Integrity

Integrity

(This blog post is based on a workshop presentation I did at a recent College Student Leadership Development Retreat).

The world is in need of a different leadership approach today.  Pick up the paper or turn on the news you will find examples of: hostility, abandoned values, mistrust, deception, manipulation, approval addictions, aggressive and obstructionistic behavior, selfish interests, and exploitation to name a few.  These have become so commonplace today there is a growing sense that these are typical methods of operation.  A new leader is being called to meet the demands and needs we have today in society.  Leadership is a process of influence.  Anytime you seek to influence the thinking, behavior, or development of people in their personal or professional lives, you are taking on the role of a leader (Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges: Lead Like Jesus: Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time).  This definition of leadership comes with a great responsibility!  Individuals with integrity seek the best investment of time, talents, and treasurers. To do less would be wasteful, foolish and irresponsible.

The cornerstone of leadership is integrity.  One definition of integrity is a firm adherence to a code of especially strict moral values; incorruptibility. Integrity means that a person’s behavior is consistent with espoused values, and the person is honest, ethical, and trustworthy. Integrity is a primary determinant of interpersonal trust.  Another definition defines it as an unimpaired condition, soundness.  And finally it is the quality or state of being complete or undivided, completeness; wholeness. 

Why take time to study integrity?  Integrity helps discern what fits into our identity.  People (Leaders) make decisions every day.  Integrity is a central leadership quality.

Understanding integrity stimulates personal reflection and growth.  Regardless of the setting or context integrity is acting the same way throughout.  Not changing to fit the context.

The moment you segment your life is the moment that you begin to sacrifice your integrity.  “I am going to be the same all the time no matter where I am at or who I am with.”  What you see is what you get.  The supreme quality for a leader is unquestionable integrity.  Our Integrity comes into play as we make decisions.  It frames our discernment.

Too often we are finding leaders who are willing to sacrifice their integrity for quick wins and easy successes.  One of the most difficult things about being a leader of integrity is watching others who often lack integrity get ahead.  There are times when you will have a colleague or another at work or in an organization who clearly uses others for their own personal gain.

Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out. (Proverbs 10:9 (NIV))

No matter how enticing it may be; no matter how big the potential reward… It is critical to never relinquish or surrender your integrity for the promise of a quick win!  For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. (1 John 2:16 (NIV)).

Integrity is the sum of your habits (Rick Warren).  What are your habits?  We are called to have a habit of excellence.  Excellence breeds character, and character breeds excellence (John Maxwell).  What does it mean to be called for excellence?  How are excellence and integrity related?

To answer this look no further than 2 Peter 1: 3-4, and 10 (NIV)…

3His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.  4Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.

10Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble.

Excellence is not Perfection.  Excellence is going beyond the normal.  Excellence will engage your gifts and magnify potential.  Do everything that you do with excellence and integrity.  In Philippians 1:9-10 (NIV) the Bible tells us:

9And this is my prayer: that your love         may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.

Psalm 15 (NIV):  is a Portrait of a Leader of Integrity.

1Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent?

Who may live on your holy mountain?

2The one whose walk is blameless,

who does what is righteous,

who speaks the truth from their heart;

3whose tongue utters no slander,

who does no wrong to a neighbor,

and casts no slur on others;

4who despises a vile person

but honors those who fear the Lord;

who keeps an oath even when it hurts,

and does not change their mind;

5who lends money to the poor without interest;

who does not accept a bribe against the innocent.

Whoever does these things

will never be shaken.

In verse 2 we see that the leader who possesses integrity, does what is right, and is honest and trustworthy.  In verse 3 the leader does not give into or spread gossip.  Verse 4 goes on to say that the leader speaks out against wrong, honors others who walk in truth, and keeps his/her word even when it may cost everything.  Verse 5 explains that the leader is not greedy to gain at the expense of others, does not take a bribe, and is strong and stable.

As leaders there may be significant challenges to integrity.  Attempts to merge seamlessly faith-based values, morals, ethics, and integrity into the workplace are often challenged as inappropriate, attempts at evangelization, or challenged by a business world that is often of the world.

15Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. 16For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.   17The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.

(1 John 2: 15-17 (NIV)).

Leaders are not perfect but we need our leaders to be whole.  God knows that as leaders we will not be perfect.  As leaders God wants us to be whole so that we can lead and guide others with integrity.

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. (Psalm 32:8 (NIV)).

Whoever claims to live in Him must live as Jesus did. (1 John 2:6 (NIV)).  Jesus was the perfect role model for being a leader of integrity.  He did what He needed to do even when it meant that He would be hung on the cross.  “You are God’s representative and everything you do either honors and glorifies Him or it dishonors Him and doesn’t glorify Him” (Joyce Myer).

I Will Not be Moved - Natalie Grant

It’s Not a Man made Invention

It’s Not a Man made Invention

I believe in God, the Father almighty,

creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, God's only Son, our Lord,

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate,

was crucified, died and was buried;

he descended to the dead.

On the third day he rose again;

he ascended into heaven,

he is seated at the right hand of the Father,

and he will come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,

the holy catholic Church,

the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body,

and the life everlasting. Amen.

The Apostle’s Creed is a profession of faith that brings concisely into a statement our belief in the salvation that is found in Jesus Christ.  The first section speaks to God and His creation.  The second section sums up the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the redemption of man’s sin and separation from God.  Finally the third and closing section reminds us of the third divine person of the Holy trinity, the Holy Spirit.

Professing the Creed should not just be a meaningless recitation.  It should be a reminder of the love of God and our redemption through Jesus Christ. 

Creed – Rich Mullins 

Power in Prayer

Power in Prayer

"Prayer is a strong wall and fortress of the church; it is a goodly Christian weapon." ~ Martin Luther

From Matthew 6: 5-8 (NIV)

5 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 6But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 7And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

Over the last several weeks I’ve taken part in a 21 day period of fasting and prayer.  It’s been a remarkable period where I have grown in my own prayer life.  During this period I have prayed privately and with others.  In the early part of this period I prayed privately.  I spent time with several specific petitions including that the Holy Spirit move throughout this region where I currently live in Virginia and that there be a reawakening of faith, a new revival, renewal, recreation.  I prayed that those who live secular, atheistic, or humanistic lives would come to know the Lord.  I kept seeing my town as a lighthouse or beacon in the darkness.  A place of hope, renewal, and revival.  An epicenter of a new awakening.  When I came together with others the next week there were others praying for the same things.  At the conclusion of one prayer session a woman from the church who was not able to join at the church but prayed at home, sent a text to the group saying she offered the same petitions in her prayers as I had done the week before and what others were offering that day.  When we pray and listen for God’s answer He will reveal his plans for us.  Because so many of us were praying the same things I believe that great things are in store for us.

There is power in prayer.  Through prayer we can plug into the will of God.  There is nothing special to say.  We do not need to know flowery and eloquent language in order to pray.  There are no special postures, clothing, or gestures needed.  Sometimes all we need to say is, “Jesus”.  We need more prayer today.  God answers prayers.  In this I believe.

Psalm 141 - Arrangement by Marty Haugen

The Lord's Prayer by Michael W. Smith

Worship, Music, and Prayer (Redemption)

Worship, Music, and Prayer (Redemption)

The Bible says in Isaiah 47:4 (NIV) that Our Redeemer—the Lord Almighty is his name— is the Holy One of Israel.

Jesus Christ was sent into the world to save us from our transgressions.  John tells us, 16For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. (John 3: 16-17 (NIV)).

My Redeemer Lives – Nicole C. Mullen

The Bible says that if we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.  But if we openly confess our sins, God who is faithful and just will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Most merciful God,

I confess that I am captive to sin and cannot free myself.

I have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed,

by what I have done

and by what I have left undone.

I have not loved You with my whole heart;

I have not loved my neighbors as myself.

For the sake of Your Son, Jesus Christ,

have mercy on me.

Forgive me, renew me, and lead me,

so that I may delight in your will

and walk in Your ways,

to the glory of your holy name.

Amen.

Through our faith in Jesus Christ our sins have been forgiven and we are freed from the bondage of sin.

Say So by Israel Houghton

I know that I have done wrong in my life and I ask that You forgive me. Lord, I believe that Jesus died on the cross for my sins.  For me He paid a debt He did not owe.

In Ephesians 1: 7-10 (NIV) we are told.

7In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace 8that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, 9he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, 10to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.

We have to understand that each of us must be redeemed from sin by something outside of us.  The redemption from God is being freed from man’s condition of spiritual separation and death.  There is nothing you could have done that will surprise God.  He is calling each of us back no matter how far we have run from Him. Although God in his justice could condemn humanity, he chooses out of love to redeem sinners; this love is most fully manifest on the cross (Martin Luther).

Redeemed - Big Daddy Weave

In the process of redemption one can do nothing but have faith, an absolute trust and response to God's words; human merit and good works are rejected (Martin Luther).

Psalm 107: 2 (NIV)

2Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe,

We've been called to share the good news.  To be the salt and light in the world.  We've been commissioned to make disciples of all of the nations.  Jesus Christ came into the world to pay a debt he did not owe on our behalf.  It was through humanity’s choice that we became separated from God.

Luke 1:68 (NIV)

68“Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel,

because he has come to his people and redeemed them.

Talk About It – Nicole C. Mullen

Change

Change

You cannot expect to achieve new goals or move beyond your present circumstances unless you change (John Maxwell).  God has created us to be goal oriented.  Although He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow, we are created to grow and achieve.  We are created for change.  We were not created to stay stagnant.  For so many people it's easier to be miserable than it is to change. Choose the harder option!  Nothing great in the world has ever been accomplished without passion. 

Yesterday things might not have worked out the way you planned. But, this is a new day. Get ready for the new things God has for you.  God is working in your life, right now, in ways you cannot understand.  The Spirit of the Lord will come powerfully upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person (1 Samuel 10:6 (NIV)).

Living to create an earthly legacy is short-sighted. A wiser use of time is to build an eternal legacy.  Sharing your goals out loud offers some of the benefits of actually completing them.

Lord, I have faith that whatever happens in my life will be in your timing. Please help me to be patient when it doesn't match up with my expectations. Amen.

Shake - Mercy Me

Jesus, You taught us to boldly pray…

Jesus, You taught us to boldly pray…

Our Father who art in heaven,

hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come.

Thy will be done

on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread,

and forgive us our trespasses,

as we forgive those who trespass against us,

and lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom,

and the power, and the glory,

for ever and ever.

Amen.

From Matthew 6: 5-8 (NIV)

5 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 6But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 7And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

The Lord's Prayer - Michael W. Smith

Our Father who art in heaven,

God You are a Father to the fatherless.  God You let those who have never felt a father’s love to experience a perfect fatherly love.  You let those who have been abandoned know that You are with them.

hallowed be thy name.

God you are Holy. 

Thy kingdom come.

Thy will be done

on earth as it is in heaven.

God we call for Your will to be done.  That we would do the work that You have called us to do.  Prepare in us Your will and Your plan.  God it is Your work done through our hands which are given to do Your work.

Give us this day our daily bread,

We look to Jesus as the living bread.  We ask for spiritual bread to nourish our spirit. 

and forgive us our trespasses,

as we forgive those who trespass against us,

Lord Jesus we ask that You provide us forgiveness for our sins.  We ask for Your mercy, grace, and love.  We ask for the wisdom and guidance to forgive others.

and lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

God we ask for Your Holy Spirit to continue to guide us and speak to us to turn away from sin.  Protect us from every evil that would seek to have us run from You.  Keep continuing to provide a pull on our heart God.

For thine is the kingdom,

and the power, and the glory,

for ever and ever.

Amen.

Lord, to whom shall we go?

Lord, to whom shall we go? 

Spreading God's word and blessings around the world is so awesome!  Each one of us are a chosen child of God.  We've been called by Him by name.  He has gathered us together.

Gather Us In - Marty Haugen

We've each been commissioned by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount to be salt and light to all people in the world.  We are to continue to bring the Gospel to each and every person. Teaching others about the love of God and salvation through Jesus Christ expands the Kingdom of God.  I exist to glorify God with other Christians as a unified body of believers by sharing faith and bringing others to Christ.  For some this is quietly as salt and for others it is like the light, you can’t miss it.

If one falls, he shall be supported by the other. Woe to one who is alone. For when he falls, he has no one to lift him up (Ecclesiastes 4:10 (CPDV)).

We should never let one who has fallen to be alone.  We can be partners to those weak in faith without criticizing their opinions.  “Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters” (Romans 14:1 (NIV)).  Be ready to stand with them and to offer to support that they need. 

Be a person who can be there to help another start his/her walk to Christ.

Iron sharpens iron, So one man sharpens another (Proverbs 27:17 (NASB)).

Be an example to explain to nonbelievers that God demonstrates His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8 (NIV)).  "To reject Jesus Christ is to reject God. And to reject God is to reject the reason for your existence" (MacArthur).  We come to God the Father through Jesus Christ.

John 3: 16 – 18 (NIV) is the most often set of verses to show the price that was paid for our sinful and separated nature.

16For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.

Jesus paid the perfect and ultimate price for a debt He did not owe.  Jesus has taken the penalty for everything we've ever done wrong or will do wrong. He paid for it on the cross.  Jesus Christ performed this act so that we can all have eternal life and life in abundance.

Anyone on God's side listens to God's words. This is why you're not listening - because you're not on God's side (John 8:47 (MSG)).  If you have been separated from God or have a slumbering faith take this moment to open your eyes, ears, and mind to seek God and listen for His word.  With open hands and open arms take this moment to reach out to Him as if reaching out to a long lost friend or relative.  With an open heart embrace the Gospel.

We are saved by grace through faith in Christ Jesus, not from any works that we can boast of.  Don't turn to God only when you need something.  That is the 911 approach.  We need to be in regular daily relationship with God.  Don’t restrict Him to just 90 minutes a week each Sunday.  Turn to Him often, and then He'll already be there when you're in need.  And when you are thankful remember to offer your worship and praise in the good times. 

Lord, to whom shall we go?  You have the words of eternal life.

Jesus is Life - Stephen Curtis Chapman

When you make the decision to trust God more, you will realize that your worries become less.  It is too easy to get wrapped up in the “doing of life” that we miss opportunities to be with Jesus.  When you say “Yes” to God you begin to allow Him to break the chains off of your life.  Whether your faith has been sleeping and inactive or you have never known God, He wants you to return to Him.

The Bible says that if we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.  But if we openly confess our sins, God who is faithful and just will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Dear God,

I know that I have done wrong in my life and I ask that You forgive me. Lord, I believe that Jesus died on the cross for my sins.

Most merciful God,

I confess that I am captive to sin and cannot free myself.

I have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed,

by what I have done

and by what I have left undone.

I have not loved You with my whole heart;

I have not loved my neighbors as myself.

For the sake of Your Son, Jesus Christ,

have mercy on me.

Forgive me, renew me, and lead me,

so that I may delight in your will

and walk in Your ways,

to the glory of your holy name.

Amen.

If you prayed this prayer for the first time ever or the first time in a long time you are on your way.  YOU ARE FREE.  To help you grow  I encourage you to find a local church where you can be in fellowship with other Christians.  A church that is alive and full of the Holy Spirit.  As iron sharpens iron, So one man sharpens another (Proverbs 27:17 (NASB)).  The body of Christ is a community.  Each person helps another on his/her faith walk with Christ.  It takes a community.

I Am Free - Newsboys

There Must Be Unity, We Must Follow Jesus’ Example

There Must Be Unity, We Must Follow Jesus’ Example

Racism and hatred is just simply stupid. It arrogantly implies that God messed up when He chose to make everyone different.  Social injustice and racism was nothing that God had in mind.  After each day of creation it was always said that it was good.  On the flip side however, it is also arrogant to have a discussion about diversity without God present at the discussion.  God is a God of love, mercy, and grace.  God does not hate His children and He is not mad at us.

We must recognize again that creation is His and it is our separation from God that has created the disorder in the world.  The devil seeks to split us off and separate us from people.  Satan's ways are through hate.  He will take any action necessary to keep disunity within the body of Christ.  “The fullness of God’s purpose and power can only be experienced as the Body of Christ functions together across the earth” (Mike Bickle).

Jesus taught us to love everybody, including our enemies.  He set before us the perfect example.  I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.  (John 13:15 (NIV)).

While Jesus was on earth, he went to those who lived on the margins of life.  Is there not a better example of reaching out to each and every person?  Why then do so many people in the diversity and inclusion dialog want to exclude Jesus Christ?  No one did it better.  No one called together those who had been on the fringe of society.  How can this message of love be hated by so many?

Too often we want immediate change.  We want to snap our fingers and the world be just as we want it to be.  We need to remember that God's timing is perfect.  In our fleshly nature we want immediate gratification.  We want the change we desire now.  It takes some time to change the many years that the devil has been at work in the world. 

“Nothing is easier than saying words. Nothing is harder than living them day after day” (Arthur Gordon).  Throughout Ephesians 4 are the directions for living in unity in the body of Christ.  If we continue to push God away as a society, we will continue to struggle as a country.  We need everyone to recognize that His creation is good and each of us live as members of the body of Christ.  To live in the body of Christ is to recognize that each person has a part to play.  We need all people to repent and return to the Lord. 

All of Creation - Mercy Me

Nothing Could Ever Separate Us - Citizen Way

Crossing the Goal (EWTN program)

Tonight I share a program from EWTN, Crossing the Goal.  This episode is "On Fire With The Spirit".  This is a great resource for men.

Enjoy.  My next post will continue tomorrow.

Love Take Me Over - Stephen Curtis Chapman

Holy Spirit - Bryan and Katie Torwalt

Sharpen Each Other to Be Men of God

Sharpen Each Other to Be Men of God

Let’s be real.  We have distorted views of what it means to be a man today through the media influences, society, and psychologists and sociologists.  The way gender is being taught in schools from elementary school to college is in an increasingly anti-male way, it's becoming about neutralization of maleness, of masculinity.  When something is only for men there are often immediate attacks to make the event, program, or organization open to women as well.  Philosophies abound and are thrown around that include how important it is to have the woman’s perspective when talking with boys and young men.  Court cases get entered, and groups are forced by negative media attacks to be made open to both genders.  Men receive messages in the restrooms on college campuses that they hold the power to stop rape in their hands.  We have several different awareness campaigns year round for women’s health issues.  But men’s health issues are relegated to one month.  We have a women’s history month, yet men are told that every day is “hisstory” month.  Programs encouraging women to bring daughters to work, or girls for engineering abound.  Colleges have Women’s Centers but few have Men’s Centers; citing that men do not have issues.  We’re leaving men behind (often young men) to fend for themselves and many are finding their way into serious trouble.  We can do better.  We must do better.

Being a male is a matter of birth. Gentlemen, just because you can make a baby doesn't make you a man. There's way more to manhood than that.  But being A MAN is all about choices and identity development.  The problem is that the places to explore choices openly in a masculine perspective and lens are becoming fewer and fewer.  Many programs once for boys alone have been made co-ed.  Statements about the importance to have positive adult male role models have been made neutral to just positive adult role models.

The media would have us believe that every man has a perfect ripped six pack abs, perfect hairless skin, and have the romantic words come from his mouth that would make women swoon.  When we constantly receive messages of the "perfect" man we can become stressed out trying to be something that God may have not intended us to be.  Now this does not mean avoid growing and stretching yourself.  What it means is that God desires to create a new variety of manhood that's wrapped in your personality. Be who you are...BE a man of God.

Take note ladies, some men may not be ripped and cut, or have perfect skin, or be real romantic, but if the words of God flow from his heart to his mouth and into his life and he has faith in Jesus Christ as his Savior then he is a PRINCE.  A man whose heart constantly seeks Jesus will treat ladies with love, respect, and reverence.  Men who seek Jesus Christ know that He is first, and then spouse, family, and career.  This man understands how precious you are.  This man understands the unique purpose we each have.  Is it always perfect?  Well no.  There is only One who is perfect.  But as long as we are on the journey we may not be where we want to be, but we can praise God that we are not where we used to be.

So in turning to God’s word in Scripture two verses speak to the importance of men being in fellowship with one another.  In accountability relationships.  Mentoring relationships.  Or father and son relationships.

Iron sharpens iron, So one man sharpens another. (Proverbs 27:17 (NASB))

If one falls, he shall be supported by the other. Woe to one who is alone. For when he falls, he has no one to lift him up. (Ecclesiastes 4:10 (CPDV))

God sometimes pushes us to our limits because He has greater faith in us than we have in ourselves.  “God brings men into deep waters, not to drown them, but to cleanse them” (John Aughey).  Men are more likely not to attend church or be involved in the life of their church.  I can remember sitting in church on Sunday mornings being able to count the number of men on my hands; sometimes only one hand.  Women’s ministries were thriving and always looking for more volunteers to do the work.  Most Bible study groups consisted of women.  On the other hand men’s ministries were only a figment of the imagination.  To the question, “Where is the men’s ministry?” was often the answer, “It would be nice if we could get a couple of guys together, but...”  Or “The guys get together when we have a heavy job that needs to be done.”  Men, and especially young men, need more than that.  We don’t just need to be the heavy labor crew.  We need strong Christian men in our church communities to mentor young men who are struggling to find their identity.  These men wander never coming to learn who they are in Christ.  We need to work on each other smoothing out the rough edges so that we can be more and more Christlike. 

One of the most important questions to ask your son, “What kind of man do you want to be?”  When we ask our son’s these questions we need to have spaces to explore the possible answers.  We need these spaces to be filled with the Holy Spirit and offer a Christian and masculine perspective.  The questions and answers need to be able to be explored without the hovering mothering.  Young men (all men) need to have opportunities to explore their faith in safe growth environments.  Although I know that I still make mistakes and I need new grace and mercy every day I engage young men in discussions of how they can shape their lives.  With some it is an outright discussion related to faith and Christ; while with others the discussion is less focused there.  But in any case we need to be the best role models we can for the next generation of men.  Take time to support and sharpen one another so that each man can be a man of God.

Love Take Me Over - Stephen Curtis Chapman

Burn for You - Toby Mac

A Leader Needs a Positive Attitude

A Leader Needs a Positive Attitude

Scripture Focus... 

Romans 1:1, 14-16(NIV).

1 Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God—

14 I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish. 15 That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are in Rome. 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.

I Will Not Be Moved - Natalie Grant

Romans is a letter from Paul to the Christian believers in Rome. Paul is writing from Corinth. At the time of the writing he is preparing for three important moves in the near future. The Emperor (Claudius) has expelled many of the Jews and Jewish Christians from Rome. However, not all left Rome. After the death of Claudius many returned to Rome to now find the Church run by Gentile Christians. It was inevitable that there would be tension. Paul was moving west from Greece toward Spain. There were 4 goals in writing this letter: (1) to ask for support for his work in Spain; (2) to heal the tensions between Jewish and Gentile Christians; (3) to ask for prayers for his journey to Jerusalem; and finally (4) to resolve any misunderstandings about his view of the Gospel.

Paul begins this letter by establishing who he is as a servant of Jesus Christ. A closer translation of “servant” would be “slave” noting that Paul was honored to be a slave for Christ. Before Paul is a preacher or an apostle, he was a servant. He was bound to Christ. Paul becomes more useful for spreading the Gospel because of this servant attitude.

In a world then (as today) concerned about honor and shame, Paul clearly states that he is not ashamed of the Gospel and his passion and purpose for spreading it throughout the known world. The message of the Gospel is for all people.

Note how Paul describes his servant attitude throughout verses 14 to 16. In verse 14 Paul describes the debt or obligation he owes to the people. Verse 15 shows his readiness and eagerness. Just as in the past several posts I described passion and purpose, Paul in Verse 15 gives himself passionately to message of God by choice. His enthusiasm came in response to God’s grace. Paul was a despised minority within a despised minority. His communicating of the message of the Gospel brought God’s power to save everyone.

The strongest leaders are led by consistency and authenticity and as such they are led by values, beliefs, and convictions. We need to take on the servant positive attitude (slave) for Christ. Consider Rome. Your “Rome” may be work or school or another group. Like Paul we need to be bold, confident, and fearless in our faith so that we are ready to share the Gospel. Like Paul we need to communicate with purpose, passion, substance, and confidence to expand the God’s Kingdom.

Talk About It - Nicole C. Mullen

We Must Have God Present When we Discuss His Creation

We Must Have God Present When we Discuss His Creation

Plainly and clearly the divisions in our society are the work of the enemy.  Satan is happy when we have disharmony in society.   Divided communities offer entry points for hatred and bitterness to influence our interactions with one another.  The enemy prefers us to use a human approach, a fleshly approach.  The enemy knows that without God included in the discussion he can continue to keep the divisions and deceive us.

Genesis 1:27 and 31 (NIV) describes the creation of man and woman. 27 So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. And verse 31 God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.

His plan is that we are all made in His image.  His plan is that we are all important and have worth.  We all have a part to play.  It is only after the fall that divisions enter humanity.  It is only when people think that their way is best that we corrupt creation and place bondage and oppression on each other.

Creation is God’s.  It is presumptuous to think that we know better than God does about His creation.  We were given the task of stewardship over His creation.  You may think your ways are better but when you decide to trust God, you realize that His ways are much greater.

All of Creation - Mercy Me

It’s time to end the judging and the divisions that permeate society.  We're called to be united in Christ.   In Ephesians 4 we are reminded about the instructions for living in community with one another.

Specifically in Ephesians 4:22-23 (NLT) we are told to…

22throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. 23Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.

Over the years the more we have removed God from the dialog less of the goal has been achieved of having a more inclusive society.  Perhaps our minds have been filled with a human perspective theory perpetuated by atheists and those who have turned away from God that leaves souls empty because God is not in the discussion.  But so many discussions centering on diversity and inclusion intentionally leave God out. 

So many people in this debate say that there is no room for Jesus Christ in the debate, citing that often the division is caused by religion.  This is precisely the deception by the enemy we need to be vigilant to rebuke.

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:2 (NIV)).

We cannot be pitiful and powerful at the same time.  You cannot be both victim and master.  So many people choose to live as a powerless victim and be offended by the actions of others.  Living offended by the actions and words of others consumes a great amount of your energy leaving you in a vulnerable place for continued attack by the enemy.  Forgive people quickly regardless of whether or not they ask for it because unforgiveness is poisonous to you, not to them!

13Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. (Colossians 3: 13-14 (NLT)).

God calls us to have compassion for others – even those whose lives do not follow God’s ways.  We need to continue to pray for wisdom and guidance.  God changes the hearts of people.  Your life as a Christian should make unbelievers question their disbelief.

A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. (John 13:34 (NIV)).

26So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, 27for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3: 26-28 (NIV)).

Until we bring God back to the discussion we will not achieve the intended goals of a just society.  Our God is an awesome God of love.  He is a just God.  We must all repent and turn to God.  The social movements many often reference were born in our American churches.  However, so many efforts are made to remove the faith aspect.  We need to have hearts open to embrace the Gospel and once we bring God back into the discussion we will have peace and unity among all peoples.

Freedom - Nicole C. Mullen

I've Got the Victory

Focus on God’s Timing

Focus on God’s Timing

Man's way leads to a hopeless end, whereas God’s way leads to an endless hope. Everything happens for a reason and within its season.  I may not understand it now, but God does, and that is all that matters.  I don't believe in coincidence, I believe in God's perfect timing.  Fasting is choosing to break out of the routine in order to draw closer to God and listen to Him most completely.

But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations. (Psalm 33:11(NIV)).

We were each uniquely created by God to fulfill the role that He has planned for us. When our life is given to Him and for Him, we will accomplish His purposes in the world.

For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.  Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)

Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.

—Ephesians 6:7 (NLT)

11For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, Titus 2:11-12 (NIV).

There are times in our lives when we want to be the ones in control.  This may get us things of the world but they miss the mark for the things God would have for us.  For me, I am very much a person who likes to be in control of my situation.  I rarely like surprises.  Things are planned out and I often prepare contingency plans as backups after having run several “what-if and if-then” scenarios in my head.  I have had to come to learn (and God is still working with me on it, He is still breaking me and chipping me in this area) to let go and wait for His timing.  When you let go and let God (according to His perfect timing), you see your life change for the better in so many ways and areas.  He will place us where He needs us to be to do the work that He has set before us.  And this work and purpose will be revealed to us in God’s timing.

A thousand times I fail, yet God’s mercy remains.  Sometimes we get so busy and caught up in life we miss the whispers God uses to direct us.  Spending time with God places everything else in perspective.  It's amazing what can be accomplished with a little faith and a big God.  So according to His timing God has a great life plan for each of us!

10,000 Reasons - Matt Redman

Freedom Comes Through Jesus Christ (Worship, Music, and Prayer)

Freedom Comes Through Jesus Christ (Worship, Music, and Prayer)

In writing on this blog there have been a couple of times where I have felt it laid upon me to just worship God.  At the end of this first week of the 21 day fast I again feel led to take a moment to just worship and listen for His word about the freedom that is experienced when we just let God be God and Jesus Christ as Lord of our life.  Fasting is often seen as this solemn activity that is done.  But it can be an incredibly freeing experience as we awaken our spirit and focus on Him and pray for His guidance and direction.  Through fasting we break through the shackles and the chains that hold us down.

Freedom

Lord God, You reign in eternal majesty and glory. I praise you for coming into this world through Your Son Jesus Christ, to save all of us from our bondage to sin and to give us freedom. Give us Your Holy Spirit and Your Holy Fire, so that we would trust in your Word and look to you as our Redeemer and Lord; I pray this through Jesus Christ, my Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever. Amen

Holy Spirit

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” (2 Corinthians 3:17 (NIV))

Freedom Reigns

When we accept the freedom that Jesus Christ offers us we begin to fulfill the fullness of the Body of Christ and our unique and pre-determined role that we are to play.  In the Bible John 1: 16-17 (NIV) says, “16 Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. 17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.”  Jesus Christ is essential to having true freedom.

Freedom – Nicole C. Mullen

In 1 John 4: 3- 5 (NIV) it says, “3In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome, 4for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. 5Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.”

Prayer for Perseverance in Faith

Heavenly Father, you have called us to abide in your Word and remain steadfast in faith. Thank you for sowing your Word in our hearts, and giving growth by your Spirit. Deepen the roots you have given us, so that by your power we would stand strong and never be moved from the faith of Jesus Christ our Lord, in whose name we pray. Amen

Overcomer- Mandisa

It is from a state of grace, not legalism, that we will find real and lasting transformation, victory, and freedom.

I've Got The Victory-  Yolanda Adams

Gracious God and Father, I confess that I cannot come to you by my own reason or strength. So I thank you that you have come to me in Christ to bring freedom and life. Draw me to your Word and enlighten me with your Spirit, that I may be kept in the one true faith. Lead me to do your will, and to trust in your grace alone, in the name of your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

I Am Free – Newsboys

In prayer

Heavenly Father, you have given us your Word as both Law and Gospel. Use your Word like a 

hammer and break our hard hearts so that they may be filled with the Good News of your Son, 

Jesus Christ. By your Spirit, open our mouths to speak and teach your Word and its benefits to 

all generations.

I thank you for the Gospel, and I pray that you would keep all people's ears open to hear it new 

each day. Give everyone your Holy Spirit, so that we would be kept in the one true faith, together with 

all those who believe in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.  In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen 

Lay It Down- Give it to God

Lay It Down- Give it to God

I recently saw a facebook post from a friend (source is unknown) about a story of letting go of those things that cause you stress.

A psychology professor walked around a room while teaching a lesson on stress management to the class.  As the professor raised a glass of water, everyone in the class expected that they’d be asked the typical “is the glass half empty or half full” question.  All prepared their answers in their minds.  Some students were ready to say “half empty” because life is a struggle.  Other students who study positive psychology and strengths approaches were set with the “half full” because we need to focus on the strengths in the situation.  And still others, the science majors in the room, were ready to say that the glass is always full because air occupies the other space not occupied by the water. 

Instead, with a smile the professor inquired, “I ask you to consider how heavy this glass of water is?” Not expecting this question the students took a moment to collect their responses.  The students began calling out answers that ranged from 8 oz. to 20 oz. The professor replied, “The absolute weight doesn’t matter. It depends on how long I hold it.”  The students looked puzzled because the professor had clearly asked about the weight of the glass of water. 

The professor continued, “If I hold it for a minute, it’s not a problem. But if I hold it for an hour, I’ll have an ache in my arm. Finally, if I hold it for a day, my arm will feel numb and paralyzed. In each case, the weight of the glass doesn't change, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes and the weaker my arm seems to become.”

Continuing the professor summed up the lesson by saying, “The stresses and worries of life are like that glass of water. Think about them for a short time and nothing really happens.  We can handle it.  It's just the normal flow of life. As you think about them a bit longer and they begin to hurt and invade your thoughts.  You begin to give focus and attention to the pain.  And if you think about them all day long, you will feel paralyzed – incapable of doing anything.  The pain and hurt becomes too large to handle or deal with.  The issues have taken over your life.”

 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)

We need to remember that through keeping our focus on Christ we will never be given more than we can handle.  It is through Christ and His unending love for us that we can let go of wrongs and hurts done to us.  Today it seems commonplace and so casual to have a “my hurt is bigger than your hurt” pity party.

As this worked in my post yesterday, it works here too so I will repeat the statement, “Jesus has said that we can do it; we can keep going, we can live in victory because He has already overcome the world!  ‘Regardless of how far you may have fallen, God wants to raise you up and restore you to His perfect plan for your life’ (Joyce Meyer)” (Focus on the Way, Crossfire Leadership, 1/8/2014).

We all need to be reminded to let go and let God and we need to put the glass down.  We need to lay our cares, struggles, shame, and other issues at the feet of Jesus at the cross through prayer.  We need to abound in His love for us and have faith that God will move the pieces that need to be moved so that we can have the life that He has set before us.  God's nature is love.  Wherever love reigns, God reigns.  Hatred, stress, and weakness is from Satan.  The enemy wants us in a weak position; a position of powerlessness.  Love is from God.  We need to keep that in the right focus.  Just as the Israelites received the manna they needed each day as they left Egypt, we will through God and a faith in Jesus Christ we will be given the strength that we need to face any situation.  Anything God has shown me to do I have faith that He has given me the power to do it.

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

Call on Jesus - Nicole C. Mullen

Where the Spirit of the Lord is There is Freedom- Freedom Reigns

You Never Let Go - Matt Redman

Your Love Never Fails - The Newsboys