much to be done! Martha wanted the Lord to scold Mary into action. Jesus' answer must have come as a big surprise. Martha and Jesus had a different perspective on the moment.
Paradigms are the maps with which we view the world. We construct them over time and use them to navigate the challenges of life on earth. But, our paradigms can be flawed. Just because I adhere to a certain map, doesn't make the map accurate.
The Lord's ways are not the ways of the world, yet most of my maps have been gathered from my experiences in the world. In my Christian walk, my paradigms are regularly confronted by God. When I glimpse the Lord's perspective my maps have to be redrawn, my paradigms shift.
Test your paradigms!
Lon
Luke 10:41-42
"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."
Mary wasn't helping and there was much to be done! Martha wanted the Lord to scold Mary into action. Jesus' answer must have come as a big surprise. Martha and Jesus had a different perspective on the moment.
Paradigms are the maps with which we view the world. We construct them over time and use them to navigate the challenges of life on earth. But, our paradigms can be flawed. Just because I adhere to a certain map, doesn't make the map accurate.
The Lord's ways are not the ways of the world, yet most of my maps have been gathered from my experiences in the world. In my Christian walk, my paradigms are regularly confronted by God. When I glimpse the Lord's perspective my maps have to be redrawn, my paradigms shift.
Test your paradigms!
Lon
Monday, April 16, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Guest Encourager (4/16)
Guest Encourager: Josh Barnett
James 1:2-3
My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance... (NRSV)
A friend once told a story of driving along the interstate when he had a tire go flat. As he pulled over, he was dreading having to get out on the side of this busy highway to change the tire. To add to this situation it was a rainy night. As he squatted soaking wet next to his car attempting to loosen the tight lug nuts my friend reached a breaking point.
I expected him to tell me that he starting swearing or that he got angry and upset. Instead, my friend said that right when he was at the breaking point, he started praying. He prayed out loud, he called out to Jesus; he gave praise to God and called upon the Holy Spirit to empower him through the mess he was in. Right when most of us would have gone ballistic from the frustration, he found joy by going to God.
As you encounter trials of all shapes and sizes this week, consider it joy, give praise to God and embrace that experience as an ultimate faith builder.
Submitted by:
Josh W. Barnett
Communications Coordinator
Calvary United Methodist Church
1700 N. Towanda Avenue
Normal, Illinois 61761
joshb@cumcnormal.org
www.cumcnormal.org
James 1:2-3
My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance... (NRSV)
A friend once told a story of driving along the interstate when he had a tire go flat. As he pulled over, he was dreading having to get out on the side of this busy highway to change the tire. To add to this situation it was a rainy night. As he squatted soaking wet next to his car attempting to loosen the tight lug nuts my friend reached a breaking point.
I expected him to tell me that he starting swearing or that he got angry and upset. Instead, my friend said that right when he was at the breaking point, he started praying. He prayed out loud, he called out to Jesus; he gave praise to God and called upon the Holy Spirit to empower him through the mess he was in. Right when most of us would have gone ballistic from the frustration, he found joy by going to God.
As you encounter trials of all shapes and sizes this week, consider it joy, give praise to God and embrace that experience as an ultimate faith builder.
Submitted by:
Josh W. Barnett
Communications Coordinator
Calvary United Methodist Church
1700 N. Towanda Avenue
Normal, Illinois 61761
joshb@cumcnormal.org
www.cumcnormal.org
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Fear
Fear, inspired by a message from Pastor Brian Bill
1Samuel 11:17
On hearing the Philistine's words, Saul and all the Israelites were dismayed and terrified.
Goliath put fear in the hearts of the Israelites. No one wanted to face the giant because they feared him. After all, he was huge, mean, and heavily armored. This kind of fear is almost understandable. However, fear can creep in when we least expect it.
After a tremendously successful benefit concert Saturday night, I was overwhelmed by fear. God had blessed our efforts with a night of great music, fellowship, and a wonderful free-will offering. However, I had placed high hopes on the amount of money that the concert would bring to our ministry. When those marks weren't met, fear came creeping in. I began to imagine all sorts of depressing futures, and fear took control.
In one of my favorite sci-fi movies (Dune) there is this great line, "Fear is the mind killer." I'd like to offer a variation on that theme: Fear is the faith killer. When we let fear take control of our thoughts, our faith suffers. Here's a great line from Pastor Bill's message:
Focus on giants – you stumble; Focus on God – your giants tumble.
Pastor Brian Bill is the Directing Pastor at Pontiac Bible Church
To read Pastor Bill's entire message follow this link: Handling Your Fears
1Samuel 11:17
On hearing the Philistine's words, Saul and all the Israelites were dismayed and terrified.
Goliath put fear in the hearts of the Israelites. No one wanted to face the giant because they feared him. After all, he was huge, mean, and heavily armored. This kind of fear is almost understandable. However, fear can creep in when we least expect it.
After a tremendously successful benefit concert Saturday night, I was overwhelmed by fear. God had blessed our efforts with a night of great music, fellowship, and a wonderful free-will offering. However, I had placed high hopes on the amount of money that the concert would bring to our ministry. When those marks weren't met, fear came creeping in. I began to imagine all sorts of depressing futures, and fear took control.
In one of my favorite sci-fi movies (Dune) there is this great line, "Fear is the mind killer." I'd like to offer a variation on that theme: Fear is the faith killer. When we let fear take control of our thoughts, our faith suffers. Here's a great line from Pastor Bill's message:
Focus on giants – you stumble; Focus on God – your giants tumble.
Pastor Brian Bill is the Directing Pastor at Pontiac Bible Church
To read Pastor Bill's entire message follow this link: Handling Your Fears
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Concentrate on Today
Concentrate on Today
Matthew 6:34
...do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
One of my biggest challenges as a Christian is worrying about tomorrow. So why do I worry? I worry because I just don't trust God enough to REALLY let Him have control of all of my life, especially my future. Instead I cling to the lie that somehow I am the master of my own destiny, and can thereby dictate my future, and that worries me!
How insulting that must be to God. Here I am this little mortal worrying about my future, while all the time God is at work preparing it. He is preparing every detail of the future which I will encounter. He is in control.
God is also preparing me. He designs each day specifically to train me for tomorrow. The troubles, the sorrows, the waiting, the joys, and the surprises prepare me for my future. If I spend my energy worrying about tomorrow, I will likely miss the growth opportunities God prepared for me today.
The best way to avoid worrying about tomorrow is to trust tomorrow to God and absolutely invest ourselves in today.
Concentrate on today!
Lon
Matthew 6:34
...do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
One of my biggest challenges as a Christian is worrying about tomorrow. So why do I worry? I worry because I just don't trust God enough to REALLY let Him have control of all of my life, especially my future. Instead I cling to the lie that somehow I am the master of my own destiny, and can thereby dictate my future, and that worries me!
How insulting that must be to God. Here I am this little mortal worrying about my future, while all the time God is at work preparing it. He is preparing every detail of the future which I will encounter. He is in control.
God is also preparing me. He designs each day specifically to train me for tomorrow. The troubles, the sorrows, the waiting, the joys, and the surprises prepare me for my future. If I spend my energy worrying about tomorrow, I will likely miss the growth opportunities God prepared for me today.
The best way to avoid worrying about tomorrow is to trust tomorrow to God and absolutely invest ourselves in today.
Concentrate on today!
Lon
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Surprise Visits
Our Lord's Surprise Visits, by Oswald Chambers
Luke 12:40
You also be ready...
A Christian worker's greatest need is a readiness to face Jesus Christ at any and every turn. This is not easy, no matter what our experience has been. This battle is not against sin, difficulties, or circumstances, but against being so absorbed in our service to Jesus Christ that we are not ready to face Jesus Himself at every turn.
Jesus rarely comes where we expect Him; He appears where we least expect Him, and always in the most illogical situations. The only way a servant can remain true to God is to be ready for the Lord's surprise visits. This readiness will not be brought about by service, but through intense spiritual reality, expecting Jesus Christ at every turn. This sense of expectation will give our life the attitude of childlike wonder He wants it to have.
Excerpt from My Utmost for His Highest, by Oswald Chambers
Luke 12:40
You also be ready...
A Christian worker's greatest need is a readiness to face Jesus Christ at any and every turn. This is not easy, no matter what our experience has been. This battle is not against sin, difficulties, or circumstances, but against being so absorbed in our service to Jesus Christ that we are not ready to face Jesus Himself at every turn.
Jesus rarely comes where we expect Him; He appears where we least expect Him, and always in the most illogical situations. The only way a servant can remain true to God is to be ready for the Lord's surprise visits. This readiness will not be brought about by service, but through intense spiritual reality, expecting Jesus Christ at every turn. This sense of expectation will give our life the attitude of childlike wonder He wants it to have.
Excerpt from My Utmost for His Highest, by Oswald Chambers
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Call to Interact
Call to Interact
1Thessalonians 5:14 NRSV
...we urge you, beloved, to admonish the idlers, encourage the faint hearted, help the weak, be patient with all of them.
The world tells us to mind our own business. It tells us to keep our eyes on our own work. Not surprisingly we live in an age experiencing an epidemic of loneliness. Yet, God placed us on this earth surrounded by people. Everywhere you look you will find droves of humans.
Our triune God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) demonstrates for us the manner in which we are intended to behave toward one another. That behavior is to form community. We're not supposed to ignore the people around us; rather, we're supposed to interact with them. As we admonish, encourage, and help our fellow humans, remain patient with everyone.
Shake things up today: Go out of your way to speak with someone that you normally ignore or avoid.
Happy interacting!
Lon
1Thessalonians 5:14 NRSV
...we urge you, beloved, to admonish the idlers, encourage the faint hearted, help the weak, be patient with all of them.
The world tells us to mind our own business. It tells us to keep our eyes on our own work. Not surprisingly we live in an age experiencing an epidemic of loneliness. Yet, God placed us on this earth surrounded by people. Everywhere you look you will find droves of humans.
Our triune God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) demonstrates for us the manner in which we are intended to behave toward one another. That behavior is to form community. We're not supposed to ignore the people around us; rather, we're supposed to interact with them. As we admonish, encourage, and help our fellow humans, remain patient with everyone.
Shake things up today: Go out of your way to speak with someone that you normally ignore or avoid.
Happy interacting!
Lon
Monday, April 09, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Test Everything
Test Everything
1Thessalonians 5:21-22
Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.
We have to face the fact that there is evil in the world. Yes, there is good stuff, but if we're not very careful we can step in a big ol' pile of evil.
To avoid evil we must be vigilant. We have to concentrate on everything we encounter and determine if it is good or evil. Test everything. When good stuff comes along, grab hold of it with both hands. And if it's bad, take care not to step in it.
Be on your guard.
Lon
1Thessalonians 5:21-22
Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.
We have to face the fact that there is evil in the world. Yes, there is good stuff, but if we're not very careful we can step in a big ol' pile of evil.
To avoid evil we must be vigilant. We have to concentrate on everything we encounter and determine if it is good or evil. Test everything. When good stuff comes along, grab hold of it with both hands. And if it's bad, take care not to step in it.
Be on your guard.
Lon
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Acorn Build Up: He is risen!
He is risen!
John 20:1-8 (ESV)
Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him." So Peter went out with the other disciple, and they were going toward the tomb. Both of them were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. And stooping to look in, he saw the linen cloths lying there, and the face cloth, which had been on Jesus head, not lying with the linen cloths but folded up in a place by itself. The the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed...
We serve a risen and living Lord!
Happy Easter!
Lon
John 20:1-8 (ESV)
Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him." So Peter went out with the other disciple, and they were going toward the tomb. Both of them were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. And stooping to look in, he saw the linen cloths lying there, and the face cloth, which had been on Jesus head, not lying with the linen cloths but folded up in a place by itself. The the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed...
We serve a risen and living Lord!
Happy Easter!
Lon
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Labor and Love
Labor and Love
1Thessalonians 3:1
We continually remember before our God and Father...your labor prompted by love...
This is a third and final look at this fascinating passage of scripture. It seems fitting to leave the final thought to the grand pappy of them all - love.
1Corinthians 13:13
And now these three remain; faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
Love is a selfless act. It's an action that we undertake for others. Love is nowhere better exemplified than by the labor of Jesus Christ upon the cross.
Let us labor out of love for others.
Lon
1Thessalonians 3:1
We continually remember before our God and Father...your labor prompted by love...
This is a third and final look at this fascinating passage of scripture. It seems fitting to leave the final thought to the grand pappy of them all - love.
1Corinthians 13:13
And now these three remain; faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
Love is a selfless act. It's an action that we undertake for others. Love is nowhere better exemplified than by the labor of Jesus Christ upon the cross.
Let us labor out of love for others.
Lon
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Work and Faith
Work and Faith - by William Barclay
1Thessalonians 1:3
We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith...
Nothing tells us more about a man than the way in which he works. He may work in fear of the whip; he may work for hope of gain; he may work from a grim sense of duty; or he may work inspired by faith. His faith is that this is his task given him by God and that he is working in the last analysis not for men but for God. Someone has said that the sign of true consecration is when a man can find glory in drudgery.
Excerpt from "The Daily Study Bible", by William Barclay
1Thessalonians 1:3
We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith...
Nothing tells us more about a man than the way in which he works. He may work in fear of the whip; he may work for hope of gain; he may work from a grim sense of duty; or he may work inspired by faith. His faith is that this is his task given him by God and that he is working in the last analysis not for men but for God. Someone has said that the sign of true consecration is when a man can find glory in drudgery.
Excerpt from "The Daily Study Bible", by William Barclay
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Endurance and Hope
Endurance and Hope
1Thessalonians 1:3
We continually remember before our God and Father...your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
When the going gets tough, how do we keep going? How do we travel through the difficult stuff? How do we endure?
If we tie our hopes on Jesus, like our lives depend upon it (which they do), then we will find the strength to endure. Unfortunately, if we tie our hopes to ANYTHING else, we will be disappointed!
Are you going through a rough patch? To endure, wrap your hope as tightly as you can around our Lord Jesus.
If you know of a friend who is going through tough stuff, now may be the time to give them a lesson in knot tying. During times of deep difficulty, our friends may be more willing to consider tying on to Someone different. Be gentle, wise, and loving as you help them strap their hopes on the Lord.
Keep tied in!
Lon
1Thessalonians 1:3
We continually remember before our God and Father...your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
When the going gets tough, how do we keep going? How do we travel through the difficult stuff? How do we endure?
If we tie our hopes on Jesus, like our lives depend upon it (which they do), then we will find the strength to endure. Unfortunately, if we tie our hopes to ANYTHING else, we will be disappointed!
Are you going through a rough patch? To endure, wrap your hope as tightly as you can around our Lord Jesus.
If you know of a friend who is going through tough stuff, now may be the time to give them a lesson in knot tying. During times of deep difficulty, our friends may be more willing to consider tying on to Someone different. Be gentle, wise, and loving as you help them strap their hopes on the Lord.
Keep tied in!
Lon
Monday, April 02, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Travel Light
Travel Light
Luke 9:2-3
...[Jesus] sent [the Twelve] out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. He told them: "Take nothing for the journey - - no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra tunic.
I love backpacking. I particularly enjoy the packing phase for the journey. I plan out every tiny detail of the contents of my backpack. I take so much stuff! My thinking is that I want to be prepared for any and all emergencies.
Jesus sends out His disciples with next to nothing. As a backpacker I would have wondered how, then, are we to survive the emergencies and adventures associated with travel on foot? I'm surprised none of the disciples asked this question. Instead we read that Jesus told the disciples what to do, and they did it.
As we follow God today, let us ask Him what He wants us to do and let's leave the how up to Him.
Happy hiking!
Lon
Luke 9:2-3
...[Jesus] sent [the Twelve] out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. He told them: "Take nothing for the journey - - no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra tunic.
I love backpacking. I particularly enjoy the packing phase for the journey. I plan out every tiny detail of the contents of my backpack. I take so much stuff! My thinking is that I want to be prepared for any and all emergencies.
Jesus sends out His disciples with next to nothing. As a backpacker I would have wondered how, then, are we to survive the emergencies and adventures associated with travel on foot? I'm surprised none of the disciples asked this question. Instead we read that Jesus told the disciples what to do, and they did it.
As we follow God today, let us ask Him what He wants us to do and let's leave the how up to Him.
Happy hiking!
Lon
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Shake the Dust
Shake the Dust
Matthew 10:14
If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town.
Sometimes in life we encounter people that just plain don't accept us. Try as we might, they don't understand our good intentions. They misunderstand our efforts and refuse to welcome us or listen to us. Jesus taught His disciples to clean off their feet of the dust of that town and move on.
Jesus wants us to make the good effort to encourage and build people up. However, if they don't accept our effort, then we're to make a clean break and move on. For me this is a toughie. I am troubled when people don't accept me. But, it's not my job to make them welcome me or listen to me. That is between them and God.
Sent out like you.
Lon
Matthew 10:14
If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town.
Sometimes in life we encounter people that just plain don't accept us. Try as we might, they don't understand our good intentions. They misunderstand our efforts and refuse to welcome us or listen to us. Jesus taught His disciples to clean off their feet of the dust of that town and move on.
Jesus wants us to make the good effort to encourage and build people up. However, if they don't accept our effort, then we're to make a clean break and move on. For me this is a toughie. I am troubled when people don't accept me. But, it's not my job to make them welcome me or listen to me. That is between them and God.
Sent out like you.
Lon
Friday, March 30, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Sharpening
Sharpening
Proverbs 27:17 (ESV)
Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.
Do you have someone in your life that sharpens you? I don't mean someone that causes you to respond sharply; rather, is there someone that makes you better? It is an amazing thing when one person invests in the sharpening of another. If you don't currently have an encourager in your life, I strongly recommend finding one.
I have a friend, Ed Pears, who is one of my sharpeners. I worked for Ed at YMCA camps during the summers of 1984-87. The first amazing thing is that he hired me. The second unbelievable part of this story is that he hired me back after the first summer. But even more remarkable is that for the last 20 years Ed has called me almost every month to "check in" with me. When times are tough he has called me weekly. And when life was almost unbearable, Ed called me daily. I am a better man because of the 24 years Ed has sharpened me.
If you have a person in your life that has been a great encourager, please consider writing up a brief description of how that person has sharpened and encouraged you. I hope to share your stories on this blog with occasional Encourager Spotlights.
Happy sharpening!
Lon
Proverbs 27:17 (ESV)
Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.
Do you have someone in your life that sharpens you? I don't mean someone that causes you to respond sharply; rather, is there someone that makes you better? It is an amazing thing when one person invests in the sharpening of another. If you don't currently have an encourager in your life, I strongly recommend finding one.
I have a friend, Ed Pears, who is one of my sharpeners. I worked for Ed at YMCA camps during the summers of 1984-87. The first amazing thing is that he hired me. The second unbelievable part of this story is that he hired me back after the first summer. But even more remarkable is that for the last 20 years Ed has called me almost every month to "check in" with me. When times are tough he has called me weekly. And when life was almost unbearable, Ed called me daily. I am a better man because of the 24 years Ed has sharpened me.
If you have a person in your life that has been a great encourager, please consider writing up a brief description of how that person has sharpened and encouraged you. I hope to share your stories on this blog with occasional Encourager Spotlights.
Happy sharpening!
Lon
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Timing
Timing
John 2:3-4
When the wine was gone, Jesus' mother said to him, "They have no more wine."
"Dear woman, why do you involve me?" Jesus replied. "My time has not yet come."
Jesus understood the concept of timing. He knew at this early stage in His ministry it was too soon to "get involved". Much later Jesus was keenly aware of the arrival of His time:
John 13:1
...Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father...
We live in a time when a 20 second voice mail greeting seems like an eternity. I can't wait for the light to turn green and why does that person ahead of me in line need so many groceries? Our only sense of timing is to recognize that everything takes too long.
Regardless of our impatience, it seems clear that God organizes the building of His kingdom in a step by step pattern. One thing happens followed by another and another. To trust God is to accept His plan, His implementation of that plan, and His timing of its implementation.
Trust in the Lord.
Lon
John 2:3-4
When the wine was gone, Jesus' mother said to him, "They have no more wine."
"Dear woman, why do you involve me?" Jesus replied. "My time has not yet come."
Jesus understood the concept of timing. He knew at this early stage in His ministry it was too soon to "get involved". Much later Jesus was keenly aware of the arrival of His time:
John 13:1
...Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father...
We live in a time when a 20 second voice mail greeting seems like an eternity. I can't wait for the light to turn green and why does that person ahead of me in line need so many groceries? Our only sense of timing is to recognize that everything takes too long.
Regardless of our impatience, it seems clear that God organizes the building of His kingdom in a step by step pattern. One thing happens followed by another and another. To trust God is to accept His plan, His implementation of that plan, and His timing of its implementation.
Trust in the Lord.
Lon
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Peace and Upbuilding
Peace and Upbuilding
Romans 14:19
So let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.
I marvel at the way that God inspires and uses these Build Ups to encourage and build up people in the body of Christ. The process of putting each post together blesses and builds me up, too! I think that is what "mutual upbuilding" means. God is good!
I will be out of blogging range for the next week. I hope to begin posting again on March 29th. Until then, "...be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you." (2Corinthians 13:11)
Peace,
Lon
Romans 14:19
So let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.
I marvel at the way that God inspires and uses these Build Ups to encourage and build up people in the body of Christ. The process of putting each post together blesses and builds me up, too! I think that is what "mutual upbuilding" means. God is good!
I will be out of blogging range for the next week. I hope to begin posting again on March 29th. Until then, "...be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you." (2Corinthians 13:11)
Peace,
Lon
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Revealing Questions
Revealing Questions
John 6:28-29
Then they asked him, "What must we do to do the works God requires?" Jesus answered, "The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent."
The crowd asks, "What must we do...?" Their question reveals that they don't yet get it, that is, they don't understand who Jesus is and what He has been sent to do. Their question reveals that they assume some act on their part will earn God's favor. Jesus explains that the work that God requires is to believe in Jesus.
Our questions reveal what we know and what we don't know, too. One might ask, "What kept you out until 2:00am?" The questioner knows when she arrived home, but not the reason for the late return. The questions we ask in the church reveal much about what we know and what we don't know. Here are a few questions I hear regularly:
What work can we do to keep our church going?
What work can we do to attract more people to our church?
What work can we do to increase giving?
Jesus answered, "The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent."
Revealing, ain't it!
Lon
John 6:28-29
Then they asked him, "What must we do to do the works God requires?" Jesus answered, "The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent."
The crowd asks, "What must we do...?" Their question reveals that they don't yet get it, that is, they don't understand who Jesus is and what He has been sent to do. Their question reveals that they assume some act on their part will earn God's favor. Jesus explains that the work that God requires is to believe in Jesus.
Our questions reveal what we know and what we don't know, too. One might ask, "What kept you out until 2:00am?" The questioner knows when she arrived home, but not the reason for the late return. The questions we ask in the church reveal much about what we know and what we don't know. Here are a few questions I hear regularly:
What work can we do to keep our church going?
What work can we do to attract more people to our church?
What work can we do to increase giving?
Jesus answered, "The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent."
Revealing, ain't it!
Lon
Monday, March 19, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Shield of Joy
Shield of Joy
Psalm 5:11-12
...let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. For surely, O LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.
Does it feel as though life is an uphill battle? We fight and we hack. We plan and we work. We rush and we cram. And despite these heroic efforts, life remains difficult. Where can we find sanctuary?
There is shelter in the Lord. Unfortunately, I tend to seek my shelter in every other possibility. Beleaguered I eventually limp back to God. And there, vigilantly waiting, is protection. There is great joy in the strong, caring arms of the Lord.
Look to the Lord as your shield.
Lon
Psalm 5:11-12
...let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. For surely, O LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.
Does it feel as though life is an uphill battle? We fight and we hack. We plan and we work. We rush and we cram. And despite these heroic efforts, life remains difficult. Where can we find sanctuary?
There is shelter in the Lord. Unfortunately, I tend to seek my shelter in every other possibility. Beleaguered I eventually limp back to God. And there, vigilantly waiting, is protection. There is great joy in the strong, caring arms of the Lord.
Look to the Lord as your shield.
Lon
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Adam or Jesus
Adam or Jesus
Romans 5:18-19
...just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.
Adam disobeyed God. Adam's defiance of God caused a gap between God and humans. As sinners, humans lost their direct relationship with God. One man, Adam, sinned causing all humans to be sinners. "...the wages of sin are death..." (Romans 6:23a)
Jesus obeyed God. Jesus' obedience took Him to the cross. His self-sacrifice was for the purpose of forgiving our sins. Forgiveness provides a way for humans to return to a right relationship with God. One man, Jesus, obeyed and gave us the opportunity of life. "...but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23b)
Adam or Jesus
Disobedience or Obedience
Death or Life
Choose well.
Lon
Romans 5:18-19
...just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.
Adam disobeyed God. Adam's defiance of God caused a gap between God and humans. As sinners, humans lost their direct relationship with God. One man, Adam, sinned causing all humans to be sinners. "...the wages of sin are death..." (Romans 6:23a)
Jesus obeyed God. Jesus' obedience took Him to the cross. His self-sacrifice was for the purpose of forgiving our sins. Forgiveness provides a way for humans to return to a right relationship with God. One man, Jesus, obeyed and gave us the opportunity of life. "...but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23b)
Adam or Jesus
Disobedience or Obedience
Death or Life
Choose well.
Lon
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Acorn Build Up ~ Strength and Hope
Strength and Hope
Isaiah 40:31
...but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
As this week draws to a weary end, it seems fitting to remember where to find strength. There is amazing power available to us when we place our hope in the Lord. The problem is we tend to seek our strength in other places. If I work a little harder...
The Lord's power flows to us when we look to God as the focus of our hope. Our hope doesn't lie in our abilities and skills. It isn't about luck. It isn't even about the competition. No, our hope is found in the hands of our God. And when we truly wait expectantly upon the Lord there is amazing refreshment and renewed strength.
Hope in the Lord!
Lon
Isaiah 40:31
...but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
As this week draws to a weary end, it seems fitting to remember where to find strength. There is amazing power available to us when we place our hope in the Lord. The problem is we tend to seek our strength in other places. If I work a little harder...
The Lord's power flows to us when we look to God as the focus of our hope. Our hope doesn't lie in our abilities and skills. It isn't about luck. It isn't even about the competition. No, our hope is found in the hands of our God. And when we truly wait expectantly upon the Lord there is amazing refreshment and renewed strength.
Hope in the Lord!
Lon
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Forgive
Forgive by Pastor Glenn Brown
Matthew 6:14-15
...if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
Let me tell you about one of the most powerful things a person can do. This powerful act is to, in a word, forgive. Have you ever been mistreated? Maybe someone you trusted betrayed your love and trust. The truth is everyone has been hurt by those you would least suspect. It seems to be part of life. Unfortunately, our bitterness over the betrayal will, over time, cause us some serious trouble. Carrying our hurt is a heavy burden, which can enslave us.
Here's the key to freedom: forgive! But you say, "there's no way I can forgive that person!" This is true. You are not able; however, Jesus can give you the strength to do it. Ask Jesus to help you and you will feel the bitterness and hatred lift, like a weight falling from your shoulders.
Praise God, He is able to set us free by the power of His love and His Holy Spirit.
Blessings!
Glenn
Matthew 6:14-15
...if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
Let me tell you about one of the most powerful things a person can do. This powerful act is to, in a word, forgive. Have you ever been mistreated? Maybe someone you trusted betrayed your love and trust. The truth is everyone has been hurt by those you would least suspect. It seems to be part of life. Unfortunately, our bitterness over the betrayal will, over time, cause us some serious trouble. Carrying our hurt is a heavy burden, which can enslave us.
Here's the key to freedom: forgive! But you say, "there's no way I can forgive that person!" This is true. You are not able; however, Jesus can give you the strength to do it. Ask Jesus to help you and you will feel the bitterness and hatred lift, like a weight falling from your shoulders.
Praise God, He is able to set us free by the power of His love and His Holy Spirit.
Blessings!
Glenn
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Disciple Test
Disciple Test
John 13:34-35
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.
Jesus commands His followers to love one another. And not just any old love, but the same love that Jesus demonstrated. Jesus' brand of love is humble, self-less, sacrificial, available to all, extended to the socially marginalized, etc.
As we love one another as Jesus loved, our behavior will identify us. People that see this special kind of love will recognize us as disciples of Jesus. How are we living up to this test?
Love one another.
Lon
John 13:34-35
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.
Jesus commands His followers to love one another. And not just any old love, but the same love that Jesus demonstrated. Jesus' brand of love is humble, self-less, sacrificial, available to all, extended to the socially marginalized, etc.
As we love one another as Jesus loved, our behavior will identify us. People that see this special kind of love will recognize us as disciples of Jesus. How are we living up to this test?
Love one another.
Lon
Monday, March 12, 2007
Acorn Build Up: A Simple Psalm
A Simple Psalm (without comment)
Psalm 25:1-5
To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul;
in you I trust, O my God.
Do not let me be put to shame,
nor let my enemies triumph over me.
No one whose hope is in you
will ever be put to shame,
but they will be put to shame
who are treacherous without excuse.
Show me your ways, O LORD,
teach me your paths;
guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.
Psalm 25:1-5
To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul;
in you I trust, O my God.
Do not let me be put to shame,
nor let my enemies triumph over me.
No one whose hope is in you
will ever be put to shame,
but they will be put to shame
who are treacherous without excuse.
Show me your ways, O LORD,
teach me your paths;
guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Possible Mission
Possible Mission
Romans 12:18
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
What a challenging thought! Frankly, my natural tendency is to avoid people with whom I have previously had difficulties. I figure if I just stay out of their way I won't have to deal with them. Unfortunately, I don't think that is what the writer of this verse intended. And I know that's not what God has in mind.
To the best of our ability we are to live at peace with, dare I repeat it, everyone! That means the cranky people and the people that we don't understand. It means the people older than us and the younger ones too. It means our boss and our subordinate. Everyone.
Let's start out our new week with this verse on our hearts.
Peace,
Lon
Romans 12:18
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
What a challenging thought! Frankly, my natural tendency is to avoid people with whom I have previously had difficulties. I figure if I just stay out of their way I won't have to deal with them. Unfortunately, I don't think that is what the writer of this verse intended. And I know that's not what God has in mind.
To the best of our ability we are to live at peace with, dare I repeat it, everyone! That means the cranky people and the people that we don't understand. It means the people older than us and the younger ones too. It means our boss and our subordinate. Everyone.
Let's start out our new week with this verse on our hearts.
Peace,
Lon
Friday, March 09, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Rest
Rest
Matthew 11:28
Come to Me and I will give you rest
It's the weekend! How do you plan to unwind and refresh yourself?
Jesus' plan for our rest has to do with turning our attention on Him. By focusing our attention on Jesus we will simultaneously take our attention away from ourselves. The more we focus on ourselves the more tired we will feel. However, when we gaze upon Christ Jesus the fatigue subsides.
Oswald Chambers, in My Utmost for His Highest, states it this way:
Ask the Lord to put awareness of Himself in you, and your self-awareness will disappear. Then He will be your all in all.
And that is the only real rest in the world.
Get some rest!
Lon
Matthew 11:28
Come to Me and I will give you rest
It's the weekend! How do you plan to unwind and refresh yourself?
Jesus' plan for our rest has to do with turning our attention on Him. By focusing our attention on Jesus we will simultaneously take our attention away from ourselves. The more we focus on ourselves the more tired we will feel. However, when we gaze upon Christ Jesus the fatigue subsides.
Oswald Chambers, in My Utmost for His Highest, states it this way:
Ask the Lord to put awareness of Himself in you, and your self-awareness will disappear. Then He will be your all in all.
And that is the only real rest in the world.
Get some rest!
Lon
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Heart Storage
Heart Storage
Luke 6:45
The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.
What are we storing in our hearts? Are we gathering in the good stuff, or are we collecting evil? Another way to identify the contents of our heart would be to determine that which occupies the majority of our thinking. The thoughts that capture our attention, you know, the ones we dwell upon, are clues to the nature of our storage.
Luke 12:34
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
If we treasure things like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control (Galatians 5:21-22), then our hearts will overflow with the good stuff when we speak.
Let's take inventory of what we've stored in our hearts.
Lon
Luke 6:45
The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.
What are we storing in our hearts? Are we gathering in the good stuff, or are we collecting evil? Another way to identify the contents of our heart would be to determine that which occupies the majority of our thinking. The thoughts that capture our attention, you know, the ones we dwell upon, are clues to the nature of our storage.
Luke 12:34
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
If we treasure things like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control (Galatians 5:21-22), then our hearts will overflow with the good stuff when we speak.
Let's take inventory of what we've stored in our hearts.
Lon
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Faith in Adversity
Faith in Adversity
Psalm 46:1
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear...
What is your "trouble"? No matter what assails you, there is help available. There is a refuge, a safe place, in the storms of life. There is great strength to face the difficulties. All this is available through our faith in God. And, it's available anywhere and anytime.
Troubles are a regular part of life. Trouble affects everyone, both the non-believer and the person of faith. However, with God's help there is no need for fear. With faith in God, we can persevere through the adversities of life without fear.
Place your troubles in the hands of God, and do not be afraid.
God is with us!
Lon
Psalm 46:1
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear...
What is your "trouble"? No matter what assails you, there is help available. There is a refuge, a safe place, in the storms of life. There is great strength to face the difficulties. All this is available through our faith in God. And, it's available anywhere and anytime.
Troubles are a regular part of life. Trouble affects everyone, both the non-believer and the person of faith. However, with God's help there is no need for fear. With faith in God, we can persevere through the adversities of life without fear.
Place your troubles in the hands of God, and do not be afraid.
God is with us!
Lon
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Everyone!
Everyone! by Pastor Glenn Brown
Romans 10:13
Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
This passage encourages me! It gives me great hope that all I have to do is call on the name of Jesus and I will be saved. There is no question or doubt about it. It is straight forward; definite.
People often ask, "Is there hope for me?"
I love that word "everyone"! Everyone means everyone. So, the answer to the question is an emphatic, yes!
Please consider sending this post to your friends that are asking the question, "Is there hope for me?"
About the Author
Pastor Brown is "in a holding pattern" as he waits upon the Lord. Pastor Glenn has previously served as a church pastor, a chaplain with the Ontario County Sheriff's Department (NY), a funeral home director, and served with me (Lon) in the United States Marine Drum and Bugle Corps in the late-1970s. Pastor Brown served at Ground Zero as a Chaplain.
You can contact Pastor Brown by email at: Lon@AcornMinistries.com
Romans 10:13
Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
This passage encourages me! It gives me great hope that all I have to do is call on the name of Jesus and I will be saved. There is no question or doubt about it. It is straight forward; definite.
People often ask, "Is there hope for me?"
I love that word "everyone"! Everyone means everyone. So, the answer to the question is an emphatic, yes!
Please consider sending this post to your friends that are asking the question, "Is there hope for me?"
About the Author
Pastor Brown is "in a holding pattern" as he waits upon the Lord. Pastor Glenn has previously served as a church pastor, a chaplain with the Ontario County Sheriff's Department (NY), a funeral home director, and served with me (Lon) in the United States Marine Drum and Bugle Corps in the late-1970s. Pastor Brown served at Ground Zero as a Chaplain.
You can contact Pastor Brown by email at: Lon@AcornMinistries.com
Monday, March 05, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Source of Strength
Source of Strength
1Peter 4:11
If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.
This afternoon I returned from investing 26 hours in 27 young people from the Pontiac (IL) area from the First United Methodist and the First Lutheran churches. We traveled to Dickson Valley Camp and Retreat Center for the event. I think I've slept 10 hours in the last 72.
Frankly, I'm exhausted! In my fatigue a question is gnawing at my brain. Did I lean on the strength of God, or did I rely on my own, human power?
Today, let's leave no doubt about it. Let's lean on the almighty strength of God, so we'll know for sure where the glory belongs. It belongs to God!
Praise God!
Lon
1Peter 4:11
If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.
This afternoon I returned from investing 26 hours in 27 young people from the Pontiac (IL) area from the First United Methodist and the First Lutheran churches. We traveled to Dickson Valley Camp and Retreat Center for the event. I think I've slept 10 hours in the last 72.
Frankly, I'm exhausted! In my fatigue a question is gnawing at my brain. Did I lean on the strength of God, or did I rely on my own, human power?
Today, let's leave no doubt about it. Let's lean on the almighty strength of God, so we'll know for sure where the glory belongs. It belongs to God!
Praise God!
Lon
Friday, March 02, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Three Clues
Three Clues
1Thessalonians 5:16-18
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
If you ever wondered what God's will is for His people, then I'd recommend spending time with this passage of scripture. First of all, this passage is short enough that I think even I could memorize it! Second, it gives us straight forward clues to the way God wants us to live.
1. Be joyful always - not just when we feel good.
2. Pray continually - keep the lines of communication open to God.
3. Give thanks in all circumstances - trust that God's plan will prevail and thank Him for it.
Have a great weekend!
Lon
1Thessalonians 5:16-18
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
If you ever wondered what God's will is for His people, then I'd recommend spending time with this passage of scripture. First of all, this passage is short enough that I think even I could memorize it! Second, it gives us straight forward clues to the way God wants us to live.
1. Be joyful always - not just when we feel good.
2. Pray continually - keep the lines of communication open to God.
3. Give thanks in all circumstances - trust that God's plan will prevail and thank Him for it.
Have a great weekend!
Lon
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Tired
Tired
John 4:6-7
...Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well...a Samaritan woman came to draw water...
We have all journeyed through another long week. Frankly, I'm tired! Jesus was tired from His journey, too. Even so, Jesus ministered to the Samaritan woman and many others from the area.
Many Samaritans came to believe (4:39-41) because Jesus made the extra effort. He saw an opportunity to minister and took advantage of it, even though He was tired.
As this week comes to a close, let's finish strong. Let's look for opportunities to minister to others, even though we are tired.
Finish strong!
Lon
John 4:6-7
...Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well...a Samaritan woman came to draw water...
We have all journeyed through another long week. Frankly, I'm tired! Jesus was tired from His journey, too. Even so, Jesus ministered to the Samaritan woman and many others from the area.
Many Samaritans came to believe (4:39-41) because Jesus made the extra effort. He saw an opportunity to minister and took advantage of it, even though He was tired.
As this week comes to a close, let's finish strong. Let's look for opportunities to minister to others, even though we are tired.
Finish strong!
Lon
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