Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Preach the Gospel

Once again God has been faithful to reveal things that I need to work on. God calls us all to proclaim the Gospel (life, death, and resurrection of Jesus), however, this isn't always easy. Many times it can be awkward, it can contradict feelings, even bring persecution. No matter what it may bring God calls us to be faithful to preach and to stand firm in our message.

When we present the Gospel we are to be firm in what we believe, unwavering in our commitment to follow Him. We must be clear to those we minister to. We must leave no room for misunderstanding. First it's important to build a bridge in the conversation, a bridge from the physical to the spiritual. Once the bridge is built we must make it clear that people need to repent and get their hearts right with God. They must know that Jesus is the only God, the Only One who can save sinners, and that no one comes to the Father but through Him (John 14:6). They must make Jesus the Lord of all their life. Once people come to know the Lord we must provide follow through for them. They need a place to be plugged in so that they can grow in the Lord and not fall away from the faith.

I thank God for showing me the urgency in sharing the Gospel. I know I don't do it enough but I will push on to the high calling God has placed upon us all.

Sunday, July 5, 2009

Be Filled

Lately God has been teaching me the importance of being filled with His Holy Spirit. John 15:4-5 tells us that the one who abides in Jesus Christ bears much fruit but apart from Him we can do nothing. Also in Philippians 3:3 we see Paul telling those at Philippi that "we are the true circumcision, who worship in the Spirit of God and put no confidence in the flesh." Also in Ephesians 5:18-19 we are commanded to be filled or dominated with the Spirit.

I know for me it's easy to go through the week in my own strength. Living simply the physical life and going through the motions spiritually. Half-heartedly praying or reading my Bible not really thinking about what it means. However, this past week I have really been asking and seeking the Lord for His Holy Spirit. I've been finding out that as I diligently seek God and ask He obliges me. The results are astounding for we see in Galatians 5:22-23 that all good things come from the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control).

If you're reading this and you feel like your spiritual life has been dry lately I urge you to diligently ask God to fill you with the Holy Spirit. He says in Luke 11:9-13 that He will give the Holy Spirit to those who ask. Seek God about this and I know you will start to see a difference in your life.