1 To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. 5 Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,
“God opposes the proud
but gives grace to the humble.”
6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
I love the Biblical models of mentorship. Moses reaches out for help to his father-in-law, Jethro; then Moses himself helping and encouraging Joshua and Caleb; and Joshua and Caleb who will go on to lead others behind them. Or Elisha who tries to learn from the older Elijah. Mentoring is God's design -- He knows we are better off when we learn from each other. That's what I like about this passage. It is addressed "to the elders among you" because they were the people who lead. However, because in this passage you are either an elder or a young man, we can deduce that all of us would fit in here because all of us are older than some people in our circle of influence and younger than others. He begins with addressing the elders, the leaders. Think about a place where you are on the "older" side -- perhaps, it's at church or work? Let's see what God has to say about this.
"To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care." The key word here is that we are to be shepherds of the people that are younger than us and/or under our care for whatever reason. It is quite possible that you may teach a class or lead a Bible study with people who are physically older than you, yet you might be their spiritual shepherd for a season. So what does a shepherd do? I think it is incredible that God established the model of shepherds for us to understand this concept. Shepherds protect, care for, guard, and fight on behalf of the "weaker" ones. Not physically weaker, but maybe spiritually weaker. I do not have a hard time saying that I am greatly spiritually weaker than many of the incredible women of God I know. This is a good thing because it gives me Christ-like examples to look to for guidance in my own life. Being weaker isn't bad! So for the weaker ones in your life, we are to help guide and protect them in their decision making, pray for their protection from the evil one, and care for them in our love and time. What an honor! Truly, with the women I have had the chance to mentor, it has been and continues to be one of the highlights of my life!
"serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve..." First of all, we are overseers, like managers, you could say. We don't step in and do everything for them. How can they learn? But we guide and watch over what is happening. And He wants us to do it willingly...this makes me think of Sunday School classes at our church right now. They had to cancel the 3rd grade class because they could not find teachers! We did not have enough people willing to serve. I have heard a statistic a lot lately that in churches 10 percent of the congregation does 90 percent of the work. That is astounding to me, but it also explains why God wants us to serve willingly, and with a heart that is "eager to serve." He knows there will be high demand for help but low numbers of those willing to go. Remember the verse, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few?" (Matt. 9:37). God knows that much will be demanded of us, but He does not want a worker who go grudgingly. You must be eager to serve! Ask the Lord to give you a heart that is eager to serve, and allow Him to guide you to which area would be best for you.
"not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock" Oh, He knows us doesn't He? Just give me a little power, and I will get all puffed up! But that's just it. HE is the one who has entrusted these positions of leadership to you. It really is not yours. There's no reason to lord something over someone when it really isn't yours. He can take it away just as quickly as He gave it to you. But rather, be an example of a servant. Just as Jesus was. Put others before yourself, let them receive glory before you do, spend yourself and your time on them rather than yourself, and tenderly show them the way to live. I can promise you from experience your cup will not be empty if you do -- this will give you greater fulfillment than the riches and money verse 3 talked about! And, not only that, but "when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away."
The best part about this passage to me is that he gives one line of direction to the younger people who are being mentored and lead by someone else: "Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older." That's it!? That's all you've got for me? I laughed when I read this because I immediately thought of myself as a high school student who didn't want to have to submit to ANYONE! I think, for a lot of young people, that one command is hard enough! God knows we can't handle any more than that for starters. And once we can learn that we don't know everything and can submit (which requires humility) to others, we will be better for it. Even today. Humbly submit yourself to others so that they can become greater and you can become less. Teach me how to do this better, Lord.
But then this,
All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud
but gives grace to the humble.”
6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time." It's not just for the teenagers! All of us, including the leaders, are to humble themselves toward others -- even to the teenagers. Remember that you used to be there, too, a few years ago. Don't be proud toward one another, because God cannot give you grace when you are being proud. Humble yourselves so then God can lift you up in His timing. Would life not be incredible if everyone humbly submitted to everyone else for their betterment? That's a place called Heaven my friends. When we get there, we will say, "oh yeah, this is what it was supposed to be like. This feels exactly right!"
In the meantime, we wrap up with verse 7, "Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." It's a command. How can you effectively lead if you are full of anxiety? While you are leading, let Him, our Ultimate Shepherd, care for you personally.
If you don't already, I highly recommend finding someone to care for and mentor as well as find someone who will walk beside you and mentor you. This is God's design for us! And, wow, is it rewarding!
Coffee with Jesus
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
1 Peter 4:7-11 (What to Do)
"The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. 8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen."
Yesterday, we were shown what we shouldn't do as we live for God. Today, we will see the opposite. Here are your action points, and boy, are they good!
"The end of all things is near." This section starts with seven very important words. They are meant to remind us that we do not have all the time in the world...well, technically we do, but that time won't last forever. Oh, how quickly we forget this. We naturally stay focused on the here-and-now, which isn't always bad. But remember that whether you die before Christ comes or you are here to see Him return, you don't have unlimited time to change your behaviors and impact the people around you.
"Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray." Because we don't have unlimited time, it's important too remember that every moment counts. We need to be clear minded, which reminds me of what was said yesterday -- not controlled by another substance, but controlled by the Holy Spirit. We simply cannot make wise decisions when we are filled with something other than the Holy Spirit. And how do we make sure of this, it says we must also be self-controlled. Oh man, God is really challenging me in this area right now. Self-control and discipline. Do we not hate those words?! I do. Yet here it is, and this certainly isn't the only time that phrase is mentioned in the Bible. Self-control matters to God. He wants us to control our words, our actions, and yes, even what we put into our bodies. But why does He care about self-control so much? "So that you can pray," or as the ESV puts it, "for the sake of your prayers." I cannot come easily and vulnerably before Jesus if I am either a) controlled by another substance such as drugs or alcohol, or b) if I am feeling such shame and guilt from the words I just said or the pack of Oreos I just ate all by myself. Will Jesus accept me in that state if I come to Him? Absolutely! But what do we do when we feel shame? We hide. Remember Adam and Eve? So, when we are feeling guilty, will we really want to run to Him first? From my own life, I can say that's not the case. When we are self-controlled and self-disciplined, we have the freedom to come to Him openly and vulnerably and maybe even more regularly.
"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." Woah, those are big words there...above all. The most important thing to remember today is that we are to love each other deeply...deeply, not flippantly. Why? Because love covers over a multitude of sins. We recently read this in our study of James, "whoever turns a sinner from the error of his ways will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins" (5:20). Or as The Message puts it, "Love makes up for practically everything." When we are putting someone else first, forgiving them (again and again), caring for their needs, the past can be covered over. If you have really hurt someone in the past, loving them this way is how to work on mending the relationship. If people have been hurt by the Church in the past, loving them now can cover that. It doesn't mean we can never remember what happened...it's not erased...but it can be covered over so that what it on top, what is seen, is love. And remember God is Love.
"Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling." Hmm...it's easy for me to offer hospitality to guests in my home whom I am trying to impress. But what about offering hospitality to my family? When I think of hospitality, I always think of warm food and clean towels and sheets. But it's more than that! Hospitality is defined as "the quality or disposition of receiving and treating guests and strangers in a warm, friendly, generous way." How do you treat guests in your home -- those you like and those you don't? What about strangers on the street, the check-out girl at the grocery, your next door neighbors, your co-workers? Hospitality is not defined to dinner parties at our kitchen tables or offering your spare bedroom to the in-laws. It is much more than that. It is a lifestyle. And the kicker...to do this without grumbling. Ouch.
"Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ." Do you know what stuck out to me here? One word: gift. It's not gifts (plural). I think these days, we want to be good at everything! Just look at all the programs and camps and practices kids are going to this summer. But God doesn't expect us to bog down our lives like that. He has blessed everyone with one gift. That's not to say that maybe some people that more than one? But the majority of us might just have one. And that is a gift in and of itself because it allows us to focus on that one gift and not hang ourselves out to dry because of busy-ness! We are certainly required to use that gift though -- don't let it go to waste. And on the days that you don't feel like serving in that way, "do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ."
"To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen." That's Who it's all about anyway. That's why we do what we do, why this blog even exists, and why we are trying to become better people -- is because we are following Jesus Christ and it's ALL about Him. He deserves the glory and praise for anything good that comes from us. He is the one with all the power in this world. For ever and ever! Wow. I'm going to have to agree with Peter here, "Amen."
Yesterday, we were shown what we shouldn't do as we live for God. Today, we will see the opposite. Here are your action points, and boy, are they good!
"The end of all things is near." This section starts with seven very important words. They are meant to remind us that we do not have all the time in the world...well, technically we do, but that time won't last forever. Oh, how quickly we forget this. We naturally stay focused on the here-and-now, which isn't always bad. But remember that whether you die before Christ comes or you are here to see Him return, you don't have unlimited time to change your behaviors and impact the people around you.
"Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray." Because we don't have unlimited time, it's important too remember that every moment counts. We need to be clear minded, which reminds me of what was said yesterday -- not controlled by another substance, but controlled by the Holy Spirit. We simply cannot make wise decisions when we are filled with something other than the Holy Spirit. And how do we make sure of this, it says we must also be self-controlled. Oh man, God is really challenging me in this area right now. Self-control and discipline. Do we not hate those words?! I do. Yet here it is, and this certainly isn't the only time that phrase is mentioned in the Bible. Self-control matters to God. He wants us to control our words, our actions, and yes, even what we put into our bodies. But why does He care about self-control so much? "So that you can pray," or as the ESV puts it, "for the sake of your prayers." I cannot come easily and vulnerably before Jesus if I am either a) controlled by another substance such as drugs or alcohol, or b) if I am feeling such shame and guilt from the words I just said or the pack of Oreos I just ate all by myself. Will Jesus accept me in that state if I come to Him? Absolutely! But what do we do when we feel shame? We hide. Remember Adam and Eve? So, when we are feeling guilty, will we really want to run to Him first? From my own life, I can say that's not the case. When we are self-controlled and self-disciplined, we have the freedom to come to Him openly and vulnerably and maybe even more regularly.
"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." Woah, those are big words there...above all. The most important thing to remember today is that we are to love each other deeply...deeply, not flippantly. Why? Because love covers over a multitude of sins. We recently read this in our study of James, "whoever turns a sinner from the error of his ways will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins" (5:20). Or as The Message puts it, "Love makes up for practically everything." When we are putting someone else first, forgiving them (again and again), caring for their needs, the past can be covered over. If you have really hurt someone in the past, loving them this way is how to work on mending the relationship. If people have been hurt by the Church in the past, loving them now can cover that. It doesn't mean we can never remember what happened...it's not erased...but it can be covered over so that what it on top, what is seen, is love. And remember God is Love.
"Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling." Hmm...it's easy for me to offer hospitality to guests in my home whom I am trying to impress. But what about offering hospitality to my family? When I think of hospitality, I always think of warm food and clean towels and sheets. But it's more than that! Hospitality is defined as "the quality or disposition of receiving and treating guests and strangers in a warm, friendly, generous way." How do you treat guests in your home -- those you like and those you don't? What about strangers on the street, the check-out girl at the grocery, your next door neighbors, your co-workers? Hospitality is not defined to dinner parties at our kitchen tables or offering your spare bedroom to the in-laws. It is much more than that. It is a lifestyle. And the kicker...to do this without grumbling. Ouch.
"Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ." Do you know what stuck out to me here? One word: gift. It's not gifts (plural). I think these days, we want to be good at everything! Just look at all the programs and camps and practices kids are going to this summer. But God doesn't expect us to bog down our lives like that. He has blessed everyone with one gift. That's not to say that maybe some people that more than one? But the majority of us might just have one. And that is a gift in and of itself because it allows us to focus on that one gift and not hang ourselves out to dry because of busy-ness! We are certainly required to use that gift though -- don't let it go to waste. And on the days that you don't feel like serving in that way, "do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ."
"To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen." That's Who it's all about anyway. That's why we do what we do, why this blog even exists, and why we are trying to become better people -- is because we are following Jesus Christ and it's ALL about Him. He deserves the glory and praise for anything good that comes from us. He is the one with all the power in this world. For ever and ever! Wow. I'm going to have to agree with Peter here, "Amen."
Monday, July 11, 2011
1 Peter 4:1-6 (Life Change)
1 "So then, since Christ suffered physical pain, you must arm yourselves with the same attitude he had, and be ready to suffer, too. For if you have suffered physically for Christ, you have finished with sin. 2 You won’t spend the rest of your lives chasing your own desires, but you will be anxious to do the will of God. 3 You have had enough in the past of the evil things that godless people enjoy—their immorality and lust, their feasting and drunkenness and wild parties, and their terrible worship of idols.
4 Of course, your former friends are surprised when you no longer plunge into the flood of wild and destructive things they do. So they slander you. 5 But remember that they will have to face God, who will judge everyone, both the living and the dead. 6 That is why the Good News was preached to those who are now dead—so although they were destined to die like all people, they now live forever with God in the Spirit."
More than any other struggle I have had repeatedly in my life with Christ, is an attitude of pride. Just this weekend, I was speaking with a friend who was telling me about how she partied heavily in high school, but when she became a Christian in college, she suddenly changed her ways, but then also started judging others for their continued partying. She described her thinking as "well, I've been convicted of ____, so others should also feel the same conviction." But she and I both know now that the Holy Spirit does not work on everyone in the same way and at the same time. That's part of what makes our relationship with Christ personal. He's working in you in a way that He's not working in someone else right now, for each individual's good. Yet, how easily do we think once we have "gotten" something that we are superior or better than others because we "get it" and they don't.
I think this same attitude would be easy to develop as we read this passage today. So, let us be sure that all of us are not without fault. Good grief, just this morning I have already had to ask God to forgive me of a poor attitude as well as other things! So without pointing blame, let's look at what the Word has for us today.
Verse 1, "So then, since Christ suffered physical pain, you must arm yourselves with the same attitude he had, and be ready to suffer, too. For if you have suffered physically for Christ, you have finished with sin." Physical pain. It's not something we think of often in our society when it comes to our faith. But I have no doubt that it will come before Christ returns, and even to the United States. But in the meantime, while we may not suffer the physical tortures of being a Christian, I am sure you have still suffered. Regardless, our attitude toward pain on behalf of Jesus Christ should be a willingness. Some people, including myself at times, will do anything to avoid physical or emotional pain -- this is not good. Because once we know we have a willingness to suffer for Christ, we know we have decided to truly follow Him rather than our sinful nature. Do you want to know how much you truthfully love Christ? Ask yourself how much pain you would willingly endure for Him. There's your answer.
The result of this willingness to suffer may include small things, too. A willingness to suffer, also means a willingness to deny yourself comfort. Verses 2 and 3 say, "You won’t spend the rest of your lives chasing your own desires, but you will be anxious to do the will of God. 3 You have had enough in the past of the evil things that godless people enjoy—their immorality and lust, their feasting and drunkenness and wild parties, and their terrible worship of idols." You're making difference choices than you used to. They aren't always the comfortable choices are they? I know that people enjoy getting drunk, or they wouldn't do it. That's the reality of it. Yet, one wild night of partying, and one might say they would've made different choices if they weren't drunk. It's not God's will for us to behave this way simply because it's not for our good. And worship of idols? Maybe not of gold like in Biblical times, but think about whatever that thing is that you have to have or need to be seen as. We are chasing our own desires rather than God's, which are ultimately for our good, our best. Surrender those parts of your life to Him!
"Of course, your former friends are surprised when you no longer plunge into the flood of wild and destructive things they do. So they slander you" (verse 4). A surrender of your life to Christ will look different. You cannot be surrendered to Christ and in the driver's seat of your own life. There will be changes in your actions. And where there are, here comes the slander by people who you would consider friends. But that life was leading to your destruction! Don't let this surprise you.
"But remember that they will have to face God, who will judge everyone, both the living and the dead." We will have to give an account of our actions. We are such here-and-now people aren't we? It's not as easy to live with an eternal perspective as it is to live in the now. But, if you can keep that in mind, one day you will face God and been seen as righteous. Our salvation comes from our belief in Jesus Christ, but our judgement will be based on how we lived our lives. It matters.
We all will give an account for how we lived. How genuine is our faith if we say that salvation is enough, and continue living as if we don't know Christ? The fruit produced from the Holy Spirit living within us should be "proof" that we are continually following the Lord and growing throughout our lives.
How do you know if Jesus is really living in you? You simply believe in your heart that He is Lord, and then admit your sins and ask Him to forgive your sins. Surrender control of your life to Him from this day forward. It's simple, but it's not easy. Life as a Christian is never an easy road, but I can tell you from experience that it is a life of fullness. If you have never asked Jesus to come and take control of your life, I beg you to do it today.
Then, tell someone. Tell me! Allow me to help get you connected and to begin growing in your relationship with Him. Christ wants us to do this in community. And what an exciting new beginning that would be for you! If you have not surrendered your life to Him, today is the day. He said, "I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice, and opens the door, I will come in."
Let Him into your life. Allow Him to change you.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
A Thankful Birthday
Today, I'm doing it a bit different today. And because this is my blog and my birthday (sounding selfish, aren't I?) I can do that.
I am 27 years old today, and Josh commented to me this morning that I haven't been as excited about my birthday as I usually am. We joke that I have, over the past few years, started by having a birthDAY, then it turned into a birthWEEK, and it has officially now become a birthMONTH. I justify this by the fact that since my birthday is in the summer, I didn't get as much attention on it as others who are born during the school year during my childhood; so, we are making up for it for the rest of my life. So, I'm not sure why I haven't been as excited about it this year. I think mostly because all my plans seem to be made last minute, so I don't have things to look forward to until a couple days before. But I don't like this change, for whatever reason. I want to continue to celebrate and be joyful, even if I'm the only one who really cares about my birthday. And let's be honest. I am.
So, to commemorate my birthday, I want to thank God for some specific things in my life over these past 27 years.
I'M THANKFUL FOR... (in life order):
Jesus. I thank you for loving me more than I will ever know and for choosing to die for me in the midst of my sinful state and teaching me how to be like you...words cannot describe;
being born to Scott and Susie McCracken, who established the foundation of my faith from the first day I was alive through their examples and love for Christ;
my lovely aunts on my dad's side of the family, who have given us an example of sisterly love and how to be down-right silly;
my mom's siblings and their spouses, who, now that I am an adult, have thankfully gotten to know even better in recent years and I wish we all lived closer -- they keep my mama close to my heart;
Max Newlin, my first neighbor, who let me work in his wood shop with him and eat peanuts;
for all of the Sunday School teachers I had as a child who faithfully taught me the basics. Thank you, Jess Elliott, Nellie May, Ray Harden, Nyle Kardatzke, George Stisher, and many others;
George Stisher, my 6th grade Sunday School teacher who "anonymously" bought me the second half of the horse I was saving for...mom told me years later, and I'm so glad she did. Thank you, George;
for the Student Venture staff who allowed me to follow them around as a little girl and later taught me what it means to live for Christ. They always made me feel special. Thank you Dawn, Deanna, Ken and Kae, John and Jeanne, Vicky, Brian and Erin, and many others. You are priceless to me!;
for the leaders in my church youth group as a teenager who faithfully showed up every week to love on us and tease us. Knowing I'd see you kept me coming to church. Thank you to you all, there are way too many to count, but especially Allen Knisley and Charlie Campbell;
for my whole church family at Church at the Crossing, many whom I have known for the past 22 years. What a pleasure it is to serve and worship beside you year after year. Each of you brings something important to our church, and I have learned so much from you;
for my mentors, Kim Tabor and Monika Nyby, who sacrificially give their time to answer my many questions about life and who teach me powerfully through their incredible examples;
for Kara Palmer, Gretchen Livingston, Julia Smith, and all the other Bible study girls who allow me to speak into their lives what I have learned in my life and to encourage them as they grow. I am so proud of all of you and the women you are;
my sisters, Haley, Marylou, and Ellie, who have grown up with me, fought and loved with me, celebrated and mourned with me, and serve the Lord with me. They are my best friends, and some of the best blessings God has given me in these 27 years;
my closest girl friends, some life-long and some more recent friendships. What a gift it is to have people with whom I can live honestly -- the good and the bad. I love our laughter, deep talks, silly moments, and just living life together;
and Josh. My teammate, best friend, encourager, challenger, supporter, best audience ('cuz he thinks I'm really funny), example, and the love of my life...you are my greatest gift. I love all of you and who you are;
Hmmm....I really thought I would list some people and then some "things". But at this point, things pale in comparison to this list. If you're reading this blog, I would include you in this list if I had the time to write each name specifically. I'm sure that you have taught me something, maybe big or small, but important for sure. Truly, people are our greatest gifts. I feel that today, and wow, have I been blessed by you.
Have a great day, everyone! Thank you for being a blessing in my life over these 27 years. :)
I am 27 years old today, and Josh commented to me this morning that I haven't been as excited about my birthday as I usually am. We joke that I have, over the past few years, started by having a birthDAY, then it turned into a birthWEEK, and it has officially now become a birthMONTH. I justify this by the fact that since my birthday is in the summer, I didn't get as much attention on it as others who are born during the school year during my childhood; so, we are making up for it for the rest of my life. So, I'm not sure why I haven't been as excited about it this year. I think mostly because all my plans seem to be made last minute, so I don't have things to look forward to until a couple days before. But I don't like this change, for whatever reason. I want to continue to celebrate and be joyful, even if I'm the only one who really cares about my birthday. And let's be honest. I am.
So, to commemorate my birthday, I want to thank God for some specific things in my life over these past 27 years.
I'M THANKFUL FOR... (in life order):
Jesus. I thank you for loving me more than I will ever know and for choosing to die for me in the midst of my sinful state and teaching me how to be like you...words cannot describe;
being born to Scott and Susie McCracken, who established the foundation of my faith from the first day I was alive through their examples and love for Christ;
my lovely aunts on my dad's side of the family, who have given us an example of sisterly love and how to be down-right silly;
my mom's siblings and their spouses, who, now that I am an adult, have thankfully gotten to know even better in recent years and I wish we all lived closer -- they keep my mama close to my heart;
Max Newlin, my first neighbor, who let me work in his wood shop with him and eat peanuts;
for all of the Sunday School teachers I had as a child who faithfully taught me the basics. Thank you, Jess Elliott, Nellie May, Ray Harden, Nyle Kardatzke, George Stisher, and many others;
George Stisher, my 6th grade Sunday School teacher who "anonymously" bought me the second half of the horse I was saving for...mom told me years later, and I'm so glad she did. Thank you, George;
for the Student Venture staff who allowed me to follow them around as a little girl and later taught me what it means to live for Christ. They always made me feel special. Thank you Dawn, Deanna, Ken and Kae, John and Jeanne, Vicky, Brian and Erin, and many others. You are priceless to me!;
for the leaders in my church youth group as a teenager who faithfully showed up every week to love on us and tease us. Knowing I'd see you kept me coming to church. Thank you to you all, there are way too many to count, but especially Allen Knisley and Charlie Campbell;
for my whole church family at Church at the Crossing, many whom I have known for the past 22 years. What a pleasure it is to serve and worship beside you year after year. Each of you brings something important to our church, and I have learned so much from you;
for my mentors, Kim Tabor and Monika Nyby, who sacrificially give their time to answer my many questions about life and who teach me powerfully through their incredible examples;
for Kara Palmer, Gretchen Livingston, Julia Smith, and all the other Bible study girls who allow me to speak into their lives what I have learned in my life and to encourage them as they grow. I am so proud of all of you and the women you are;
my sisters, Haley, Marylou, and Ellie, who have grown up with me, fought and loved with me, celebrated and mourned with me, and serve the Lord with me. They are my best friends, and some of the best blessings God has given me in these 27 years;
my closest girl friends, some life-long and some more recent friendships. What a gift it is to have people with whom I can live honestly -- the good and the bad. I love our laughter, deep talks, silly moments, and just living life together;
and Josh. My teammate, best friend, encourager, challenger, supporter, best audience ('cuz he thinks I'm really funny), example, and the love of my life...you are my greatest gift. I love all of you and who you are;
Hmmm....I really thought I would list some people and then some "things". But at this point, things pale in comparison to this list. If you're reading this blog, I would include you in this list if I had the time to write each name specifically. I'm sure that you have taught me something, maybe big or small, but important for sure. Truly, people are our greatest gifts. I feel that today, and wow, have I been blessed by you.
Have a great day, everyone! Thank you for being a blessing in my life over these 27 years. :)
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
1 Peter 3:13-18 (Suffering for Doing Good)
"Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. It is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God."
So much of what we do it out of a fear we have. We're afraid we won't be liked, so we wear certain clothes to make us fit in. We're afraid we will just be mediocre, so we do things to try to be different. We're afraid of truly being known for what we really believe and think, so we keep the deepest parts of us to ourselves. We're afraid of failure, so we never try. We're afraid of judgement, so we tell "little lies" every day. We're afraid of the future, so we worry incessantly. Do any of these sound familiar? Perhaps you can think of your own phrase that would describe where you are in life right now. What behaviors are you doing out of a rooted fear?
But Christ...Christ came to free you from all of these fears. He came to give you life. He said, "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." And part of the fullness and abundance of the live He came to give you is freedom and liberty.
"...creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God."
"Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom."
"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." (Read that one again like a black preacher. It's so good!)
"Live as free men..."
"Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom..."
"If the Son sets you free, you are truly free."
And because of this freedom, we don't need to fear anything -- not even death -- because we know Whose we are and where we're going when we die.
"The LORD is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid?" (Psalm 27:1)
There are so many incredible verses on freedom, especially freedom from fear! Take some time to find some verses that you can claim.
My favorite sentence in our passage today refers to the people who are causing you to suffer. It says, "Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened." This is a command. Do not fear what they fear, and do not be frightened. They're afraid they won't be accepted; don't fear that. They're afraid of what you'll think; don't fear that. They're afraid of losing control and power; don't fear that. Whatever it is the world fears, do not fear that! You don't have to, because Christ has freed you from fear.
I have a very dear friend who is having a difficult season with a family member. The family member has told her, "and you claim to be a Christian," because of some, I believe, healthy boundaries and choices that she has had to make regarding the family member. She is going against the grain of the culture, and is therefore seen as a hypocrite. Yet, let us remember that we can conquer our current culture, or it WILL conquer us, friends. Our culture lies to us, as written by satan himself. We will not find contentment and love and fulfillment through this world, but only from Jesus Christ alone. This friend of mine, I love her so, and I have seen her grow so much because of this suffering. What she used to fear, she no longer does. Where she used to waver in her answers, as she hashed through what she really believes, oh, she no longer wavers! I heard her speak about her situation recently, and there was a silent, strong confidence in her eyes as she spoke. She is in the midst of persecution, yet she does not fear. She lives in the freedom and knowledge of Christ. She has "set apart Christ as (her) Lord," as verse 15 says to do.
One more thing, "It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil." In other words, the current persecution you might be facing, is far better in God's eyes than a spanking that you rightly deserve. He is not surprised that you are suffering for your faith. You are partnering with Him, just as He suffered and was persecuted! There is no fault in that. So, you can continue to live in freedom.
And as you suffer, remember that "Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God." Those causing you harm, Christ died for them, too. He loves them and desires to bring them to God. Perhaps you are the only light of Christ they know. They are battling a waging war within themselves between Christ and satan. I urge you to continue to pray for your enemies!
And a challenge to us all...are you feeling persecuted? If the answer is no, and I'm saying this to myself, perhaps we are stuck in a comfort zone? Perhaps we are too afraid to tell people what you really think and believe, for fear of ______. I would wonder that if no one disagrees with us, and everyone likes us, perhaps we aren't living in Truth?
Let go of your fears, whatever they might be. God has not called you to Himself to then still live in a spirit of fear and timidity. He gave you His power and strength! You can live confidently and boldly for Him today.
So much of what we do it out of a fear we have. We're afraid we won't be liked, so we wear certain clothes to make us fit in. We're afraid we will just be mediocre, so we do things to try to be different. We're afraid of truly being known for what we really believe and think, so we keep the deepest parts of us to ourselves. We're afraid of failure, so we never try. We're afraid of judgement, so we tell "little lies" every day. We're afraid of the future, so we worry incessantly. Do any of these sound familiar? Perhaps you can think of your own phrase that would describe where you are in life right now. What behaviors are you doing out of a rooted fear?
But Christ...Christ came to free you from all of these fears. He came to give you life. He said, "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." And part of the fullness and abundance of the live He came to give you is freedom and liberty.
"...creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God."
"Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom."
"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." (Read that one again like a black preacher. It's so good!)
"Live as free men..."
"Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom..."
"If the Son sets you free, you are truly free."
And because of this freedom, we don't need to fear anything -- not even death -- because we know Whose we are and where we're going when we die.
"The LORD is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid?" (Psalm 27:1)
There are so many incredible verses on freedom, especially freedom from fear! Take some time to find some verses that you can claim.
My favorite sentence in our passage today refers to the people who are causing you to suffer. It says, "Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened." This is a command. Do not fear what they fear, and do not be frightened. They're afraid they won't be accepted; don't fear that. They're afraid of what you'll think; don't fear that. They're afraid of losing control and power; don't fear that. Whatever it is the world fears, do not fear that! You don't have to, because Christ has freed you from fear.
I have a very dear friend who is having a difficult season with a family member. The family member has told her, "and you claim to be a Christian," because of some, I believe, healthy boundaries and choices that she has had to make regarding the family member. She is going against the grain of the culture, and is therefore seen as a hypocrite. Yet, let us remember that we can conquer our current culture, or it WILL conquer us, friends. Our culture lies to us, as written by satan himself. We will not find contentment and love and fulfillment through this world, but only from Jesus Christ alone. This friend of mine, I love her so, and I have seen her grow so much because of this suffering. What she used to fear, she no longer does. Where she used to waver in her answers, as she hashed through what she really believes, oh, she no longer wavers! I heard her speak about her situation recently, and there was a silent, strong confidence in her eyes as she spoke. She is in the midst of persecution, yet she does not fear. She lives in the freedom and knowledge of Christ. She has "set apart Christ as (her) Lord," as verse 15 says to do.
One more thing, "It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil." In other words, the current persecution you might be facing, is far better in God's eyes than a spanking that you rightly deserve. He is not surprised that you are suffering for your faith. You are partnering with Him, just as He suffered and was persecuted! There is no fault in that. So, you can continue to live in freedom.
And as you suffer, remember that "Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God." Those causing you harm, Christ died for them, too. He loves them and desires to bring them to God. Perhaps you are the only light of Christ they know. They are battling a waging war within themselves between Christ and satan. I urge you to continue to pray for your enemies!
And a challenge to us all...are you feeling persecuted? If the answer is no, and I'm saying this to myself, perhaps we are stuck in a comfort zone? Perhaps we are too afraid to tell people what you really think and believe, for fear of ______. I would wonder that if no one disagrees with us, and everyone likes us, perhaps we aren't living in Truth?
Let go of your fears, whatever they might be. God has not called you to Himself to then still live in a spirit of fear and timidity. He gave you His power and strength! You can live confidently and boldly for Him today.
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