Tag Archives: kingdom living

Losing Our Mind

July 26, 2022 ITWMinistries

Losing our Mind

In the 90’s there was a commercial that declared “a mind is a terrible thing to waste.” Its intent was to encourage the pursuit of higher education.

Unfortunately, a politician, hoping to win “kudos” and votes with potential constituents misquoted this saying resulting in the statement, “a mind is a terrible thing to lose.” That politician was not re-elected.

Mind management

In his letter to the church at Philippi, the Apostle Paul gives advice as to the best use of one’s mind. “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 2:5). In other words, we are to set aside our way of thinking and replace it with the same type of thinking as Jesus. And what is the results of doing this? Victorious living.

Victorious according to Webster is defined as having won a victory or characterized by victory. I’m not suggesting that our life will be perfect nor problem free. Our victory comes in the knowledge that Jesus has already overcome every situation we now face in our life (Heb. 4:15; 1 John 5:5). In Christ, we have everything we need to overcome the challenges of 21^st century living (2 Pet. 1:3-4, RSV).

His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, that through these you may escape from the corruption that is in the world because of passion and become partakers of the divine nature.

How do we obtain the mind of Christ?

To have a mind of Christ we must…

Be willing to exchange our position and our plans, for the purpose God has designed for our life. Christ willingly joined God in His plan of salvation for mankind (Eph. 1: 4-6).

Trust in God and believe that all things work together for good to those called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28).

Humble ourselves like Christ. Our intents and actions should seek “no personal reputation” nor gain (Phil. 2:6-8). Christ voluntarily set aside His privileges (“being in the form of God”) and accepted a lower status (“took on the form of a bondservant and made in the likeness of man”). Why? For us. That we might be released from the bonds of sin and have eternal life.

Our victory

Finally, to have the mind of Christ, we must be obedient. Obedience is the highest form of love. Because of our love for God, we must be willing to sacrifice our thoughts and actions to follow the instructions He has set before us (1 Sam. 15:22). Christ’s obedience was love of the highest caliber. Jesus was obedient even if it meant death by the worst possible punishment, death on the cross (Phil. 2:8).

Paul shares with the Philippians God’s reward for Jesus Christ’s “mind” (Phil. 2:9-10):

Therefore, God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Possessing the mind of Christ will empower us to “pull down strongholds and cast down obstacles that hold themselves up above the knowledge of God. We can do this by bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” (2 Cor. 10:4-5)

“A mind may be a terrible thing to lose” unless you replace it with the mind of Christ. There is an old axiom that states, “You can’t lose what you never had.” Read the Gospel account of the Madman of Gadarenes (Mark 5:1-19) and see how losing your mind can change your life.

Our Faith Walk

What I Learned in 2021

January 19, 2022 ITWMinistries 1 Comment

Where to Begin

In past years when I did this exercise, I would go to several sources for input. This includes my daily journal, and scripture memorization cards. They were reminders of the paths I walked with Jesus throughout the year.

My journal included my thoughts during my time of inquiry of the Lord. Bits and pieces of this and that: theologian quotes, bible study notes and miscellaneous thoughts about life and the world I live in. Topics that caught my attention, would later become personal studies, WordBytes or Morning Reflections.

My scripture memorization cards, with date recorded at the top, would remind me of how the Spirit renews my mind with God’s Word. His Word would prove to either strengthen my heart or tell again of God’s inexhaustible grace: grace that covers my human weakness and brokenness. It most often than not encouraged me to be more patient and longsuffering.

As I reviewed my information, I came to this realization. It is vital that believers continually develop a personal relationship with God. Not religion but relationship. It should be our goal to be “intimately connected” with the Lord.

Relationship with God

God has always desired to be in relationship with man. Adam was first to experience the joy and freedom of an intimate connection with God. Imagine daily walking and talking with God about the events of the day, your hopes, and fears, and hearing His plan for your life. Guess what? We can experience that in our life right now!

Today we, as believers in Christ, have continuous access to that same intimacy Adam experienced in the Garden but with even greater privilege. We have His Presence, through the Holy Spirit living within us (John 14:16-17).

As I read God’s Word, pray, and exercise the different spiritual disciplines, I become one with Him. Jesus invited His disciples to abide in Him (John 15:4). That invitation is extended to us today.

F.B. Meyer writes about the privilege of being one in Christ and the intimacy that comes with that relationship.

We must be one with Christ: we must be in Him as the sponge is in the ocean. We must be in Him, not only in our standing, but also in our daily walk. We must be in Him as the branch is in the vine and the vine-sap in the branch. This must not only be in theory, but an hourly experience.

My 2021 Epiphany

I became a Christian when I was nine-years old. I bought the “fire insurance” and knew I wasn’t going to hell. However, as I grew older, I still didn’t feel the connection I thought believers were supposed to have. Although I went to church weekly and served in various church functions, something was missing.

I was a carnal Christian until I was 40. Then something happened. I rededicated my life to Christ. No more “hooky pokey” Christian life for me. What happened? Why the change?

A student from my Senior High Sunday School class had chosen to become a minister. We were excited to welcome him back to his home church where he was to bring the Sunday morning message.

This was especially exciting for me in that, as a teenager, he hated to review the lesson on behalf of our class. He would grumble and groan and swear never to come back to Sunday School if I made him do it. He eventually agreed to my request.

In his morning sermon, he shared his personal witness of how his intimacy with God led him into ministry. It had nothing to do with my teaching or my coaxing him to review. He found what it meant to be IN RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS. It wasn’t religion. It was relationship.

That was it for me. My Sunday School student helped me understand what it meant to have a “personal relationship” with God. So even today I seek a deeper and closer relationship with Jesus. And every day with Jesus is “sweeter than the day before”.

Go deeper in 2022

Most interesting about my epiphany is that Jesus just recently revealed this memory to me. Why now? I don’t know. Maybe He felt it was time to share it with you.

Daily we have the opportunity to practice His presence as we daily address the challenges of 21^st century living. In God’s presence we experience His love, power, and wisdom. As we go deeper in our relationship with God, we can better understand His ways and see with spiritual eyes.

Let us deepen our trust in Him. When we do, we aren’t shaken by the latest news stories or the challenges we face in 2022 and beyond. We know whose in control!

As members of God’s family there is nothing that can separate us from His love. And we have the blessed assurance that our relationship with God will extend into and throughout eternity.

I invite you this year to go deeper in your relationship with God. Become “like the sponge in the ocean”. Live and abide in Him.

No extra reading this week so please share with us what you learned in 2021. Thanks for reading.

Advent/Christmas

A Better New Year’s Resolution, Part 1

December 28, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

It’s that time again

The Christmas holidays are winding down. Special parties and family celebrations will culminate with the ringing in of a new year. There is only one more thing to do. It’s time to make our New Year’s resolution.

Who created those things anyway? Whatever their origin, regardless of our success or our failure in their creation, resolutions are intended to set a better pattern for living our lives in the upcoming year. This may include new purpose that relate to our health, our finances, and even our relationships.

It is a time to reflect on what worked or what could have worked better. New Year’s resolutions give us an opportunity to put our best foot forward in the coming year. But this year, I’m taking a different approach.

This year, instead of being dependent on my resolution, I’m going to strengthen my connection with the One who can help me make more than a superficial change. I’m going to choose a better way (Phil. 3:8-10). I choose transformation that is only possible through Jesus Christ.

Why attempt to identify a “better way” when Jesus has provided us “the best way” (John 14:6). Through Christ we are new creatures indwelt by His Holy Spirit. The only thing we need to do is to embrace our identity. In Christ, we can do better everyday in the new year.

In search of a better way

The Book of Colossians records the letter from the Apostle Paul to the Church in Colosse. He was concerned with the reports he had received from a local evangelist, Epaphras, concerning the possible “encroaching heresy” threatening this predominately Gentile church. (Col. 1:21, 27; 2:13)

In their search to find the best way to live in their world, they were now considering a new religious system that combined elements from Greek speculation (Col. 2:4, 8-10), Jewish legalism (Col. 2:11-17), and Oriental mysticism (Col. 2:18-23).[1]

This threat to Christ’s church is still present even now, in 2021. It is called syncretism.

Syncretism is the combining of different beliefs and various schools of thought. Syncretism involves the merging or assimilation of several mythologies or religions, thus asserting an underlying unity and allowing for an inclusive approach to other faiths.[2]

A better way or led astray?

As Christians, we must be careful to avoid societal pressures to combine Christianity with “other things”. To do so can subtly lead us away from the basic tenets of our faith. Seeking to be “socially and politically correct”, we might be led to compromise or minimize God’s truth.

The nation of Israel fell prey to this practice (1 and 2 Kings). This practice resulted in idolatry, disobedience to God, and weakening of their faith. Take a look around. Do we see a similar thing happening in our world today?

Are you ready to change?

In Colossians 3:5-9, Paul admonishes these young believers to “put off” their old man. The old man represented the person they use to be before coming to Christ. That old man walked according to the influences of the world and the weakness of their human flesh (1 John 2:15-16).

The 21^st century has mastered the art of influence. Media (social and otherwise) tells us how we are to think and act. We invite them into our homes and offices. They are the uninvited passenger in our cars as we drive here and there. Marketing bombards us with messages on who we should be. They create great dissatisfaction with what we have, how we look, and what we know. (That’s how they keep us spending money). Social messaging keeps us “in our current state” by telling us what we can or can’t do. They remind us of our weaknesses and our vulnerabilities. So much so that we are fearful to move without their validation.

Old “dead man” walking

“Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction.” (Gal. 6:8a, NIV)

We must guard against the defiling touch of the world, of sin, and of the old self-life. We stand between two worlds, each solicits us: let us yield to the influences that pull us upward, and not to those that anchor us to this sinful and vain world. Our eternal blessedness has begun, let us walk in it. In Christ we profess to have put off the old man, i.e., the habits of our former life; now let us actually do so, in the power of the Holy Spirit.[3]

Even as Christians, we still tend to depend on our self-discipline, self-will, and self-motivation to live a sober, righteous, and godly life (Titus 2:11-14). Just like our New Year’s resolution. We try and try. But we usually fall off the wagon by Valentine’s Day. What we need is not a new syncretic way nor a more disciplined approach. We need transformation. We need to “put on the new man”.

[1] The Times of Colossians, The New Open Bible Study Edition.

[2] Wikipedia

[3] F.B. Meyers, Through the Bible Commentary, Colossians 3

Spiritual Maturity

Looking beyond what we can see

December 1, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Anatomy of the human eye

As we consider looking beyond what we can see, it might be helpful to review how we see physically.

The human eyes work very similarly to a camera. When you look at an object, the light it generates enters your eyes. The light first passes through the corneas, which begin focusing the light. It then passes through to the pupils. The size of the pupils changes to regulate the amount of light entering the eyes.

The light is then focused through the lenses and onto the retinas. The retina is a light-sensitive layer in the back of the eye that contains highly evolved cells called rods and cones. The retina then changes the image into electrical and chemical impulses, which are transmitted along the optic nerves and into the visual center of the brain. It is when the image reaches your brain that vision occurs.[1]

Man is a remarkable creation of God. He is made physically perfect for the lifetime God has designated for him (Ps. 90:10). However, as remarkable as Creation is, God’s work of salvation has resulted in our ability to see spiritually, the things we would normally overlook.

Seeing supernaturally

I love the Old Testament because of its value in capturing the wonders and works of God. As I prepared for this series, the scripture text that came quickly to mind was the account of the prophet Elisha in 2 Kings 6:8-23. This passage shares the incident in which the King of Syria, enemy of Israel, sent raiders to capture Elisha. You will enjoy reading the entire text as it shows the confidence of Elisha as he prepares to meet this great army that surrounded the city of Dothan.

2 Kings 6:15-17 is most relevant to our discussion on seeing with spiritual eyes. We may find the advice Elisha offered his servant relevant to us as we face the challenges of 21^st century living.

And when the servant of the man of God arose early and went out, there was an army, surrounding the city with horses and chariots. And his servant said to him, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?” So he answered, “Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” And Elisha prayed, and said, “LORD, I pray, open his eyes that he may see.” Then the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.

The chariots of fire that the servant saw were heavenly hosts primed to do battle with the Syrian army on behalf of Elisha. Elisha saw the heavenly army and recognized that there was no need to fear. He saw past the potential danger and saw God at work. After Elisha’s prayer, the servant, through God’s enablement, saw that the mountain was full of God’s presence. He looked beyond what he could see. He looked from God’s perspective.

Kingdom reality

Seeing with spiritual eyes begins with understanding who God is and our position in the Kingdom of God.

Broadly speaking, the kingdom of God is the rule of an eternal, sovereign God over all the universe. Every authority that exists has been established by God (Romans 13:1). So, in one sense, the kingdom of God incorporates everything that is. More narrowly, the kingdom of God is a spiritual rule over the hearts and lives of those who willingly submit to God’s authority.[2]

God is the Almighty Sovereign who manages the affairs of the world from heaven. Through His providential will, God orchestrates every event in our lives. Our position in Christ elevates us to God’s children and joint heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:16-17). We are the recipients of His promises, His privileges, and His presence (Eph. 1:3-5).

Kingdom reality does not deny the presence of sin and its outcomes on the world. We are sadly aware that we live in a fallen world. However, we know three things. First, Jesus Christ has overcome the world (John 16:33). Secondly, we are overcomers, too. (Rom. 8:37; 1 John 5:4). Finally, we know how history will end. WE WIN! (Rev. 21:1-8)

Looking beyond what we can see

Looking beyond what we can see allows us to “reframe” our experiences through the lens of kingdom reality. Closed doors are seen as God’s protection. Waiting is seen as God’s time of preparation—either of us or our desired end.

Seeing this way equips us to move forward in the midst of trouble versus being overwhelmed. We do not lose hope. Instead we look past what we see physically. We see God (2 Cor. 4: 17-18).

It’s not that we spiritualize everything that happens to us, but we truly believe what the Apostle Paul wrote in his letter to the church in Rome: “All things work together for the good of those who love the Lord who are called according to His purpose.” (Rom. 8:28)

Seeing with spiritual eyes is not “mystical” like a third eye. Nor is it “recreational” like fortune telling or a Ouija board. It is “relational”. Just as the light helps the physical eye to focus, so our focus on kingdom reality helps the spiritual eye to see from God’s perspective and power (Luke 1:37; Jer. 32:17,27). Just as the retina physically changes the image we see into sight, the Holy Spirit informs us as to what is truth and what is error (Acts 26:18). Bottom-line is this. Looking beyond what we can see is dependent on the Source of Light who is Jesus Christ. “In His light we see light” (Ps. 36:9)

[1] www.ceenta.com/

[2] Gotquestions.com, “The Kingdom of God”

Knowing God

Don’t get it twisted!

November 9, 2021 ITWMinistries 1 Comment

We love superheroes.

I love to watch movies about superheroes. Whether it’s Wonder Woman or Iron Man, I like to see them in action. They offer themselves unselfishly as they battle intruders from space, another dimension, or the giant mushroom that mutates into some incredible threat.

I am especially drawn to those who band together to save the world. The Marvel superheroes including the Avengers and the X-men hold my attention for hours. Every month it seems a new movie is released highlighting new superheroes who appear to save the world from some horrific ending. This month’s offering is The Eternals.

We often seek ways to escape the stress of everyday living. We retreat to a world where “superheroes” share our humanity yet possess mystical abilities to overcome the monsters that threaten the world. Unfortunately with superheroes, we must be careful not to believe their “hype”. It is important to keep reality separated from fantasy.

Health pandemics, economic uncertainties, and erosion of social consciousness leave us longing for someone to “fight our battles”. If we aren’t careful, we may be misled to believe that superheroes will appear to save the day. But “don’t get it twisted”. Translation: don’t mistake fantasy for reality. There are no superheroes. But there is, however and more importantly: The King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God. (1 Timothy 1:17)

Who is God?

To avoid getting it twisted, it is important that we first possess a correct understanding of who God is. This can be accomplished through learning about His attributes.

Attributes are a window through which we can think about who God is. God’s attributes are first introduced in the biblical record through His mighty act of Creation. Triune God banded together to create the world!

God ultimately reveals Himself through Jesus who was made, “a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death…that He might taste death for everyone” (Heb. 2:9). Jesus came to save the world from a horrific ending!

Understanding God is more than “head knowledge”. God desires that we have a personal relationship with Him. As we experience the challenges of 21^st century living, we learn more about who God is. Through His presence and His power, we learn to trust and depend on Him (Ps. 89:13).

Eugene H. Peterson writes in Practicing Resurrection, the importance of keeping our focus on the reality of God and His work in the life of the believer.

When we squander life on anything less than the God revealed in Jesus, and made present in the Spirit, we miss out on life itself, resurrection life, the life of Jesus.

Keeping it Real

Once we know who God is, it is then critical that we develop a Christian worldview. The term worldview is used to describe a core set of values and principles through which the world is understood. It is our reality.

Our worldview consists of our beliefs (what we view as true) and our values (what we view is good). Our worldview impacts every decision. It will ultimately determine our behavior (what we will do).

As Christians, our worldview is seen through Jesus’ eyes (John 14:6). It is the determining factor in all we do, how we live, and how we react to life. We form our worldview based on His life and teachings. It is the only way to navigate through this world.

Don’t get it twisted

When we know who God is and develop a Christian worldview, we are less likely to “get it twisted.”

God’s Word, His promises, and His Spirit help us keep it real. While we love superheroes we never are confused “where our help comes from” (Ps. 121:1-8). The King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God is our real Superhero.

Spiritual Maturity

Six Months to Live

July 6, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Six months to live?

What would you do if after your annual physical exam, the doctor shared the sobering fact that you have six months to live? This is not a scenario I would wish on anyone. However, in reality, we don’t know how much time we have left in our frail and finite lives (Ps. 90:10-12). It really could be six months, six days, or six years. So what’s my point?

We have passed the midpoint of 2021. Taken in a larger context, we have moved passed the events of 2020, with its losses and human volatility. BUT GOD has brought us safely to this point in time (Prov. 18:10).

And what will we do with the time that remains? What will we do with our next six months? Will we follow the purpose God has for our lives? Or will we live our life as if there is no tomorrow? Will we live each day with gratitude and intentionality?

Living with gratitude and intentionality

Gratitude is an emotion expressing appreciation and thankfulness for what one has. Regrettably, we often miss the mark in articulating gratitude. In the busyness of living, we take for granted those things God provides through His grace.

Intentionality is the fact of being deliberate or purposeful. Living with intention means that we consciously direct our thoughts, beliefs, and actions toward some object or situation. For believers, this object is Jesus and the Kingdom of God.

A second invitation to abundant living

Both gratitude and intentionality are key in moving us closer to the abundant life God has designed for each of our lives (Ep. 2:10; John 10:10).

As we examine our lives (with six months to live), it might be helpful to revisit the blessings God has for us when we practice gratitude and intentional living.

Abundant Living is a great reminder of God’s possibilities for the time He is giving us. What will we do with our next six months?

Spiritual Maturity

Are you a Truth Teller?

February 9, 2021 ITWMinistries

Are you a truth teller?

We (believers) define truth as the meaning and reality of life defined by God versus truth shaped by postmodern thinking. The believer’s source of truth is presented by God Himself in His Word and through the direction of the “Spirit of Truth”, the Holy Spirit.

Truth defined by God becomes the compass by which believers are able to discern truth from error (1 John 4:6) therefore allowing them to live out their God-ordained purpose (Ep. 2:10).

How well am I doing with being truthful?

Following God’s truth may result in rejection and personal persecution. Inside the safety of the church walls it’s easy to agree with the ethics and morality inherent in God’s truth.

However, once outside the “physical boundaries” of the church, it is the “heart” which must reflect God’s truth. It is the heart that directs the mind, will, and emotions (the soul) to sieve the noise of the world through the filter of God’s truth.

Truth and obedience are closely connected as believers must choose between God’s instructions or man’s acceptance (Matt. 10:28).

Does the world want to know the truth?

We discussed this question earlier as to the world’s readiness for the truth. Often the world’s responses make the truth appear to be a remnant of the 20^th century—no longer relevant in today’s fast-paced, high tech world. Unfortunately, truth is often defined by what’s trending on social media.

To further complicate the search for truth, corporate/community leaders and aspiring politicians create “untruthful” responses to difficult social issues that simply satisfy people who don’t really want to know the truth; so the community and nation are given a lie (instead of truth) to make them feel better.

Unfortunately people would rather believe a lie than the truth—think about that for a minute! Are people really being deceived or are they simply choosing to believe a lie? It’s easier (2 Tim. 4:3-4).

Am I ready to be a truth teller?

In Psalm 119:46, the writer speaks of their unfailing dedication to the truths offered by God: “I will speak of Your testimonies also before kings. And will not be ashamed.” Testimonies speak of witnessing. In Scripture, it relates specifically to divine testimonies or truth directly from God.

We must ask ourselves why we sometimes choose to believe a lie rather than the truth. The truth may be related to our life style, our family, or even about us personally. Perhaps we are judgmental, critical, or unforgiving. That’s why it is so important to regularly pray that the Holy Spirit expose those areas that interfere with receiving the truth of God.

The gold standard for truth tellers

To be a truth teller requires boldness to stand for holy “rightness” (Heb. 13:6) and to proclaim what is God’s truth versus what is politically or socially correct (Luke 12:4-5; Ps. 119:46).

When Jesus taught the Beatitudes to His disciples, He established a new standard of truth that was to be actualized in the life of the believer—a standard that would result in holy and sanctified (set apart) living.

Paul declared himself to be a truth teller. While it resulted in his persecution and polarization from the mainstream, he boldly proclaimed: “None of these things [persecution and prison] move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I can finish my race with joy.” (Acts 20:24)

Let us follow the examples given to us by God. Dare to be a truth teller.

Our Faith Walk

What I Learned in 2020

January 6, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

What’s Different

In the past, my annual reflections on “what I learned” were typical for believers in Christ. They were my experiences and observations as I progressed on my spiritual journey. They included such things as how I experienced God’s goodness and what I would work harder on in the new year. I always finished the year hoping I had deepened my relationship with Him.

So what’s different this year? Everything is different! Why? Because 2020 was very different. As my pastor said a few weeks ago, “There is no such thing as a ‘new normal’. There is no normal. Everything is dynamic.” Life as we knew it has changed. We now live in a constant state of change.

What I learned in 2020 requires that I go deeper than I normally would in order to fully express the range of emotions and responses to everything that has been happening around us. It’s been said “life will make you bitter or better”. With 2020, the jury is still out.

2020 Responses: We Long for Many Things

Most responses to 2020 have ranged from anger (dumpster burnings of 2020 in effigy) to appreciation for the opportunities presented as a result of the pandemic Stay at Home directives.

The variance in these responses may stem from our ability to accept, absorb, or assimilate the changes that are taking place.

Some people respond by retaliating for what they see as a loss of control or threat to their personal freedom. Remember the initial responses to the pandemic? The battle over wearing masks? We are no longer able to “do what we want to do” without considering the impact of our choices on others.

We now more fully understand “our connectedness” and dependence on each other. We will need each other to successfully navigate the world as it is in “a state of becoming”. There is a saying that, “You can’t be a winner in a losing organization.” That statement is never more true than right now.

A Year of Grieving

2020 has also given us much to grieve over. The loss of life due to the pandemic is unbelievable. I pray that we never become comfortable with the rising number of deaths within our nation and the world. So complacent that we forget that each “number” represents a person, a family, a life no longer present with us.

Let us also continue to pray and support those who serve during these horrific times. The medical professionals, public employees, and service providers who daily risk their lives for us.

A Year without Relationship

I think we grieve the most over our “disrupted relationships”. We desperately miss being with our families and friends. No hugs. No kisses. We’re left with Zoom calls, online worship, and elbow bumps, if we’re lucky.

This longing to be with others is evidenced by our nation’s inability to deal effectively with the coronavirus. We desire to be with one another so much that we are willing to literally die for it (or cause someone else to die).

While we desire to be with family and friends, our relationship with others has suffered in 2020. We have separated ourselves into tribes based on our political views and class distinctions. We have set aside the basics we learned in kindergarten–play nice and share. We are at war with each other! But why? Over what? There will be no winners in the end—-only pain, anger, and resentment.

This is unfortunate especially since we so desperately need each other during these tumultuous times. It is now that we need “to put on bowels of mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering…and love” (Col. 3:12-14).

So what have I learned?

God is faithful (Deut. 7:9; Heb. 10:23) and is able to see us through whatever problems we face. Actually that isn’t something new I’ve learned. However, 2020 revealed God’s faithfulness in a new context.

That context included a deadly pandemic, social injustice, economic upheaval, and civil unrest. 2020 was like a dystopia movie. A dystoria is an imagined place or state in which everything is bad, typically a totalitarian or environmentally degraded one.

But God was everything He said He would be. He was my provider (Phil. 4:19). He was my protector (Ps. 46:1-3). Jesus was my peace–something we still need in 2021. God’s presence was my comfort and assurance through all the madness of 2020.

You and I are living proof of God’s faithfulness in that we now stand on the other side of 2020. And how did we get here? How did we get to the other side? God brought us through (Is. 43:2).

God’s Plan of Salvation

There is so much I have learned (and continue to learn from 2020). But the most important thing I’ve learned is to see life through the reality of God and His plan of salvation.

God is purposefully executing His plan of salvation for mankind. Eternal God is sovereignly exercising His purpose in the midst of our history. Regardless of today’s current events or who is currently in leadership, they must all defer to the rule and reign of God (Daniel 2:21).

God’s plan for mankind didn’t end with the arrival of Jesus Christ. God is still manifesting His plan and we are part of that plan right now. It is our privilege to join God as He manifests His purpose in the world.

So what have you learned in 2020? I can’t wait to hear from you.

Spiritual Maturity

Holiday Season 2020

November 24, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Symbols of the holiday season are everywhere. We are ready for that golden-brown turkey, giblet dressing and cranberry sauce. Christmas decorations appear at the mall, at our favorite grocery store, and in our neighborhoods.

Most importantly, the holidays are about enjoying relationships. Friends and family gather to share stories and to “love on each other.” Everyone is invited to come and enjoy time together. However, this year relationships will feel different. Holiday season 2020, specifically, will be very different in the midst of the pandemic.

This season will be different

As the number of people infected with the virus increase, our nation struggles to find ways to “fatten the curve”. How do you do that during the holidays? We are warned to wear our masks, practice social isolation—”stay at home” and exercise social distancing—”stay apart”.

The holiday season is most often depicted by images of merriment and joy. However, this year those images have been replaced with news broadcasts showing long lines to food pantries and food giveaways. The financial impact of the pandemic has become the face of poverty. Joblessness, hunger, and homelessness are new experiences for many who have previously lived comfortably. To our shame, it is far too familiar for others.

My favorite representation of Thanksgiving is the plenteous cornucopia, bursting forth with ripened fruit from its wide and ample opening. It is this image that has caused me to evaluate my own personal fruitfulness. Especially during this “season of COVID-19”. If I am “rooted and built up in Him” (Col. 2:7), am I bringing forth fruit pleasing to Him? Am I fruitful?

A season for reflection

Fruit is the product of fruitfulness. It is used metaphorically of work or deeds (Eph. 2:10; Phil. 1:11; 2 Pet. 1:8). While works are evidence of Christian activity, it does not always tell the whole story. Jesus’ teachings often encouraged listeners to look beyond what they could see with their physical eyes and to examine the motives and intentions behind the deeds (Matthew 7:16-20).

You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore, by their fruits you will know them.

Fruitfulness is not “busyness for the Lord” but “transformed living” resulting in the mind of Christ (Phil. 2:5). Fruitfulness reflects the heart and mind of our beloved Lord and Savior, in whose image we are to be daily conformed (2 Cor. 3:18).

A season for fruitfulness

God has placed us in this historic moment to reflect the heart and mind of Christ. We were created for such a time as this (Esther 4:14). It is our responsibility to align ourselves with God’s purpose and perform that which He has given us to do.

- Am I doing all I can to share the grace and love of Jesus with those in need?
- How can I demonstrate Jesus’ compassion during this season of COVID?
- How can I personally help others who are “weary and hopeless”?

We can be Jesus’ eyes that see the needs of others. We can be Jesus’ hands that move beyond sympathy to action. As Jesus’ disciples, let us no longer live for ourselves but live for Him who saved us (2 Cor. 5:15). God has “seeded” us into history to be fruitful. It is here we are to take root, grow, and be fruitful.

Discovering our fruitfulness

This holiday season will look and feel very different in the midst of the pandemic. Let us do our part to make it the beginning of something better. Something that lasts beyond the holiday season. Let it be the beginning of REAL LOVE for God and for others, even our enemies. Amid the pandemic, let us create a world that honors God, that celebrates Jesus, and that brings real “comfort and joy”.

Spiritual Maturity

A Call to Maturity

November 4, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Last week we introduced spiritual maturity as a process, a pathway, or a goal. Regardless of the means of achieving spiritual maturity, the result is to be a believer whose faith is founded on the Gospel and who is committed to ongoing growth (transformation).

Faith and growth work together to develop spiritual maturity in the believer which is critical in moving God’s kingdom forward. Therein lies the urgency for a call to maturity by the writer of Hebrews.

Dull of hearing

It has been said that to make progress on a bike, you must keep moving forward. There is no reversal nor standing still. This is a good analogy in describing the dilemma the author of Hebrews faced.

Although these believers had been trained in the “elementary truths of God’s Word” (NIV, Heb. 5:12), they were not moving forward “on to maturity” (Heb. 6:1). They had become “dull of hearing” (Heb. 5:11).

Hearing is difficult, not only for this audience but also for any audience. Interestingly, the verb “to hear” (akouo) provides the root for the verb that means “to obey” (hypakouo) (Heb. 5:9; 13:17). There could be any number of reasons why this group had become “dull of hearing”.

Distractions, fear of persecution, or loss in confidence of their leaders. The writer of this letter does not say. However, we do know the outcome.

The readers had apparently pulled back from their bold witness to outsiders and from exhorting and encouraging one another. Through lack of use, faculties grow dull and the members regress to a former condition of immaturity.[1]

The writer’s dilemma

In Hebrews 5:11-6:3, the writer contrasts immaturity with maturity. They use familiar “educational language” of that day to describe the believers’ lack of progress. The Apostle Paul uses similar language in 1 Cor. 3:1-3. “Milk” and “solid food” were common terms for referring to levels of educational development. Here “milk” is an image of the “elementary truths of the God’s Word” (v. 12), while “solid food” is the “word of righteousness” (v. 13) which is the believer’s capacity to distinguish between good and evil (v.14).

The writer’s dilemma is this. Although these believers have previously received adequate teaching for their ministry work and purpose (Heb. 6:1-2), their failure to grow spiritually hindered them from understanding more complex teachings about Jesus Christ. Specifically, Jesus’ excellency as High Priest. A more excellent priesthood than the order of Melchizedek (Heb. 5:9; 6:20).

Immaturity leads to failure

The exhortations found in Hebrews are appropriate for us today. Distractions and lack of spiritual discipline keep us stuck in the same position as when we first came to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Statistics support the fact that believers today spend little to no time on spiritual formation. It should not be surprising that these behaviors have resulted in believers who are “unskilled in the word” (v. 13) and churches who feel ill equipped to lead new generations to Christ.

Our failure to be spiritually mature results in our inability to accomplish God’s purpose for our life and for His Kingdom. These include:

The ability to persevere. Lack of maturity impairs our ability to remain faithful to God’s purpose for our life. We are created specifically for God’s “good work” (Eph. 2:10). This is true whether we work in ministry or in the secular world. Our “stick-to-it-ness” is critical as we live in a world hostile to Jesus.

The ability to discern. When we become “sluggish” and “dull of hearing”, we risk becoming disobedient. In a postmodern world, it is difficult to distinguish between what is right and what is wrong (Is. 5:20-24; 2 Tim. 3:1, 3b, 5). Unable to discern, we become targets for Satan’s deception. “To think between vice and virtue is a line clear and unmistakable is to embrace an illusion.”[2]

The ability to witness. We have a clear mandate from Jesus to witness to a dying world (Matt. 28:19-20). It would be impossible for believers to look around our world and not acknowledge that “the fields are ripe and ready for harvest” (John 4:35). An informed and bold witness is needed as much in the 21st century as it was in the 1st: “Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). We are in a battle for the souls of men.

Go on to maturity

When we became Christians, we received everything we needed for life and godliness through the knowledge of God who called us to glory and virtue (2 Pet. 1:3). It is our responsibility to build upon the basics of that faith and move forward to maturity.

The Apostle Peter directs us to make every effort (with all diligence) to supplement our faith with virtue, knowledge, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love.” (2 Pet. 1:4-8)

Being effective and fruitful in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus is the essence of spiritual maturity. God is our resource, and all growth comes by grace through Him, but we are responsible to “go on to maturity” (Heb. 6:1).

[1] Letter to the Hebrews, Fred B. Craddock

[2] Ibid.