Faith: Part VI

I recently wrote an article that was published in the local newspaper.

My first sentence was this, "It's hard to have faith."

I'm learning that those five words are an understatement. Even in the Christian community, the idea of having faith is no different. What is promising, however, is that greater amounts of faith is something that can be obtained. It's the same as setting goals. It's also along the same idea as tithing. We all start out with varying measures of faith. What we need to understand is that with God as our ally, there is hope in obtaining a strong faith.

Let's relate the idea with my analogy of tithing. God calls us to give the first fruits of our labor to the church. He promises to keep our barns full through the harvest. If we are faithful with little, there will be more. Faith also starts out small. While there is no magic trick to gain faith, we must begin by asking for faith in the little things in life. "Lord, please stretch the budget so I can pay the electric bill and keep my family warm through the winter." Maybe there is a larger expense pending. Maybe even one that you are not even aware of yet. If we start small, not only will we see how much God cares for us, but we will begin to see how He does for ourselves. That expense we did not know about may come just after we get a promotion at work. God has seen that we were faithful with little, and He met our larger need, just in time. It is also critically important to remember that God is an "on time God."

If we are to grow in faith, we must allow God to grant it. No matter how big or how small, go to Him first. Luke 17: 5-6 records Jesus saying to His disciples, "The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!" He replied, "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it will obey you."

Let's look at two verses from Paul.

In 2 Corinthians 10: 15-17 it says, "Neither do we go beyond our limits by boasting of work done by others. Our hope is that, as your faith continues to grow, our sphere of activity among you will greatly expand, so that we can preach the gospel in the regions beyond you. For we do not want to boast about work already done in someone else's territory. But, "Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord." For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends."

Paul speaks here of the Corinthian church expanding their faith, and also the faith of other nations. When he says, "greatly," his desire is to see faith increase far and wide; not just in Corinth. He also gives credit to others for their work, not just his own, and cautions that the work of others and their success therein, be given to the Lord.

In 2 Thessalonians 1: 3, Paul writes, "We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ."

Paul again speaks to the strengthening of others--the Thessalonians--by way of the people in Thessalonica expanding their knowledge of the gospel to Macedonia and Achaia. It says in 2 Thessalonians 2: 8, "The Lord's message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia--your faith in God has become known everywhere"

What if our faith became ever increasing because we went to Him--little-by-little--in all things great and small. What if the outcome of our increasing faith became "known everywhere?"

Oh, how the world would change.

Faith: Part V

Trust.

The word above is comprised of just five characters strung together, but placed in the exact order as above, trust is a word that is extremely powerful. For things great and small, there is a measure of trust placed in many things that happen seamlessly, and even unnoticeably at times, except when thought about with care, concern and purpose.

We trust when we put the trash out a night that it will be picked up in the morning. We trust the teller at the bank to credit our deposit to the correct account. We also trust that if we leave the door unlocked at home as we make a quick trip to the grocery store for milk, our things and belongings will be there when we return. All of these examples require varying measures of trust.

A greater measure of trust is required in relationships. When thinking about the principle of faith, we need to remember that trust is a necessary ingredient.

Let's revisit a verse from Proverbs. Proverbs 3:5 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." Placing an all-encompassing, undivided and unwavering measure of trust in the Lord can only be accomplished by having faith.

We started the chapter by identifying that to have faith is to believe in something without the burden of proof. Seeing, is not believing, with respect to faith. However, it is the human element within us that causes the greatest struggle in our quest for defining and developing faith. In turn, we must trust.

Paul writes in Galatians 2:16, "Know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ."

Here, Paul is making reference to the Mosaic Law. Who could possibly adhere to 613 rules that they might be righteous in the eyes of others? It is hard enough to stay within the guiderails of the Ten Commandments. Stepping out in faith does require action, but it is more about how we approach daily living. Can we take one step, and then another in our actions, on faith?

The men and women at the time of Jesus's birth had proof. The could physically see a baby lying in a manger. In His ministry, Jesus spent 33 years on earth preparing people for His death, so that all who would enter into a relationship with Him would find life everlasting.

Faith and Trust are like two fisherman in the same boat navigating the sea of life. It takes both of them together to reach the desired destination.

Can you find an area in your life today that requires both faith and trust?

Faith: Part IV

Now that we have covered the difference between hope and faith, conviction and confidence, let's work on belief.

How do we develop true belief in the face of the inevitable feelings of doubt we face as humans? The answer lies in the steps we have already taken; having conviction, having confidence and believing that our "faith muscle" can be strengthened.

To develop an increasing faith, we must turn to God. John 14:12-17 says, "Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever -- the Spirit of truth."

In John chapter 14, Jesus is explaining to the disciples that He will soon be fulfilling His mission. He will carry a cross to the top of the hill at Golgotha, and die for our sins. Peter will deny Him three times, Thomas has doubt for he asks where Jesus is going and Philip wants Jesus to "show" him the Father.

Jesus comforts the disciples with His explanation that He is in the Father, the Father in Him and that the "Spirit of Truth," or the Holy Spirit will be theirs as well. The Holy Trinity is available to them to call upon.

Paul says in Romans 4:3, "What does scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness." Revisit Romans 4:18-21. Chapter 4 in its entirety is about Abraham's faith in God, which was "strengthened" (v. 20,) and by his faith he "gave glory to God" (v.20.) His belief in the seemingly impossible is what allowed Abraham to become the "father of many nations" (v.18.)

Here's the good news:  God provides us with examples that will allow us to develop a belief system.

Look in Genesis where He promises Noah that He will never again bring a flood that will destroy the earth. A sign of this covenant between God and Noah is the rainbow. Genesis 9:13 says, "I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth."

How about the parable of God's care for the "birds of the air" and our own well-being? Matthew 6:26 reads, "Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?"

Here I am making a case for developing and having a true belief system. It begins with relying on God and not ourselves. An excellent passage to study is found in Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

Developing a belief system is not easy. It does take confidence, it does take conviction. If you then believe that you can fully rely on God to meet your needs, you can strengthen and increase your faith; like Abraham, like Paul and others in the Bible who were rewarded for their faith.

Faith: Part III

Mark 11:24 tells us that if we believe what we have asked for in prayer, it will be ours. Without proof, this implies that we must have confidence. If we believe the words for what we ask for in prayer, we can be confident that our prayers will be answered; on God's time, of course.

Paul was a man that exuded confidence without proof, an therefore can be a model for us with respect to faith. The following are three verses in the first chapter of his writings. All mention faith.

In Romans 1:8 he writes, "First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world."

1 Corinthians 1:9, "God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord."

And in 2 Corinthians 1:18, 21-22, "But as surely as God is faithful, our message to you is not "Yes" and "No." Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come."

His confidence can be felt because he places his faith in Christ. Above in Romans, he mentions God and Jesus Christ; in 1 Corinthians, God's faithfulness to His people by a relationship with Jesus and in 2 Corinthians, the Holy Trinity and a guarantee that God's mission, through Jesus Christ, will be fulfilled.

He finishes his first chapter in 2 Corinthians 23:24 saying, "I call God as my witness -- and I stake my life on it -- that it was in order to spare you that I did not return to Corinth. Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm."

Again, his confidence is palpable as we see and hear in his writings where the power in his message comes from:  Faith in God. Faith in Jesus. Faith in the Holy Spirit. There is no error and no wavering in his mind or from his quill, he is confident in his faith.

The words confident and confidence are found many times in the Bible. There are many more if you look for the meaning within verses that are directly related to having confidence in God, the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ. Again, let's look at just three.

In Philippians 1:6 Paul writes, "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."

In Hebrews 4:16, "Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."

Finally, undoubtedly one of my favorite verses in the Bible is found in Romans 8:28. "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Paul was confident that God would finish His mission. By default, he was confident that God would allow him to finish the divine mission that God had placed in him.

Faith: Part II

Yesterday we covered the difference between hope and faith. Hope is a desire in a future outcome, something we want to happen. Faith is about conviction!

One key difference with respect to faith is the element of proof. There is no hard evidence. No breadcrumbs to be followed. It requires a belief, and that belief, without proof, must be placed in God. One might ask, "How can I have faith without proof?" This is a question that Christians and Non-Christians can equally share.

Go back to the verse about the mustard seed parable about faith. Jesus makes a reference to this parable again as recorded in Matthew 17:20, "He replied, "Because you have so little faith." Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."

Just before in Matthew 17:14-19, he explains to several of the disciples in verse 20 why a demon could not be withdrawn from a possessed boy. A small measure of faith, as small as a mustard seed, can move mountains.

Let's look back a few paragraphs where I presented the question concerning faith and proof. James 1:6 reads, "But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind." In this verse James is encouraging us, with conviction, that those who seek wisdom should ask for it.

The references in the parables surrounding faith are far and wide, but beautiful. Faith as small as a mustard seed. Moving mountains with mere words. Speaking without doubt, as doubt is like the forward motion and retracting motion in the waves of the sea.

As we can ask for wisdom, understanding and favor; we can ask for our faith to be increased.

A verse that shows a measure of proof in a certain outcome is found in Mark 11:24. "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." To have a greater measure of faith, we must ask for an increase in our faith.

Above we have reviewed three verses from the Gospels; two from Matthew and one from Mark.

Let's look at one from Paul. In Romans 1:17 he writes, "For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed -- a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written:  "The righteous will live by faith."

To have an increase in faith, we can ask for it. We need to ask for faith in prayer; just as we would understanding and wisdom. Do not doubt; believe that you will receive what you ask for.

There is power in what you ask for. Ask for an increase in your faith.

What concerns today would be less of a concern, or even an alleviated concern, if you were given a larger measure of faith by God?

Faith: Part I

It's hard to have faith.

I say this knowing that each of us has been given a certain measure of faith. What I can tell you, is that from the foundation of faith with which you have been given, it is a skill you can continue to build on. New measures of faith can be acquired. Think of faith like the cornerstone of a church building. There is but a single block, but the builders will continue from the foundation to the final piece of the bell tower to finish building the church. With great faith, comes increasing faith, and with increasing faith are great rewards.

Look at Mark 4:30-32. Jesus is talking and it reads as recorded by Mark, "Again he said, "What shall we say the kingdom of God is like, or what parable shall we use to describe it? It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest of all seeds on earth. Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds can perch in its shade."

A small seed, when nurtured, can become the largest plant in the garden. A redwood tree in the Pacific Northwest was also once a seed. A waterfall was once a single drop of water. Faith can be acquired, and become the rock from which you stand on; peering over the vast and beautiful landscape from above.

The foundation of our faith is hard to measure. Paul mentions the faith of Abraham from the book of Genesis in Romans 4:18-21. "Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, "So shall your offspring be." Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead -- since he was about a hundred years old -- and that Sarah's womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had the power to do what he had promised."

So I ask, "What is the difference between faith and hope?"

Merriam-Webster defines "hope" as "to want something to happen or to be true."

"Faith" is defined as "a firm belief in something for which there is no proof."

Hope is filled with desire and anticipation. Faith is about conviction!

Within faith, there can and should also be anticipation. We can have a desire in the forthcoming outcome based on faith. The difference is in where and to whom we align our loyalty against.

Hope is a word that is used nonchalantly at times. It is a word used to fill a void, for lack of a better word. "I hope you feel better soon." "I hope you get the promotion you are seeking." While both of these statements can be genuine, there is a definite lack of conviction.

Alongside of faith are the words trust and loyalty. It's good to remember these words as you develop that conviction within your faith. Loyal to our God. Trusting in His Word. Strengthening your faith.

Over the next 5 segments, we will define a path and I will offer different ways in which you can strengthen your faith.

Stay tuned...

Accountability: Wrap-Up

This chapter on accountability has caused me to pause. I need to examine the errors I have made, both big and small, and reflect and reframe my own perspective of the word.

In Part I, I wrote about how having an attitude of accountability has faded with time and in cultures around the world. The United States seems to me a relevant example of the monumental shift that has taken place. The phrases of "what's in it for me?" and the idea of entitlement run rampant. Television sensationalizes these ideas as things that now "just happen" as opposed to taking personal responsibility for our actions. It will take time, effort and a dramatic shift in perspective to return to the days of generations before us where the meaning of the word is understood.

Part II began with Paul's change in perspective. He certainly experienced a drastic change in the loss of his eyesight. God restored his ability to see and his eyes became wide open to the reality of an awesome God. From that point on Paul was never the same. The shift became permanent, his mission clear and he held himself accountable to God and God's people. Building the church was the exact reason for which he was designed, perfected by God's image. He had passion, he embraced personal responsibility, and he "ran the good race" for God. Becoming aware of what Jesus did for His people was the key element in Paul's change in perspective.

Of particular note in 2 Corinthians 5:7, as he begins by saying, "For we live by faith, not by sight." It is not irony that Paul mentions sight. Having lost his, he would have had only one choice to live by faith had it not been restored. As I dissected verses 7-10 in 2 Corinthians 5, I made a few points to note. Having faith is a process of continual growth. Seeing God's work shape and take form by your faith in Him, increases your personal faith. It is one step after another, and at times can be exponential. In verse 8 I mention Paul's "heavenly mindset" and in verse 9 pleasing God on earth in our daily walk and actions by following the idea presented in verse 8 and asking the Holy Trinity to intervene and provide divine power. Verse 10 is easy to read and hard to comprehend. We will all face judgment. Having a "running conversation" with God will help keep you focused and straighten your path.

Leaders are to be accountable to those in their care. That is the defining message in Part III. I termed this idea "reverse accountability." Jesus became a servant that He might be served. The disciples were to emulate His actions. In John 13:16-17, he writes how Jesus says "servants and messengers are no greater than their masters." Jesus was not placed on earth to be served, but rather to serve God's people. Serving others can propel you to higher places, just as it did Jesus after His death on the cross and His ascension into heaven. Moving "higher" is in direct relationship to "getting" lower.

In Part IV, I outlined 7 steps to aid us in remaining in accountable directly from 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18. 12:  Acknowledge hard work. 13:  Hold others in high regard. 14:  Be patient with those not yet in God's will. 15:  Do not repay wrong actions with wrong actions. 16:  Always rejoice. 17:  Pray continually. 18:  Keep your efforts in line with God's will.

Not all of these will necessarily be followed in perfect order with respect to each different situation. They are guideposts. Just before these verses in 1 Thessalonians 5 :11, I note two key elements which will help verses 12-18 make sense. When you edify and affirm the good works of others, it provides fuel and motivation to continue in good works and to reach higher. The second is praise. Praise people for their efforts. Praise is closely related to edification and affirmation, but at a heavenly level.
Talk with God about how to foster and grow their relationship so they will be effective in their efforts.

Part V continues to build on the idea presented in Part IV to build a team of advisors. Surrounding yourself with mentors will keep you moving forward on your personal mission. Like Paul, we must one day give an account for what we have done on earth at the day of judgment. Review the passage in Matthew 12:36 and Romans 14:12.

I then talked about those you lead. 1Corinthians 4:2 reads, "Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful." Words are important. They are critical when spoken because we want others we lead to have faith and trust in our counsel. It is equally important to listen. Our peers which we are accountable to, above and below, must be able to see a consistency in the message. Good advice to follow is found in Luke 12:2-3 and 12:48.

As I like to do in Part VI of each chapter, I look to bring some of the elements from Parts I-V and put them in perspective. Even in the harsh face of accountability, there is both failure and victory. The difference is in how we view what is gained and what is lost. Edison and Einstein failed more often than not, but in the process, their continual effort proved victorious.

Three steps will help you remain in a place of accountability. Repent, ask for forgiveness and forgive others. Each come with their different and distinct challenges. These steps in order, provide freedom. When we repent, God no longer keeps a record of our sins. Look in Acts 3:19. 2 Chronicles 7:14 gives us the key to unlock the door to freedom. Humble yourself, pray, seek the face of God, right your wrongs and God will hear you immediately, forgive your sin and heal your land. Forgiving others may be the hardest part. However, their is divine power in forgiving, and it can even provide a "pay it forward" process to the one you have forgiven. I believe the words uttered to God in humility and forgiveness toward another in prayer could cause them to have feelings and pray for the forgiveness of others they harbor sin against.

The principle of accountability takes many forms. Redefine the word for yourself. Hold yourself personally responsible. Embrace an attitude of serving others as Jesus did; the idea of reverse accountability. Follow the 7 steps with your team outlines in 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18. Be careful with your words so there is value, faith, trust and belief by your peers. Change your perspective using the equation of repentance + asking for forgiveness + forgiving others.

Within the principle of accountability, as measured to be in line with God's will, there is freedom.

Accountability: Part VI

Accountability is most heart-wrenching when we feel that we have failed. We have all seen that look of judgment from another, and even more so from the few inches between our face and the mirror. Looking at oneself, and seeing failure can make all sights and sounds fade away except the own screaming from our inner voice.

However, there is victory in failure. How many times did Thomas Edison try to get the exact mechanics right for the light bulb before he saw light? Did every equation that Einstein attempted to write prove to be correct when tested against a problem to solve? No. But we have light, and we have E=mc2, the theory of relativity.

Having a relationship with Jesus allows us the option to be victorious. On earth, even the strongest Christians will judge others, try as they may to put it aside. The real release from feelings of failure is in forgiveness. The equation here is repentance + asking for forgiveness + forgiving others. These three steps in combination will free us from feelings of failure and allow us to find and remain in favor with God.

Repent:  Luke, the physician writes in Acts 3:19, "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord." Can you identify the words "wiped out" in this verse? Looking ourselves in that mirror, and seeing our own face in judgment may be overwhelming, but there is monumental power in forgiveness. If we can focus on the outcome and not the crime in ourselves, asking for forgiveness will set us free. Our sin will be wiped out. A clean slate is what we will start with in an instant. And believe me, God hears our voice. God, the Holy Spirit and Jesus desire one thing:  a relationship. God does nor keep a record of our wrongs after the very instant that we ask for forgiveness.

Even though we cannot hit the "rewind button" in life, a change in perspective can free us from our wrongs. God will forgive and forget. Therefore, failure is only as temporary as we allow it to be.

Ask yourself today, "What do I need to erase from my conscience? Who or what inside me do I need to forgive?"

Ask:  2 Chronicles 7:14 says, "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear them from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land." I mentioned earlier how God hears our voice immediately. Right at the very moment that we speak our words to Him. It goes on to say that it should be in prayer, to seek His face, and turn against our wrongdoings. And what does He promise. He will hear. He will forgive. He will hear our land.

Think of your land as your sphere of influence. Everyone has a group of people that they feel accountable to. It will be your spouse, your children, perhaps someone that you are a sounding board for or even the neighbor; adult or child. God asks us to come to Him in prayer. It can be short; it only needs to be sincere. And that sincerity must carry through to correcting our actions.

I have personally had the experience of "seeing God's face." Admittedly, most times it has been in church as a prayer is being offered from the pastor to the congregation and mine personally in the service. It usually appears as I look up. Not coincidentally, it puts My Father in perspective. He may be above me vertically, but He is there and readily available when I call on Him or listen to other's words. It is not as frequent as I would like, but the feeling is unimaginable in a way that could be explained to others. Seeking His face is an experience I desire to have at home, or sitting in traffic, or on a park bench when I have time alone. I see this as a skill that can be acquired. Keep trying and be patient. Remember, God is omnipresent. He will always hear and will respond on His time for your good. Keep praying. Seek His face. Turn from behavior that is not permissible in your relationship with Almighty God.

Forgive others:  Paul writes in Colossians 3:14, "Forgive as the Lord forgave you." Again, a simple verse, but the outcome is life-changing when put into perspective. The act of forgiving others can be harder than forgiving yourself. There are certain things that eat away and gnaw at us deep inside. To the middle of our very core, things that have happen to us when we feel strongly that we have been wronged tend to remain longer than they should. Forgiving others will also free you from pain. Even more so than forgiving yourself.

Luke 6:37 says, "Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Think about the universal scope of these three sentences. If we do not judge others, there will be no one that will judge us. Condemn not, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. I say universal to indicate that even halfway across the world, others will see you differently if you follow these steps. No one can judge you, and therefore harm you. No one will condemn, or judge, if you are able to forgive.

Since it is harder to forgive others, in your heart find one person that you can forgive. Done in private, hey will not know that you have done so. Put in perspective, this act may free them from something by your prayer and cause them to forgive another. God may, in that very instant, seek their heart to forgive another. I believe that freeing yourself can free others. Seek God's face first in prayer, and let Him work, and see what happens.

This may be a lot to digest, but keep it simple. Try this simple exercise today. Make the equation at my suggestion as derived from the Word of God.

Repent + ask for forgiveness + forgive others.

Accountability: Part V

Yesterday we talked about starting with one believer and then building a team of advisors to keep you accountable. It is not just for yourself, or for the benefit of others who have the opportunity to guide you along your path. The one person that you are truly accountable to is Almighty God.

Matthew 12:36 says, "But I tell you that everyone will have to give an account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken."

Paul acknowledges this and similarly echoes this verse in Romans 14:12 which reads, "So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God."

As a writer and as a person, I put a strong value on spoken words. I still like to write letters. And whether you are writing or speaking, it is not only what words that are spoken, but also what is heard through the ears and in the minds of others. Words are powerful; to say the least.

Think about a person you admire. Are they eloquent with respect to the words they choose?

Let's take this theme on step further. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 4:2, "Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful."

As someone who is being spoken to, it is imperative in valuing the words spoken to us, that we can believe and have faith in their validity. We want to believe that the advice we are getting is inherently good. And if we are to be better off having received such advice, it requires faith and trust in the advice given.

Look in the book of Luke for some sound advice. Luke 12:48 says, "From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked."

Just prior to that as Jesus is talking to His disciples, in Luke 12:2-3 he records, "There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs."

Having grown up in a small town, these two verses carry a lot of weight, and ring true, so to speak.
My mother and father knew what I had done and what I had said before I ever returned home. They also held me accountable.

To me, the spoken word is directly in line with the parable of the harvest; "you will reap what you sow." As leaders, you will have the opportunity to be heard in the assembled group of your peers. Words are not only to elevate you, but others as well. Counsel in private, and praise in public.

What can you say to others today that will affirm, and add value to others, whether it be one or many?

Accountability: Part IV

Accountability is not about having a "big-brother" to watch over you, or check-in with. It is more about have a sounding board. Someone other than yourself in this world to confide in. It will help to keep you on a straight and narrow road, away from trouble, away from strife and live a life that is better than just the inside-of-your-own-head.

Think of it as building a team. There may be only one advisor, or many; but having a point-of-contact in whom you can trust and consider a "first line of defense" is never a bad plan. Most of you who have children who participate in high-school athletics have probably heard, "There is no 'I' in TEAM." Having those whom you feel confident to help you find your way, or add valued advice to the solution that you already have in mind will strengthen your decisions. Once you personally feel confident about what you are to do, you then turn to God for guidance.

Start with at least one other believer, and then build a team. Jesus appointed twelve disciples to further His work. They had one assignment:  to reach far and wide and to all crevices on earth with the Gospel; the Good News that Christ is our Savior. The disciples were hand-picked to be accountable to Jesus for the mission He had placed in them.

Is it not a good idea to have one person in addition to Christ that we are accountable to?

Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, "Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."

This verse highlights two key points. When you edify others, it is that type of encouragement that fuels further positive action by the whole team. Everyone feels better when they are spoken about with encouraging words; words of affirmation.

The second key point is that Paul praises them for the work that the Thessalonian people are already doing. He acknowledges that they are already, "doing good work." Again, this encouragement provides motivation. And when a group of people are on the same page, striving toward a common goal with a specific purpose in mind, everybody wins.

He provides more praise and further instructions in the following verses. In verse 12, he asks the people to "acknowledge those who work hard." In verse 13 to "hold those who work hard in high regard." Verse 14 explains that they "should be wary of those who are idle and disruptive, help the disheartened and the weak, and be patient." Do not "pay wrong with wrong, " in verse 15. In verses 16, 17 and 18 he asks them to "rejoice always, pray continually, and to always give thanks as the work that they are doing is God's will."

Let's review the steps in these 7 verses:

12:  Acknowledge hard work
13:  Hold others in high regard
14:  Be patient with those who are not following God's will for His people
15:  Wrong doing should not be paid in return with wrong
16:  Always rejoice
17:  Pray continually
18:  Remember that your efforts are in line with God's will.

I challenge you today to review your steps.

Provide affirmation, lift others, be patient, right wrongs with encouragement and proof, rejoice, pray continually and stay in God's will.

To me this message can be applied universally. It may be best to start with the words in verse 12 and work up, or even in some situations to apply the urging in Paul's letter in reverse. Or finally, in such a way that each of the steps could be applied in a fashion that has no definitive order based on the circumstances at hand.

If you are fervent about following the will of  God, His guidance will help you put the steps in the correct and perfect order.

Accountability: Part III

I want to go back this morning to the time during the Last Supper. We see Jesus setting an example of a servant, washing the feet of the apostles. He is showing the disciples an outward expression of how they should care for others, just as He had. He encourages them to continue in His example.

I like to think of this as "reverse accountability." It is not at all proper to think that those you are guiding and teaching to only be accountable to you. Leaders are to set the example, and therefore be accountable to whom they lead. John 13:16-17 says, "Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them." In this verse, we see Jesus sharing with the disciples that we are all on a level plane. No one is greater than any other.

Going back just a few verses, I love the beautiful picture that is painted during the meal. It seems almost surreal to think of the "Son of Man" taking time from His last meal with the disciples to wash their feet. This is not the picture of the past or modern day king of many a nation. Jesus removes His clothing, wraps a towel around His waist, pours water into a basin and begins to wash the feet of the disciples. John 13:4-5 reads, "so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began washing the disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him."

Jesus sat at the head of the table. He was in the sitting appropriately in the middle of the Twelve.

Why was it He that displayed such an act of servanthood?

We can find the answer to this in John 13:12-15. "When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. "Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. I have set an example that you should do as I have done for you.

These few verses are what brings to me the idea of "reverse accountability."

Jesus was not placed on this earth to be served, but rather to serve. Not yet known to the disciples, Jesus knew where He was going. The final steps were already in motion. While He would ask if they had to be done, He simply states in Luke 22:42, "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done."

Jesus may have been serving the disciples, but He knew that He was also being held accountable to God. He knew without doubt that He was soon ascending to a higher place. He therefore submitted to God above and became a servant to His disciples. First a servant, then a "King in Heaven."

My takeaway from this is that embodying the role of a servant can propel you to higher places. Serving others becomes ascension.

"Wash the feet" of others, and see where it takes you. Not for personal gain, but simply to remind yourself that serving others becomes a choice that is also best for you. You can move higher by becoming lower.

Ask yourself, "What can I do today to serve?'

Accountability: Part II

Accountability seems to me easy to explain and easy to understand. It is nothing more than saying, "I did it." You could say it another way in saying, "I am personally responsible for ..."

The Apostle Paul understood accountability. He was accountable first to Jesus, and then to himself. He framed his actions knowing that the strength and power in his mission was in direct relationship to holding himself accountable to Christ. That is not to say that it did not take a monumental change in perspective. The self-proclaimed "Chief of Sinners" fell blind, but when his eyes were opened and his sight restored, he was instantly a different man.

He became a "Man on a Mission." He became a "Man on Fire." What Paul became was a man with a "passion" for Jesus and His people. He cared not if you were a Jew or Gentile; he felt a personal responsibility to reach those for the glory and the kingdom of God.

He personified Jesus, and perfected his craft in the cities, villages, synagogues and public forums. Paul became the "mouthpiece" that Jesus desired and needed to advance the early Christian church. His profession was speaking and writing to the leaders and those he felt may be influential in furthering his cause. Other than God, their was no "superhuman figure" who could challenge or change his unwavering commitment in spreading the gospel story. He was sent on a mission, he was diligent in following instruction and he "ran the good race" for Jesus Christ.

In 2 Corinthians 5:7-10 Paul writes, "For we live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad."

Talk about a "punch in the throat?" Like me, many of you may also feel as if those few verses hit you like a "ton of bricks." Enough with the bad taste in figurative language, let's dissect those 4 verses in 2 Corinthians 5.

Verse 7:  Living by faith is not an easy task. Faith is something that we must grow into. It takes daily action and thought to increase your personal faith muscle. One way to do so is to have a "running conversation" with God. Make it a point to allow Him to bear the challenges that you face. When you can clearly see the outcome, your faith will be increased.

Verse 8:  Despite Paul knowing that he had a mission to complete, he longed to be with Jesus in heaven. A "heavenly mindset" allows us to both strengthen and be effective in our work. Be able to say, "Not my will, but Yours be done."

Verse 9:  This verse seems to me a challenge. When we reach heaven, there will be no pain. Not so on earth. Strive to be the best you can be. On earth, we can undoubtedly never be perfect. It's not possible. If we attempt to "stay at home" in the body of Christ, we will be able to harness His power with the aid of the Holy Trinity.

Verse 10:  The end of this verse could easily make us all uneasy. We will face judgment. Remember that there is no sin greater than any other. Doing our best, and striving to stay away from and thwart sin as it surely will come helps build a barrier from the devil and builds a stronger relationship with Jesus. That is what He desires; a relationship.

Start today by having a running conversation with Jesus. Ask for His help in the known and unknown. Develop plans with the aid of the Holy Spirit by asking for His protection and for Him to intervene where you will not have answers. Look to heaven, and attempt to emulate God's wonderful work in the present. Fear not judgment; focus more on your work for the Lord.

Accountability: Part I

The word accountability has nearly faded into the dust of the American culture. The meaning of the word itself, it seems, has died from the sword.

There are certain people in our lives that we are inherently expected to hold ourselves accountable to:  parents, teachers, spouses, and peers in positions of authority in the workplace as a few examples. However, accountability has fallen like that of an avalanche of snow from the highest peak of human imagination.

One may ask, as I do, "How did this happen?" And even further, "At what point did this happen?"

For many of you reading this, you would agree that it is not a problem in understanding the meaning of the word. Our parents understood; for certain our grandparents understood, but the reality remains that accountability has drifted far into the vast ocean toward becoming abolition, generation by generation.

The "millennial" generation is a perfect example. I readily admit that some of Generation "X" and even some people in Generation "Y" fall into this category, but by-and-large, the current generation is completely oblivious to the idea of accountability.

If the larger majority for Generation "X" and Generation "Y" were labeled, one might say they appropriately fall into the category represented by the acronym "WIIFM," better known as "What's in it for me?" Millennials might as well be called Generation "E," or Generation "Entitlement." Technology is partly to blame, but the brunt of the problem to the death of accountability falls squarely on the shoulders of parents.

In Asian culture, it is unacceptable to, and not even an option, to disrespect or defy your parents. Their word is gospel. Their words are not to be challenged. They are the ultimate authority. And if there are grandparents in the household, the same rule of hierarchy follows. They are the ones with the "trump card." Husband over wife. "It is what it is," so they say.

Personally, I would like to see a one-hundred and eighty degree shift. There is no reason not to return to the philosophy where accountability is the rule as opposed to the exception, prevalent, followed and inherently understood by all. That being said, "No man is an island." It will take a dramatic and drastic shift in perspective for any small, much less monumental, shift to occur. Perhaps if all people were separated simultaneously, at all the earth's fault lines by a swift and ferocious quake it might help; or perhaps even dramatic separation renders the idea of accountability a "pipe dream."

The question becomes, "Are we too far gone to return to, and embrace accountability?"

Righteousness: Wrap-Up

The idea of being "righteous" is hard to wrap our heads around and hard to achieve. If you were to ask 6 people their personal definition of the word, you would almost certainly get 6 different answers. Christian or not, righteousness escapes most of us.

In Part I, we looked to the Oxford and Merriam-Webster dictionaries for some guidance. Both have a form of the word morality in the definition. Justifiable is used, as is divine in the definition. We talked about immorality; how is has become sensationalized to the point where "breaking news" and "top story" headlines are used as opposed to desensitizing immorality and reality in favor of what is right and just. Personally, I would rather find the gifts inherent by God's grace noted in Proverbs 21:21 where it says, "Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity, and honor." To me, that seems more like the ticket to the train that I would prefer to be on. Go back and review the verses from Matthew, Proverbs, Psalms, 1 Timothy and Romans for review.

Part II focused on people. The question was, "Who in the Bible was righteous?" We find in scripture that Noah, Daniel and Job were credited by the Lord as being righteous. Most have heard the story of the covenant between Noah and God and the rainbow. As a Christian, it is a reminder to me when I see a rainbow in the sky. For those not familiar with this story and God's promise to never again flood the earth, turn to Genesis 9:12-17. Daniel was given favor for his faith. He did not have to accept the similar stature of a slave to Nebuchadnezzar, but he did. He remained faithful, and righteous in his actions, seeking God's wisdom during every step and we see his reward in Daniel 12:8-13. Job's story is unique and powerful. God "allowed" the devil to test his faith. His flocks and herds were stripped from him. His servants, the same. Even his sons and daughters were taken from him, but he remained faithful. Incredibly hard to imagine, much less explain and personally endure, but Job did not waiver. Turn to Job 29:14 for a recap of Job's definition of righteousness. Remember also the promise for the stars in heaven, found in Daniel 12:3, as your reward for righteousness.

In Part III we learned that different variations directly related to the word righteousness can be found sixty-four times in the Bible. Paul wrote in 2 Timothy about the "crown of righteousness," noting that those who seek the coming of the Lord will be awarded. The precursor to Paul's mention of the crown of righteousness is the way that he "ran the good race" for Christ. He was determined, diligent, reflective, passionate and interested in his effectiveness to reach people for the Kingdom of God. Three verses were noted, all coming from Galatians. Galatians 2:15-16, 3:10-14 and 5:13-18. The people of Galatia were still extremely rooted in the Mosaic law, but Paul wrote to them and came to them to present his case for living by faith, as Jesus did. We ended by examining the role that the Holy Spirit can provide in our desire to live by faith, harnessing its power and embracing the "fruits of the Spirit."

Part IV was our beginning to dissecting the "fruits of the Spirit." The verse is found in Galatians 5:22-23. It provides 9 principles that can be used, and require and will not submit to any law. I used an example from finance to provide the similarity to the idea of the "sum of the parts" being "worth more than the whole." The 9 "fruits of the Spirit" may be independently and inherently different, but using even one, or a combination thereof, will push you in the direction of righteous behavior. When all else fails, look to 1 Corinthians 13:8, "Love never fails."

In Part V, I presented the idea of using the "sum of the parts" theory; with the "fruits of the Spirit" in mind, in our pursuit to achieve righteousness. We once again referenced the Oxford Dictionary for the definition of pursue. God is interested in seeing us: 1) chase Him, and 2) proceed along in our divine route. We are to grow. We are to learn. We are to share. To become an expert at either, takes guidance, hard work and practice. Advisors will be helpful, but it is important to note that we will stumble and fall on our pursuit in as close to as humanly possible; perfection in chasing after others; for God. I referenced Galatians 2:2, where Paul writes about the pursuit of perfection. In these verses, he is evaluating his effectiveness from his early days in sharing and telling the gospel story in Jerusalem. I also pointed you to Matthew 28:19, better known as "the Great Commission." A relationship with Jesus Christ will increase your effectiveness in your evangelical walk, given that you also understand the importance of belief, community, faith and growth that becomes that special relationship with Jesus. Think big, start small, reach higher.

Part VI begins with a verse that correctly provides the foundational structure for obtaining righteousness. I was God's substitution of sin, for us, by allowing Jesus to be crucified on the cross, eliminating our sin. In Him, we wear not a crimson robe, but one of white. Look at 2 Corinthians 5:21 for the verse explaining this substitution. I continued on with the idea of employing the "Great Commission," taking it one step further; that of leaving a legacy. The legacy of mine and yours will be entirely different than those of the most respected names in the pulpit for God, but is ours any less important? I would think not. We all want to matter. We all want to make our mark. That is what "leaving a legacy" is all about. That is one of the reasons I have chosen to write. To leave a legacy that will be everlasting, we must submit to the will of God. It is He who has the instruction manual that you have yet to read that will allow you to become the benefactor that you had hoped for. The Bible is your guidebook. It is the "key to the castle" that will grant you access to God's instruction for your life. Leaving the legacy you desire to leave, is possible with the key to the Kingdom. Each f us have a different job to complete in advancing God's Kingdom. You have already identified the skills that are God-given, and He will require you to obtain more for His purposes along your journey. Look to the promises in Romans 2:6 and Psalms 37:28.

As they say, "the view is better from the top; looking down."  

Righteousness: Part VI

"God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." - 2 Corinthians 5:21

We have been taking about becoming righteous, how we can, the road that must be followed and the benefits that will be reaped for following the righteous model of Jesus.

Let's take this one step further. What about our legacy? When I think about legacy, the name Billy Graham comes to mind. Here is a man that has done everything in his power to follow the command of the "Great Commission" for God. "Go and make disciples..." It is hard to put a fine pencil to the number of people that have been impacted from his evangelistic efforts. I have witnessed stadium upon stadiums of people listening to him preach and responding to the call to submit themselves to the call of God to enter into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as Savior. He...has "run the good race."

There are others. Rick Warren. Joel Osteen. Charles Stanley and his son Andy Stanley, a man I have seen personally preach. I could go on for sure, but these men are additionally representative of those who have "followed the call" toward reaching the masses. While these men are humble and have willfully agreed to submit and commit their entire beings to the will of God, I feel certain even they have asked the question, "What's in it for me?" What follows this question becomes an answer that is eternally based in their quest for God. Their thinking is vertical, not horizontal. Their reward is also eternal. They have a different perspective than others who have not submitted their lives fully to God.

What is important to note, is that we all can submit. We are all called in different ways. We all have different skills. We all have a race to run; for God.

Paul writes in Galatians 6:9, "Let us not be weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." This is where persistence comes in. That drive. The intestinal fortitude at your very core as you search for His purpose and deploy the strategies that He has laid out for you; effectively.

As a precursor to the idea of the effectiveness that Paul seeks to measure, look no further than Matthew 6:33. "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to us as well." While Matthews gospel verse relates mostly to the very necessities required to live, it is much more. Matthew 6:25-34 is affectionately labeled the "Do Not Worry" passage.

God promises to clothe us. He promises that we will be fed. He uses the "birds of the air" as a representation of His goodness. Read verses 30-33 together. "If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you - you of little faith? So do not worry, saying 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

The question at the end of verse 26 reads, "Are yo not much more valuable than they?"

So the question becomes, "What makes us more valuable?"

My gut reaction is this:  We are able to "go and make disciples." I am not saying that a man or woman can't look at a bird in the air and say to himself, "There can be no other explanation that God created such a fine specimen as that." Birds, mountains, hillsides, the sea, mothers and fathers and babies. God made all, and God made them all equally precious; perfect in His eye.

But it is us who have ears. Us who have eyes. Us who have a mouth. We are biologically superior and therefore equipped to be the mouthpiece of God. We are His evangelists.

We can therefore see how becoming righteous and displaying righteousness; representative of God the Father and Jesus Christ, becomes of critical importance. Like Paul, it is our measure of effectiveness. It is imperative in our ability to reach others for the Kingdom of God.

Since we are all equipped differently, it is natural that our skills and abilities are different. Each one of us is equipped with different tools. Using our perspective; understanding what those skills are, will help to mold and shape what our "jumping off" point should be, based on the underlying foundation that God has laid out for us in the form of our unique gifts. We can't all be Billy Graham, or Rick Warren or Joel Osteen. What we can do is use what we have been given, to the best of our ability, for His good and His purpose.

What legacy do you want to leave?

A legacy is defined differently by all. For some, it is to leave their children with business skills. For some, money. For some, the ability to reach fame. All of these remain horizontal. While wealth can be transferred, it is not eternal. It may last for generations, but should that perspective shape our goals, desires and dreams?

My grandfather is the one person in my family who had the largest, and will have the longest lasting effect on what I want to achieve. He never had a job that paid more than $12,000 a year. Yet he remained fiscally responsible and wealthy in his own right. My mother and her sister never wanted. They were fed, clothed, and never felt unsafe as the basic necessities were never jeopardized. They never felt as though they had to do without.

He, unfortunately, knew what it was like to go without. Born in 1922, he was old enough at the age of 7 to understand the ramifications of the Great Depression. It shaped him. He was a member of the United States Army, served in World War II. He served exactly 3 years and 16 days in the South Pacific fighting the Japanese, and came home alive. Many of his friends and soldiers would not be so fortunate. He worked hard until the age of sixty-five and retired.

However, I think of his legacy as eternal. He was a "Man of God!" He attended church. He tithed. He sang in the church quartet. He gave to others who would otherwise go without. And not to say that he was better than any other in his family, but he outlived all his brothers and sisters and even nieces and nephews.

Why did God allow this to happen? Because he had not finished "running his race." He was with us just shy of the age of 94. He was blessed with 2 children, 5 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren at the time of his death. But it was his legacy that would remain.

He instilled in me the value of going to church. Of supporting the church. Of being involved in the church. And the benefit of reaching out to others who need a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and the community of the church.

One of his greatest displays of fostering a lasting legacy hangs in the church; that of the stain-glassed windows. As I mentioned previously, he lived frugal and saved many hard-earned dollars so that his family and those within his sphere of influence would not have to go without. In his nineties, it was painfully evident that the church windows would not remain unless a major restoration project took place. Many of you reading this can appreciate the beautiful hues and colors and patterns of stain-glassed windows. They are representative of a craftsmanship and an art that has not remained.

In the United States, there are more bars than churches. Sad, but true. Sure, my opinion may be skewed by the fact just reported that I am a Christian; but I feel sure many of the founding fathers would also shake their heads at the glaringly obvious changes that have taken place. The pledge of allegiance is not recited in most of our schools. Prayer in schools and even public places is more than just frowned upon; to some, it is prohibited. What happened to "freedom of religion" anyway?

Let my rant stop, and my focus regained.

My grandfather left a legacy that will remain. Not just with me and my mother, aunt, uncles, cousins and my nieces and nephews; but also those around him. It is not the money that has transferred, not the home that his grandfather built that my brother owns, not the giant maple that is in the front yard and not the gifts he bestowed upon others.

It is much more.

Psalms 37:28 reads, "For the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. Wrongdoers will be completely destroyed; the offspring of the wicked will perish.

Let's also look at Romans 2:6 written by Paul. "God "will repay each person according to what they have done."

When I think about my grandfather, I have heartfelt feelings, at my very core, that I will always be blessed. He was faithful. He was kind. He did for others before himself. He submitted to the will and direction of God the Father. This alone gives me a feeling of stability. Because he was faithful, I have faith that I will always have my basic needs met. His faithfulness, becomes the legacy that is left behind.

The best part:  I see the blessings each day. He did right by us, and forever we will be blessed by his blessings. He prayed, he followed, he led and we are the ones who will on earth and in heaven benefit.

Righteousness: Part V

While righteousness itself is not mentioned in the 9 qualities listed within the "fruits of the Spirit," it can be reached by one or a combination of some. Remember the "sum of the parts" theory?

In Romans 1: 17 we found, "The righteous will live by faith," and in Proverbs 21:21, "Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor." Faith, gentleness and love are presented as things that can be obtained, again, by someone who pursues righteousness in 1 Timothy 6:11. To me, I can see a pattern forming in just the few verses we have covered in this chapter.

It seems prudent to me to share the definition of pursue, so let's go back to our trusty dictionary. Looking at two parts from the Oxford English Dictionary we find the following:  1) to follow or chase (someone or something), and 2) to continue or proceed along (a path or route.)

These two definitions, in combination once again, become extremely powerful when pursuing righteousness. Think of it like this; God wants us to chase him. Using the "fruits of the Spirit," independently and together in some cases, gives us the continuation; the process of "moving along," in our walk with God. Like anything else, we want to strive for perfection. All things aside, no one is perfect. There was only one blameless and perfect person who gracefully walked this earth. Jesus Christ. It is our pursuit, however, the process toward using the appropriate tools that He has equipped us with, and striving harder each day in those that do not necessarily come easy or natural to us, that God is interested in.

The great author Malcolm Gladwell said that it takes ten-thousand hours to become an expert in your craft. Be it playing the violin, designing buildings as an architect, or in my case, writing. I probably will not spend ten thousand hours penning this book, but it is the combination of my experience since becoming serious to my craft back in 2006, that accounts for the hours required to make me proficient. At least more experienced than some, who have spent one-thousand hours. To become a subject-matter-expert (SME) in any field requires time and hard work.

Back to our "fruits."

In speaking about the idea of the "pursuit of perfection," Paul writes in the second sentence of Galatians 2:2, "I wanted to be sure I was not running and had not been running my race in vain." Paul constantly evaluated his purpose with a keen eye. He not only wanted to follow Jesus and His command to spread the Gospel story; he wanted to proceed, continually, until his mission was complete.

A good example is when he returned to Jerusalem after fourteen years. In the first sentence of verse two Paul says, "I went in response to a revelation and, meeting privately with those esteemed as leaders, I presented to them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles." This verse precedes the second above, and is the entirety of Galatians 2:2.

While we will never reach the blameless and sinful walk that Jesus exemplified, the pursuit of perfection is what we wants to see. Are you reading the Bible each day? Are you building strong and uplifting relationships with those in your community? Are you learning from other Christians. And are you sharing your story with those that you can make a meaningful impact in their growth and development?

At the end of the Gospel of Matthew we find verses 16-20 which embody, succinctly, the command known as the "Great Commission." It can truly be summed up in verse 19. We read in Matthew 28:19, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

These verses follow Jesus's Judas betraying Jesus, the Last Supper, His arrest, Jesus's judgement before the Sanhedrin for supposed blasphemy, Peter denying Jesus 3 times, His crucifixion and death on a cross, His burial and His resurrection.

The point I am making is that pursuing Jesus, using the principles laid out in the "fruits of the Spirit," will draw us closer to Him. It is not about claiming Him, it is about having and developing a relationship. It is about growth. It is about community. And it is about evangelism.

We can find the tools in our proverbial "tool box." The proverbial arrows in our quiver." Some we will simply have to sharpen; while others we will have to study and put into action to develop. Our God is an on time God. He will submit to, and bring to us His presence at the exact moment, and at the exact time that we need him.

Start with reading the Bible. Move on to your "community of faith." Develop and hone your God-given skills and abilities. Define your mission. Go to the people; the masses.

Start small. As we "win" at the mile-markers in our race, He will grow and develop us to reach the next. Think of your "race" as stepping stones. Some will be smaller to climb, others larger. Having faith in the process, waiting on God's instruction and following through with evangelism will allow you to reach "higher highs." A great friend once told me that God will repeatedly show us the lessons that we need to learn until we learn them. We will be frustrated somewhat, as we learn. It is that faith in the process that will foster growth.

You may start by studying the "fruits of the Spirit." Each of these principles, independently, or in combination, will help you grow. Call on God first for guidance. He is our ultimate authority and our ultimate teacher.

He will make the roadblocks smaller and smaller as we learn until we can hurdle them and go onto the next in our race.

Righteousness: Part IV

Yesterday I mentioned that we would talk about the "fruits of the Spirit." Many of you have either heard this verse, read it, or both. It is also found in Galatians. Let's have a look.

Galatians 5:22-23 reads, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things, there is no law."

There are plenty of verses that coincide and run parallel to this verse. Again, one of the most known is the following from John 15:5. "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."

Look at Ephesians 5:8-13. "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible - and everything that becomes illuminated becomes a light.

In this passage, in parentheses, Paul makes a reference to the qualities that one can embody from the "fruit of the light." That is, ones whose eyes have been opened. The transformation from "darkness to light" when accepting the Father and becoming a Christian. Goodness. Righteousness. Truth.

Just 2 verses further, we read, "Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is." Galatians 5:15-17

Before we can display the actions and attitude of righteousness, much is required. Not impossible, but a change in a former mindset, and strong working knowledge of the inner working parts in the Bible is a must.

It may seem that John 15:5 could be thought to be "all encompassing," but that would not be the case. Righteous behavior requires a heightened and thorough understanding. John 15:5 is an excellent place to start; however. It can be a foundational building-block. Christians must have a desire to dig deeper, delve in, gain knowledge and perspective toward the goal of becoming an evangelist. I pray that I am promoting and providing a text worthy to put "arrows in your quiver" for God.

Righteousness may be defined as being "morally justifiable" or "acting in accord with divine law," but again, I make the case that it is much more.

In the corporate world there is a saying. The whole is worth less than the sum of the parts. This reference can be easily explained by providing an example using the company General Electric. While in recent years they have sold some of their "business units," I can remember a time when the company had twelve separate and independently operating businesses. GE Finance. GE Avionics. GE Power. You get the idea.

In the finance world, it is a general practice for someone covering the company as an analyst to determine the worth of the company not solely based on the totality of corporation, but also by placing a value on the independent entities. In this way, adding the sum of each business, under the lens of what another company might acquire an individual "business unit;" more often than not (with respect to private valuation) becomes a figure larger than just the number of shares outstanding, multiplied by the cost per share on the open market. This figure is derived based on what each separate business would be worth in a private acquisition by another company; hence, the sum of the parts being worth more than the whole.

The "fruits of the Spirit" are not governed by law. They are each independent in their own right. Love. Joy. Peace. Forbearance. Kindness. Goodness. Faithfulness. Gentleness. And finally self-control.

All are independently important. All can be independently displayed. It is their value, separately, that makes the sum of the parts worth more than the whole. Try one of them today. Be cognizant and aware of how small acts of say, kindness, are received by others.

As Christians, it is important for others to see God in us. Doing so, and having our display recognized by others as such, will not only help others, but just as important it will help ourselves. Be humble in the idea that you also will reap the benefits. It will increase the faith within you; continuing on your journey to effectiveness in your growth and walk with God.

We will continue to examine these individual parts in the next few subsections. That being said, start today by exhibiting just one, and be amazed by where it will take you in your relationship with others.

Most all of us have been to a wedding. We have heard 1 Corinthians 13:3. This is your reference point for the "fruits of the Spirit to become evident, properly displayed and received by others.

Be reminded, "If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love I gain nothing."

Follow down to the first sentence in verse 8:  "Love never fails."

Class dismissed. 

Righteousness: Part III

This morning I wondered how many times the word righteousness appears in the Bible. With the friend of nearly all these days; Google, and an article written by J. Hampton Keathley III, I found my answer rather quickly.

The word righteousness alone appears thirty-four times. In it's different definitional forms; including righteous and the actions of being morally justifiable, the numbers swells to sixty-four. Paul must have found the word itself, and its instruction thereof, critically important.

In Part I, I pointed out that it was mentioned in his final charge to Timothy. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

Just a few verses later in 2 Timothy 4:7-8, Paul says, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day - and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."

And just before, in his final charge at the end of his first letter to Timothy, we see "But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith," 1 Timothy 6:11-12.

What I gather from just these 3 verses, is that gaining righteousness requires persistence. It is not easily obtained. He charges Timothy to pursue and train. We also see that the crown of righteousness is an obtainable reward that we can someday lay at the feet of the righteous Judge, Jesus Christ.

Galatians is where to start if you want to study righteousness in depth. We also see many verses in Romans, highly regarded as his greatest work. Paul many times throughout his letters speaks about his heart for Rome.

Studying Galatians gives us a picture of two things:  a combination of Jews and Gentiles confused about the process to come to Christianity, and a people to struggled with the conversion based on a long, running belief in the Mosaic Law. Legalists are a hard bunch to covert.

Three verses in Galatians seem to provide and foundation and preview by Paul which could, and eventually would, provide for radical change among the people of Galatia.

Galatians 2:15-16 says, "We who are Jews by birth and not sinful Gentiles know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified."

Secondly, Galatians 3:10-14 recounts, "For all who rely on the works of the law are under a curse, as it is written:  "Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law." Clearly no one who relies on the law is justified before God, because "the righteous will live by faith." The law is not based on faith; on the contrary, it says, "The person who does these things will live by them."

Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written:  "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole." He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit."

And finally, in Galatians 5:13-18, we see a summary of our freedom from the law which can be directed to the Spirit, in light of what Christ did on the cross; and then live by faith, accessing the power of the Holy Spirit.

It says, "You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge in the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command:  "Love your neighbor as yourself." If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.

"So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law."

In these 3 verses, we see small steps required to be righteous, or displaying an air of righteousness in our acts and deeds among one another. A basic requirement - of course - is that we must believe in Christ Jesus, becoming Christians. We can then be redeemed by the Book of the Law, given to Abraham, accepting Jesus's death on the cross as substitution for our freedom. Finding life through faith in Christ allows us to harness that freedom, allowing us the opportunity to find righteousness with the help and assistance of the Holy Spirit.

We'll continue our study on righteousness by examining the "fruits of the Spirit," as a guide and guardrails for righteous works; not under the law, but gaining perspective for following the lead of Paul and Christ in our daily lives.

Righteousness: Part II

Yesterday we began our study of the word righteousness. We started with some basic definitions from the Oxford and Merriam-Webster dictionaries. We dug deeper in scripture and found connected words - words like faith, justifiable, morality and love. What I want to offer today is some examples of people and actions in the Bible that were credited by others as righteous.

So the question becomes, "Who in the Bible was righteous?"

In a similar period of prophetic ministry like Paul - just over twenty years- we find Ezekiel. He was tasked with providing perspective in the form of warnings, so that the people of Babylon might turn to obedience and worship in God.

He writes in chapter 14:12-14, concerning the coming destruction in Jerusalem, "The word of the Lord came to me:  "Son of man, if a country sins against me by being unfaithful and I stretch out my hand against it to cut off its food supply and send famine upon it and kill its people and their animals, even if these three men - Noah, Daniel and Job - were in it, they could save only themselves by their righteousness, declares the Sovereign Lord." "

These are some very strong words. And in this example, we find three men that were credited, by God, for being righteous.

In Genesis, God made a covenant with Noah. Those who believe in this passage of scripture can even see the resemblance, and believe, every time we see a rainbow in the sky.

Genesis 9:12-17 says, "And God said, "This is sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come:  I have set a rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and a rainbow appears in the clouds, I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. Whenever a rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on earth."

So God said to Noah, "This is the sign of the covenant I have established between me and all life on earth."

I find it highly improbable, without coincidence in particular, that the word everlasting is used in verse 16. The fact that God uses the word everlasting when speaking to Noah, is irrefutable truth that God reigns. The Lord promised; and He keeps his promises.

When thinking of Daniel, the story that resonates in the minds of most is his interpretation of the dream had by Nebuchadnezzar. Nebuchadnezzar was the king of Babylon. He had dreams that troubled him greatly. He called on astrologers, enchanters, magicians and sorcerers. None of these were equipped to interpret his dream. But there was one, Daniel; who was able.

Unlike the king, Daniel called upon the Lord for wisdom and guidance.

Daniel 2:19-23 reflects his faith in God.

"During the night the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised God and said, "Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him. I thank you and praise you, God of my ancestors:  You have given me wisdom and power, you have made known to me what we asked of you, you have made known to us the dream of the king." "

Daniel did not summon astrologers, enchanters, magicians or sorcerers as his advisors. He instead, rather appropriately, called on Almighty God for guidance and direction. His request was specific. Directed toward one God, and God fulfilled his request.

Have you ever heard of the Stone Age, Bronze Age or Iron Age? My first thought is a resounding, "Yes." You were most likely taught about these periods in your high school history class. A look in Daniel 2 provides a direct prophecy, fulfilled thousands of years later, of those periods in time. What we need to be reminded of, and remember, is that it was prophesied, and the prophesy in approximately 600 BC, was known by Daniel.

Daniel's interpretation of the dream of the king, is found in Daniel 2:27-45. He remained righteous in his faith, and in his actions, and would be rewarded by the Father.

Daniel 12:8-13 affirms the outcome.

"I heard, but I did not understand. So I asked, "My lord, what will the outcome of all this be?"

He replied, "Go your way, Daniel, because the words are rolled up and sealed until the time of the end. Many will be purified, made spotless and refined, but the wicked will continue to be wicked. None of the wicked will understand, but those who are wise will understand.

"From the time that the daily sacrifice is abolished and the abomination that causes desolation is set up, there will be 1,290 days. Blessed is the one who waits for and reaches the end of 1,335 days.

"As for you, go your way till the end. You will rest, and then at the end of days you will rise to receive your allotted inheritance."

How about Job?

Job is a unique example in the Bible. In the book of Job, the Lord allows the devil to test Job's faith. Job 1:8 says, "Then the Lord said to Satan, "Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil." " 

A messenger comes to Job to tell him that all of his oxen and donkeys have been stolen and his servants slaughtered. Another comes immediately after saying his sheep and servants were burned from a blaze of fire. Still another comes at the same time to report that his camels were taken and his servants, "put to the sword" in Job 1:17.

Finally, it is reported that, "Your sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother's house, when suddenly a mighty wind swept in from the desert and struck the four corners of the house. It collapsed on them and they are dead, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you! ," in Job 1:18-19.

This was all done by Satan, whom the Lord allowed to test his righteousness, character and faith. But Job, even through suffering, pain, the loss of his livelihood and even his sons and daughters; may have cried out in misery and anger, but he did not waiver in his faith in the Lord.

In Job 29:14, he says, "I put on my righteousness as clothing; justice was my robe and my turban."

What we can learn through the examples in the book of Job, is that suffering will undoubtedly come. We may be tested, we will be disciplined; but it is our job to call on the Lord, remaining faithful.

So what can we learn from the examples of Biblical righteous men?

Rulers will rule, and perhaps even prosper, for a time. Power is not for those who will use it in unjust ways.

All of the advisors in the world will remain ineffective, if their guidance is not found in the principles of God.

Look no further than Daniel 12:3. "Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever."

Righteousness: Part I

This chapter will not be an easy chapter to pen.

Righteousness, even in the Christian circle, seems to me a word that can easily, and in many ways be misconstrued. Defined incorrectly. Used wrongly. Without perspective, and a concrete Biblical foundation and understanding; applied in a manner such as Jesus and the apostles actions would properly provide an example, we will miss our mark.

The Oxford dictionary defines righteousness as "the quality of being morally right or justifiable." Merriam Webster defines the word this way - "acting in accord with divine or moral law."

Immorality runs rampant around the world. However, every culture seems to have a different set of rules, and therefore structure, for what is to be called, immoral. Sadly, immorality is sensationalized on every form of media in the United States. It's "a breaking news" or "top story" when politicians are found to be, or caught in the act of having an extramarital affair. We then see this same behavior portrayed on television shows. The mantra seems to be, "it happens, so it must be apart of our show to make it real."

Why would we want to continually validate behaviors that are not righteous?

In the next six subsections, I hope to provide focus, Biblically; a foundation, proper definition and exemplary examples; justifiable, for applying behaviors of righteousness.

Let's start with a Biblical definition.

Paul writes in his letter to the Romans, "For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed - a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written:  "The righteous will live by faith" ," Romans 1:17.

In Proverbs 21:21 we find, "Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor."

And Paul writes in 1 Timothy 6:11, "But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness."

I see a few words that appear twice in these 3 verses that will help us form a cornerstone:  faith and love.

Paul's letters were written for his vast love in God's people, and to reach God's people. When his letters are read, we can also undoubtedly determine that Paul was a man of great faith. He had a life-altering change in his thinking toward why Jesus had come. He saw such an opposite belief by God's people, openly admitting that his original thinking was errant, that he took immediate action. He wasted not another second or another breath. And for the next twenty-plus years, he preached the gospel, unabashedly, "running his race" for Christ.

While I feel certain that we will find connected and supporting principles to add to faith and love over the next few days, let's start with faith and love, using them as a foundation.

I like to think of Proverbs as a book that provides "mini-principles." Short verses. We can easily find one each day that we can apply to our lives. Look back to Proverbs 21:21. "Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor."

I feel sure that David was writing this verse with a "vertical," or heavenly mindset. At the same time, I also believe that it directly applies to our daily lives on earth. We are promised life, prosperity and honor. To accomplish this, we are called to act in a righteous manner, with love. The equation could be read and understood, numerically, as 1+1 = 3.

In his view, love is an essential component to righteousness.

The following is recorded in John 13:34-35. Jesus said, "A new command I give you:  Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

Having love for Jesus, and God's people; and treating each of these relationship with love, will promote and provide to us, the ability to act and walk in a manner of righteousness.

Faith is also an essential component. Remember Romans 1:17. "The righteous will live by faith." Paul strongly encouraged Timothy to pursue righteousness, faith and love in his first letter to him, found in 1 Timothy 6:11.

We know that Paul had a strong faith, and that his love for Jesus was representative of his charge to reach the people for God by spreading the gospel story. He penned every letter with love; under the direction of his faith in Christ, and with a humble an righteous attitude; displayed by his actions on a daily basis. He was going to "run a good race."

Going back to our Oxford Dictionary definition, righteousness should be morally right, or justifiable. I would suggest that instead of "or," we must be both to be righteous in the eyes of God.

I'll leave you today with 3 verses; 2 from Psalms and 1 from Matthew:

"For the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. Wrongdoers will be completely destroyed; the offspring of the wicked will perish. The righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever." Psalms 37:28-29

"A person may think their own ways are right, but the Lord weighs the heart." Proverbs 21:2

"Surely the righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever." Psalms 112:6

Begin with a "vertical" mindset. Have an understanding that faith and love will serve as guardrails in your search for righteous behavior. You will gain "life, prosperity and honor," Psalms 21:21. Try it today. Incorporate the following components to guide your steps, words and actions.

The promises for righteousness are vast and wide.

"You are loved, and you are sent;" credit fully given to Pastor Bruce Frank for those words.

Perseverance: Wrap-Up

We covered quite a bit of ground on this principle.

The equation laid out forms a basis and foundation for focus once we have a clear definition for how God will use us complete His mission, through us:

Faith + Belief + Opposition-resistance + No Doubt + an Unwavering Commitment

I challenged you and I to look at Paul's ministry as a strong representation of the principle of perseverance. And while the equation may seem easy enough to employ, the is an opposing force in the devil that with devise a plan and scheme meant to derail our deployment. Keep in mind, though, a strong and personal relationship with Jesus Christ is a requirement for any of the moving parts, and especially the sum of the parts, to work for you. Let's revisit the key points and verses so we can take the straight and narrow road.

In Part I we covered faith. We saw in Acts 18-9-11 how a connection to Christ is imperative. "One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision:  "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city. So Paul stayed in Corinth for a year and a half, teaching them the word of God."

Even a quick study on Paul reveals how many times he was threatened with beatings, kidnapping, prison, stoning and death because of his faith in his mission, spreading the gospel and good news about Christ. Paul had faith in taking on the "mindset of Christ," Philippians 2:5-8. He paid strict attention to visions revealed to him, and this added clarity, strength and validation along his path.

Realizing that God's purpose is divine, following his instructions by taking a leadership position in His army requires humility and righteousness; allowing others to see Christ in us. Having faith in our mission is a critical component to our success.

In Part II, I covered belief. While the question of "the chicken or the egg" evolutionary theory may seem to apply, it is the combination of the two that make faith and belief incredibly powerful. In Acts 14:8-10 we see how God worked through Paul, allowing him to perform miracles. And people believed. It says, "In Lystra there sat a man who was lame. He had been that way since birth and had never walked. He listened to Paul as he was speaking. Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed and called out, "Stand up on your feet!" At that, the man jumped up and began to walk." This man saw that Paul had faith and belief in what he was speaking, and therefore God used His power, through Paul's words, to heal this man in Lystra.

The story of the gospel begins in Genesis; literally meaning, "the beginning." Abraham believed in God, as we see in Genesis and recounted in Romans 4:3. "What does scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him in righteousness." This stuff just doesn't happen. How was an impotent man at ninety, and a barren woman in Sarah father nations? Only by the belief, grace and will of God to be fulfilled.

If we have an unshakable faith and belief in God, anything is possible.

In Part III, I cover opposition-resistance. We will be met with this. It is like riders of motorcycles who will have an accident at some point in their "riding career." They can be careful, but the bike and the road will eventually conquer. It is not "if," it is "when."

Turn to Romans 8:31-32. "What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own son, but gave him up for us all - how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?"

Our mission was and is predestined. It is concrete. It will "be done." We can count on God's grace to "see us through," giving glory to God by pressing on against opposition. It is critical to employ the power of the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:16-18 reads, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law."

Opposing forces will always remain. It is our job to resist them, having faith and belief in God's direction and promises. His guidance is good and true. He will conquer.

Part IV:  Have No Doubt! If we can resist opposition, we can be as bold as Paul was, as we preach the gospel story. A requirement, here, is "rooting" ourselves in our belief system. Like giant Redwood trees in the California forest, the roots are longer, stronger and wider than the gargantuan and massive structures that we see above ground. Being rooted below the surface, having the heart of Jesus, will allow the outside physical structure of our bodies to display God's love for others. These roots will become transparent in our outward representation of Christ for others.

Opposition will remain. Staying focused, and deploying a strong and effective resistance, calling on the Holy Spirit to intercede, will make the journey possible to conquer; undoubtedly.

Part V introduces the idea of having an Unwavering Commitment. This takes hard work! How can we make our charge strong? As the turtle "wins the race," a slow and steady approach is necessary along with having an emotional connection, being "attached at the hip," along our daily walk.

Jesus said in His last breath, "It is finished." Paul encourages us in Romans 12:1-2 to "offer our bodies as a living sacrifice," so that we may be "good, pleasing and perfect" while performing the will of God.

It is not humanly possible to gracefully deploy the will of God in the same way that Jesus did. We are sinners. And therefore scarred. Our approach, if we have an unwavering commitment will still conquer. We will be effective. We will "run the good race." And we will finish. It should be our desire to be able to lay the incontestable crowns at the foot of God. God will provide the skills and abilities necessary to do so, but an unwavering commitment in fulfilling His purpose is required.

 Others will be introduced along the way to aid us. We can not do it alone, but in the communal body of Christians in your sphere of influence, it is possible. Many times I have heard that it is the "New Christians" that can be as prominent in their influence as our elders and more mature Christians are. As young believers, they are "Men on Fire."

Remember the "Omni's?" God is omnipotent. God is omnipresent. God is omniscient. All powerful. All present. All knowing. Having God as our partner on our parallel journey will allow us to prevail. Our commitment must not waiver, however, if we want to finish well.

"At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was delivered from the lion's mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory for ever and ever. Amen." - 2 Timothy 4:16-18

It was Easter morning when I wrote Part V. God will ask us to continually define and refine our work. It will not be easy to have an attitude that puts on display an unwavering commitment. But as I noted in the work of "Footprints," mentioned in Part VI; it is God who will carry us when we are not strong enough to walk on our own.

In Part VI, I mention that our mission will be "all for not," as Paul said, if we do not gain Christ. I used three verses from two chapters in Matthew to illustrate my running theme of perspective. Having perspective does not mean applying your own interpretation of scripture. It is the "infallible Word of God," and must be taken with strict understanding in it's instruction. However, our perspective will change as we grow in our faith, belief and unwavering commitment to God's mission for us; resisting opposition that will certainly come.

I used a class I had in college as an example. We can put on the "glasses of Christ." As we come back to our instruction manual (the Bible), time and time again God will reveal something different that will be both evident and paramount in a different way each time, that will be exactly what we need; at that exact moment in time, providing us with the exact "arrow from our quiver" to hit our target. Every time!

Realize that God is carrying you when you can go no further. Have and develop faith. Develop a belief system that is rooted in Biblical principle; gaining knowledge. Find effective ways to resist opposition, as it will invariably come. Stay committed. As a captain is on a boat in the sea, make your commitment to the journey, reaching the "home of God," with an attitude that is unwavering.

We cannot "finish our race" with the same grace that Jesus was able to. That possibility ended in the Garden of Eden. But if we have faith, believe, resist opposition, commit to our mission in a manner worthy of being called, "unwavering," we will win! It is not our battle to win. It has already been predestined. It began to be fulfilled the day Jesus said, "It is finished." Winning is not an option, it is a certainty!

The foundation has already been laid for us to persevere Therefore, we should not be wary of the twists and turns along our road; rather we can be confident that we will "reach the finish line," for God.