Encouragement
Acts 16:40
After Paul and Silas came out of the prison, they went to Lydia's house, where they met with the brothers and encouraged them. Then they left.
Read that again. Yep, I highlighted it correctly. Paul and Silas get out of prison and they are the encouragers. Wow! I would think after spending some time in prison, I may be the one in need of encouragement. But that’s not what this passage tells us. It was after a time of trouble that Paul and Silas were able to share their experiences with others and bring encouragement.
I find this, well, encouraging.
Maybe my ‘time in prison’ isn’t a punishment or a test at all. Maybe, just maybe, it’s a gift of encouragement to you.
Rachel
Note from Lon: You can find more great "Build Ups" written by Rachel by clicking on the Rachel Smith label below. If you subscribe to this blog, you will need to click on the title (Guest Encourager: Rachel Smith "Encourgement") above, then find the labels at the bottom of Rachel's post.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Reliance
Reliance
1Timothy 6:17
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.
Hope must rest upon something reliable. What in the world is trustworthy? Upon what can I truly rely? In what can I place my hope?
In my life I have relied upon many things, but none of them deserved my hope. Wealth, skills, personality, dumb luck, other people, good looks (this was a long time ago!) and organizations are a few places in which I've misplaced my hopes. Eventually every one of them let me down.
There is only One trustworthy enough for me to rely upon. That one is God. God will NEVER let us down.
Hebrews 13:5
Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you."
F.R.O.G. (Fully Relying On God)
Lon
1Timothy 6:17
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.
Hope must rest upon something reliable. What in the world is trustworthy? Upon what can I truly rely? In what can I place my hope?
In my life I have relied upon many things, but none of them deserved my hope. Wealth, skills, personality, dumb luck, other people, good looks (this was a long time ago!) and organizations are a few places in which I've misplaced my hopes. Eventually every one of them let me down.
There is only One trustworthy enough for me to rely upon. That one is God. God will NEVER let us down.
Hebrews 13:5
Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you."
F.R.O.G. (Fully Relying On God)
Lon
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Guest Encourager: Rachel Smith "Home"
Home
2 Corinthians 5:6-9
Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. We live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it.
Where do you want to live? Have you ever really thought about this? I’m sure you have. We have all toyed with the idea of relocation at one point or another. Sometimes these dreams are prompted by job turmoil or opportunity. Sometimes they are prompted by weather. I choose to live in Illinois. This is one of the few states in which you can run the heater and the air condition in your car on the same day! But even beyond the blistering heat or frigid cold wind, it is a longing to be with my mother or my brother which gets me to day dreaming of moving. On more than one day I have thought how wonderful it would be to go ‘home’ to the town in which I grew up.
The reality is I don’t really like that town. I have never cared for large cities or crowds and my children and husband are quite content in our sleepy little town. What I long for is my family, that feeling of ‘home’. God’s word reminds me I am never truly ‘home’ in a small town or a large city. My true ‘home’ is with the Father. When I am again reunited with the Father and all of my family, I will be ‘home!’ So, ask me where would I like to live?
At the feet of Jesus.
Rachel Smith
Note from Lon: Rachel's post represents the 200th post since I started this blog in October 2006! Praise the Lord for His blessings upon this ministry of encouragement! If you'd like to support this ministry financially, please click here.
2 Corinthians 5:6-9
Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. We live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it.
Where do you want to live? Have you ever really thought about this? I’m sure you have. We have all toyed with the idea of relocation at one point or another. Sometimes these dreams are prompted by job turmoil or opportunity. Sometimes they are prompted by weather. I choose to live in Illinois. This is one of the few states in which you can run the heater and the air condition in your car on the same day! But even beyond the blistering heat or frigid cold wind, it is a longing to be with my mother or my brother which gets me to day dreaming of moving. On more than one day I have thought how wonderful it would be to go ‘home’ to the town in which I grew up.
The reality is I don’t really like that town. I have never cared for large cities or crowds and my children and husband are quite content in our sleepy little town. What I long for is my family, that feeling of ‘home’. God’s word reminds me I am never truly ‘home’ in a small town or a large city. My true ‘home’ is with the Father. When I am again reunited with the Father and all of my family, I will be ‘home!’ So, ask me where would I like to live?
At the feet of Jesus.
Rachel Smith
Note from Lon: Rachel's post represents the 200th post since I started this blog in October 2006! Praise the Lord for His blessings upon this ministry of encouragement! If you'd like to support this ministry financially, please click here.
Saturday, September 08, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Another Quiet Place
Another Quiet Place
Mark 6:31-32
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 quit place and get some rest." So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.
Tomorrow (Sunday) morning I am going away to a very quiet place. I am leading a group of men on a seven-day backpacking expedition on Isle Royale National Park. The park is an island in Lake Superior that can only be reached by plane or boat. We will take a 3-hour boat ride to reach the island.
Our purpose is to retreat and to spiritually recharge. My guess is that we will face an adventure or two along the way. Two requests:
1. Please pray for me and the other men throughout the next week.
2. Please excuse yet another absence from this blog.
God is good!
Lon
Mark 6:31-32
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 quit place and get some rest." So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.
Tomorrow (Sunday) morning I am going away to a very quiet place. I am leading a group of men on a seven-day backpacking expedition on Isle Royale National Park. The park is an island in Lake Superior that can only be reached by plane or boat. We will take a 3-hour boat ride to reach the island.
Our purpose is to retreat and to spiritually recharge. My guess is that we will face an adventure or two along the way. Two requests:
1. Please pray for me and the other men throughout the next week.
2. Please excuse yet another absence from this blog.
God is good!
Lon
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Obstacles
Obstacles
John 7:38
He who believes in Me...out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.
Today's post is taken from Oswald Chambers, "My Utmost for His Highest". Chambers teaches:
Jesus said that, if we have received His fullness, "rivers of living water" will flow out of us, reaching in blessing even "to the end of the earth" (Act1:8) regardless of how small the visible effects of our lives may appear to be. We have nothing to do with the outflow - "This is the work of God, that you believe..." (John 6:29)
A river is victoriously persistent, overcoming all barriers. For a while it goes steadily on its course, but then comes to an obstacle. And for a while is is blocked yet it soon makes a pathway around the obstacle.
Do you see God using the lives of others, but an obstacle has come into you life and you do not seem to be of any use to God? Then keep paying attention to the Source, and God will either take you around the obstacle or remove it. The river of the Spirit of God overcomes all obstacles. Never focus your eyes on the obstacle or the difficulty...simply remember to stay focused on the source. Never allow anything to come between you and Jesus Christ...nothing must keep you from the one great sovereign Source.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus.
Lon
John 7:38
He who believes in Me...out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.
Today's post is taken from Oswald Chambers, "My Utmost for His Highest". Chambers teaches:
Jesus said that, if we have received His fullness, "rivers of living water" will flow out of us, reaching in blessing even "to the end of the earth" (Act1:8) regardless of how small the visible effects of our lives may appear to be. We have nothing to do with the outflow - "This is the work of God, that you believe..." (John 6:29)
A river is victoriously persistent, overcoming all barriers. For a while it goes steadily on its course, but then comes to an obstacle. And for a while is is blocked yet it soon makes a pathway around the obstacle.
Do you see God using the lives of others, but an obstacle has come into you life and you do not seem to be of any use to God? Then keep paying attention to the Source, and God will either take you around the obstacle or remove it. The river of the Spirit of God overcomes all obstacles. Never focus your eyes on the obstacle or the difficulty...simply remember to stay focused on the source. Never allow anything to come between you and Jesus Christ...nothing must keep you from the one great sovereign Source.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus.
Lon
Monday, September 03, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Serve the Lord
Serve the Lord
Colossians 3:23-24
Whatever you do, work at it with all you heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Labor Day is drawing to a close. I don't want this day to escape without remembering for Whom we labor. No matter what work we do, let us remember that it is for Jesus that we labor. We bring Him glory when we excel in our work. We bring Him glory when we persevere through the difficulties of our work.
We bring Him glory when we perform our duties differently than our peers. We bring glory to Jesus when we avoid gossip, solve conflict in a loving way, and speak the truth in love. We bring glory to God when we approach challenges with the peace that comes from knowing Christ.
In today's labor let us bring glory to God!
Lon
Colossians 3:23-24
Whatever you do, work at it with all you heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Labor Day is drawing to a close. I don't want this day to escape without remembering for Whom we labor. No matter what work we do, let us remember that it is for Jesus that we labor. We bring Him glory when we excel in our work. We bring Him glory when we persevere through the difficulties of our work.
We bring Him glory when we perform our duties differently than our peers. We bring glory to Jesus when we avoid gossip, solve conflict in a loving way, and speak the truth in love. We bring glory to God when we approach challenges with the peace that comes from knowing Christ.
In today's labor let us bring glory to God!
Lon
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Change
Change
Proverbs 16:3
Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.
Imagine visiting a factory that produces high-heeled shoes. As you tour the facility you find that everything about the place is designed to make high-heeled shoes. The whole assembly line is planned in a specific way so that each person plays a role in putting together these shoes. Not surprisingly, at the end of the line we find beautifully constructed high-heeled shoes.
After all, wouldn’t it be silly to stand at the end of the line and expect a tennis shoe to come rolling out? No, the organization is designed perfectly to achieve the outcome, the product, of a high-heeled shoe.
Yet that’s how we tend to look at change. We stand at the end of the line and expect something different to come rolling out. Remember, every organization is perfectly designed to get the outcome it produces.
Now, if you like the results you are getting then leave the system alone. On the other hand, if you want something different, then something needs to change. After all, no matter how much we want a tennis shoe to roll of the assembly line, if the line is designed to produce high-heeled shoes, then that’s what we will get; high-heeled shoes.
What would you like to change? What needs to change?
Lon
Proverbs 16:3
Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.
Imagine visiting a factory that produces high-heeled shoes. As you tour the facility you find that everything about the place is designed to make high-heeled shoes. The whole assembly line is planned in a specific way so that each person plays a role in putting together these shoes. Not surprisingly, at the end of the line we find beautifully constructed high-heeled shoes.
After all, wouldn’t it be silly to stand at the end of the line and expect a tennis shoe to come rolling out? No, the organization is designed perfectly to achieve the outcome, the product, of a high-heeled shoe.
Yet that’s how we tend to look at change. We stand at the end of the line and expect something different to come rolling out. Remember, every organization is perfectly designed to get the outcome it produces.
Now, if you like the results you are getting then leave the system alone. On the other hand, if you want something different, then something needs to change. After all, no matter how much we want a tennis shoe to roll of the assembly line, if the line is designed to produce high-heeled shoes, then that’s what we will get; high-heeled shoes.
What would you like to change? What needs to change?
Lon
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Struggling
Struggling
James 1:2-4
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Have you noticed the inconsistency and the sporadic way in which I'm posting these Build Ups? There's a reason. The reason is that I've been struggling. Namely, I am struggling financially and I've allowed that struggle to throw me off my game.
I've allowed the challenges of this world to distract me from my purpose. It's sad when I profess a ministry of "using God's gifts to build up the body of Christ; the Church" and yet I stop building up as soon as the times get tough. There's no doubt in my mind that these are, in fact, tough times. However, the difficulty of the path doesn't give me an excuse to quit the journey and go home.
According to Oswald Chambers, "Faith must be tested, because it can only become your intimate possession through conflict." If our faith was never tested, then it would remain in a weakened, infant state. On the other hand, when we rely on God through the tough stuff our faith matures and grows strong.
Norman Vincent Peale
Through persistence, self-knowledge, prayer, commitment, optimism, a resolute trust in God and the building of your own personal moral strength, you can enjoy the blessings of a deeper faith and face the difficulties of life with courage and confidence.
Consider it pure joy!
Lon
The Daily Build Up is a FREE publication from Acorn Ministries. It's intention is to encourage people in their faith walk. If you would like to support this ministry, you can use your credit card or your PayPal account to make a tax deductible contribution by clicking on the following link:
James 1:2-4
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Have you noticed the inconsistency and the sporadic way in which I'm posting these Build Ups? There's a reason. The reason is that I've been struggling. Namely, I am struggling financially and I've allowed that struggle to throw me off my game.
I've allowed the challenges of this world to distract me from my purpose. It's sad when I profess a ministry of "using God's gifts to build up the body of Christ; the Church" and yet I stop building up as soon as the times get tough. There's no doubt in my mind that these are, in fact, tough times. However, the difficulty of the path doesn't give me an excuse to quit the journey and go home.
According to Oswald Chambers, "Faith must be tested, because it can only become your intimate possession through conflict." If our faith was never tested, then it would remain in a weakened, infant state. On the other hand, when we rely on God through the tough stuff our faith matures and grows strong.
Norman Vincent Peale
Through persistence, self-knowledge, prayer, commitment, optimism, a resolute trust in God and the building of your own personal moral strength, you can enjoy the blessings of a deeper faith and face the difficulties of life with courage and confidence.
Consider it pure joy!
Lon
The Daily Build Up is a FREE publication from Acorn Ministries. It's intention is to encourage people in their faith walk. If you would like to support this ministry, you can use your credit card or your PayPal account to make a tax deductible contribution by clicking on the following link:
Contributions can also be made by check to:
Acorn Ministries
101 West South Street
PO Box 237
Flanagan, IL 61740
Thank you for supporting this ministry of encouragement that is making an impact around the world!
Acorn Ministries
101 West South Street
PO Box 237
Flanagan, IL 61740
Thank you for supporting this ministry of encouragement that is making an impact around the world!
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Guest Encourager: Rachel Smith "Words"
Words by Rachel Smith
Ephesians 4:29
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
My brother taught me something when my father died. I'm sure my brother doesn't even know it, but our actions often speak louder than our words. My father's mother, was never a grandmother to us. In fact she was very mean to both of us and to my mother. I've never cared for her and my father always had us call her by her first name, because she didn't want to claim us as her grandchildren. She now has Alzheimer's and it's in latter stages. She came to my father's memorial service and said some inappropriate and hurtful things. I fumed. How could she continue this meanness even after his death! But my brother went up to her and hugged her and said, "Hi grandma, I'm so sorry"
His kindness was a great lesson on what our words are for. A lesson I will never forget.
Ephesians 4:29
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
My brother taught me something when my father died. I'm sure my brother doesn't even know it, but our actions often speak louder than our words. My father's mother, was never a grandmother to us. In fact she was very mean to both of us and to my mother. I've never cared for her and my father always had us call her by her first name, because she didn't want to claim us as her grandchildren. She now has Alzheimer's and it's in latter stages. She came to my father's memorial service and said some inappropriate and hurtful things. I fumed. How could she continue this meanness even after his death! But my brother went up to her and hugged her and said, "Hi grandma, I'm so sorry"
His kindness was a great lesson on what our words are for. A lesson I will never forget.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Fix Your Eyes
Fix Your Eyes
Hebrews 12:2-3
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
When we think of Jesus and what He did for us, it seems that the sorrows and struggles of this world lose their intensity. When we concentrate on Jesus we take the focus off of ourselves. When we consider Jesus everything is different.
I love the old hymn, "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus" by Helen H. Lemmel (1922)
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
in the light of His glory and grace.
Fix your eyes on Jesus.
Lon
Hebrews 12:2-3
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
When we think of Jesus and what He did for us, it seems that the sorrows and struggles of this world lose their intensity. When we concentrate on Jesus we take the focus off of ourselves. When we consider Jesus everything is different.
I love the old hymn, "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus" by Helen H. Lemmel (1922)
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
in the light of His glory and grace.
Fix your eyes on Jesus.
Lon
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Get set, Go!
Get set, Go!
Hebrews 12:1
...let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
God marks out for each of us a race to run. Our unique course is designed by God with our individual gifts and graces in mind. Our path is planned to bring glory to God as we participate in the building of God's kingdom.
Sadly, I fall so short of my potential. I allow myself to be hindered and entangled by things of this world. The more I become ensnared the slower I move. Often I consider taking what looks like an easier path.
This passage reminds us to remove anything that hinders us or impedes our progress. It reminds us to keep moving forward despite the difficulty. It calls for us to find our marks, to get set, and to GO!
Have a great run!
Lon
Hebrews 12:1
...let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
God marks out for each of us a race to run. Our unique course is designed by God with our individual gifts and graces in mind. Our path is planned to bring glory to God as we participate in the building of God's kingdom.
Sadly, I fall so short of my potential. I allow myself to be hindered and entangled by things of this world. The more I become ensnared the slower I move. Often I consider taking what looks like an easier path.
This passage reminds us to remove anything that hinders us or impedes our progress. It reminds us to keep moving forward despite the difficulty. It calls for us to find our marks, to get set, and to GO!
Have a great run!
Lon
Saturday, August 04, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Busy Summer!
Busy Summer!
Mark 6:31
Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest."
This summer is proving to be a busy one! What ever happened to lazy summer days when boredom was the biggest challenge of the day? Sigh.
Two things are suffering due to my busy-ness: 1) my Daily Build Ups have been sporadic at best - perhaps I should change the name to Occasional Build Ups, and 2) time with my family. I'm going to attack the latter by investing the next eight days in some intensive family time, commonly referred to as "vacation".
Unfortunately, the "Daily" Build Ups will remain on hold until I return. If you need encouragement, please stop by the Daily Build Up site and read through a few of the 180+ postings that are always available.
God is good!
Lon
Mark 6:31
Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest."
This summer is proving to be a busy one! What ever happened to lazy summer days when boredom was the biggest challenge of the day? Sigh.
Two things are suffering due to my busy-ness: 1) my Daily Build Ups have been sporadic at best - perhaps I should change the name to Occasional Build Ups, and 2) time with my family. I'm going to attack the latter by investing the next eight days in some intensive family time, commonly referred to as "vacation".
Unfortunately, the "Daily" Build Ups will remain on hold until I return. If you need encouragement, please stop by the Daily Build Up site and read through a few of the 180+ postings that are always available.
God is good!
Lon
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Band Camp - Absence
I thought I could keep up with my Daily Build Ups and serve as an instructor at Pontiac (IL) Township High School's marching band camp, but I was wrong. Temperatures in the 90s and an aging body have proved a little too much for me.
I will try to get going again before too long. Thank you for your patience!
God is good!
Lon
I will try to get going again before too long. Thank you for your patience!
God is good!
Lon
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Prosperity
Prosperity
Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
I'm hearing a lot these days about prosperity. I've heard this passage from Jeremiah offered as a indication that following God will lead to prosperity. I agree, but with a deep concern for how we define prosperity.
One definition of prosperity is worldly wealth. One could deduce from that definition that if one follows God, then he will become wealthy by the worlds standards.
I happen to adhere to a different definition. I believe God's definition of prosperity is becoming the person that God designed me to be. In God's economy wealth is measured by spiritual maturity, not by the car one drives. I believe God's plans are to help me to be spiritually mature.
James 1:4
Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Prosper in the Lord!
Lon
If you have time and interest, check out this video by John Piper about the "Prosperity Gospel":
http://stevenjcamp.blogspot.com/2007/07/john-piper-on-prosperity-gospel-one-of.html
Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
I'm hearing a lot these days about prosperity. I've heard this passage from Jeremiah offered as a indication that following God will lead to prosperity. I agree, but with a deep concern for how we define prosperity.
One definition of prosperity is worldly wealth. One could deduce from that definition that if one follows God, then he will become wealthy by the worlds standards.
I happen to adhere to a different definition. I believe God's definition of prosperity is becoming the person that God designed me to be. In God's economy wealth is measured by spiritual maturity, not by the car one drives. I believe God's plans are to help me to be spiritually mature.
James 1:4
Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Prosper in the Lord!
Lon
If you have time and interest, check out this video by John Piper about the "Prosperity Gospel":
http://stevenjcamp.blogspot.com/2007/07/john-piper-on-prosperity-gospel-one-of.html
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Wet Toes
Wet Toes
Joshua 3:15-16
Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water's edge, the water from upstream stopped flowing. It piled up in a heap a great distance away...So the people crossed over opposite Jericho.
God didn't "pile up" the water in the Jordan until the priests got their feet wet. That appears to be a standard operating procedure for God, that is, He waits until we make a commitment.
My dear friend Jason Woolever put this great John Maxwell quote on his post-methodist blog:
Commitment is the Key
“Until I am committed there is a hesitancy, the chance to draw back. But the moment I definitely commit myself then God moves also and a whole stream of events begin to erupt. All manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings, persons and material assistance that I could have never dreamed would come my way begin to flow toward me… the moment I make a commitment.”
God is calling each of us into action, to cross our Jordan.
Let's get our feet wet!
Lon
Joshua 3:15-16
Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water's edge, the water from upstream stopped flowing. It piled up in a heap a great distance away...So the people crossed over opposite Jericho.
God didn't "pile up" the water in the Jordan until the priests got their feet wet. That appears to be a standard operating procedure for God, that is, He waits until we make a commitment.
My dear friend Jason Woolever put this great John Maxwell quote on his post-methodist blog:
Commitment is the Key
“Until I am committed there is a hesitancy, the chance to draw back. But the moment I definitely commit myself then God moves also and a whole stream of events begin to erupt. All manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings, persons and material assistance that I could have never dreamed would come my way begin to flow toward me… the moment I make a commitment.”
God is calling each of us into action, to cross our Jordan.
Let's get our feet wet!
Lon
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Guest Encourager: Rachel Smith "Be Still"
Be Still, by Rachel Smith
My father died at the end of May and I have searched for sometime now on how to convey this unique and confusing kind of pain that comes with loosing a parent. My father and I were not close the years immediately before his death and I wonder in my finite mind, will I see him in heaven? Will he know me? Will he love me? Will he miss me? Will he forgive my wrongs?
I can’t think about my own flawed earthly father without thinking of our perfect heavenly father. You see, the earthly parents we all have were chosen for us (good or bad) by the Lord himself. I have had times in my life where I have felt separated from God. Where I have strayed from what is right. In fact almost every day I make choices that would not please my God. I wonder in my finite mind, will I see him in heaven? Will he know me? Will he love me? Will he miss me? Will he forgive my wrongs?
And then, He answers me softly “Be still and know that I am God” Psalm 46:10
My father died at the end of May and I have searched for sometime now on how to convey this unique and confusing kind of pain that comes with loosing a parent. My father and I were not close the years immediately before his death and I wonder in my finite mind, will I see him in heaven? Will he know me? Will he love me? Will he miss me? Will he forgive my wrongs?
I can’t think about my own flawed earthly father without thinking of our perfect heavenly father. You see, the earthly parents we all have were chosen for us (good or bad) by the Lord himself. I have had times in my life where I have felt separated from God. Where I have strayed from what is right. In fact almost every day I make choices that would not please my God. I wonder in my finite mind, will I see him in heaven? Will he know me? Will he love me? Will he miss me? Will he forgive my wrongs?
And then, He answers me softly “Be still and know that I am God” Psalm 46:10
Monday, July 23, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Trust
Trust
John 14:1
Jesus said, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, trust also in me."
Trusting is tough for most of us. We've been burned by people that should have been worthy of our trust, so we learn not to trust others. Plus, our culture screams at us to be independent and self-reliant. Pride, which we are so susceptible to, doesn't make trusting any easier. I can still hear the toddler in me screaming, "I can do it myself!"
Then we wonder why life is so difficult. We fret and we worry.
Jesus calls us to trust Him. Trusting God allows us to stop worrying. After all, if we trust that God is in charge, and He loves us, and His plan is to prosper us, then why waste time and energy worrying?
Trust God ~ Don't Worry
Lon
John 14:1
Jesus said, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, trust also in me."
Trusting is tough for most of us. We've been burned by people that should have been worthy of our trust, so we learn not to trust others. Plus, our culture screams at us to be independent and self-reliant. Pride, which we are so susceptible to, doesn't make trusting any easier. I can still hear the toddler in me screaming, "I can do it myself!"
Then we wonder why life is so difficult. We fret and we worry.
Jesus calls us to trust Him. Trusting God allows us to stop worrying. After all, if we trust that God is in charge, and He loves us, and His plan is to prosper us, then why waste time and energy worrying?
Trust God ~ Don't Worry
Lon
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Another Absence
Another Absence
Sorry for the extremely late notice, but I'm away from my computer this week. I'm serving as the "speaker" for a High School Camp being held at Camp Menno Haven.
Here's the brochure blurb:
~High School Camp . . . July 15-20. . . Grades 10-12* . . . from the hyper worship to the exciting full-camp games to the coffee house banquet, this week is what your looking for to complete your summer! C'mon, seriously though, just ask your parents to assume your car payments for a week and come on down. Camp runs from Sunday at 6 PM to Friday at 6:30 PM.
I will rest up this weekend and start posting Build Ups next week. Your prayers would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
Lon
Sorry for the extremely late notice, but I'm away from my computer this week. I'm serving as the "speaker" for a High School Camp being held at Camp Menno Haven.
Here's the brochure blurb:
~High School Camp . . . July 15-20. . . Grades 10-12* . . . from the hyper worship to the exciting full-camp games to the coffee house banquet, this week is what your looking for to complete your summer! C'mon, seriously though, just ask your parents to assume your car payments for a week and come on down. Camp runs from Sunday at 6 PM to Friday at 6:30 PM.
I will rest up this weekend and start posting Build Ups next week. Your prayers would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
Lon
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Stand Your Ground
Stand Your Ground
1 Corinthians 15:58 (The Message)
With all this going for us, my dear, dear friends, stand your ground. And don't hold back. Throw yourselves into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you do for him is a waste of time or effort.
I saw a great sign in front of the Faith Christian Church (Washington, IL). It read:
The mighty oak tree was once a tiny nut that stood its ground.
God calls us to participate in gaining ground for His Kingdom. The challenge is that God ways are not the same as the ways of man. God's ways often look unreasonable to the world.
Romans 12:2
Do not conform any longer to the patterns of this world...
Against the pressure to conform to the world we are called to stand our ground. Further, we are to throw ourselves into the work for which God has called us. Keep in mind that no effort made for God will be wasted.
Stand your ground.
Lon
1 Corinthians 15:58 (The Message)
With all this going for us, my dear, dear friends, stand your ground. And don't hold back. Throw yourselves into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you do for him is a waste of time or effort.
I saw a great sign in front of the Faith Christian Church (Washington, IL). It read:
The mighty oak tree was once a tiny nut that stood its ground.
God calls us to participate in gaining ground for His Kingdom. The challenge is that God ways are not the same as the ways of man. God's ways often look unreasonable to the world.
Romans 12:2
Do not conform any longer to the patterns of this world...
Against the pressure to conform to the world we are called to stand our ground. Further, we are to throw ourselves into the work for which God has called us. Keep in mind that no effort made for God will be wasted.
Stand your ground.
Lon
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Guest Encourager - Woolever
Are you a lifter or a leaner? – Submitted by Pastor Jason Woolever
1Thessalonians 5:11
"...encourage one another and build each other up..."
Check out this old poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox:
There are two kinds of people on earth today,
Just two kinds of people, no more, I say.
Not the good and the bad, for 'tis well understood
That the good are half-bad and the bad are half-good.
No! The two kinds of people on earth I mean
Are the people who lift and the people who lean.
Are you a person who lifts the loads of others with your attitude, words, and actions? Or are you the type who makes people's loads feel heavier than they were before you entered the room? What would your family/co-workers say?
To read more from Pastor Jason, check out his blog at:
http://post-methodist.blogspot.com
1Thessalonians 5:11
"...encourage one another and build each other up..."
Check out this old poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox:
There are two kinds of people on earth today,
Just two kinds of people, no more, I say.
Not the good and the bad, for 'tis well understood
That the good are half-bad and the bad are half-good.
No! The two kinds of people on earth I mean
Are the people who lift and the people who lean.
Are you a person who lifts the loads of others with your attitude, words, and actions? Or are you the type who makes people's loads feel heavier than they were before you entered the room? What would your family/co-workers say?
To read more from Pastor Jason, check out his blog at:
http://post-methodist.blogspot.com
Monday, July 09, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Watch your mouth!
Watch your mouth!
Ephesians 4:29
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
"Watch your mouth!" is a phrase I remember from my youth. My memory of these words is pretty clear because I think I heard them often. The words that come out of our mouths can be terribly hurtful! The old "sticks and stones can break my bones, but words will never harm me" is less than accurate in my experience. Words can hurt!
I was a freshman at a Big 10 university when I heard, "You can't write." He was a graduate assistant and I was his student in an English 101 class. The shame is that I believed him. It took me 11 English classes to break the hold those words had on me.
I was a junior at a different university when I heard, "You write well, but you just need some work on your grammar." She was a part-time teacher and I was her student in a special 099 English class for people that needed help to function at the college level. Those words had power. Three years later the faculty members overseeing my graduate work suggested that I needed to publish my writings!
Change a life, encourage someone with your words today.
Lon
Ephesians 4:29
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
"Watch your mouth!" is a phrase I remember from my youth. My memory of these words is pretty clear because I think I heard them often. The words that come out of our mouths can be terribly hurtful! The old "sticks and stones can break my bones, but words will never harm me" is less than accurate in my experience. Words can hurt!
I was a freshman at a Big 10 university when I heard, "You can't write." He was a graduate assistant and I was his student in an English 101 class. The shame is that I believed him. It took me 11 English classes to break the hold those words had on me.
I was a junior at a different university when I heard, "You write well, but you just need some work on your grammar." She was a part-time teacher and I was her student in a special 099 English class for people that needed help to function at the college level. Those words had power. Three years later the faculty members overseeing my graduate work suggested that I needed to publish my writings!
Change a life, encourage someone with your words today.
Lon
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Neighbor Build
Neighbor Build
Romans 15:2
Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.
The world teaches us to stand on top of your neighbor in order to get ahead. According to the prevailing culture, neighbors are people to out-run, not build up. After all, building up someone else doesn't do anything for the "bottom line", that is, pleasing my neighbor doesn't help me.
Talk about counter-cultural! Our faith teaches us to to reach out to our neighbors for their good. We are to encourage them and build them up. We do this for their good, not for our own personal benefit.
Reach out and build up a neighbor.
Lon
Romans 15:2
Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.
The world teaches us to stand on top of your neighbor in order to get ahead. According to the prevailing culture, neighbors are people to out-run, not build up. After all, building up someone else doesn't do anything for the "bottom line", that is, pleasing my neighbor doesn't help me.
Talk about counter-cultural! Our faith teaches us to to reach out to our neighbors for their good. We are to encourage them and build them up. We do this for their good, not for our own personal benefit.
Reach out and build up a neighbor.
Lon
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Absence
Absence
I will be away from my computer for a few days. I hope to get a Build Up sent your way later in the week. Until then, try to find ways to build up the people God places in your path. Lifting people builds spiritual muscles.
In Christ,
Lon
I will be away from my computer for a few days. I hope to get a Build Up sent your way later in the week. Until then, try to find ways to build up the people God places in your path. Lifting people builds spiritual muscles.
In Christ,
Lon
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Leadings
Leadings
Luke 9:59-60
[Jesus] said to another man, "Follow me."
But the man replied, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father."
Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God."
I've always thought Jesus' response to the man was unreasonably harsh. It seems to lack the compassion that I associate with the Lord. William Barclay provides a different perspective:
In all probability the man's father was not dead, and not even near dead. His saying most likely meant, "I will follow you after my father has died."
The point Jesus was making is that in everything there is a crucial moment; if that moment is missed the thing most likely will never be done at all. The man in the story had stirrings in his heart to get out of his spiritually dead surroundings; if he missed the moment he would never get out.
If we put off until to-morrow, it will in all likelihood never be [done]. Jesus urges us to act at once when our hearts are stirred.
The Spirit is constantly at work guiding and encouraging us to follow God's will. The moment we become aware of God's leading is the very moment to do something about it. The more we respond, the more sensitive we become to subsequent leadings. The more we respond, the more truly useful we become for the Lord's purposes.
Listen and act.
Lon
Luke 9:59-60
[Jesus] said to another man, "Follow me."
But the man replied, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father."
Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God."
I've always thought Jesus' response to the man was unreasonably harsh. It seems to lack the compassion that I associate with the Lord. William Barclay provides a different perspective:
In all probability the man's father was not dead, and not even near dead. His saying most likely meant, "I will follow you after my father has died."
The point Jesus was making is that in everything there is a crucial moment; if that moment is missed the thing most likely will never be done at all. The man in the story had stirrings in his heart to get out of his spiritually dead surroundings; if he missed the moment he would never get out.
If we put off until to-morrow, it will in all likelihood never be [done]. Jesus urges us to act at once when our hearts are stirred.
The Spirit is constantly at work guiding and encouraging us to follow God's will. The moment we become aware of God's leading is the very moment to do something about it. The more we respond, the more sensitive we become to subsequent leadings. The more we respond, the more truly useful we become for the Lord's purposes.
Listen and act.
Lon
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Freedom
Freedom
Galatians 5:1
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by the yoke of slavery.
When we accept Christ our bonds of slavery to sin are broken. We are free! We are given the freedom to turn to Christ when temptation rises. There in the arms of our Savior we are free.
The challenge comes when we stop looking toward Christ. We reason that a little taste of the forbidden can't hurt. We rationalize that we've been good so a little reward is due. In essence we take our eyes off of the Lord and turn our attention to ourselves.
Without much fanfare we simply pick up the yoke of sin and submit ourselves to its reign. Slavery.
Stand firm.
Lon
Galatians 5:1
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by the yoke of slavery.
When we accept Christ our bonds of slavery to sin are broken. We are free! We are given the freedom to turn to Christ when temptation rises. There in the arms of our Savior we are free.
The challenge comes when we stop looking toward Christ. We reason that a little taste of the forbidden can't hurt. We rationalize that we've been good so a little reward is due. In essence we take our eyes off of the Lord and turn our attention to ourselves.
Without much fanfare we simply pick up the yoke of sin and submit ourselves to its reign. Slavery.
Stand firm.
Lon
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Peace When Troubled
Peace When Troubled
John 14:27
Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you...
When times are tough, it is important to regain our focus on Jesus. For some reason, God has allowed this difficulty into the path of our life. Discovering the reason isn't nearly as important as determining how we react to the challenge. Every difficulty that blows through our life is an opportunity to look to Jesus and to reflect His peace.
In his book, My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers wrote:
Are you severely troubled right now? Are you afraid and confused...Then look up and receive the quiet contentment of the Lord Jesus. Reflecting His peace is proof that you are right with God, because you are exhibiting the freedom to turn your mind to Him. If you are not right with God, you can never turn your mind anywhere but on yourself.
I have often found the peace of Christ during troubled times by singing this old hymn,
Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
look full in his wonderful face,
and the things of earth will grow strangely dim
in the light of his glory and grace.
Peace be with you.
Lon
John 14:27
Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you...
When times are tough, it is important to regain our focus on Jesus. For some reason, God has allowed this difficulty into the path of our life. Discovering the reason isn't nearly as important as determining how we react to the challenge. Every difficulty that blows through our life is an opportunity to look to Jesus and to reflect His peace.
In his book, My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers wrote:
Are you severely troubled right now? Are you afraid and confused...Then look up and receive the quiet contentment of the Lord Jesus. Reflecting His peace is proof that you are right with God, because you are exhibiting the freedom to turn your mind to Him. If you are not right with God, you can never turn your mind anywhere but on yourself.
I have often found the peace of Christ during troubled times by singing this old hymn,
Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
look full in his wonderful face,
and the things of earth will grow strangely dim
in the light of his glory and grace.
Peace be with you.
Lon
Monday, June 25, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Acceptable
Acceptable
Psalm 19:14 ESV
Let the words of my mouth and meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
This past weekend I attended a worship service led by a local singing group called Acceptable. One of the singers explained that the name for their group came from his mother's use of Psalms 19:14 as her theme verse for life.
Isn't that what we most deeply desire, to please God? We want God to find pleasure in every aspect of, and moment in, our life. This goes way beyond our intentionally spiritual moments, like worship services, Bible study, and prayer time. This includes the times when we're over-tired, under-fed, and all around worn thin.
This even extends to the words we choose and the thoughts we entertain. To please God with our words and thoughts requires us to become increasingly aware of God's presence in our lives. Just because we don't think about Him, doesn't mean God stepped out for a smoke. No, God is always with us. It's our attentiveness to Him that has taken a powder.
Be acceptable.
Lon
Psalm 19:14 ESV
Let the words of my mouth and meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
This past weekend I attended a worship service led by a local singing group called Acceptable. One of the singers explained that the name for their group came from his mother's use of Psalms 19:14 as her theme verse for life.
Isn't that what we most deeply desire, to please God? We want God to find pleasure in every aspect of, and moment in, our life. This goes way beyond our intentionally spiritual moments, like worship services, Bible study, and prayer time. This includes the times when we're over-tired, under-fed, and all around worn thin.
This even extends to the words we choose and the thoughts we entertain. To please God with our words and thoughts requires us to become increasingly aware of God's presence in our lives. Just because we don't think about Him, doesn't mean God stepped out for a smoke. No, God is always with us. It's our attentiveness to Him that has taken a powder.
Be acceptable.
Lon
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Trust
Trust
John 14:1
Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in [Jesus].
This whole obedience thing is nigh on impossible when we don't trust the Lord. Think how hard it is to obey someone you don't trust. When trust is lacking our efforts are halting and without confidence. We limp along waiting for the other shoe to drop; expecting the worse.
On the other hand, how wonderfully freeing it is to follow, that is obey, someone we trust. When trust is in place our steps are bold. We take action. We attempt things we wouldn't even consider were we left to our own initiative; expecting success.
Trusting in the Lord, like people, begins small and builds. The more we turn over to God, the more we find Him trustworthy. As our trust in the Lord grows, He calls us into deeper obedience. Trust leads to obedience.
Trust and Obey.
Lon
John 14:1
Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in [Jesus].
This whole obedience thing is nigh on impossible when we don't trust the Lord. Think how hard it is to obey someone you don't trust. When trust is lacking our efforts are halting and without confidence. We limp along waiting for the other shoe to drop; expecting the worse.
On the other hand, how wonderfully freeing it is to follow, that is obey, someone we trust. When trust is in place our steps are bold. We take action. We attempt things we wouldn't even consider were we left to our own initiative; expecting success.
Trusting in the Lord, like people, begins small and builds. The more we turn over to God, the more we find Him trustworthy. As our trust in the Lord grows, He calls us into deeper obedience. Trust leads to obedience.
Trust and Obey.
Lon
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Sacrifice
Sacrifice
Romans 12:2
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will.
It is becoming common to hear myself and others lament about the sacrifices we are making for our work. When people ask, "How are you doing?" My response often sounds like, "I'm very, very busy! I haven't even seen my family in days!"
The more one sacrifices for the job, family, church, even God, the more respect we seem to give them. This communicates a strange and scary message: The more you sacrifice, the better.
So we sacrifice. We sacrifice our health, our relationship with our spouse, our friends, our relationship with our children, and our relationship with God.
In his book "My Utmost for His Highest" Oswald Chambers takes a very counter-cultural perspective:
It is much better to fulfill the purpose of God in your life by discerning His will than it is to perform great acts of self-sacrifice.
Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice... (1 Samuel 15:22)
Obedience over sacrifice.
Lon
Romans 12:2
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will.
It is becoming common to hear myself and others lament about the sacrifices we are making for our work. When people ask, "How are you doing?" My response often sounds like, "I'm very, very busy! I haven't even seen my family in days!"
The more one sacrifices for the job, family, church, even God, the more respect we seem to give them. This communicates a strange and scary message: The more you sacrifice, the better.
So we sacrifice. We sacrifice our health, our relationship with our spouse, our friends, our relationship with our children, and our relationship with God.
In his book "My Utmost for His Highest" Oswald Chambers takes a very counter-cultural perspective:
It is much better to fulfill the purpose of God in your life by discerning His will than it is to perform great acts of self-sacrifice.
Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice... (1 Samuel 15:22)
Obedience over sacrifice.
Lon
Monday, June 18, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Audience
Audience
Galatians 1:10
Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.
I've just finished a very busy season of musical theatre. I played trumpet in the pit band for "West Side Story" in our local community theatre. Because of this experience the concept of "audience" is fresh in my head. Every ounce of effort that went into this production was for the purpose of pleasing the audience.
In this passage, Paul calls our attention to our chosen audience in life. To whom are we performing? Singer and songwriter Sara Groves put it wonderfully in her song "This Journey is My Own". Here are some selected lyrics:
When I stand before the Lord,
I’ll be standing alone.
This journey is my own.
Still I want man’s advice,
and I need man’s approval,
but this journey is my own.
So much of what I do is to make a good impression.
This journey is my own.
So much of what I say is to make myself look better.
This journey is my own.
I have never felt relief like I feel it right now.
This journey is my own.
‘Cause trying to please the world
it was breaking me down...
Now I live and I breathe for an audience of one...
‘Cause I know this journey is my own
You can live for someone else
And it will only bring your pain
I can’t even judge myself
Only the Lord can say, “Well done.”
Galatians 1:10
Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.
I've just finished a very busy season of musical theatre. I played trumpet in the pit band for "West Side Story" in our local community theatre. Because of this experience the concept of "audience" is fresh in my head. Every ounce of effort that went into this production was for the purpose of pleasing the audience.
In this passage, Paul calls our attention to our chosen audience in life. To whom are we performing? Singer and songwriter Sara Groves put it wonderfully in her song "This Journey is My Own". Here are some selected lyrics:
When I stand before the Lord,
I’ll be standing alone.
This journey is my own.
Still I want man’s advice,
and I need man’s approval,
but this journey is my own.
So much of what I do is to make a good impression.
This journey is my own.
So much of what I say is to make myself look better.
This journey is my own.
I have never felt relief like I feel it right now.
This journey is my own.
‘Cause trying to please the world
it was breaking me down...
Now I live and I breathe for an audience of one...
‘Cause I know this journey is my own
You can live for someone else
And it will only bring your pain
I can’t even judge myself
Only the Lord can say, “Well done.”
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Acorn Build Up: God's Workmanship
God's Workmanship
Ephesians 2:10
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
I once saw an awesome Christian singer/songwriter perform a song called "Masterpiece in Progress". The singer, Jeff Steinberg, is a man that has overcome tremendous obstacles in his life. You see Jeff has no arms and his legs are badly deformed. Now he sings of God's workmanship: "Jesus is working on me and I'm becoming what He wants me to be".
I'll likely never forget that night seeing Jeff belt out this amazing song. I sat across from Jeff at supper that night. Somehow my friends and I ended up in one of the very front tables and Jeff was seated with us. I had no idea he was performing that evening. Frankly, I thought he was seated there as a courtesy because of his disability. That's what I saw; his disability. When dinner was over, much to my surprise, Jeff was helped onto the stage to entertain and encourage us.
We truly are masterpieces in progress designed to do the good works God has placed before us. Thanks, Jeff!
If you have a moment, please check out Jeff's ministry by clicking on this link: Jeff Steinberg
Ephesians 2:10
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
I once saw an awesome Christian singer/songwriter perform a song called "Masterpiece in Progress". The singer, Jeff Steinberg, is a man that has overcome tremendous obstacles in his life. You see Jeff has no arms and his legs are badly deformed. Now he sings of God's workmanship: "Jesus is working on me and I'm becoming what He wants me to be".
I'll likely never forget that night seeing Jeff belt out this amazing song. I sat across from Jeff at supper that night. Somehow my friends and I ended up in one of the very front tables and Jeff was seated with us. I had no idea he was performing that evening. Frankly, I thought he was seated there as a courtesy because of his disability. That's what I saw; his disability. When dinner was over, much to my surprise, Jeff was helped onto the stage to entertain and encourage us.
We truly are masterpieces in progress designed to do the good works God has placed before us. Thanks, Jeff!
If you have a moment, please check out Jeff's ministry by clicking on this link: Jeff Steinberg
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Dedication
Dedication
Romans 12:1
Therefore, I urge you...in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship.
This passage was used in the daily devotion book I use by Oswald Chambers titled, "My Utmost for His Highest". Chambers wrote:
We have the idea that we can dedicate our gifts to God. However, you cannot dedicate what is not yours. There is actually only one thing you can dedicate to God, and that is your right to yourself.
I love Eugene Peterson's take on this passage:
So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life -- your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life -- and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. (The Message)
Worship God by dedicating our everyday lives to Him.
Be dedicated.
Lon
Romans 12:1
Therefore, I urge you...in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship.
This passage was used in the daily devotion book I use by Oswald Chambers titled, "My Utmost for His Highest". Chambers wrote:
We have the idea that we can dedicate our gifts to God. However, you cannot dedicate what is not yours. There is actually only one thing you can dedicate to God, and that is your right to yourself.
I love Eugene Peterson's take on this passage:
So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life -- your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life -- and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. (The Message)
Worship God by dedicating our everyday lives to Him.
Be dedicated.
Lon
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Equipped
Equipped
Hebrews 13:20-21
May the God of peace...equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory for ever and ever...
I spoke with a friend today that reminded me of this awesome passage. God will provide the good stuff for us so that we may do His will. We are given the resources, gifts, opportunities, education, experience, and everything else we need to perform what is pleasing to the Lord.
William Barclay has this to say about this passage:
God is the God who both shows us his will and equips us to do it. He never gives us a task without also giving us the power to accomplish it. When God sends us out, he sends us equipped with everything we need.
When facing difficulties, please remember that God has prepared you with everything you need.
God is good!
Lon
Please let me know if there is a Build Up topic that would interest you. You can email me your suggestions at: Lon@AcornMinistries.com
Hebrews 13:20-21
May the God of peace...equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory for ever and ever...
I spoke with a friend today that reminded me of this awesome passage. God will provide the good stuff for us so that we may do His will. We are given the resources, gifts, opportunities, education, experience, and everything else we need to perform what is pleasing to the Lord.
William Barclay has this to say about this passage:
God is the God who both shows us his will and equips us to do it. He never gives us a task without also giving us the power to accomplish it. When God sends us out, he sends us equipped with everything we need.
When facing difficulties, please remember that God has prepared you with everything you need.
God is good!
Lon
Please let me know if there is a Build Up topic that would interest you. You can email me your suggestions at: Lon@AcornMinistries.com
Monday, June 11, 2007
Acorn Build Up: The Lord Knows
The Lord Knows
Psalms 139:1-5
O LORD, you have searched me and you know me.
You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.
You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.
Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD.
You hem me in - behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me.
The psalmist goes on to say that "such knowledge it too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain." (vs. 6) It is truly difficult to imagine that God can be this intimately aware of who we are and what we do. And, since it is so difficult to get our heads around it, we tend to ignore the fact that God does know EVERYTHING!
For most of my life this understanding is a shameful one. I know what I've done and who I was. However, as my faith matures, the fact that God is aware of every detail in my life is actually becoming a comfort.
He knows when my enemies assail me. He knows when my words are misunderstood, twisted, or taken out of context. He knows when I restrain my urges. He knows when I avoid temptation. He knows that though I fail on a daily basis, that my heart is in the right place. He knows how much I want to serve Him. He knows how hard I try. He knows the difficulty of the road I'm traveling.
The Lord knows.
Lon
Psalms 139:1-5
O LORD, you have searched me and you know me.
You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.
You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.
Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD.
You hem me in - behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me.
The psalmist goes on to say that "such knowledge it too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain." (vs. 6) It is truly difficult to imagine that God can be this intimately aware of who we are and what we do. And, since it is so difficult to get our heads around it, we tend to ignore the fact that God does know EVERYTHING!
For most of my life this understanding is a shameful one. I know what I've done and who I was. However, as my faith matures, the fact that God is aware of every detail in my life is actually becoming a comfort.
He knows when my enemies assail me. He knows when my words are misunderstood, twisted, or taken out of context. He knows when I restrain my urges. He knows when I avoid temptation. He knows that though I fail on a daily basis, that my heart is in the right place. He knows how much I want to serve Him. He knows how hard I try. He knows the difficulty of the road I'm traveling.
The Lord knows.
Lon
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Obedience
Obedience
Hebrews 13:17
Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.
The authorities of the denomination I serve require that I attend an annual conference of pastors and lay people. The annual four-day event begins today (Wednesday) and runs through Saturday. I will submit to their authority and attend the meetings. My challenge will be to find ways to make my leaders' work a joy.
Build Ups should start flowing at the beginning of next week. Until then...
Obey your leaders.
Lon
Please send me suggestions for Daily Build Up topics, by emailing them to me at:
Lon@AcornMinistries.com
Hebrews 13:17
Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.
The authorities of the denomination I serve require that I attend an annual conference of pastors and lay people. The annual four-day event begins today (Wednesday) and runs through Saturday. I will submit to their authority and attend the meetings. My challenge will be to find ways to make my leaders' work a joy.
Build Ups should start flowing at the beginning of next week. Until then...
Obey your leaders.
Lon
Please send me suggestions for Daily Build Up topics, by emailing them to me at:
Lon@AcornMinistries.com
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Acorn Build Up: Needing Rest
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
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
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
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