The Gospel Works

November 17, 2009 By Leave a Comment

I’m feeling encouraged to write this morning. LOL It’s been a crazy season of scheduling and motivation, but this morning I am prioritizing the first and feeling the second. So here’s a whirl at week of daily devos. This week we’ll be looking at Acts 11, when the disciples were first called “Christians.” May your day be filled with God…

Aloha,
Allen

Thoughts
There are so many challenging thoughts that arise out of Acts 11 and the introduction of the label that we now cling to. It’s a bit ironic that our label of choice, “Christian”, is one given to “us” by unbelievers and used only 3 times in the New Testament (Acts 11:26; 26:28, 1 Pet. 4:16). Whereas the early Church commonly referred to themselves as believers, disciples, brothers, saints, and the like, we are most likely to reference ourselves as Christians.

Certainly, there is nothing wrong with a label that easily identifies us with the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. However, there were reasons that these men and women were called Christian. Primarily, it was because they were living in solidarity to and converting others to the teachings of Jesus Christ, namely the Gospel. Thus, it was the impact they were making that merited the label which identified them with their mission.

These pioneers, first called Christians in Antioch, revealed that the Gospel of Jesus Christ works. Scattered by the persecution in connection with Stephen’s martyrdom, the believers reached Antioch. Once they arrived they immediately began their work of sharing the Gospel—salvation through Jesus Christ. It seems the majority kept their conversations among the Jews. However, there were a few daring individuals that chose to present Christ to the Gentiles. And, it worked!

Despite being a metropolitan, fast-paced, wealthy society, the Gospel proved to be effective in Antioch. The third largest city of its time, Antioch was filled with politics, pagan worship, and prosperity. From many accounts it would seem the inhabitants of Antioch neither needed, nor were interested in Jesus. But such was not the case. They gravitated toward the Savior and the Gospel proved that it works for all ages, races, and socio-economic statuses. Jesus saves!

Though history has proven that a number of movements have grown out of poorer people groups and rural settings, we must never limit the power of the Gospel to those settings. In Antioch, the Gospel revealed its strength to save. The power of our message is as mighty in New York as it is in Africa. It saves lawyers as well as it saves the lawless. May we believe it enough to share it with those unlike us and not reserve it for the walls of the church. They were first called Christians in Antioch…because they dared to share what they believed—the Gospel!

Application
If the disciples were first called Christians because they were sharing their faith, rather than just attending a church, would there be enough evidence to label you a Christian?

It is always easier to share our faith with someone who believes like us. Would you be like the believers in Acts 11:19 or 11:20? The first shared with like-minded people. The latter with those whose belief system was starkly opposed to theirs.

Is it true that we have certain limits we put on the Gospel? (i.e., only for people in need, people in difficult situations, etc.)

Prayer
Father,

I am so thankful that Your Gospel—Jesus came, died, and rose again—has the power to set all men free. It has set me free. I am challenged by the way in which the believers of Acts 11 engaged culture, despite its opposing values and ways, with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They dared to trust the Gospel and they saw results—Your hand was upon them and many believed. May the world call me a Christian not because I go to church, but because I live in solidarity with and covert others to Jesus Christ.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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His Purpose, Not Your Project

November 6, 2009 By Leave a Comment

It’s Aloha Friday! That means the weekend is just hours away. As you go throughout your day and weekend, may you remember the purpose for which Christ had redeemed you. He has a plan for your life. Let’s bear fruit for Him.

For those in Hilo, I hope to see you this weekend. We will be delving into Acts 10. Familiarize yourself with it and let’s get ready for God to do something great.

Aloha,
Allen

Thoughts
Growing up I don’t recall ever going to a garage sale. For one, no one in our neighborhood had a garage. And, if they did, they probably didn’t want people in it. So, I had some life lessons to learn when I worked alongside a ‘professional’ garage saler in Tennessee. T Bandy (his real name) was part of the world’s longest garage sale, stretching through two states. He took it seriously.

In his life, T Bandy has redeemed the lives of more tools, clothes, and otherwise unwanted items than one can possibly imagine. And, for everything he redeemed he had a purpose and a plan. His eye was trained for how each item could be restored and made useful again.

There’s a lot to unpack spiritually from T Bandy. It seems he might have learned some lessons from the greatest Redeemer. Isn’t it just like God?! Though He’s not a rummager, He sifts through life’s mistakes, broken pieces, shattered dreams, and disfunction for a people He can use for His purpose and plan. He has a way of using every life to fulfill a part of His plan.

I find it arresting that one of the first things the resurrected Savior says to Saul in his Damascus road encounter is “Get up and go into Damascus for I will show you what you must do.” God had a plan for Saul. He would take all of his failures, blunders, and boneheaded decisions and transform him (and them) into Paul, one of His greatest apostles.

God has spared us all from the rubbish den called Hell. But He hasn’t saved us for nothing. He has spared us because He loves us and has a purpose for our lives. We are a tool He is using to build this thing called His Kingdom.

Our challenge is to not accept His redemption and then selfishly work on our own project. We tend to get upset when God’s purpose messes with our projects. We love projects that include His blessing, prosperity, comfort, etc. However, the apostle was told ‘how much he must suffer for Christ’s sake’. When you’re challenged in the future, don’t get upset at the Redeemer. He saved you for His purpose, not your pet project.

Application:
How has God used your mistakes, mishaps, and miseries for His purpose?

Have you ever focused more on your projects than God’s purpose? What is your focus right now?

Do you know God’s plan for your life? If not, are you asking Him for it?

Prayer
Father,

Thank You for redeeming me. Seeing past my failures and disfunction, You saw something for which You could use me. Today, I ask that You would continually refine me for Your work. As my mind and motives drift toward my projects, may You return my focus to Your purpose. You have chosen me and You desire that I bear fruit for You (Jn. 15:16). And, I long to honor You.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Turning Point: Confronting the Past

November 5, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Aloha,

It seems as if it’s been forever since I’ve been behind the screen on my daily devos. I am currently working with a Community Service Worker and my time has been diverted elsewhere in the mornings. This is both good and bad. On a positive note I am able to reveal God’s love to another individual. On the downside, I have yet to find my rhythm for the mornings.

Over the last few weeks we have taken a look at the transformation of Saul/Paul in Acts 9, 22, and 26. In our 3 week mini-series we talked about the necessity for God encounters, confronting our past, and accepting our new appointments. Today and tomorrow I will try to recap some of the highlights of the latter two.

Enjoy your day,
Allen

Thoughts
Proverbs 28:13
        He who conceals his transgressions will not prosper, But he who confesses and forsakes them will find compassion.

Following his encounter with the risen Savior, Saul, on his way to becoming Paul, had to make a hard confrontation with his former self. Realizing the validity of Jesus Christ, the apostle had a lot of wrongs that he couldn’t make right. His zealous attempt to extinguish the fire of Christianity had been nothing more than an outright attack on the One he believed he was fighting for. Though he would be changed, the apostle would not be able to bypass the reality of his former life.

Each of us have a past. And, for most of us, that past is filled with selfish, despicable acts that are in direct violation to the person Christ longs for us to be. It is my challenge that if we truly desire a turning point in our lives, we must confront our past. We cannot ignore it, down play it, or blame it on someone else. Confronting your past is the key to confession. I must be able to own my sin and my past, as painful as that might be.

In an article concerning the apostle Paul, Jimmy Sighers wrote:

“Mercy tempers the shock of our sinfulness leading us to genuine repentance rather than despair. The experience of God’s mercy fosters a deep sorrow for and a profound detestation of sin. Then we can declare with St. Paul: “Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Rom 7:24-25)!“ (ST. PAUL AND CONFRONTING ONESELF By Jimmy Sighers; http://www.totustuus.com/StPaulAndConfrontingOneself.pdf)

The follow-up to the first statement is this: Confession brings forgiveness and forgiveness leads to new life. 1 John 1:9 makes it clear that our confession leads us to Christ’s forgiveness. It is when we are able to confess that we have a sinful past and our inability to fix it ourselves, then Christ’s forgiveness comes as natural by-product of our confession of Him. However, if we avoid the confession, we forfeit the forgiveness and the truth is not in us (1 Jn 1:8,10).

Here are a few brief lessons the apostle Paul learned following his transformation experience on the Damascus road:

        1. Your former acquaintances are former.
                As Paul began to share of his revelation of Jesus, his old companions sought to kill him. Once his friends, they were now his enemies. He later writes in 1 Cor. 15:33, “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good morals.’” If we’re going to truly be transformed, we will have to change the circle of our old friends.

        2. Allow time for your new life to be accepted.
                We often times talk about turning over a new leaf and we often times let people down because we do not truly change. So whenever truly experience transformation, we must understand that it takes others time to recognize the true change Christ has made in us. It took the original apostles a bit of time to warm up to the idea that Paul really was transformed and not an impostor. Allow people time to accept your transformation.

        3. Freedom from our past comes from our faith in Christ for our future.
                Thankfully, there was an encourager like Barnabas that testified, by faith, of the transformed Paul. While others were questioned his authenticity, Barnabas leveraged his reputation on behalf of Paul. Here we find that true freedom from our past comes with our faith in Christ for our future. More than believing in Paul, I believe Barnabas believed in the Christ who lived in Paul. I can find freedom from my past when I trust Christ for my future.

Application
According to 1 John 1:9, what are the differences between forgiveness and confession?

Is it possible that we want forgiveness without confession?

Has someone believed in your future and leveraged that for your benefit? Have you helped someone else overcome their past reputation?

Prayer
Father,

Thank You for the freedom from our past. As pilau (rotten) as the apostle Paul was, and I am, You offered forgiveness through his confession of his sins and faith in Christ. As I continually seek to live more like You, help me to ever keep confession as a part of my life and faith as a part of my freedom. I acknowledge my past, but I find freedom for my future in my faith in Christ. Lead us to become an overcoming Church in Your name.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Turning Points

October 20, 2009 By Leave a Comment

I didn’t expect to go where I went with today’s devo, but was extremely challenged in the end. It’s amazing how little images throughout life give us insight into spiritual circumstances. My prayer is that you might be challenged as I was.

Aloha,
Allen

Thoughts
When I was younger I loved visiting the livestock market. From the stadium-style seating to the fast-tongued auctioneer to the walkways that were suspended over all of the cattle pens, it was a sensory overload (especially to the nasal passages!). The hustle and bustle of ‘sale’ day was a welcomed break from the day to day activities on the farm.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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Of the many intriguing aspects of the sale barn, I was always amazed at the men who were responsible for sorting the cattle after they had been sold. At times, dozens of animals were flooding the alleys and were being sorted in as many directions within seconds. A pivotal gate between two lanes, merely inches apart, determined the fate of an animals life. One led to a peaceful life in the pastures of an elderly retired couple. The other in between two sesame seed buns, topped with wilted lettuce, partially ripe tomatoes, and a bitter cucumber. Oh, the fate of the gate!

Life is filled with gates. Gates that determine little outside of the few individual moments sporadically placed throughout our lives. They’re turning points. Brief moments that sending us careening down one path or another. And, on most occasions, their meaning escapes us in the moment of our encounter.

The apostle Paul, Saul at the time, faced one of those destiny changing gates on his way to Damascus (Acts 9:1-9). Seeking to extinguish the flames of the Gospel, he was at once consumed by it and became it’s greatest propellent. Two paths merged on one road and one Gate determined the destiny. In John 10:9 Jesus declares that He is that ‘gate’.

All along life’s journey there are turning points marked by the Gate. Though the two paths seemingly overlap, they are two distinctive paths and how we choose to respond to Jesus determines which one we choose. If you’re at a turning point today, don’t be deceived into thinking they’re the same. Despite how close they seem at the moment, they lead to two totally different places. Choose wisely.

Application
What gates have you gone through in life that seemed insignificant at the moment but were monumental in hindsight?

It is possible that two opposing paths can seem to be the same? How have different choices ‘seemed’ to be the same at the moment of decision but have led to two totally different ends? (To be better picture this, imagine a maze)

What path are you choosing today?

Prayer
Father,

I have been challenged with the thought of how closely two opposing paths seem at the moment of decision. Like the stockyard gates, the paths are merely inches apart but lead to two totally different lives. Thank You for placing Jesus as our Gate. As Your Holy Spirit prompts me at life’s gates, may I remain faithful to choose You. I ask for discernment when the paths seem so close, but have such different endings. Lead me in Your ways.

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Not For Hire

October 16, 2009 By Leave a Comment

It’s been a hectic week and it’s not looking any slower for the weekend. Today, I’ve pulled a first. In my rush for time, I’ve copied my sermon notes and packed it into this devo. If you weren’t with us on Sunday, maybe you can catch the gist of where we were at.

Also, don’t forget we are praying that God will reveal Himself to the ‘Saul-like’ tough people in our lives. We are asking Him to transform them as He did with Saul-Paul. These names will not be released. We will pray for them in our services for the next three weeks. You can add someone to our list be click here.

Don’t forget to grab your Krispy Kreme doughnuts tomorrow a.m.!

Aloha,
allen

Thoughts
I must admit, I am a sign reader. If something is written on a billboard, vehicle, or building, I generally read it out loud, even if I am by myself. One of the statements on tow trucks that always catches me off guard is the words “Not For Hire” posted on the side. It’s a bit perplexing. If you’re ‘not for hire’, why are you hauling that vehicle?

So, I looked up the meaning of this phrase. After tons of DOT sites and questions, this is the most succinct answer I found:

        “It means that vehicle is not for sale [hire] at that time for doing what it can at that time, i.e. a tow truck with that would mean that that tow truck is not available to you at that time. You cannot use its services.” (http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_does_not_for_hire_mean_on_trucks)

As a minister there are some things that I, by the nature of my calling, must know how to do. I can pray. I can offer biblical counsel. I can find answers. I can share Scriptures and lead someone to Jesus. These are all aspects of what I am called to do as a minister. As a tow truck is designed to tow, a minister is designed to minister. It’s why we are created.

However, because a tow truck is designed to tow doesn’t mean that it is meant to stop on its way to one accident to help you with your stalled car. There is a proper procedure that you must go through. You must call and request help from their dispatcher. It is your responsibility. It is not the driver’s responsibility to contact the dispatcher and get you moved up the list. He’s there to assist, but he’s not for hire.

Likewise, God’s ministry is not for hire. God has not created and gifted ministers to go around doing spiritual work for you. We can certainly pray for you, but our prayers mean nothing if you are not aligning yourself with God. Peter could not pray for judgment to bypass Simon, if Simon was unwilling to repent. God’s ministry is not for hire.

We cannot expect people to pray us through to victory if we are unwilling to pray ourselves through to victory. The ministry of the body is designed to assist us in our spiritual development and growth. It is not designed as a rental center where we can enact the services of others to do it for us.

Application
Have you ever asked someone to pray for something for you that you were unwilling to obediently fulfill? (e.g., praying for an addiction that you have no plans to give up, etc.)

Describe the balance between the role of a minister in spiritual assisting and not being for hire.

Is there an area in your life right now that you are asking people to pray you through, but are unwilling to make the changes yourself?

Prayer
Father,

Much could be said about the importance of ministers in my life. They are incredible equippers and encouragers for me. May I never begin to treat them as mediators between myself and you. No one can pray a repentance prayer for me. It is my responsibility. Though others pray for me, the difficult marks of discipleship must be made by me. Help me today to commit to that process.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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End Results

October 15, 2009 By Leave a Comment

As I worked through Acts 8 last week, I was really challenged by today’s thoughts. Unfortunately, I am one who loves ‘end results’ but despise the process of obtaining them. Shortcuts are always welcomed. :)

On another note, I would like to encourage you, if you haven’t done so already, to take advantage of a free online bible program called YouVersion. YouVersion.com is a great place for reading and studying the bible. Sign up for a free account and join our group, Hilo Church of God. Each Sunday I will post my outline, bulletin information, and other service relevant items for you to access and interact with us in service.

Beginning this week, we will utilize a LIVE ‘prayer request’ event that will allow you to add someone to our intensive prayer effort. For the next 3 weeks we will be praying for change in the lives of the most difficult people we know. Click on http://read.ly/e/IL and anonymously add a name to our list. We will work to protect identities during our prayer efforts.

If you have questions, feel free to email me for more information.

Aloha,
allen

Thoughts
When it comes to books, I’m a sucker. Though I have a 100+ sitting on my shelves, more than half of which I have never read, I succumb to the enticements of a book store. From leadership to spiritual matters to Civil War chronicles to biographies, I love books. (Now, I wish I could just gather the passion to finish reading the ones I own. Sigh!)

For the most part, my books remain untouched until I need some advice or direction in a certain area. For example, I generally read leadership books when I am in need of leadership advice. Sadly, this is a disadvantage to myself because I read with a mind focused on a specific answer. Usually this means I miss the thrust of the book. All in all, I am not looking to enter the hardship of the author sharing his principles. I am looking for the key that will unlock sanity and order in my situation…quickly!

As I read of Simon’s attempt to offer the Peter and John money for the power of the Holy Spirit, my heart was arrested with the thought of how often I attempt to ‘purchase’ wisdom and maturity in my walk with the Lord. If I knew today that I could buy a book that would fast-forward me through selfishness, pride, and inconsiderate ways, I would pay the money to get the end results of being a better husband. Unfortunately, there’s no book, seminar, recipe, or 12-step program I can buy, lease, or attend that will make me a better husband without my commitment to a transformational process.

When Simon offered Peter and John money for the power of the Holy Spirit, he was really wanting the by-products of a relationship with God without a commitment to His Son. In a way that was perhaps similar to his own rebuke by Christ (Mt. 16:23), Peter rebukes Simon for his gross misunderstanding of the Holy Spirit and His power. What Simon longed to buy was in actuality God’s free gift to those who are willing to commit to a relationship with Him.

Our discipleship is more than shortcuts garnered from the latest TV preacher, discipleship book, or study Bible. It is a life filled with God’s power and provision and marked by His free gift. If you’re looking for a life of power, honor, and integrity, it will not be bought. However, it is a free gift to those who are willing to commit to living for Christ.

Application
Have you ever sought to purchase ‘end results’? (e.g., diet books, marriage seminars, discipleship books, etc.)

When have you committed to the process of obtaining the desired ‘end results’ and witnessed its fruit?

Is there an area in your life right now that you are guilty of trying to ‘purchase’ without committing to the process?

Prayer
Father,

Forgive me for trying to live my life with so many shortcuts. It seems I am always looking for the ‘easy’ and ‘quick’ way to the life that others have had to achieve through endurance, perseverance, commitment, and faith. A life of spiritual power is not obtained with money, through books, or without sacrifice. Today, I commit to Your process of discipleship; living daily with the awareness that You are neither a respecter of persons nor an exactor of money. Rather, You are a gracious Father who freely extends an abundant life to all who will commit themselves to You.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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They Want What the Church Has

October 14, 2009 By Leave a Comment

This week we’ll consider the text of Acts 8:9-24. Through Simon’s experience we will gain insight into God’s power and the way in which He longs to display it in the life of His people. May we all be challenged and grow as we consider this marvelous gift of the Holy Spirit.

Aloha,
Allen

Thoughts
Though I’m certainly not into it, I’ve noticed there has been a bit of a stir over the new move Paranormal Activity. From what I understand it’s another low-budget ($15,000 total I believe), single camera horror movie similar to The Blair Witch Project, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this month. But the stir is not limited to the paranormal movie. There are a myriad of television shows, series, and documentaries fixated on ghosts, ‘supernatural’, and ‘paranormal’ activity.

To underline this phenomenon: recognizing my role as a pastor, I was recently probed about whether or not I had ever been involved in a ‘deliverance’. I must tell you, I was shocked about the words coming from this particular individual. My mind began to race, “How does this individual know about deliverances? Has he seen one? Been involved in one?” So I returned his question with a question. Thus we began a dialogue about a ‘deliverance’ he had seen on a ‘paranormal’ television show. While there’s not enough details to explain how we got there, the gist of the conversation led to his semi-interest in becoming involved in doing ‘deliverances’.

I can hear the voices in some of your heads now: “This world is falling apart!”, “Look how far we are away from God!”, etc. But before we push our Christianesse too far, let’s recall that the power of the Holy Spirit has always spawned the interest of people, even unbelievers. Jesus challenges that on the day of judgment many will argue, “‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’” (Mt. 7:22b) Yet, Jesus does not recognize them as His own (Mt. 7:23).

One of the greatest examples of hunger for the Spirit’s power is found in Acts 8:9-24. Simon, a famous magician, had attracted a large following due to his magical abilities. Yet, when he witnessed the Spirit’s manifestations at the hands of Philip and Peter and John, he wanted the power they had. Indeed, he even offered money for it. Surely, Simon must have recognized that the power of the Holy Spirit was greater than any magical ability he had. Therefore, there was no cost too great for the ability to lay hands on people and allow them to receive the Holy Spirit.

I cannot imagine how God must feel at times. It seems that the ‘unbelieving’ world has a greater understanding of spirituality than the Church does. Perhaps, we do not properly recognize the power that God has given us through His Spirit. In a world of ‘seekers’ may the Church arise with a firm faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and a bold confidence in the power of the Holy Spirit and display the victory that Christ has secured for us!

Application
How recognizable is the power of the Holy Spirit in your life?

Are others spawned with interest at the spiritual authority you live with in your life?

How would you rate your understanding of the Spirit’s presence and power in life as a whole?

Prayer
Father,

Open my eyes to the see the magnificent power that You have placed within me through Your Holy Spirit. The world around me seems to be expressing an interest in a power that supersedes that which we can create with our hands. You, oh Lord, are the all powerful One. Teach me to become a vessel through which You can display Your glory and power. I yield myself to You and You alone. Fill me with ALL of You!

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Channel Lock

October 9, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Thanks for tuning in to yet another devo. It’s been great being back in the saddle this week. Today’s devo is a challenge to set your channel on God and throw away the knob!

For those in Hilo, here are few things I need to say:
        - Don’t forget Family Fun Night tonight (Wainaku gym @ 6 p.m.)
        - I’m looking for smart phone and laptop users for an experiment for Sun. a.m. Please email me!
        - This week’s talk is challenging: Neither for Sale, Nor for Hire. Don’t miss it!

See ya this weekend!

Aloha,
Allen

Thoughts
You know you’re getting older when your childhood memories somehow weave their way into every story and subject you talk about. As I was writing one of this week’s devos, another ‘classic’ came to my remembrance and it nestles right in this week’s theme.

It wasn’t so long ago when Pentecostal churches were heavily monitored with what I would call ‘legalistic’ rules. Please understand me, the ideas and principles behind the rules were pure, e.g., modesty, purity, holiness, etc. However, we all recognize that these must naturally flow from the heart, otherwise their nothing more than manmade laws.

One of things that was taboo in my childhood years was television and game systems (aka. Atari). In an era when computers and game systems were making their debut, this was a big issue. Thankfully, there was a computer builder with connections to our church. So he gave my sister and me a computer for playing games.

There was only one problem: we didn’t have the money to buy an expensive monitor. So my parents bought an affordable tv, which was not supposed to be used as a tv, but only as a monitor. In order to prevent us from watching tv, my parents removed the casing from the tv, set the channel for the computer, removed the knob, replaced the casing, and hid the knob. The problem was solved.

In a world of channel surfers, perhaps, some of us need to put my dad’s ingenious ideas to work in our lives. We need to determine that God is our Source and remove the temptation for ‘keeping our options open’. Once we resolve the idea that God is our God, the temptation to give up when we can’t ‘hear Him’ or ‘see Him’ is removed. As Job said, “Though He slay me yet will I serve Him.” (Job 13:15) When the disciples were given the opportunity to walk away, they responded, “Where else can we go? You have the words of life.” (John 6:68)

I challenge that many today I have failed to remove other options from their spiritual walk. If you’re one of those, set your channel on God and remove the knob. It may look ghetto to some, but it will pay off in the end.

Application
When it comes to your spiritual walk, do you leave options open in case it doesn’t work out with God?

What are the dangers of ‘options’?

Jesus said, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.” (Mark 8:34) There are no ‘options’.

Prayer
Father,

Than You for the visual aids in my life. They are subtle reminders of my necessary commitment to You. In the difficult and unpleasant seasons, I am tempted to channel surf, or walk away from my commitment to You. Today, I commit myself to following You. I’m removing my ‘options’ and following You. Lead me on. Lead me on.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.  

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In Range

October 8, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Every time I consider the magnitude of today’s devo, I get emotional and excited. Emotional because it’s simply overwhelming that God loves us so much. Excited because me a renewed sense of confidence that things are going to be okay. I pray you’re encouraged by today’s devo. Always remember, you’re within God’s range.

Aloha,
Allen

Thoughts
There’s nothing like nearing home after a long trip away. Regardless of how much fun you had away, there’s something about coming home. It brings comfort, familiarity, and routine (and, none of these are meant in the negative sense).

During my college years my trek home consisted of a 400 mile drive from one doorstep to the other. It was six hours of Mt. Dew, sunflower seeds, and music. Through the years I developed a pattern for certain stations in different regions. But when it was all said and done, nothing was as encouraging than getting within range of the stations I had grown up with. The familiar voices (no, not in my head), advertisements, and news reports were all reminders I was within range of home.

Though they may sound a bit annoying at times, those FCC required station identifications (that we often memorize subconsciously) are welcome home slogans to a weary traveler. Likewise, when God grants us those subtle, and not so subtle, call letters of His, they serve as reminders that we’re still in His range. They may come through an inspirational verse or song, an indescribable peace that comes in prayer, or a comforting word from another believer. How they come is not so important as what they mean: “Welcome home, you’re in range.”

As the weary and worn children of Israel felt abandoned and so far home, God sent a reminder through His prophet in Isaiah 40. They were not away from His protection, eye, or power. At the brink of giving of fainting, God was still with them. They were in His range!

The next time you hear one of those pesky little station identifications, may serve as a reminder that you are still in God’s range. At the brink of giving up, throwing in your towel, or walking away, I hope you realize that you are still in God’s range. Regardless of how you feel, God is on His throne and you are within His range!

Application
Do you ever get excited about coming home?

Has there ever been a time when God gave you a simple reminder of your close proximity to home? Was it refreshing? Encouraging?

Are you in need of those welcoming words today? Ask God to reveal His presence. Pause to listen for His voice. And, live with your eyes wide-open. God is in range.

Prayer
Father,

Oh, how I long to hear Your voice. Even the simplest of comments remind me that I’m within Your range. It means You can still reach me and I can reach You. It resounds with a renewed confidence that You can come and get me if something goes wrong. It assures me that I am nearer than I imagined and that You are still broadcasting Your plan into my life. Grant me the eyes to see You at work.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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God Id’s

October 7, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Today’s and tomorrow’s devo will come from an idea I used in this week’s message. It’s from the premise of station id’s required by broadcasters. Unfortunately, my mind wandered a bit this morning. I hope you can understand what I am getting at. If not, here it is in one sentence…God id’s remind me of His identity (Everlasting God, the LORD, Creator of the ends of the earth), His location (upon His throne), and His channel (He’s like the Captain on an airplane, He has jurisdiction over ALL of them).

Aloha,
allen

Thoughts
Immersed in a world of technology, we often find it hard to believe that what we find as ‘necessities’ were non-existent not so many years ago. At the moment I am writing from a device that was considered ‘unthinkable’ when I was in elementary school (Yes, I admit…I’m getting old!). For all intents and purposes, the radio, a primitive technology in the minds of most young people, celebrated its first broadcast on Christmas Eve in 1906. The first news broadcast wouldn’t come until nearly 15 years later.

Today, there are some broadcasts running through airwaves that the FCC now requires every broadcast station to identify themselves so that listeners will know what station they are listening to or watching. These ‘station identifications’ are required to contain three pieces of information: call (name), city, and channel. Thus, at the top of every hour you will see a logo with call numbers locations appear on your screen or station id’s being given from radio dj’s.

At times I wish God were a little more like my local radio station. If only He was so regimented to send out His “station id’s” at the top of every hour. Personally, I think it would really make life easier. At minimum, it would take a lot of the guess work out of knowing whether or not I was still aligned to His will. However, God is not under the jurisdiction of the FCC. He’s God. (That’s a major revelation I had this morning!)

Though He’s not required to, God often does send out id’s to let His children know they are still tuned in. In my life these id’s, often introduced through His Word, His people, His creation, etc., have been just the encouraging reminders I’ve needed. They remind me of His identity (Everlasting God, the LORD, Creator of the ends of the earth), His location (upon His throne), and His channel (He’s like the Captain on an airplane, He has jurisdiction over ALL of them).

Regardless of what you’re going through today, God is God, He’s on His throne, and He has jurisdiction over your life and problems.

Application
Have you ever received a God id? How did it come?

At one point in your life does God’s station id mean the most?

How might God use you today to express His identity to someone in the doubt of His presence?

Prayer
Father,

Thank You for Your id’s. As Your word declares in Isaiah 40:28, You are Everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth. You never grow weary. You do not change, nor do you move. Thank You for keeping my life today. Though there are many other channels and stations, You are the one I long to be attuned with.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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