Author: Dr. Mike

Overflowing Life

Dr. Mike 2023 , , , ,

John 10:10

 “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

What does the abundant life look like in your worldview?

When you dream of a life overflowing with milk and honey, like the early Israelite (Lev. 20:24) entering into their promise land, what picture enters your mind?

How would you describe the abundant life in your world?

Jesus stated that humanity does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God (Mt. 4:4). Paul writes as we share in Christ’s suffering, we likewise share in his comfort (2 Cor 1:5). The Psalmist (37:11) reminds us that the meek shall find delight in abundant peace. David in repentance seeks God’s abundant mercy (Ps. 51:1). In Job (37:23) we are reminded of HIS abundant righteousness. In Deuteronomy (30:9) we see how God promises to bless HIS people with abundant prosperity. This includes the work of their hands, many children, and much cattle and agriculture. All these are staples of a then flourishing society.

Jesus also reminds us that the flesh is useless without the Spirit (Jn 6:68). That it is good to be rich toward God and self (Lk 12:21). But be on guard against covetousness as real life isn’t about plenty of possessions (Lk 12:15). The apostle Paul also writes about the awesome privilege of God living within us and expressing HIS richness of love and power through us (Eph 3:16-19).

Yet most of us struggle and wonder why our life is so far removed from the abundant life the Bible teaches. Maybe its because our priorities are upside down. I know in my early walk the erroneous emphasis was how could God bless me with the physical treasures rather than HIS spiritual riches. Only after God allowed me to struggle through life did things begin to slowly change. I learned to enjoy HIS presence. I also allowed Christ to be the core foundation in every area of life. No, I am not a millionaire, but live comfortably with all my needs and a few luxury pleasures to enjoy. The real wealth I have come to gratefully appreciate is knowing and sharing life with the Almighty Triune God.

The more I focus on HIM and HIS work and HIS ways, the more I enjoy a life full of adventure, love, and meaning. The abundant life is simply knowing HIM, having a meaningful relationship with HIM, and sharing HIM with others.

In conclusion, the overflowing life includes both physical and spiritual wealth. The emphasis thought is first believing and following Jesus Christ in every area of life. When you dance with HIM through the uncharted venue of life, HE will lead you. Yes, HE will also discipline you. But HE will also bring others into your world where you and they can share your walk in community. The rest of life are details which naturally find their way into your world (Lk. 12:31) because you are highly valued by God and HE truly loves you.  

Bottom-line: the overflowing life is rooted in Jesus Christ.

Rooting For You in Christ!

Dr. Mike

Faith-Integrator, Encourager, Scribbler

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False Prophets. False Teachers.

Dr. Mike 2023 , , , ,

Matthew 7:15

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.

2 Peter 2:1-3

But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction. And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed. And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep.

1 John 4:1

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.

Truth is a reflection of God’s character. Whenever we deviate from reality, we lean away from HIS solid foundation. This is why HE warns us of the dangers of following voices who do not represent HIM. The Bible identifies them as false prophets and teachers.

They look and sound good from the outside. They speak with a rhetoric tongue. Their narrative is package with emotional drama. They may even be sincere. But they don’t represent God Almighty. They are building a personal following for their gain.

When one deviates away from Jesus Christ, the outcome usually leads to destruction. The Bible has many historical situations where influencers misled the people. It generally starts with moral missteps. Followed by “new truth”. Then is attractively packaged and presented in a persuasive way. Then the momentum leads to carte blanche carnal behavior. The end result usually culminates in the destruction of a nation.

You look around today and witness similar destructive lies being fueled by greed. Like most tales, lies are blended with truth. When one doesn’t have a strong knowledge and relationship with the Triune God, one is swayed from such stories.

For example, climate change is happening. Yet the fear mongering and hysteria by greedy people are blinding sensible solutions to the issue. Is this God’s spirit in action or man’s profound attempt to personally gain at the expense of the masses?

Critical race theory, gender identity, and social justice are other teachings which deviate from the Bible’s instruction of productive living. They likewise have inklings of truth smothered by lies. Can you explain the difference between divine values and humanistic fantasy? You better know or find out the difference if you want to live a full, enjoyable life.

Yes false prophets are an issue today as in historical Biblical days. But as Jesus indicated, you will know them by their fruit. If they make a future proclamation that doesn’t happen, you know they are not of God. Does their work produce love, joy, and peace? Or is the outcome more hate, anger, and violence? If there walk doesn’t agree with their talk, than you know you are dealing with a liar. And yes, Jesus said there will be many who will follow their lead.

So, be careful. Study your Bible and history to learn from those who have gone before us. There is nothing new under the sun except technology and fashion. And even then, human nature continues to misbehave decade after decade. Only Jesus Christ and HIS Spirit can help keep you attuned to the truth. Observe the outcome of those who you listen too. Give them time to prove their words. When God is involve, HE will sustain them and bring about their vision. When God is not involved, hold unto HIM tightly as only human tragedy and carnage will come about from their actions. But HE will always be with you and direct your steps if you so allow.

Remember, truth is the reflection of God’s character. Always lean on HIM.

Rooting For You in Christ!

Dr. Mike

Faith-Integrator, Encourager, Scribbler

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Sacrifice, Suffering, Service

Dr. Mike 2023 , , , ,

Hebrews 10:39

But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls.

Jesus Christ is our reference point. As Christ-followers we study HIS life and learn to live life as HE did. Though each of us have unique personalities along with different sets of DNA, we collectively gravitate towards HIS  values and macro-purpose.

His teachings pierced the humanistic approach toward life. His attitude, mannerism, and behavior clashed with the authorities of that time. His worldview opened the eyes of the common people to capture God’s vision.

Unbridled human nature longs for more portions, power, and pleasure. Yet Jesus came along and demonstrated the value of sacrifice, suffering, and service. Which is more commercially or politically attractive to you?

If we are honest, our inclination is to want more, thinking these items will please our internal desire. Yet when one directs their life towards altruistic sacrifice, suffering, and service, the outcome is a more Christlike spirit touching your heart while impacting others for HIS glory. The abundant life Jesus taught his disciples becomes a reality in your world when you follow HIM.

Sacrifice is an attribute of the good life. To sacrifice means you are the master of your possessions. Money, time or any other physical item doesn’t control you and longer. Yes, it may hurt at first as you battle your inner demons. But as you let go and give to another from your plenty, they benefit by your action, and so do you. Jesus demonstrated his entire life the value of sacrificing for others. He left eternity to become finite. He was tempted at the beginning of his ministry to immediately pursue political, religious, and economic power for himself. But declined the offer to fulfill his divine purpose laid out from the beginning of time. And of course, he gave up his life to pay the ransom for humanity. Love is sacrificial.

Suffering unmasks our humanity. When comfort turns into pain, we rebel. We shy away from those who suffer because of the awkwardness. Some may run away because of the insecure inability to solve the problem. Yet, most of the time people don’t want your advice or solution but a concern ear. Personal suffering introduces us to a small taste of the pain Jesus went through on Calvary. When someone removes our pain and accepts to carry it  in our place, real love is demonstrated. Suffering reminds us of King Jesus’ sacrificial love in HIS ultimate action of redeeming humanity from the powers of evil.

Service belittles power. Power operates from a position of influential fear. But perfect love casts out fear (1 Jn. 4:18). When one serves from a position of love, one breaks down walls of injustice, hatred, and envy. To serve others is the highest calling within the Kingdom of God. In God’s government, its citizens serve one another out of respect and humility. Jesus demonstrated over and over again that he came to serve others and not lord over them. His heart was always to uplift others and help them draw closer to his Father in heaven. When others asked for help, he did. If unable, he explained the reason why. In most cases HE didn’t have permission from HIS Father to make happen. Service is love in action.

Welcome to sainthood. The anti-cultural way of experiencing the abundant life to the fullest. Yes, sacrifice, suffering, and service are the hallmarks of Christ-followers. Our carnal nature despises such a path. But the Divinity that lives within us magnifies such an approach. When we allow HIM to lead us through the jungles of life, His character and ways rub off on us. Overtime, we become more and more like him. One day, we will be like HIM in character. We will behold HIM in full glory with our own eyes in the eternal home. Yes, HE is now preparing you and I for eternity.  Until then, practice.

Rooting For You in Christ!

Dr. Mike

Faith-Integrator, Encourager, Scribbler

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