Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Never Too Much

   In a given week, especially with things how they are today, there are probably a million things that have to happen. For example, in the ministry, six guys are discipled three out of five days, this blog is written five out of seven days, and everyone in the ministry has personal and family responsibilities as well.
   Needless to say, this can all be a lot. For example, if you were to look at your task list daily, you would find that there are probably more things that you do that it seems you should have time for. Therefore you may think, how do we get through it all, and still serve and Honor the Lord in the process? The answer is quite simple, God promises to never put more on us than we can bear. Know this, even though it may seem as all is coming at you at the same time, the Lord still is guiding your hand and watching your back!

Friday, November 9, 2012

No Games

   We live in a world of imaginary reality. That is, everywhere you look, there seems to be a game somewhere. For example, if you were to walk into a college dormitory and look into the rooms, you would see that a majority of them have a gaming system of some type.
   Tons of people will have parties in February in celebration for the Super Bowl. Even more will attend the World Cup to watch soccer. Yes, the players are real, but the sport is a game in reality. No one lives or dies based on the results, they just get up and play again. 
   However, one thing that is not a game is our Faith, period. No matter how many games we play on an Xbox or how many World Cups we attend, Christianity is NEVER a game! God's Love and Salvation is absolutely real and so should the way we live out that Love! Dont play games with God!

With Grace

   Last night, we discussed that no matter the results of some things that have affected this entire nation, and no matter your thoughts or opinions on the matter, we are called as Christians to look at Christ for our source of Ultimate Guidance and Leadership.
   However, I would like to discuss the practicality and reality of what will probably occur over the next few weeks. No matter one's opinion, or what one may think or say about current world events or anything for that matter, we are to yes hold firm in our beliefs, but we are also to act with grace.
   We may not agree on everything going on in the world, and some may not agree with you when it comes to the subject of God, however, we are called to act with grace, so that we may show them what the Word of the Lord says. After all, that is how we were saved, not by our works. Therefore, I encourage you to show the Grace of Christ in showing His Love!

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Eyes on Christ

   We all know the results of the election that has affected everyone in the United States of America that took place last night. However, neither this blog, nor H.O.P.E. Ministries of the Upstate is or will endorse either candidate through this post or other affiliation.
   However, no matter the results, whether one may like them or not, a Christian is to always put his full Faith and Trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. We are to trust, no matter our political preferences or thoughts, that the Lord is fully sovereign and takes care of His own!
   Our focus has been and should always be on the Lord Jesus Christ, for that is where our help comes from. That is the only thing truly Eternal through the ages. Therefore I encourage you to put your trust fully in Him and keep your eyes on Him, the King of Heaven!

Monday, November 5, 2012

No Shame in Guidance

   I can remember back in my high school days when there were the guys who had so much, as they would say confidence, but honestly pride, that it would detrimentally effect their decisions. Here is what I mean, their pride was of such magnitude that instead of asking for the advice of someone older or wiser when it came to a specific situation, they would instead try to figure things out for themselves and end up failing in the process.
   There is NO shame in asking for guidance and wisdom from those who have experienced what you need assistance with. The Holy Spirit is the Ultimate Guide, but He uses others, if you would only ask.
   There is no need to go through life feeling as if you cant seek guidance from others with the philosophy that no one is perfect. Its true, no one is perfect, but God can use anyone. So ask for guidance from the wise, that you may grow as well!

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Not Assuming

   Have you ever met the person that has a Bible in every room of their house, they never use vulgar words or anything in that sort, however they do not seem to do anything to actually advance the Kingdom of God? How about the guy that goes to church every Sunday, is the Head Deacon, yet drinks until he is completely wasted every Saturday night?
   Are you thinking that the first is a Christian and the second not? Or how about vice verca, would you agree with that statement the other way around? Well, here is the answer: Thats not the question that we should be asking ourselves. The question should be, "Are we showing them Christ?"
   It is not safe to assume, but always better to show Christ and let Him lead. Assuming someone is a Christian is absolutely no excuse not to show the Love of God! So be safe, and dont make those assumptions.