Christianity

Is Your Jesus Dead or Alive?

Dr. Mike Kingdom Paradigms , , , , , , , ,

RESURRECTION 5

Easter is the time that traditional Christianity comes together to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. We in the faith may argue whether or not He died and was buried for a full three days or three nights as He prophesied, or whether they were portions of three days and nights. We in the faith may argue among ourselves in regards to the symbolism of the bread and wine; whether the bread is actually His body or simply a reminder of His human sacrifice. We in the faith may also debate whether or not communion is an institutional doctrine of the church to be taken only in a “Church Service” or more of simply Jesus’ method to remind us at each meal (Middle-eastern culture)when we break bread and drink wine to acknowledge what Jesus did and a reminder that He shall return.

No matter the discussions and disagreements, there is one universal truth among believers: Jesus arose from the grave and lives today!

He didn’t arise and simply disappear into heaven for His sake. He is now at the right hand of God the Father; intervening for humanity before our great God. He is working through the hands and feet of His body, the universal Church, preparing a people for His return. A time where the Bible describes a one-thousand year reign where Christ’ Kingdom will be visible; a time that will prepare the way for a new heaven and a new earth to finally merge together as one with God’s throne among all people visible for all to see.

How many people do you know live their life with a living Christ rather than a dead Christ? As we live each day in faith, trusting the Spirit to lead us into a deeper relationship with the living God, isn’t that where Christ becomes more real and alive in us?  However, if we try to do it all along, thinking that Christ is dead and is not coming back, doesn’t that leave one struggling with a dead faith?  Easter is a time to reflect on what Christ did, is doing, and will be doing as He moves history toward the restoration of all things. My prayer is that all may come to know and allow Christ to express Himself freely through us all.

OUR PRAYER

life1

Holy Father, Holy Lord, and Holy Spirit – Thank you for revealing yourself through creation, the Bible, and your involvement in our life. Help me every day to listen for your words of encouragement, love, and mission. Help me to come and know you more and more each day. Help me to hang out with you more and more each day. Let your resurrection power be expressed through me and toward others so they may also experience the great life you have to share with your children. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Yours In Christ,

Dr. Mike

Consultant, Coach, Encourager
Author of Great Business Emulates A Good God

If You Are Seeking a Devotional Study, Check Out My New Book Be Radical…Follow Christ.

How About Blessing Those You Are With?

Dr. Mike Kingdom Paradigms , , , , , ,

blessed 1

Someone once made the comment that if you have something to share with others, than you are actually one blessed person. In doesn’t mean you are super wealthy. It only means that you have more than you actual need at the moment. In fact, having something to share may be more than just material items. It may also include time, words, compassion, encouragement, hope, and maybe even a listening ear.
Have you ever considered that our God is in the blessing business?  So how about partnering with Him with the people around you at this very moment? What can you say or do that blesses the other people around you at this very moment? What can you say or do to bless those you meet during the day? What can you say or do to bless those who come within ten feet of you today?
In fact, how about asking God today to lead you to be a blessing for at least one person this day? and then one person everyday for one week? Afterward, you will experience what Jesus meant when he said it is more blessed to give than receive (Acts 20:35).

OUR PRAYER

prayer 5

Heavenly Father, Son, and Spirit – Thank you for your blessings upon our life. Help us to be a blessing to others as you are a blessing to us. Continue to bless us so we may bless others. For every good thing comes from you. Help us to bring good things to others.

Yours In Christ,

Dr. Mike

Consultant, Coach, Encourager
Author of Great Business Emulates A Good God

If You Are Seeking a Devotional Study, Check Out My New Book Be Radical…Follow Christ.

What Does The Christ-Centered Life Look Like? (2)

Dr. Mike Kingdom Paradigms , , , , , , ,

in christ

“But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:32-34 (NSRV)

From a practical aspect, we allow Jesus’ story to become the main plot in our life. The question no longer is “what do I want?” Instead the core question becomes “what is Jesus doing that I may join him?” We learn through life’s challenges that as we seek Christ’s Kingdom, we discover that our required needs are satisfied. They may not always be according to our expectations or what we are accustomed too, but in hindsight we learn to place our trust in his provision which is what we truly needed at the time.

How often have we heard a person share their story of answered prayer? When everything looked bleak and all they could do is muster a short prayer of desperation. Then suddenly, a knock at the door and their laid a bag of groceries so their children would not go hungry another day. Or the business executive who didn’t know where to go for help to meet his payroll, but cried out to God for a solution. Then a phone call from a person who hasn’t spoken to him for years with a check in hand that would solve his immediate problems and create more opportunities for others. Again, the engineer stuck with an unsolvable problem and in frustrating and humility asks God for help. Then suddenly the inspiration comes to mind and the problem is solved. All of these are simple daily events that makes one realize that we are not alone. That the God of the universe, Father-Son-Spirit, is active and involved in our lives.

In a brief summary, a CC life is focused on Jesus, not the self. The aim and motivation is to elevate Jesus in the eyes of all we come into contact. As we yield our self unto the Triune God’s hand, we develop a bond of trust with Him. As we ask and commune with Him, we witness His involvement that eventually brings about our requests for His glory. Over time, we build a close familial relationship like a child with a loving, engaged parent. For most of us, when the pride is gone, we eventually come to the end of ourselves. Typically, it is through the trials and tests of life that we realize our need of God. Like the apostle Paul, we come to realize that when we are weak, our strength (Jesus )rises to the occasion (2 Corinthians 12:9). Over time we give him more and more leeway to lead and influence us as his new creation. Then like David of Goliath fame, our Lord becomes our strength and refuge (Psalm 59:16). Outsiders begin to witness a divine change in your countenance and demeanor. God is slowly expressing Himself through you.

OUR PRAYER

PRAYER 1

Holy Father – Holy Lord – Holy Spirit: Thank you for your love, mercy, and grace upon us. Thank you for redeeming us Jesus and restoring the relationship between heaven and earth; between Father God and humanity. Thank you for your sacrificial love and continual empowerment through your Spirit. Thank you for covering us and hiding us in you. ; We long for the time to celebrate your plan, your work, and your glory. Whether at work, at home, or at play, we thank you and praise you as our King, Teacher, Savior, Helper, Friend, and Brother. Help us to hear you and follow your lead in our life each and every day. So Be It.

Yours In Christ,

Dr. Mike

Consultant, Coach, Encourager
Author of Great Business Emulates A Good God

If You Are Seeking a Devotional Study, Check Out My New Book Be Radical…Follow Christ.