Tag Archives: Trust in God

Praying with Purpose: A New Prayer Attitude

August 11, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Knowledge of God and prayer

Every day I understand why it is important to “grow in the knowledge of God” (Col. 1:9-10). Who can know the mind of God? God is so awesome and beyond anything I could ever imagine.

Paul shared my awe of God in Romans 11:33, when he exclaimed: O the depths of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God; how unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!”

This wonderment of God has expanded my curiosity. Who is He and what is His will? These questions have increased my desire for greater intimacy with Him. They have presented me with new opportunities for a richer prayer life.

A new attitude

As I mentioned last week, this era of change and challenge, requires that we be intentional and strategic in use of our spiritual disciplines. Spiritual disciplines are a critical part of both our life and our lifestyle. They aren’t meant to be used only to learn more about the Bible or how to live a holy life.

Spiritual disciplines are designed for us to experience the totality of God—Father God, Savior God, and Spirit. Through these experiences, we are encouraged, empowered, and enabled to fulfill God’s will and purpose (1 Pet. 4:1-2).

We also need a new attitude about prayer. This attitude requires a change in our mindset. We must think and act differently than the rest of the world. This is often counterintuitive to what we may feel. However, as new creatures in Christ, we are required to pursue “a more excellent way” (1 Cor. 12:31). Jesus made that clear on the Sermon on the Mountain (Matt. 5-7). This new attitude also suggests that we revisit how we think about prayer and its outcomes. Our prayer life must become intentional, strategic, and purposeful.

Past experiences with prayer

What has been your experience with prayer? Who do you pray for and when? If you’re like me, I tried to follow the “biblical playbook” on prayer. I prayed for God’s will to be done and for forgiveness of sin. I prayed for family and friends and my life in general. I really prayed when things got shaky.

When others asked for prayer, I would promise to do so. I later learned to stop “at that moment” and pray with them. Fortunately, in my lifetime, I’ve only had one person ask me not to pray for them. I honored their request without question.

I am cautious as to who I ask to pray for me. It stems from the old saints’ warning, “be careful who prays for you—especially if you don’t know who they pray to.” As I sometimes discover later, that advice served me well.

I have been blessed to be part of several communities of believers who help me regularly exercise my prayer discipline especially in the area of intercessory prayer. For several years I was part of a soul healing prayer group where we prayed as a team for individuals. For several hours we prayed, listening to the Holy Spirit as He guided individuals to spiritual healing and release. It was so powerful. It was so needed. It still is.

The Power of Prayer

Today I stand to witness to the power of prayer especially when it is approached with intentionality and strategically.

Prayer not only changes circumstances but prayer also changes us. Prayer teaches us patience and trust in the Lord. It increases our emotional capacity so that we are able to rebound from traumatic events in our life. Prayer connects us to God when we feel we can’t go on (Ps. 42:11).

The thing we must recognize is the true source of prayer’s power. Prayer is powerful because it is underwritten by God, the Creator and Sustainer of the universe (Ps. 104:5-9). Prayer is the connector to the dunamis power of God. Engaging in prayer instantaneously takes us into the throne room of God.

Prayer is so much more

Over my lifetime, I’ve personally experienced God’s power through prayer. Though the circumstances and situations may have been different, God’s presence has been undeniable.

Prayer connects us with so much more than God’s deliverance or provision. Prayer releases God’s grace, promises, and power from the spiritual realm into our physical world.

Much like the features of that new car or computer we purchased, I’m sure we are under utilizing the power and potential available to us through prayer. So, for the next few weeks, let’s explore new ways to expand our prayer capacity. How can we become more intentional, strategic, and purposeful in our prayer life?

Spiritual Discipline

Praying with Purpose: Standing in the Need of Prayer

August 3, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Standing in need

Last week you were invited to join us in a Season of Christian Reboot. This invitation was based on the importance of doing those things that help us to strengthen our faith. This is critical especially in these tumultuous and uncertain times.

As we move forward, we must accept the obvious. Our ability to accurately predict our future is a challenge. Health pandemics, polarization and division, and economic uncertainty plague our nation. These are but a few of the areas that affect our personal lifestyles and habits. The good old days are gone never to return.

Living in this new era of change and challenge, we must do more than “fan the flame” of our spiritual gifts. We must be intentional and strategic in using our spiritual disciplines as we embark on this new way of living. The best place to begin being both intentional and strategic is standing in prayer.

It’s me

The song writer wrote, “It’s me…it’s me oh Lord standing in the need of prayer…not my mother…father…sister…brother but it’s me standing in the need of prayer.

I love this song. It truly communicates my need for prayer. However, for our prayer life to be strategic and intentional, we need to think of prayer with a broader outlook than our own personal needs. If we as believers are change agents for God, we need to look beyond ourselves in our prayers.

Since the introduction of WordBytes, the teachings receiving the most attention are those that deal with prayer. We are told to pray without ceasing (1 Thess. 5:17). Why? Because our needs are so great.

Are we serious about prayer?

At the beginning of this health pandemic, we launched prayer calls focusing our attention on the epicenters of the disease. We prayed for healthcare workers and those battling the disease on the front line. God answered our prayers, and the numbers began to decline.

People boldly asked the nation to pray that a vaccine would be discovered that would end the ravages of this disease. We have four vaccines today and numerous opportunities to receive this preventative solution.

We have witnessed the extraordinary power of prayer in the situations we face as a nation. Are we still praying? The needs are greater than ever. There are many more battles to be won on our knees. And what are we praying for? Wisdom, grace, patience, deliverance? Who are we praying for? Ourselves, our family, our enemies?

We need the presence of the Holy Spirit to guide our prayers (Rom. 8:26-27). With God’s Spirit as our Helper, we are able to move the agenda of God forward in this world and care for the needs of His people.

Praying strategically

God’s Word tells us to pray for EVERYBODY! Why? So that “we may live quiet and peaceable lives” (1 Tim. 2:1-3). Jesus stressed the importance of being in right relationship with all people (Matt. 5:44). Imagine the potential of prayer for our divided nation?

We need prayer for EVERYTHING! Why? Because prayer changes things. (James 5:16) Now is the time to pray not only for our immediate sphere of influence but also for our world.

Imagine the potential of prayer! Do we have the courage to connect to the awesome power of our God? (Ps. 19:1-3)

ABC’s of intentional prayer

How do we begin to pray intentionally? By praying…

According to God’s will.

And this is the confidence which we have in him, that if we ask anything according to His will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have obtained the requests made. (1 John 5:14-15)

Believing in God’s ability.

And Jesus answered and said to them, “Truly I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and cast into the sea,’ it will happen. And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.” (Matt 21:21-22)

Committing to God’s outcome.

Though the fig tree does not blossom, and no fruit is on the vines; though the produce of the olive fails, and the fields yield no food; though the flock is cut off from the fold, and there is no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD; I will exult in the God of my salvation. GOD, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer and makes me tread upon the heights. (Habakkuk 3:17-19)

When we pray intentionally and strategically, we trust in God’s love, His faithfulness, and His sovereignty. God will answer our prayers in a way that glorifies Him AND is good for us.

A New Song

Perhaps pursuit of our spiritual disciplines—prayer, Bible reading, and worship—have “cooled” because of COVID-19. Has our inability to “gather together” darkened our ability to see God (Heb. 10:24-25)? Has our identity in Christ been clouded by the challenges we face today? Have we forgotten that we are the Church? Wherever we are, God is!

If ever there was a need for intentional and strategic prayer, it is now. Not self-focused, self-promoting prayers (God hears those, too) but prayer that changes hearts, minds, and circumstances.

We need prayer that calls down the power of God expecting Him to respond mightily to our requests (2 Chron. 16:9).

Our Faith Walk

Memorial Day Gratitude: Throwback Wednesday

May 25, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Time for gratitude

While preparing for the next WordBytes series, I was stopped by this thought, “It’s time to thank God. Before moving on to the next “thing”, stop and express gratitude for today!”

If you’re reading this WordBytes, guess what? God has blessed you with life. Who could have imagined? After 604,000+ COVID deaths, we are still standing. God has kept us during this global pandemic. Yes, we’ve loss friends and family but for some reason God has extended mercy to us (once again). 2020 and 2021 have been challenging years never before imagined.

But God

Jeremiah wrote these words as he lamented the tragic destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonian armies (Lamentations 3:18-23, New Living Translation).

I cry out, “My splendor is gone! Everything I had hoped for from the LORD is lost!” The thought of my suffering and homelessness is bitter beyond words. I will never forget this awful time, as I grieve over my loss. Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The unfailing love of the LORD never ends! By his mercies we have been kept from complete destruction. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day.

But God. In tragedy and loss, God was faithful. Guess what? God is still faithful! In the aftermath of the COVID pandemic, in the midst of economic uncertainty, in the quagmire of social injustice, in the throes of food insecurity and homelessness, in the fallout of global warming, God is faithful. Therefore, we will have hope.

Throwback Wednesday

To express our gratitude this Memorial Day, we’d like to do “Throwback Wednesday”. The WordBytes we’ve chosen is Discovering God in the Psalms: Forget Not God. I invite you to formulate your personal Memorial Day gratitude. As we celebrate our loved ones from the past let us, also, “forget not God” for all He is doing for us right now.

Spiritual Endurance

Certainty in an Uncertain World: Epilogue

March 2, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

We close this series by reviewing what we have learned and by identifying next steps that will bring us greater certainty in an uncertain world.

What have we learned?

#1 We do not like uncertainty. “It is like a type of pain, something to be avoided. Certainty on the other hand feels rewarding, and we tend to steer toward it, even when it might be better for us to remain uncertain.” Uncertainty makes us uneasy. We feel it is something we need to control (Prov. 3:5-6).

#2 Uncertainty is as sure as death and taxes. The sources of uncertainty will not go away. Such is the result of living in a fallen world. Uncertainty is a “sure thing” that we must learn to manage (Eccl. 9:11).

#3 God is the only reliable source of certainty. He provides us with divine certainty. He alone has both the desire and the capability to address whatever may come our way. And God never changes and is forever faithful (Lam. 3:22-23). Because of God’s character, we can place our confidence and trust in Him.

Equipped with this information, how do we incorporate these realities into our lives? How do we build spiritual muscle to contend with the uncertainties of life?

“Holdfast to your faith.”

Hebrews 11:1 gives us a point of reference to begin addressing uncertainty in our lives. Our writer states in the opening verse: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” This statement comes after an appeal to the readers of this letter to “hold fast.” (Heb. 10:19-39)

It is here that the author begins to cite individuals in biblical history who earned a place in the Faith Hall of Fame. While the object of what they hoped for was temporal, it was their faith that helped them to holdfast. For our discussion, I will focus on one member of this notable group, Abraham. Let’s examine how Abraham’s faith helped him deal with uncertainty.

“He hoped against hope.”

Paul used Abraham as an example for the church at Romans. In chapter 4, the apostle continues to teach the point that it is faith—belief in Jesus Christ—that individuals receive salvation. It is in the closing verses (Rom. 4:16-25), that the Apostle Paul, like the writer of Hebrews, testifies to the faith of Abraham.

Paul magnifies the strength of Abraham’s faith in several expressions used in this text.

“Who against hope believed in hope.” Upon hearing God’s promises, Abraham had to “bring into captivity every thought” (2 Cor. 10:5) he had concerning ‘what was possible’ with God. Every rational explanation of how parenthood and leadership of a nation was possible (human hope) had to become “subservient” to the supernatural reality of God (divine hope). Such hope is reliant on understanding the power and sovereignty of God (Rom. 4:17).

“He considered not his own body.” When Abraham did consider his own body, he birthed Ishmael with Sarah’s Egyptian handmaid, Hagar (Gen. 16). That was not God’s plan. It was God’s plan for Abraham and Sarah to birth a child when both their bodies were considered “dead”. Once Abraham accepted God’s plan, he “didn’t focus on his own impotence and say, ‘It’s hopeless. This hundred-year-old body could never father a child. Nor did he survey Sarah’s decades of infertility and give up’ “(Rom. 4:19, The Message). Sometimes God does things “His way” so we understand HE IS GOD and we are not. Translation: God is sovereign.

“He staggered not…”

“He staggered not at the promise of God.” Some translations use the word, waver instead of staggered to describe the resolve of Abraham’s faith. To stagger means to be at variance with oneself, to hesitate, or doubt (James 1:6). Such was not the case with Abraham. To the contrary, his acceptance of God’s promise resulted in the strengthening of his faith. Some translations also share that this strengthening of Abraham’s faith resulted “in bringing God glory” (CSB) or that Abraham’s faith grew stronger “as he gave glory to God” (NRS). When we trust God, not doubting, we are strengthened, and He is glorified.

“Being fully persuaded.” The literal reading of this phrase is “being fully assured.” Abraham was convinced that God was able and willing to make good on all His promises. Such faith can be described as “God-centric”, in that, the accomplishment of the promises to Abraham were totally dependent on God. In this case, the promises of God would depend on God’s ability to perform them—not man’s capability. Abraham’s role, like ours today is to exercise our faith and believe God.

The impact of unbelief

Unbelief can cripple our faith. It can cause us to make bad choices and interrupt God’s purpose for our lives. Remember Abraham and Hagar? One commentator wrote this about unbelief: “Unbelief dishonors God by making Him a liar (1 John 5:10). Faith honors God by setting to its seal that He is true.”[1]

Our unbelief is often caused by viewing a problem or situation from our ability to resolve it. Unbelief is “shortsighted” seeing only our own capacity or ability to resolve. We seldom factor in God until our plans go awry. Many biblical failures occurred because of unbelief. Remember the Garden of Eden?

The old elders of the church were often questioned about their faith in God. They never attended theological institutions nor studied with great scholars of the Bible. They would humbly respond, “I just know what I know!” Translation: They believed without a doubt who God was and they believed that God would do ALL that He promised. For these elders to “know” was synonymous with their “belief”.

Conclusion

As we look around and see our world in a state of uncertainty, it is easy to become anxious and fearful. It is difficult to understand what is happening around us. Pandemics, civil unrest, financial insecurity. Uncertainty has become commonplace with little hope of eliminating it. Who are we to believe? Who do we trust for the right answers?

There is a solution for times of uncertainty in our life. We can begin by embracing the divine certainty of God, His promises, and our position in Christ Jesus. However, these certainties can only be realized through our intentional response of faith.

It is important that we as believers move past simply “intellectualizing” our faith. We must “internalized” it. Our faith in God must become “second nature” to us as we deal with our fears and our challenges. Not pie in the sky but total reliance on the goodness and greatness of God. This requires that we walk closely with Lord and practice His presence.

Let us rely on the power and sovereignty of God. Don’t focus on your own impotency. When we trust God, our faith is strengthened, and He is glorified. Let us not stagger. Let us be “fully persuaded” knowing God is in charge and the Source for all our needs. God is our certainty for uncertain times. God is our hope and our peace—our exceeding great reward (Gen. 15:1).

Closing Prayer

Father God, help us to trust You in all we face in these days of uncertainty. Make our faith real and active. Let us not walk by sight but by faith. We praise You and glorify Your holy name. We stagger not at Your promises knowing You are more than able. And not only are You able, but You are willing. We ask these things in Your darling Son’s name, our Lord and Savior Jesus the Christ. AMEN

[1] Matthew Henry Commentary, Romans 4

Spiritual Endurance

Certainty in an Uncertain World, Part 2

February 23, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

The Believer’s certainty

As we stated last week, certainty is defined as a fact that is definitely true. It is the state of being reliably true. As believers our certainty is connected to God. Our confidence is based not only on Who God is but also on His truth.

We recognize the uncertainties of living in a fallen world. To live in a fallen world means we struggle with sin daily. We experience heartache and pain. We witness natural disasters and staggering loss. Injustice, inhumanity, and falsehood seem to dominate. Discord and trouble are commonplace. None of this was God’s original plan for humanity.

It is important, however, that as believers we focus on the certainties of our faith—divine certainties—that enable us to navigate successfully in these difficult times. What are these divine certainties? How do they help us in times of uncertainty?

Divine Certainty-God’s Nature

The certainty of our faith begins with our understanding the nature of God. While there are many attributes of God’s nature, I will focus on two (2): God’s immutability (He does not change) and God’s veracity (He is truthful).

This is especially important as we discuss the matter of certainty. This means that whatever God states, in His Word and through His Holy Spirt, can be accepted with certainty—as reliably true. What God has stated in the historical past is still true in our contemporary present.

The immutability of God expresses the fact that God does not change. What we are dealing with here is the dependability of God. He will be the same tomorrow as He is today. He will act as He has promised. The believer can rely on Him (Lam. 3:22-23; 1 John 1:9). God’s immutability is “a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul.” (Hebrews 6:18-19)

God’s veracity speaks to God’s truthfulness. God represents things as they really are. God never lies (Titus 1:2). It is contrary to His nature. God is “trustworthy”. Such truth can either be assuring or fearful, depending on your relationship with the Lord (Numbers 23:19).

Divine Certainty-Our Identity in Christ

Our identity in Christ is another major reason for certainty and assurance of our faith in God. We have peace during uncertain times because of our relationship with Jesus.

For me, Ephesians 1:3-17, does an extraordinary job outlining the many spiritual blessings and promises found in our New Covenant relationship with Father God. It details the completed work of Christ as only can be designed by God before the foundation of the earth.

In Christ God makes His superabundant blessing available to His children by faith in Christ so that what Christ has is theirs—including His righteousness, privilege, resources, position, and power. Believers are now able to draw upon the wealth of Christ to accomplish God’s purpose and His will. This includes our spiritual security as we move from “death to eternal life” (John 5:24).

Divine Certainty-Our Anchor

Our certainty is also connected to our memory. Let us not forget the faithfulness God has shown us in the past. The church mothers would often assure us in times of distress: “The Lord didn’t bring us this far to leave us.” King David shares their belief as he reminds us in Psalm 103:2 to “forget not all God’s benefits.”

Our personal history to God’s faithfulness is a testimony of our certainty in God. We are witnesses to God’s presence, His protection, and His provision. During times of uncertainty, we can walk confidently in the divine certainty based on our connection with God.

My intent in this writing is to remind believers that during these times of uncertainty and disruption, we have an anchor in the Lord. Our confidence is based on Him alone. Our Lord is the only true source of certainty in an uncertain world (Ps. 37:3).

Spiritual Endurance

Certainty in an Uncertain World, Part 1

February 17, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

What is certainty?

Certainty is defined as a fact that is definitely true or an event that is definitely going to take place. It is the quality of being reliably true.

The Bible concordance describes certainty as “absolute truths”. I find this description ironic as we strive to live in this post-modern society where, supposedly, there are “no absolutes” and even “fewer truths.”

However, as Christians, we do believe in absolute truths that we confidently depend on. This is the benefit of our faith in Christ. This gives us “peace that passes all understanding” (Phil. 4:7).

The Certainties of life

The events of 2020 have shifted systems and institutions that once were thought to be secure and indestructible. As we stand in the shadow of COVID 19 with its many “aftershocks”, we realize our naϊveté. We now long for the stability and certainty once found in the past.

As youth, we experienced the certainty of family. Family provided the initial shaping of our values and belief systems. Family cared for our basic needs—food, clothing, shelter, and love. Our family validated who we were and provided the foundation we needed for success. That was the certainty we needed in the beginning.

The assurance found within our familial systems were later extended to our communities. It included our schools and our churches. We became the product of our “unique village” with many people teaching us life lessons. Within the borders of community, we learned self-esteem, confidence, respect, and achievement. Here we prepared for the rest of our life.

A Hunger for Certainty

We often joke that the certainties of life are death and taxes. After 2020, we can now add uncertainty to that list. Uncertainty has always been with us but now it has become more “life affecting.”

Uncertainty has a physiological effect on our lives. It is neither good nor bad. It is, however, something that we must address.

A sense of uncertainty about the future generates a strong threat or ‘alert’ response in your limbic (brain) system. Your brain detects something is wrong, and your ability to focus on other issues diminishes. Your brain doesn’t like uncertainty – it’s like a type of pain, something to be avoided. Certainty on the other hand feels rewarding, and we tend to steer toward it, even when it might be better for us to remain uncertain.[1]

Shifts in Certainty

As a nation and as individuals, we were certain that our institutions and systems would always be available to care for us. We trusted others to protect our best interest and to operate at the highest level of integrity. But unfortunately, that has not always been the case.

After a year of unprecedented disaster and turbulence – the Covid-19 pandemic and economic crisis, the global outcry over systemic racism and political instability – the 2021 Edelman Trust Barometer reveals an epidemic of misinformation and widespread mistrust of societal institutions and leaders around the world. Adding to this is a failing trust ecosystem unable to confront the rampant infodemic, leaving the four institutions – business, government, NGOs and media – in an environment of information bankruptcy and a mandate to rebuild trust and chart a new path forward.

Reports such as these highlight our need for a dependable source to address the uncertainties of 21st century living. We need a “sure thing”. That sure thing is Jesus Christ. Our faith in Christ is not a weakness nor is it a last resort. To the contrary, Jesus is the only true source of certainty in an uncertain world (Ps. 37:3).

Our Certainty Connection

As believers our certainty is connected to The Ultimate Source. We trust in God. Our confidence is based not only on Who God is but also on the veracity of God—His truth and His truthfulness.

God is the Creator and Sustainer of all things (Col. 1:17; Rev. 4:11). He alone can “make good” on all His promises. God is all powerful, everywhere present and all knowing.

Next week we will continue to discuss certainty in an uncertain world. We will focus on the certainties of our faith which enable us to live victoriously in these tumultuous times.

[1] https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/your-brain-work/200910/hunger-certainty

Spiritual Maturity

Truth: The Divine Perspective

February 2, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Truth is an incredibly significant concept. Our view of truth shapes not only our personal lives but also our society. It especially impacts our relationship with God including our view of Scripture.

Our definition of truth is affected by what we watch, what we read, and even the opinions of our friends. Add to that the sway of social media, your “truth” is being adjusted with every post and tweet you receive. Imagine there are 500 million tweets sent every day[1]. Scary isn’t it.

Let’s face reality! We live in an age where we are being bombarded by varying opinions as to what is or isn’t truth. Because of these deceptive trends, it is important that we have a reliable and trustworthy compass by which to navigate in this world. We need guidance from God. We need God’s divine perspective.

God’s perspective of truth

In the Old Testament, truth is rendered as true or faithful. In either case, the Hebrew concept communicates reliability and trustworthiness. This trustworthiness is frequently used to describe God’s divine faithfulness (Ps. 31:5; Jer. 42:5).

In the New Testament, truth emphasizes reality as God has revealed it in creation (Rom. 1:18) and in the gospel (Eph. 1:13; Col. 1:5; 1 Tim. 2:4). God’s perspective of truth is given to us through His Word and through the Spirit of Truth—the Holy Spirit. Armed with these divine gifts we are provided a continual source of truth.

Truth in action

Adherence to the truth was critical during the formation of the early Church. Pressured by the Judaizers to continue with the practice of circumcision, the church at Galatia was in danger of spiritual error. They were rejecting the truth (salvation through Jesus Christ alone) to avoid persecution. We at one time or another have been guilty of quietly accepting error versus being truth tellers. That is to our shame.

In Galatians 5:7, Paul poses a question to this young church: “You were getting along so well. Who has interfered with you to hold you back from following the truth?”

Paul continues by stating emphatically, “This persuasion does not come from the One who calls you.” When we drift from the truth that God has revealed, we can be assured of its origin—the puppeteer of deception and lies, Satan.

Coram Deo is a Latin phrase translated “in the presence of God”. It has its origin is Christian theology which summarizes the idea of Christians living in the presence of, under the authority of, to the honor and glory of God. Truth is to be lived coram Deo.

Practicing God’s divine perspective

Truth is to be practiced not only within the church but also outside its four walls. Imagine the impact that error has on every aspect of our society—in our homes, in the workplace, and in our institutions. Practicing God’s divine perspective acknowledges the importance of sharing truth in every sphere of our life.

Using God’s revelation, we have access to reliable knowledge—divine truth—about God, about ourselves, and how we are to live in relationship with our fellow man. Unfortunately, we often separate our “faith walk” from our “lifestyle”. God’s truth should permeate every area of our life. Practicing God’s divine perspective requires that we walk in God’s truth continuously.

Our dependence on God’s truth is not based on emotional sentimentalities but firmly grounded in the nature of God (Deut. 7:9). We walk in accordance with His moral realities and act in harmony with His divine revelations (Ps. 26:3). Practicing God’s divine perspective recognizes God’s trustworthiness.

Knowing the reliability of God and accepting the reality of God, we can begin to operate from God’s divine perspective. God’s divine truth becomes the vehicle by which we can successfully navigate in this 21^st century postmodern society.

[1] Brandwatch.com

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

The Danger of Spiritual Immaturity

October 28, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

At the beginning of this series, I asked if you were “helping or hindering your spiritual journey”. I posed three questions, which now fit nicely with today’s warning on the danger of spiritual immaturity.

First, where are you in your current faith walk? Secondly, what would motivate you to seriously consider the five (5) warnings? And finally, where does Jesus Christ fit in your life today?

It is now time to move these questions from their previous position as the backdrop for this series to the focal point for our exploration of spiritual immaturity. We begin this journey by contrasting it with its opposite–spiritual maturity.

What is spiritual maturity?

As I researched this topic of spiritual maturity, there were varying views and opinions as to its definition. For some it is a process; for others it is a pathway to follow. And still others see spiritual maturity as the goal of the believer’s life. That being the case I offer several views for your consideration.

Commitment to Transformation

Dallas A. Willard, an American philosopher known for his writings on Christian spiritual formation, describes spiritual maturity as taking place “when we are drawn close to a life with Jesus. We, by the grace of God, behave differently because we have been transformed.”

This transformation occurs as believers intentionally build and live their lives as disciples of Jesus Christ in the Kingdom of God. This transformation occurs as believers commit to grow, commit to change, and commit to learn.

Using Willard’s description, spiritual maturity is a process. One that never ends until we reach heaven and are face-to-face with our Savior (1 Cor. 13:12). Using this description, the question I would ask is this. As 21st century believers, do we behave differently?

Building on the Foundation of the Gospel

Ligonier Ministries, founded by the late Dr. R.C. Sproul, exists to proclaim, teach, and defend the holiness of God in all its fullness to as many people as possible. In “Four Essentials of Spiritual Maturity”, author and contributing writer Kent Hughes outlines four key areas needed for spiritual maturity.

While these essentials are directed to pastors, they also outline key responsibilities for believers who desire to be spiritually mature. They include:

1. Christ-focused exposition of the Word—Christ is the source and sustainer of spiritual maturity
2. Cautious “striving” to accurately present the Word—described as “struggling in preaching the gospel mystery”
3. Commitment to the Christian community—”to comprehend with all the saints” (Eph. 3:18-19)
4. Christian maturity demonstrated—the believer is a living testimony of what love and devotion for God should look like

Using Hughes’ description, spiritual maturity is a pathway. One that is to be passionately pursued (2 Tim. 2:15). That pathway includes leading people to Christ. Using this description, the question I would ask is this. As 21st century believers, are we intentional in building our lives on the foundation of God’s Word?

Passion to Persevere

Lastly, I present the viewpoint that spiritual maturity is a goal. The specific goal is the believer’s capacity to persevere. The believer is both able to weather the storms of life while also proclaiming the glory of the Lord.

Oswald in his book, Spiritual Maturity, describes it this way:

Spiritual maturity is not a level of growth Christians achieve but the passion to press on in Christ. As we embrace God’s Providence, the work of the Holy Spirit, the character Christ desires, the terms of discipleship, hardship, and more, we can move from infancy toward the fruitful maturity we were created to enjoy.

Pastor Andy Stanley, senior pastor and founder of North Point Ministries shares a similar viewpoint: “Spiritual maturity is measured in terms of persevering faith not perfect behavior.”

The Apostle Paul also describes spiritual maturity in terms of the early churches’ ability to persevere. Faced with fierce and continuous persecution for their faith, they were told not to “faint” in their work for Christ (2 Cor. 4:1, 14-17; Gal. 6:9; Col. 3:15). That is perhaps the reason the writer of Hebrews included spiritual maturity as important for this group.

Using this description, the question I would ask is this. As 21st century believers, are we able to persevere? While we may not face religious persecution, how we respond to the current state of our world, i.e., health pandemic, economic uncertainty, and civil unrest, can be an indicator of our ability to “hold fast our faith” (Heb. 10:23).

Now is the Time

God needs spiritually mature, 21st century disciples who will represent His Kingdom. These disciples must be willing to proclaim, defend, and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ. Especially in a post-modern world that is hostile to Christianity.

Most importantly, 21st century disciples must show and share the love of Christ–even to those who may hate us (Luke 6:27-36). We no longer can depend only on our pastor to provide outreach to the lost and to the disenfranchised. Neither can we wait for the church’s mercy ministry to provide for the homeless and the impoverished. The “them” is now “us”—our family, our neighbor, and our co-worker.

The physical church is temporarily “ON HOLD” for many of us. Other churches may be operating at a reduced capacity. But God is calling us today to be what He designed us to be—The Church (1 Pet. 2:4-6). As the Master Builder, God places His living stones just where He wants us to be (1 Cor.12:18). Spiritual maturity is not an option—it is a necessity for the world we live in today!

Next week we will explore the “Failure of Spiritual Immaturity”.

Spiritual Maturity

The Danger of Unbelief

October 21, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

John R. W. Stott (1921 – 2011) is known worldwide as a preacher, evangelist, author, and theologian. He wrote this about unbelief:

Unbelief is not a misfortune to be pitied; it is a sin to be deplored. Its sinfulness lies in the fact that it contradicts the Word of the one true God and thus attributes falsehood to Him.

The second warning listed in the Hebrews letter reflects similar passion regarding the danger of unbelief (Heb. 3:7-4:13). Does it begin with drifting (neglect) and ends with doubting (unbelief)?

The writer of Hebrews frequently used Old Testament quotations and images to support their argument for remaining steadfast in the Christian faith. The author cited historical accounts from the Old Testament to remind the readers of the danger of giving in to outside pressure rather than “holding fast to their faith” (Heb. 10:23).

Unbelief for the Hebrews

In this second warning the author outlines the danger of doubting and disbelieving the Word. He uses the background of the exodus of Israel from Egypt and their experiences in the wilderness to explain their unbelief.

It was not God’s will that Israel remain either in Egypt or in the wilderness. His desire was that the people enter their glorious inheritance in the land of Canaan. But when Israel got to the border of their inheritance they delayed because they doubted the promise of God. Therefore, the people went backward in unbelief instead of forward by faith. They missed their inheritance and died in the wilderness.[1]

The “wilderness” for believers today is this current “season of uncertainty”. Instead of the Promised Land, we are facing nonstop change and upheaval in our daily lives. This is a result of many factors affecting our nation including the current health pandemic, social inequalities, and civil unrest. The fallout from this season of uncertainty is fear, disruptions, loss, and fatigue.

Let’s be honest! Our personal faith is also being challenged. We question, “What is God going to do with all these problems?” We object, “When will God intercede on our behalf?” Emotionally and spiritually, we are tired and need to see a “light at the end” of this long tunnel. Can you imagine what it felt like living in the wilderness for 40 years?

21st Century unbelief

What does unbelief among Christians look like today? Unfortunately, it looks like the Israelites’ unbelief in the wilderness. It resembles the behaviors that resulted in the hardening of their hearts.

- Distrust in God’s power. We murmur and complain. Although we desire our lives to be trouble free, it just isn’t reality. The reality is this–we live in a fallen world (1John 2:17). There will be trials and tribulations. However, Jesus encouraged us by telling us He has overcome the world (John 16:33). We can trust God’s power to handle whatever happens in our lives.

- Dependence on self and others. Scripture warns us “not to be wise in our own eyes” (Prov. 3:7). However, since we distrust God’s power, we tend to seek answers from the world. We foolishly place our trust in human leaders and political agendas. “Instant” access to information through technology makes us believe all our answers can be found on the Internet.

- Departure from the “living God”. God was grieved with Israel during the entire forty years because of their unbelief (Heb. 3:12). God is saddened today as He sees the same thing happening with His followers. Their hearts have become hardened. In addition, the deceitfulness of sin has caused believers to rebel against God. They desire to return to their “Egypt”.

Unbelief left unchecked

The danger of unbelief is “loss”. Not the loss of our salvation. The believer in Christ is completely secure (John 10:29; Rom. 8:31-39; Ep. 2:4-10).

However, when we practice unbelief, we miss out on our inheritance today and must suffer the chastening of God (Heb. 3:12-19).

Unbelief is a thief that robs us of the blessings God has promised–promises that are our today (2 Pet. 1: 4). We lose the peace and joy that can only be found in trusting God (Ps. 16:8-9).

Still the best choice

In our humanity, we might be inclined to depend on our own strength. Amid our trials, we might be tempted to try some “nouveau” spiritual approach. The question we must ask ourselves is, “what can be better than Jesus?”

The writer of Hebrews presented the best case for “choosing Jesus” over returning to Judaism. As we look around at the issues we face, our best option is still Jesus.

Jesus, Son of the Living God, possesses all power on heaven and earth (Matt. 28:18). Jesus is omniscient–knowing all things (1 John 3:20). He is omnipotent–unlimited in power and authority (Daniel 4:35). Jesus is omnipresent–in all places at all times (Jer. 23:23-24).

Most importantly, Jesus loves us and has proven His love by dying for us so that we might have eternal life (John 3:16). He is the Righteous and Just One (Deut. 32:3-4). Jesus is all this and so much more. Jesus the Best and Only Choice for all generations

[1] Hebrews, The Wiersbe Bible Commentary