Is your Pastor, the Pastor

Some churches see the leader's task as primarily evangelism or would winning, but that is not ture in the New Testament. Leaders, especially the apostles, taught every believer. The apostles insisted that they devote themselves "to prayer and to the preaching ministry" (Acts 6:4). Leaders, however, must understand that you can't teach the people what you don't know. You can't lead the people where you haven't been. You can't take the people beyond your own walk with God. --Your Church Experiencing God Together by Henry&Mel Blackaby

In all Labor there is Profit

    From the beginning of our lives, we have a tendency to resist work that is laborious. We resist many challenges. We test our parent’s limits as toddlers. Sadly, most do this again when in their teens and rebel against their parents. And then again in their early twenties by testing the law and “rules.” But when we listen to our parents and elders and actually apply what they tell us, something happens. Yes, it is takes effort, but we profit so much!

 

In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.

Prov 14:23 (KJV)

 

    Whether you invest time in learning a skill, studying hard, being faithful in the small things, entrepreneurship, expirementing, or interning—you learn valuable skills. For a long time I have held onto the Scriptural promise that all labor brings a profit, but the greatest illustration I have yet had of this principle occurred when I was in college. I was studying a great deal, but I was also running my own business endeavors, writing books, and interning for others. I learned so much from my actual work and very little in comparison from my study. There are many skills that I know have as a result of those endeavors—administrative experience, disciplined use of time under tight schedules, the ability to quickly create and publish a paperback or ebook, how to design a book cover, how to build websites, how to build a library categorized by subject, how to sell online, how to conduct meetings and a volunteer staff, how to muck a barn, how to coordinate activities and events with a greater level of professionalism, how to get what you need to know out of a book quickly, managing a multitude of tasks over the course of a few hours, troubleshooting computer issues, purchasing quality products and produce, and building a document database—those are just a few of the many skills I learned through internships, employment, and entrepreneurial endeavors during my time in college.

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Exploitation and the Danger Associated with Debt

This devotion comes from Extra Devotions, one of FMM's free Ebooks.

 

Exploitation and the Danger Associated with Debt

 

    Read Proverbs 22:22-27 and consider the Lord’s truth on these matters. He’s right in all that He says, but you may be wrong or have been taught a doctrine of men that is false. Take the time to really examine this passage and act on what you learn.

 Rob not the poor, because he is poor: neither oppress the afflicted in the gate: 23 For the Lord will plead their cause, and spoil the soul of those that spoiled them. 24 Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: 25 Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul. 26 Be not thou one of them that strike hands, or of them that are sureties for debts. 27 If thou hast nothing to pay, why should he take away thy bed from under thee?

Proverbs 22:22-27 (KJV)

 

The Word not You

This content comes from our sub-ministry Advice for Young Ministers

The Power is in the Word, not the messenger, the preacher. Always put clarity above being clever.

⁸ For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.
⁹ For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
¹⁰ For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater:
¹¹ So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
Isaiah 55:8-11 KJV

Our Resource: Important Words for Young (and Old) Ministers   (just incidentally we give this away for free as an ebook if you sign up for our monthly devotional email here)

 

Scripture

Scripture

      The Word of God, the Bible, is a necessary element of a Christian’s life. One must stay in the Word of God  to grow in the knowledge of God and to obtain the wisdom of God. O what agony our spirits will be in without the Word of God continually flowing in us! We must feed our spirits as much as possible, we must remain hungry for the Lord and He will fill us. Stay in the Word, for that is where power, nourishment and strength lie. I cannot fully describe the necessity of it, but you must live on the bread of the WORD, the bread of Christ—you cannot really live on natural bread once you have tasted the spiritual, the supernatural, the perfect Words of the Bread of the Bible.

Machiavelli vs. God

   Machiavelli's principles to success are the exact opposite of God's:

 

 

  

Machiavelli—book: The Prince

How to gain power:

1.     Tell people what they want to hear

2.     Give only the reasons people want to hear

3.     Cut corners here and there

4.     Assume all have a vicious side & it will come out when they are given a chance

 

 

God--book: The Bible

 

 

 

he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.

Matthew 23:11-12 (KJV)

Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.

Ephesians 4:25 (KJV)

 

thou shalt have a perfect and just weight, a perfect and just measure shalt thou have

Deuteronomy 25:15 (KJV)

 

 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

John 13:34-35 (KJV)

 

 

Who's advice will stand? God's!

 

The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.

Isaiah 40:8 (KJV)

 

 

 

God’s Word

God’s Word

“Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” Proverbs 30:5-6 KJV

 

  Let that Scripture sink in. . . . God’s Word is pure! He is a SHIELD unto them that put their TRUST in Him! Add not unto His Words, lest He reprove thee, and thou be found a liar!!

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Will You Put Your Trust in God 1st or Others 1st?

Will You Put Your Trust in God 1st or Others 1st?

 

    I see a big question vying for supremacy in the hearts and lives of churches, families and individuals today in America. It’s a question that may be a bit confusing at first glance—Will you put your trust in God 1^st or others 1^st? Jesus taught us the golden rule which is to love others as we love ourselves, but today so many churches and individuals are putting others and their needs first instead of second. Let me explain. Jesus said that there are two commands that all the Law and the Prophets hand on: #1 Love God 1^st with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength and #2 Love others as yourself.

 

 

    Today, the focus of so many is how to reach, reach, reach more people. It is about getting a higher number of people involved in an effort to serve them inside programs and systems. Those who do this are bending over backwards, working themselves ragged, and rarely take any time to slow down and rest. But the truth is that Jesus rested. He even walked away from crowds that wanted Him to do miracles, sent His disciples away, and went to a solitary place to commune with His Father.

      The Bible also tells us that Jesus only did the will of His Father (John 6:38). Jesus never did anything that He wanted to do, but submitted every action to His Father. While we are imperfect, we still must aim for that standard and by God’s grace may we begin applying it on a consistent basis.

     Although we usually don’t think of it this way, putting others first is a form of idolatry. Anything ahead of our relationship with the Lord is idolatry. This is a challenging lesson that I am learning as well, but if I put any ministry, any activity, any endeavor, any person, anything before God, I am sinning.

     The core of the false teaching of seeker friendliness is putting other people and their needs ahead of a personal relationship with God. Thus, all that is built is programs and outreaches based on needs—another social gospel—not God’s Kingdom. God’s Kingdom is one that begins in the heart of a man and then works itself into His life, transforming Him into a new creation as the seed of Almighty God’s Spirit blooms and grows as it is fed with the living nutrients and water of Jesus Christ (the Word).

 

 

God's Word

Take God's Word as what it is: perfect, without error, and eternally true.

TRYING TO GET THE WORD IN EDGEWISE

TRYING TO GET THE WORD IN EDGEWISE

By Vincent M. Newfield

 

     Life seems to be so busy. There are so many things to do and not enough time to do them. Most of us are moving at breakneck speed Monday through Friday—juggling our job, relationships, bill paying, housekeeping, grocery shopping, car maintenance and everything else. In the midst of this vortex of activity, it seems we can’t get THE WORD in edgewise.

     In other words, it’s hard for us to find time to feed our spirits the life-changing truth of Scripture. In an effort to combat this widespread dilemma, here are some proven practices that may be just what you need to get THE WORD in edgewise.

     Turn Your Car into a University on Wheels. For many of us, our commute to and from work each day takes up a large chunk of time. We can catch up on the news, listen to some tunes or take advantage of the time by feeding our spirits. One Bible “food group” we can choose from is the Scripture on CD. This is an excellent way to saturate our soul and renew our mind with truth. Another option is to listen to audio teaching from an anointed Bible teacher, such as Joyce Meyer, John Bevere, Chuck Swindoll, or Charles Stanley. It is estimated that listening to a recording five times enables us to retain up to 80 percent of what has been said. Imagine the difference this could make in your life.

“God’s Word is…Supernatural in origin… Eternal in duration… Inexpressible in valor… Infinite in scope… Regenerative in power… In fallible in authority… Universal in application…  Inspired in totality. Read it through; write it down pray it in; work it out; pass it on. The Word of God changes a man until he becomes an Epistle of God.” –Smith Wigglesworth

“Pocket-Size Mine, Please.” Another wonderful way to get the Word in is by carrying a small, pocket-size Bible that fits either in your purse or your pocket. You can get just a New Testament or the entire Bible for about $10 to $20. This is a tremendous investment that will allow you to make the most of every moment you have. How many times do we find ourselves having to sit and wait five, ten or fifteen miniutes with nothing to do? I’m not saying we have to have our nose in the Bible every free moment of the day, but having a pocket-size Bible gives us another option to get THE WORD in. It also prepares us for opportunities to share our faith when God opens the door.

    Have Notebook, Will Travel. You could also carry a small notebook or a “sticky” notepad with you wherever you go—especially at church during your time of study. We need to write down the verses that come alive and stand out to us. If you’re at church, in your car or in conversation with a friend and you hear a scripture that hits you right between the eyes, write it down. If you can’t write down the whole verse, write down the “address”—the book, chapter and verse where it’s found. Later on, write the entire scripture down in a notebook or type it out on the computer so that you can meditate on and memorize it. I suggest developing a notebook or binder (or data base you can print out) that has your “power passages” written out and grouped by topic. This can be a tremendous resource for you and others in time of need.

  Make It a “Family Affair.” Want some cool ways to hide the Word in your kids’ hearts? There are numerous DVDs and CDs for children that take God’s Word and put it into song. Kids latcho n to catchy tunes and before you know it, they are singing the Scripture. Another fun way to learn the Word is to write out a scripture on a dry erase board and prop it up in full view during dinner time. Let each child take a turn reading it out loud (even little ones who can’t read yet can learn the scripture by repeating it sentence by sentence). Don’t rush through. Spend a week or two on the same verse, erasing words along the way. You’ll be amazed at what you all remember!

For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. –Hebrews 4:12 NLT

   Be Creative! There are so many different ways to get the Word into our hearts. These are just a few examples. God is the Great Creator, and His creative nature lives in YOU! Take time to ask Him how these or other ideas will help you get THE WORD in your spirit. You will be glad you did!

EXAMINE YOUR COURSE

3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURELF

 

1.      On a regular basis, what is the best time and place for you to connect with God in fellowship?

 

2.      What specific ways help you get God’s Word deep within your heart, making it a permanent of you?

 

3.      Has your time with God become dry and boring? If so, pray and ask God to show you why and what you can do to see it change.

 

Vincent M. Newfield is a skilled writer, author and second-generation minister. The selection that has been featured today is from his book Real Life Answers. He is also is the owner of Newfields Creative Services which offers

·         Ghostwriting

• Editing
• Proofreading
• Manuscript Review
• Writing Workshops for aspiring authors

 Specializing In

• Christian Living
• Personal Growth
• Health and Nutrition
• Autobiographies
• Biblical Studies

God’s Word

God’s Word

“Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” Proverbs 30:5-6 KJV

  Let that Scripture sink in. . . . God’s Word is pure! He is a SHIELD unto them that put their TRUST in Him! Add not unto His Words, lest He reprove thee, and thou be found a liar!!

 

Thought 345: You can't decieve God from Ryan's devotional book series Thoughts

 

 

Thought 345

You can’t deceive God

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth,                  that shall he also reap.” Galatians 6:7 KJV

       You cannot deceive God. Whether you like it or not, nothing can be hidden from Him. He sees everything! He witnesses every time that a man is unfaithful to his wife because of a lust problem. He witnesses every “stolen cookie moment.” He witnesses every young adult that commits fornication. He sees each man in the act of viewing pornography. He watches each young woman that is leading His men astray. He watches our painful battles.

You cannot hide anything from God, but you can steal from Him.

“Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.” Malachi 3:8 KJV

     Many people steal from God and each other all the time. Each time someone refuses to pay his tithe, he steals from God. Likewise, each time a man looks lustfully at a woman he steals something that belongs only to the husband, or future husband, of that woman; and he sins against God.

      Yet it the midst of all these problems, God has sent us His Son. And you know what? God accepts the blood of His only Son as full payment for our debts, our sins,  our transgressions. Christ Jesus’ veins never run dry!

Be still and know that HE is God.

(Psalm 46:10, Ecclesiastes 8:12, & Exodus 9:30)

 

Thought 326: Establishing God's Guidelines for Romance from Ryan's devotional book series Thoughts

Thought 326

Establishing God’s Guidelines for Romance

     Romance is a commonly misunderstood subject in our culture today. Do you know any of God’s guidelines for marriage? What about dating, I mean, is there anything like that in the Bible? Or what about courtship? This is only a couple of questions, but there is a lot of Biblical principle and wisdom on this subject of “relationships.”

      First, following the direction of the Holy Spirit in alignment with the Word is everything. Many follow and seek God’s direction and is will in their career, problems, and hardships, so why not in “romance” to? After all, this area is very confusing, painful and routine for just about everyone that attempts to build their own ”Hollywood love” story. Even Christians many times passionately want the lights, the  fireworks, and the THE HEAT of a head over heels relationship with the opposite sex.

     God does have rules though, and those rules are for our protection. For instance, nearly every New Testament book warns us of sexual immorality: it is a big “no no” for God’s people. The Bible says there is not even to be a hint of sexual immorality among you (Ephesians 5:3). Not even a hint! Unfortunately, that is not what is thought of when people look at the American Church.

      Older readers, think back to the times of your youth with the young men or young women; likewise you young’uns think back to your recent past or just examine your present “relationship.” Are dating relationships today void of sexual immorality? Among Christians circles? Is there truly not even a hint of sexual immorality, which is as simple as a wanting desire (lust, which is a form of pride)?

        Hands interlocking around his neck she passionately kissed him . . . he grabbed her and kissed her (that was the first time he had ever expressed his “feelings” for her), but just a few hours later everything he ever knew as right was thrown out the window as they stared at each other longingly in the back of his car. . . . .and now they are both feeling guilty for the crime they have just committed before God and what they had stolen from each other’s future spouses . . .

        This story and many others out there relate the timeless truths of Proverbs. Just take a look and see how many of these stories are described in other terms in that book—you will be amazed what you find.

⁹  In the twilight, in the evening, in the black and dark night:

¹⁰ And, behold, there met him a woman with the attire of an harlot, and subtil of heart.

¹¹ (She is loud and stubborn; her feet abide not in her house:

¹² Now is she without, now in the streets, and lieth in wait at every corner.)

¹³ So she caught him, and kissed him, and with an impudent face said unto him,

¹⁴ I have peace offerings with me; this day have I payed my vows.

¹⁵ Therefore came I forth to meet thee, diligently to seek thy face, and I have found thee.

¹⁶ I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, with carved works, with fine linen of Egypt.

¹⁷ I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.

¹⁸ Come, let us take our fill of love until the morning: let us solace ourselves with loves.

¹⁹ For the goodman is not at home, he is gone a long journey

--Proverbs 7:9-19 KJV

  Solomon’s life, like his father David’s, was filled with compromise when women were “part of the package”. Solomon gave into beauty, charm, and sex – the very things that God wrote through him not to do when the book of Proverbs was penned. The man had A THOUSAND WIVES! For being so wise, he turned out to be “pretty lame.” Only one wife is permitted to a man (Genesis 2). It has been that way since the beginning.  God created one Eve for Adam, not a Hiram. How could Solomon ere so greatly; after all, the guy had it made? Because he gave up his relationship with God for a season just to have the ladies. Young men, young ladies are important. I mean, I am excited that one day I will spend my days with the amazing woman that I can call my wife for the rest of my years and every young woman should be treated with respect. But . . . . we need to surrender our desires to God. The book of Psalms declares that if you delight yourself in the Lord he will give you the desires of your heart (Psalms 37:4). But understand this: those desires are not lustful.

     The warnings of Solomon in the book of Proverbs are amazingly applicable to our lives. Solomon was the wisest that ever lived (other than Christ), yet he didn’t even follow the commands that he gave to his own son to whom he appears to have written the Proverbs. Solomon wrote the Proverbs under the direction of the Holy Spirit and did not truly ‘think them up’ on his own; therefore, these aren’t just guys’ opinions, they are the very Words of God.