Friday, August 28, 2009

 

Christians Need Not Tuck Their Heads

Occasionally someone will make a comment about how Christians believe some strange things. They seem surprised that someone would pray out loud, get dunked in water, or raise their hands in praise to God. But, let’s be honest, there’s some really weird stuff out there that is so far-fetched it makes everything Christians do look tame. We live in a world where people are choosing to do whatever is right in their own eyes. As a result, our world culture is quick to embrace some very bizarre ideas and behaviors, and then intimidate anyone who stands firm in their faith in Christ.

But I will not be ashamed of the Gospel. I believe in one God who made all things. I believe Jesus was born of a virgin and died that I could have everlasting life. I believe a person can be born again of the water and the Spirit. I believe God fills us with His Spirit and that is evidenced by speaking in other tongues. I believe in healing, holiness and the gifts of the Spirit. I believe in angels, Heaven and Hell. I believe Jesus is coming soon. And all of the above are convictions that have been proven and tested for centuries. I can point to evidence and case studies. I am not basing my beliefs on a guru, an organization, or an ordinary book. So, I have no reason to be ashamed.

My religion does not require suicide, infanticide or murder. It does not mandate self-abuse, celibacy, solitary confinement, drug abuse, mind control, payment for sins, animal worship, incantations, guru worship, or any other degrading form of bondage.

The worship and music that takes place in our churches does not incite cop killing, body cutting, illicit activities or riots. It does not promote promiscuity, sensuality, or behaviors that include experiences beyond my control. When I have sung or played my spirit is encouraged, my soul is at rest and I have a better attitude about life and my fellow man. I am not ashamed to worship the King of Kings in praise and worship.

I am not ashamed of a Gospel and code of ethics that teaches me to respect myself and others; it offers me eternal life and a loving God. I am not ashamed of a Good Book that teaches me not to steal, abuse women, dress lewdly, kill or cheat on my wife. I am not ashamed of a “Great Commission” that teaches me to be a good Samaritan, to seek and save the lost, to heal the sick and to set at liberty those who are bound. I have no reason to tuck my head or offer apologies.

Christianity has been neither perfect, nor pure, but those who have operated by biblical principles have established many of the great schools, hospitals and institutions of mercy that exist. They have established governments that give their citizens dignity and freedom. They have written great books and moving compositions, done great and inspirational works of art, and established businesses based on mutual respect and ethical business practices. I am not ashamed of the many things that have been done in response to the Good News of Christ and His prescribed way of life. I am not ashamed to be called one of His.

Mark 8:38 says, “Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” I do not feel superior to other people, but I certainly am not ashamed to be a Christian, are you?

Saturday, August 15, 2009

 

That Looks Good! I’d Like to Try Some of That!

I smelled it before I saw it. My entire being responded instinctively and dramatically. Seconds later I heard a cacophony of chattering adults, giggling teens and screaming toddlers. Then, as I approached the bustling, expansive chamber, neon lights leapt out at me. Beautiful pictures beckoned to me. People holding small plates appeared out of small cubby holes and stalked me, with smiles plastered on their face. But it was those tantalizing aromas that had first come for me that did me in. My well-trained olfactory nerves identified fresh-baked cinnamon rolls, pizza slices heavy-laden with cheese and pepperoni, sizzling Japanese steak, and calorie-rich French fries. I was a goner. They had me. I couldn’t help myself.

Have you ever tried to slip by a food court in the mall when you haven’t eaten all day? Did the smells, sights and sounds conspire to lure you to their vendors? Did you intend to pass safely by, but instead said, “That looks good! I’d like to try some of that!”? If so, then you know the power of a good product on display.

I recently witnessed a similar encounter, but in a much more important dimension of life. In this case it wasn’t simply a matter of a few hunger pains satisfied by a couple helpings of junk food; this was a matter of deep spiritual hunger and an introduction to the power of an eternal God who offers an eternal solution. I was sitting in the living room of a woman who attends our church. We were enjoying what we call an Hour of Prayer and Care Group. She had invited her friend to be a part of our meeting. During a time of sharing the friend began revealing something like the following: “I’ve been watching you. I saw the way your life changed when you told us you were born again. At first I thought you were crazy when you talked about speaking in tongues, but I watched your life and you’re not weird. I’m jealous. I want what you’ve got!”

That’s how it’s supposed to work. Christians who have a genuine infilling of God’s Spirit will have experienced a dramatic and wonderful change in lifestyle. Their everyday lives will be influenced by an increase of God’s love, joy and peace. Soon, spiritually sensitive people will recognize God’s distinct, positive influence and want the same for their life.

Being filled with God’s Spirit is a concept that is not always well understood, but the Bible places great emphasis on this subject. For example, Romans 8:9 says, “But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.” There are many other scripture passages that describe the Spirit-filled experiences of Jesus’ disciples and other first century Christians. (see in Acts 2, 8 ,10 & 19) You might want to look into it if you’ve never experienced it. It will change your life. Before long others will be saying, “That Looks Good! I’d Like to Try Some of That!”

Wednesday, August 05, 2009

 

50 Benefits of Faith and Church Involvement

Being a Christian sometimes gets a bad rap. Some have even considered a faith-based life to be restricting. Maybe they were never exposed to the real thing, because Spirit-filled living is, in fact, liberating and fulfilling. To illustrate, I have listed, below 50 benefits to being a Bible-believing, Spirit-filled, church-attending Christian.

Emotional benefits as a result of Jesus’ love and forgiveness:
1. Dignity
2. High self esteem
3. Guilt-free living
4. Self expression through singing, testifying
5. Ultimate stress relief through prayer
6. A healthy world view
7. Compassion
8. Comfort from a heavenly Father
9. Counsel from the King of kings
10. Freedom to forgive others

Mental benefits because Jesus gives peace of mind and because our minds are being continually fed and challenged:
11. Higher level thinking (study, lecture, making sense of life)
12. The equivalent of a Bachelors Degree for every 8 or 10 years of faithful church attendance
13. Added benefits of helping others learn (for those who teach)
14. A time-proven understanding of the universe

Physical benefits since Jesus is our great physician:
15. Healing
16. Power over harmful habits
17. Healthy eating
18. A good night’s sleep

Social benefits because Jesus is our friend and teaches us to love others:
19. Good friends
20. Clean fellowship
21. Freedom from chemicals addictions, envy, malice…
22. Healthy relationships with strangers
23. Healthy relationships with friends.
24. Healthy attitudes of cooperation and unity
25. A sense of accomplishment
26. Accountability
27. Great concerts, rallies, seminars, and other meetings
28. Values that hold families together
29. Clear sense of one’s role and identity
30. Mutual respect
31. True romance
32. A mutually-satisfying marriage
33. Sound counseling
34. Parenting tips, helps and assistance
35. Child care, development and instruction

Financial benefits to those who commit their finances to God:
36. Provision (when he is Lord of our all, He watches over it and provides)
37. Constant challenges to be generous and selfless
38. Direction and advice on managing our money

Spiritual benefits:
39. Right priorities
40. Good morals
41. Godly values
42. The power to fight depression, addiction, hatred, bitterness, selfishness, pride…
43. Power to move mountains
44. Exciting encounters with God
45. Personal revelations and insights

Eternal benefits:
46. Forgiveness that lasts forever
47. Abundant Life both now and forever
48. The promise that in heaven He will wipe away every tear
49. Reassurance that we will live forever with loved ones and others who believe
50. The promise that we will reign with Jesus Christ in His kingdom

In a nutshell, this is how Jesus said it: My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. ( John 10:27-28)

Have you felt like you have no moorings lately? Have you noticed that your Christianity was not whole hearted? Have you found yourself longing for a more meaningful way of life? Have you ever asked Him to be Lord? It is more than saying you are sorry; it is accepting His way of living. The benefits are incredible!

The fact that Jesus loved you and died for you should be reason enough, all by itself, but now you have 50 more reasons to be a Bible-believing, Spirit-filled, church-attending Christian.

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