1 Corinthians 1:18 For the word of the cross is to those who are perishing foolishness, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. (NAS)
The cross is definitely a defining line. The work of Christ on the cross was the complete redemption of mankind. If you are a believer in Jesus and His death, burial and resurrection then you will understand what the verse means when it says, “but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” It would seem foolishness to a person who rejects the cross as the way of salvation. The dividing line is faith in the person of Jesus and His death on the cross.
Maybe you have felt a need to find meaning in life beyond anything you could imagine. It requires death. It means death to yourself and acceptance of life in Christ. What a great trade. It is easy to understand why it would seem foolish to you who have rejected Jesus. But if you have trusted Him then you know the power of God over sin, self, and the world. Praise God for opportunity to live through the cross.
I hope you find purpose for your life today as you grow in Christ. May God bless you as your spiritual life prospers in Jesus.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Harmony and Peace #80
Romans 14:19 So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.
Paul states that differences of opinions existed in the Roman church concerning food that has been offered to idols and then eaten. He reminds the Roman church that not everyone’s opinions are the same. He concludes that harmony, peace and the building up one another is more important than your personal opinions or preferences. Sometimes it is necessary to yield your personal preferences for the sake of others.
No one was any more adamant about your freedom in Christ than was the Apostle Paul. He often speaks of the freedom to live life without the restraints of the Law. His belief is that through God’s grace you have been set free through the blood of Christ. Yet your freedom should never cause a brother or sister to stumble in their faith. Don’t allow your freedoms to harm another believer.
Aim high! Work at harmony, peace and the building up of one another.
I hope you find purpose for your life today as you grow in Christ. May God bless you as your spiritual life prospers in Jesus.
Paul states that differences of opinions existed in the Roman church concerning food that has been offered to idols and then eaten. He reminds the Roman church that not everyone’s opinions are the same. He concludes that harmony, peace and the building up one another is more important than your personal opinions or preferences. Sometimes it is necessary to yield your personal preferences for the sake of others.
No one was any more adamant about your freedom in Christ than was the Apostle Paul. He often speaks of the freedom to live life without the restraints of the Law. His belief is that through God’s grace you have been set free through the blood of Christ. Yet your freedom should never cause a brother or sister to stumble in their faith. Don’t allow your freedoms to harm another believer.
Aim high! Work at harmony, peace and the building up of one another.
I hope you find purpose for your life today as you grow in Christ. May God bless you as your spiritual life prospers in Jesus.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
I Stand Amazed! #79
Acts 12:12-16
12 And when he realized this, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John who was also called Mark, where many were gathered together and were praying.
13 And when he knocked at the door of the gate, a servant-girl named Rhoda came to answer.
14 And when she recognized Peter's voice, because of her joy she did not open the gate, but ran in and announced that Peter was standing in front of the gate.
15 And they said to her, "You are out of your mind!" But she kept insisting that it was so. And they kept saying, "It is his angel."
16 But Peter continued knocking; and when they had opened the door, they saw him and were amazed. (NAS)
Ever have an answer to prayer and then discover you were totally amazed that it was answered? Strange how you said you had faith and then when the answer to your prayer came you were amazed at the outcome. The early church was in the same situation. They prayed for the release of Peter from jail and yet when he appeared at the home where they were meeting they determined it must be his angel.
On the surface that seems like a major lack of faith. Amazement to answered prayer is more than likely your response also. Maybe because of lack of faith you are amazed. More than likely it is the realization you are in the presence of a God who answers prayer. Amazement is your only true response. Stand amazed at His answer to prayer and in His presence.
I hope you find purpose for your life today as you grow in Christ.
May God bless you as your spiritual life prospers in Jesus.
12 And when he realized this, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John who was also called Mark, where many were gathered together and were praying.
13 And when he knocked at the door of the gate, a servant-girl named Rhoda came to answer.
14 And when she recognized Peter's voice, because of her joy she did not open the gate, but ran in and announced that Peter was standing in front of the gate.
15 And they said to her, "You are out of your mind!" But she kept insisting that it was so. And they kept saying, "It is his angel."
16 But Peter continued knocking; and when they had opened the door, they saw him and were amazed. (NAS)
Ever have an answer to prayer and then discover you were totally amazed that it was answered? Strange how you said you had faith and then when the answer to your prayer came you were amazed at the outcome. The early church was in the same situation. They prayed for the release of Peter from jail and yet when he appeared at the home where they were meeting they determined it must be his angel.
On the surface that seems like a major lack of faith. Amazement to answered prayer is more than likely your response also. Maybe because of lack of faith you are amazed. More than likely it is the realization you are in the presence of a God who answers prayer. Amazement is your only true response. Stand amazed at His answer to prayer and in His presence.
I hope you find purpose for your life today as you grow in Christ.
May God bless you as your spiritual life prospers in Jesus.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Can't Keep Quiet #78
Acts 4:19-20 But Peter and John answered and said to them, "Whether it is right in the sight of God to give heed to you rather than to God, you be the judge;for we cannot stop speaking what we have seen and heard." (NAS)
Peter never seemed to struggle for words. Often he stuck his foot in his mouth. But on this occasion he was speaking from the heart about a heart conviction. Do you have heart convictions; things you believe that nothing can change your mind, your response, or your words. Peter and John had just experienced the healing of a lame man at the gate of the temple. They were reprimanded and told to never speak in the name of Jesus again.
Peter’s boldness in face of the religious leaders of the day was simply, “I cannot keep from speaking what I have seen and heard.” Could your own boldness use an energizing of the work of God? It appears that when God is at work in your life and you see Him accomplishing His will that it becomes easier for you say something. Have you ever said, “I just don’t know what to say.” Maybe the issue is you haven’t seen God’s hand in your life for a while. Why not look around and see what God is doing and what He would like to do if you would just trust Him.
Peter and John saw God at work in healing the lame man and refused to keep their mouths shut.
I hope you find purpose for your life today as you grow in Christ.
May God bless you as your spiritual life prospers in Jesus.
___________________________Today's Personal Note From Dennis
Greetings in the Name of Jesus!
It is such a joy to write to you this week. God continues to bless. The Christmas and New Years' holidays were just great. Last Sunday I had the privilege of preaching at Church on Mill. It was the first time I had preached in many months. What a joy for me. The sermon is abailable on line at http://www.churchonmill.com/ and then check sermons. It is a quick download "Learning That Gratitude Is A Great Stress Reliever".
Sandy and I are planning to do our first mission project beginning on January 14th. It will be a 10 day trip with Campers on Mission in Quartzite, AZ at the First Baptist Church and at the Gem and Rock Show. Several hundred thousand people descend on Quartzite for the event. Our primary work will be street evangelism. Pray for us. We will be staying in our travel trailer. I cannot set it up so I will be dependent on people with Campers on Mission to help. What a great group.
I had CT scans and lab work done this week and will see the oncologist on the 13th. Pray for a good report. I would love to see all of you and tell you the wonderful things God is doing.
May He bless you in Christ.
Peter never seemed to struggle for words. Often he stuck his foot in his mouth. But on this occasion he was speaking from the heart about a heart conviction. Do you have heart convictions; things you believe that nothing can change your mind, your response, or your words. Peter and John had just experienced the healing of a lame man at the gate of the temple. They were reprimanded and told to never speak in the name of Jesus again.
Peter’s boldness in face of the religious leaders of the day was simply, “I cannot keep from speaking what I have seen and heard.” Could your own boldness use an energizing of the work of God? It appears that when God is at work in your life and you see Him accomplishing His will that it becomes easier for you say something. Have you ever said, “I just don’t know what to say.” Maybe the issue is you haven’t seen God’s hand in your life for a while. Why not look around and see what God is doing and what He would like to do if you would just trust Him.
Peter and John saw God at work in healing the lame man and refused to keep their mouths shut.
I hope you find purpose for your life today as you grow in Christ.
May God bless you as your spiritual life prospers in Jesus.
___________________________Today's Personal Note From Dennis
Greetings in the Name of Jesus!
It is such a joy to write to you this week. God continues to bless. The Christmas and New Years' holidays were just great. Last Sunday I had the privilege of preaching at Church on Mill. It was the first time I had preached in many months. What a joy for me. The sermon is abailable on line at http://www.churchonmill.com/ and then check sermons. It is a quick download "Learning That Gratitude Is A Great Stress Reliever".
Sandy and I are planning to do our first mission project beginning on January 14th. It will be a 10 day trip with Campers on Mission in Quartzite, AZ at the First Baptist Church and at the Gem and Rock Show. Several hundred thousand people descend on Quartzite for the event. Our primary work will be street evangelism. Pray for us. We will be staying in our travel trailer. I cannot set it up so I will be dependent on people with Campers on Mission to help. What a great group.
I had CT scans and lab work done this week and will see the oncologist on the 13th. Pray for a good report. I would love to see all of you and tell you the wonderful things God is doing.
May He bless you in Christ.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Be Grateful #77
Psalm 118:17 I shall not die, but live, and tell of the works of the LORD.(NAS)
David, the Psalmist, pens the words of Psalm 118 with words of encouragement. He is filled with the wonder of the Great God that he serves. The words are of gratitude for the mighty works of God in his life. He celebrates the mercy and grace of God. He rejoices in the victories over his enemies at the hand of God. He praises God for answers to prayer.
David recognizes that it was God who preserved his life even when death was ringing at the door. He found himself trusting in God who was on his side. He praises God for the hope of continued comfort and victory. He concludes with the decision that God would have him to speak of the wonderful works of God. He would be given life with a purpose.
Your life is no different. God has blessed you in so many ways. He has given you life in order that you might fulfill the purpose of telling of what God has done and is doing in your life. Be grateful and praise God for His mighty works. God is good. I hope you find purpose for your life today as you grow in Christ. May God bless you as your spiritual life prospers in Jesus.
_____________________________ Today's Personal Note from Dennis
Happy New Year!
I hope and pray this finds you with expectations for a very happy new year. I think in my case I will look forward and not spend too much time looking backward over 2009, except where I can learn from the experiences. God has certainly led me and my family and friends through a struggle during 2009. But He has brought us through. What a great God we serve.
Gratitude is such a stress reliever. As I thank God for lessons learned, struggles encountered, bonds with family and friends strengthened and renewed, love deepened with everyone, new friends developed between me and Doctors and Nurses, and emotions wavering like a yo yo I am reminded who is ultimately in charge. I am so grateful to the God of creation who is also the God of sustaining grace and providence. Praise Him.
I do hope during 2010 I have the chance to see many of you. Sandy and I are praying for increased strength and stamina and the ability to travel. It would be so good to sit down and share with you all that God has done in our lives since we last were together.
May God bless you in 2010 like no other year in your life. May you see the hand of God in everything and give thanks.
David, the Psalmist, pens the words of Psalm 118 with words of encouragement. He is filled with the wonder of the Great God that he serves. The words are of gratitude for the mighty works of God in his life. He celebrates the mercy and grace of God. He rejoices in the victories over his enemies at the hand of God. He praises God for answers to prayer.
David recognizes that it was God who preserved his life even when death was ringing at the door. He found himself trusting in God who was on his side. He praises God for the hope of continued comfort and victory. He concludes with the decision that God would have him to speak of the wonderful works of God. He would be given life with a purpose.
Your life is no different. God has blessed you in so many ways. He has given you life in order that you might fulfill the purpose of telling of what God has done and is doing in your life. Be grateful and praise God for His mighty works. God is good. I hope you find purpose for your life today as you grow in Christ. May God bless you as your spiritual life prospers in Jesus.
_____________________________ Today's Personal Note from Dennis
Happy New Year!
I hope and pray this finds you with expectations for a very happy new year. I think in my case I will look forward and not spend too much time looking backward over 2009, except where I can learn from the experiences. God has certainly led me and my family and friends through a struggle during 2009. But He has brought us through. What a great God we serve.
Gratitude is such a stress reliever. As I thank God for lessons learned, struggles encountered, bonds with family and friends strengthened and renewed, love deepened with everyone, new friends developed between me and Doctors and Nurses, and emotions wavering like a yo yo I am reminded who is ultimately in charge. I am so grateful to the God of creation who is also the God of sustaining grace and providence. Praise Him.
I do hope during 2010 I have the chance to see many of you. Sandy and I are praying for increased strength and stamina and the ability to travel. It would be so good to sit down and share with you all that God has done in our lives since we last were together.
May God bless you in 2010 like no other year in your life. May you see the hand of God in everything and give thanks.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Putting Christ First #76 and Merry Christmas
In Matthew 3:2 and 4:17 John the Baptist and Jesus are both attributed as having said: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." Christmas is about the establishment of the Kingdom of Heaven. It is about the Savior who was God in human flesh coming to earth to save you from your sins and establish His Kingdom in your life. Every Kingdom needs a King and Jesus is that King.Thus Matthew said:
Matthew 6:33-34 But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious for tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (NAS)
The reign of Christ in your life and to acknowledge His rule in your heart is to seek His kingdom first. Before all else in your life He must be first. Anytime that order is changed or transposed then you are not allowing His kingdom to be first. Your strength to not worry about tomorrow comes from the knowledge that Christ is in charge of your present and future; you are seeking His Kingdom first. Trouble in this life is inevitable, and each day has enough of its own. Commit to Christ the King at this Christmas and find the meaning of His kingdom’s rule over your life.
I hope you find purpose for your life today as you grow in Christ. May God bless you as your spiritual life prospers in Jesus.
_____________________________Today's Personal Note From Dennis
Merry Christmas! God bless you. I appreciate your prayers and concern during this past many months. God has blessed without measure. He truly is our LIFE.
As you celebrate the birth of our Savior remember how much He loves you.
Two pictures (attached) are especially meaningful for me. One was the 43rd anniversary celebration of our wedding. The other was taken this week. One day after the wedding anniversary picture was taken the Doctor told me I needed to call hospice. The Christmas picture celebrates not only Christmas, but the celebration of life. It is the life that Christ gives to us that brings joy to our hearts and smiles to our faces.
Sandy and I wish all of you not only Merry Christmas but a bright and joyous New Year.
God bless.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
What Do You WIsh For? #75
2 Corinthians 9:8
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed; (NAS)
At this Christmas season do you find yourself wishing you could give more gifts to you family and friends? If you had a bundle of money and untold resources would that abundance make it easier? Let me assure you that nothing is more abounding than the grace of God. God is able to make all grace abound to you.
The result of God’s grace, as always, is sufficiency. Not necessarily a bank roll or your own toy store or car dealership, but God’s sufficient grace. The grace of God is adequate to meet the intentions of God for you in everything. The objective of God’s grace is your ability to accomplish the good deeds, or works that God wants you to accomplish. Could it be that your ideas of adequate and sufficient are not necessarily God’s idea?
Could you have right now all you need to provide for every good deed? God does not expect more from you than His grace provides for you. And by the way that is sufficient. God bless you as you meet the needs of others through God’s grace.
I hope you find purpose for your life today as you grow in Christ. May God bless you as your spiritual life prospers in Jesus.
____________________________Today's personal note from Dennis
Merry Christmas!
Hope you are having a great holiday already. Most of the children will be out of school by Friday for a couple of weeks of "Winter Break." What ever happened to "Christmas Break"?
I pray that your church's Christmas services will tell the story of our wonderful Savior. So many of you have musicals both for children and adults. What a special time of the year.
Someone asked me last week what I was most looking forward to at Christmas this year. Without hesitancy I said, TO BE ALIVE. God has certainly blessed me with a new beginning. That allows the time to spend with friends and family and with our wonderful church families. Don't ever take that for granted. You are blessed.
For all of you back East and up North as we call anything east or north of AZ I would like to give you a brief weather report. 75 degrees today!!! I am looking out my office window where I can spot a tomato plant with a tomato ready to be picked. Sorry I just have to rub it in. I DO NOT LIKE COLD WEATHER!
God bless and have a very Merry Christmas.
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed; (NAS)
At this Christmas season do you find yourself wishing you could give more gifts to you family and friends? If you had a bundle of money and untold resources would that abundance make it easier? Let me assure you that nothing is more abounding than the grace of God. God is able to make all grace abound to you.
The result of God’s grace, as always, is sufficiency. Not necessarily a bank roll or your own toy store or car dealership, but God’s sufficient grace. The grace of God is adequate to meet the intentions of God for you in everything. The objective of God’s grace is your ability to accomplish the good deeds, or works that God wants you to accomplish. Could it be that your ideas of adequate and sufficient are not necessarily God’s idea?
Could you have right now all you need to provide for every good deed? God does not expect more from you than His grace provides for you. And by the way that is sufficient. God bless you as you meet the needs of others through God’s grace.
I hope you find purpose for your life today as you grow in Christ. May God bless you as your spiritual life prospers in Jesus.
____________________________Today's personal note from Dennis
Merry Christmas!
Hope you are having a great holiday already. Most of the children will be out of school by Friday for a couple of weeks of "Winter Break." What ever happened to "Christmas Break"?
I pray that your church's Christmas services will tell the story of our wonderful Savior. So many of you have musicals both for children and adults. What a special time of the year.
Someone asked me last week what I was most looking forward to at Christmas this year. Without hesitancy I said, TO BE ALIVE. God has certainly blessed me with a new beginning. That allows the time to spend with friends and family and with our wonderful church families. Don't ever take that for granted. You are blessed.
For all of you back East and up North as we call anything east or north of AZ I would like to give you a brief weather report. 75 degrees today!!! I am looking out my office window where I can spot a tomato plant with a tomato ready to be picked. Sorry I just have to rub it in. I DO NOT LIKE COLD WEATHER!
God bless and have a very Merry Christmas.
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