2023

What Are You For?

Dr. Mike 2023 , , , ,

Acts 28:22

But we desire to hear from you what your views are, for with regard to this sect we know that everywhere it is spoken against.”

The Jewish leaders had the apostle Paul arrested and on trial in Jerusalem. The Roman government found him innocent. But the Jewish leaders objected. So Paul, a Roman citizen, then petitioned to have his case presented before Caesar.

We pick up the story now with Paul arriving in Rome under house arrest. There he asks to meet with the Jewish leaders of Rome. They are intrigued to hear more about Paul’s sect. For everywhere in the then world Christianity is spoken against by the status quo.

On the scheduled day, they arrived along with their support staff. The entire day was given to listening and reviewing Scripture with Paul. Paul’s emphasis during the entire meeting was to testify about Jesus as the Messiah and the Kingdom of God. He spent the entire day emphasizing what he believed and stood for.

A few of his listeners were convinced. The majority disbelieved. But Paul fulfilled his mission. Wherever he went, he first started by explaining the gospel message to the Jewish community. Afterward, he followed by proclaiming God’s salvation to the Gentiles.

Yet whenever he spoke, he emphasized what he was for and not what he was against. You and I may want to consider the same when sharing the gospel message with others. In today’s culture, we hear a lot about what everyone is against. But wouldn’t it be more effective if we started with what both sides agree on?

Sounds good you say, but most difficult. And you are right. It is more challenging for you to first understand the other side thoroughly before sharing your beliefs. When you do, you will find it easier to get common ground to build from rather than fight over it.

When Paul spoke with the Jewish leaders they had the Scriptures as common ground. When Paul dealt with the Gentiles, he had a strong understanding of the Greek culture being educated in that world. His starting point was always from their perspective.

But it didn’t change his message. Instead, he continued to emphasize Jesus’ and His Kingdom and what HE stands for. His approach and words and examples may differ. But his message remained the same. Jesus Christ is Lord. God’s Kingdom rules. God has a purpose for humanity and you are included.

As we mature as Believers, we slowly die to self. Our position on any matter becomes less important. Our heart and mind begins to align more with God’s position. Instead of emphasizing what I am for, we illuminate what God is for. We become the messenger, rather than the influencer. Our allegiance is for God’s Kingdom and Lord Jesus. As HE trains us and morphs us into HIS image, we slowly reflect more and more of HIS thoughts and values. HE is what we are for. We become one with HIS Spirit. And what HE is for, so are we.

Rooting For You in Christ!

Dr. Mike

Faith-Integrator, Encourager, Scribbler

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Self-Control

Dr. Mike 2023 , , , ,

Proverbs 25:28

A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.

Titus 2:11-12

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age,

Why does God value self-control?

Imagine, you are a criminal looking for a house to break into. The house you identify is located in a high crime area. But what makes this house more vulnerable compared to other homes in the neighborhood? The house has no fence, no doors, and no windows. It is begging you for trouble.

Isn’t that the same with a person who cannot control their spirit and responses?

Have you ever noticed the difference between people? One person pursues immediate satisfaction while the other one sacrifices the present for a future reward. One seeks pleasure and the other fulfillment. Both want to be happy. One jumps from job to job, diet to diet, or bed to bed, without ever finding long lasting happiness. Yet another sacrifices immediate gratifications. Why? Because their aim is a worthwhile goal. When achieved it will grant them the opportunity to fulfill their hearts desire for the long term.    

The apostle Paul wrote his trainee Titus a letter referring to the importance of self-control. Since God showers us with HIS grace, learn to live accordingly. One purpose of grace is to train us in godliness – to reflect HIS character in all situations. As HE prepares us for eternity, self-control benefits us now with patience and strength to choose wisely in our pursuits and actions.

HE has given HIMSELF to us via the Holy Spirit living in us. The fruit of HIM living in you and I includes HIS attribute of self-control (Gal. 5:23). We have the honor and privilege to learn how best to exercise its influence. Yet, when we ignore HIM, HIS ways, and indulge in immediate self-gratification, we are falling short of reflecting HIS glory.

How can you draw closer to HIM and allow HIS self-control lead you?

One old-fashion practice is to fast. Fasting from food for 24 hours is learning to say NO to the self for a greater purpose. Instead, when the hunger pains arrive, one learns to pray. As we lean on HIM, HE gives us strength. Of course, if medical reasons prevents you from fasting, there may be other practices you may use.

Whatever addiction you face may be the item you refrain from part taking for a short period of time. In lieu, you spend more time praying when those desires hit you. The purpose is to learn how to lean on HIM when unwanted, immediate desires stroke you.

After you successfully practice such a discipline, you find yourself stronger and in control of the temptation you face.

Jesus Christ is our example of self-control. Read the gospel accounts and see how often HE refrained from exercising the authority HE had when confronted by HIS enemies. How easily HE could have destroyed them. But instead HE exercised self-control and allowed the fruit of the Holy Spirit be amplified.

Self-control requires sacrificing for the moment. And the long term benefits also far outweigh your immediate act of love when you reflect Jesus in all you do.   

Rooting For You in Christ!

Dr. Mike

Faith-Integrator, Encourager, Scribbler

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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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