DRINK

Celebrate Jesus

2009-12-22T08:18:00.002-06:00

Celebrate Jesus,celebrate His Love
Celebrate Him who came from above

Celebrate Jesus, His name glorify
He is the Son of God Most High

Celebrate Jesus, celebrate His grace
Give Him your love and highest praise

Celebrate Jesus, rejoice and sing
Praise Him, praise our glorious King

Celebrate Jesus, celebrate His power
He stands by us in life's darkest hour

Celebrate Jesus, our ever faithful Friend
His great compassion the broken heart mends

Celebrate Jesus, tell the whole world
Till all creation knows that Christ is Lord.

Wishing you a merry Christmas and a prosperous new year!

Source: Benjamin A. (getbenjyu@yahoo.com)

What would your prayer be?

2009-11-25T23:07:00.005-06:00

Father, hear the prayer we offer
Not for ease that prayer shall be
But for strength, that we may ever
Live our lives courageously.

Not for ever in green pastures
Do we ask our way to be
But the steep and rugged pathway
May we tread rejoicingly.

Not forever by still waters
Would we idly rest and stay
But would smite the living fountains
From the rocks along our way.

Be our strength in hours of weakness
In our wanderings be our Guide
Through endeavor, failure, danger
Savior, be thou at our side.

Source: Oremus Hymnal

Can You Become a Leader?

2009-11-14T00:18:00.007-06:00

Some quotes on leadership from the book "Spiritual Leadership" by J. Sanders:

"Adding leadership potential to our lives usually requires that we shake off negative elements that hold us back. If we are overly sensitive when criticized and rush to defend ourselves, that must go. If we make excuses for failure and try to blame others or circumstances, that must go. If we are intolerant or inflexible, so that creative people around us feel hemmed in, that must go.

If we are disturbed by anything short of perfection in ourselves and others, that must go. The perfectionist sets goals beyond his reach...Our world is imperfect, and we cannot expect the impossible...

If you cannot keep a secret, do not try to lead. If you cannot yield a point when someone else's ideas are better, save yourself the frustration of failed leadership. If you want to maintain an image of infallibility, find something else to do besides leading people."

Let me ask you, do you want to lead?

Would you pray?

2009-09-20T22:01:00.004-05:00

Concerning prayer, E.M. Bounds said:

"What the Church needs today is not more machinery or better, not new organizations or more and novel methods, but men whom the Holy Ghost can use -- men of prayer, men mighty in prayer. The Holy Ghost does not flow through methods, but through men. He does not come on machinery, but on men. He does not anoint plans, but men -- men of prayer."

What's wrong with milk?

2009-09-05T01:13:00.010-05:00

The author of Hebrew encountered a challenge while addressing his audience. Let's hear him:

We have much to say about this, but it is hard to explain because you are slow to learn. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! (Heb. 5:11&12)
While we understand that the author was not referring to literal milk, it makes one ask "but what's wrong with 'milk' ?"

Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. (Heb. 5:13)

Who then is mature?

But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. (Heb. 5:14)

The phrase 'by constant use' gets my attention. It does seem obvious that maturity comes about by constant use of the word. The word of God transforms us as we choose to practice what we've learned.

There's nothing wrong with milk but like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good. (1 Pet. 2:2-3)

In conclusion, therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity!(Heb. 6:1).

God bless you!

Flee!

2009-08-29T23:41:00.010-05:00

"Flee the evil desires of youth,and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." (2 Timothy 2:22)

"Flee the evil desires of youth"
Run away! Yea, it may involve running away literally. Joseph's account (Gen. 39:11-12) presents a biblical example: "One day he (Joseph) went into the house to attend to his duties, and none of the household servants was inside. She (Potiphar's wife) caught him by his cloak and said, "Come to bed with me!" But he left his cloak in her hand and ran out of the house." Many temptations would lose their appeal if only we would learn to flee. A lot of times, that would be the wisest thing to do.

"...pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace"
Follow after (intentionally)...make effort.It is not enough to 'flee evil desires' we should also 'pursue righteousness'.The Amplified Version puts it this way: "aim at and pursue righteousness (all that is virtuous and good, right living, conformity to the will of God in thought, word, and deed); [and aim at and pursue] faith, love, [and] peace (harmony and concord with others)."

"...along with those who call on the Lord"
That's fellowship! Biblical wisdom is "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work:If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!" (Eccl. 4:9-10). As much as possible, in your 'pursuit of righteousness', make a commitment to connect with all 'those who call on the Lord' (and help others connect too).

"...out of a pure heart."
Not hypocritically. Fellowship in sincerity. Referring to the Pharisees, Jesus said: "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me." While it could be difficult for us to know where people worship 'out of a pure heart', our primary responsibility is to make sure we worship not 'just with our lips'.

"Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them." (John 13:17)

God bless you!

Think about these...

2009-08-02T04:39:00.004-05:00

"You are the same today that you are going to be in five years from now except for two things,the people you associate with, and the books you read."- Charles Jones

"My son, if sinners entice you, do not give in to them."- Prov. 1:10

Association matters...

What's on the menu?

2009-07-16T15:20:00.007-05:00

Paul gives us a very significant principle about food (and in fact every aspect of our lives) :

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God— even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved. (1 cor. 10:31-33).

Food matters, eat then with thanksgiving and give glory to God in all that you do!

What's your view of God?

2009-07-07T11:28:00.006-05:00

Concerning God, A. W. Tozer (in his book 'Knowledge of the Holy) made some important statements:

1. What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.

2. Were we able to extract from any man a complete answer to the question, “What comes into your mind when you think about God?” we might predict with certainty the spiritual future of that man. Were we able to know exactly what our most influential religious leaders think of God today, we might be able with some precision to foretell where the Church will stand tomorrow.

3. That our idea of God corresponds as nearly as possible to the true being of God is of immense importance to us. Compared with our actual thoughts about Him, our creedal statements are of little consequence. Our real idea of God may lie buried under the rubbish of conventional religious notions and may require an intelligent and vigorous search before it is finally unearthed and exposed for what it is. Only after an ordeal of painful self-probing are we likely to discover what we actually believe about God.

Permit me to ask you one more time, "What's your view of God?"

From James to you..

2009-07-02T16:39:00.006-05:00

Hey,

What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him?

Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.

But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds."
Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do.

As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.

James.

Martin Luther puts it this way, "You are saved by faith alone, but if faith is alone it is not faith."

Your Faithfulness, Oh Lord...

2009-06-15T10:06:00.009-05:00

Here is a trustworthy saying:

If we died with him,we will also live with him;
If we endure,we will also reign with him.
If we disown him, he will also disown us;
If we are faithless,he will remain faithful,for he cannot disown himself. (2 Tim2:11-13)

When I came across this I paused and thought, "God is always faithful in spite of me." In other words, He is completely dependable. For instance, if He said "all things work together for good to them that love God" and "fear not for I am with you", those must be true words.

An unwavering conviction about God's faithfulness is very crucial in our walk with the Lord. Remember that 'anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him'. God's faithfulness is shown even when we fail..."If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."(1 John 1:8)

And you may wonder, "What if some did not have faith? Will their lack of faith nullify God's faithfulness?" (Rom.3:3). The answer is: "Not at all! Let God be true, and every man a liar..."(Rom. 3:4).

Let's declare daily: "Your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies." (Psalm 36:5)

Empowered!

2009-06-06T18:05:00.006-05:00

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you..."

What does it mean to be empowered? I found a story that may help us.

Harriet Nassuna
Uganda

When Harriet was a teenager, her mother received an Opportunity International loan to start a small grocery story in Uganda. Not long after, Harriet’s mother suddenly passed away without leaving a will.

Harriet’s two older siblings tried to sell the family’s business and small house—a move that would have left Harriet and her four younger siblings with nothing. But with Opportunity’s help, Harriet took over her mother’s loan agreement and took charge of the house and the store.

Harriet Nassuna’s story is one of courage, strength and perseverance through difficult times. She remembers her mother as she runs the small store, working hard to expand it with Opportunity loans. She now owns 14 cows and hopes to generate enough income to build a new home. She dreams of sending her younger brothers and sisters to college, and hopes to one day go herself.

(Source: Opportunity International)

In a similar way, through the Holy Spirit you've been empowered to live the life of Christ!

Let the songs speak!

2009-06-03T10:18:00.001-05:00

"Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord" (Eph. 5:19)

One hymn that has spoken to me severally has been 'God will take care of you' by Fanny Crosby. I hope it does speak to you too!

Here it goes:

God will take care of you, be not afraid;
He is your safeguard through sunshine and shade;
Tenderly watching and keeping His own,
He will not leave you to wander alone.

Refrain

God will take care of you still to the end;
Oh, what a Father, Redeemer, and Friend!
Jesus will answer whenever you call;
He will take care of you, trust Him for all.

God will take care of you, through all the day,
Shielding your footsteps, directing your way;
He is your Shepherd, Protector, and Guide,
Leading His children where still waters glide.

Refrain

God will take care of you long as you live,
Granting you blessings no other can give;
He will take care of you when time is past,
Safe to His kingdom will bring you at last.

At the mall...

2009-05-21T13:08:00.005-05:00

Consider this excerpt from an article written by Thomas Lindberg, pastor of First Assembly of God of Memphis:

"Consider this true story. Some years ago a great man of God came to America from an underdeveloped country. In his homeland this man leads thousands of believers as their pastor. A friend of mine picked him up at the airport and took him to a huge shopping mall.

After having lunch and walking around my friend asked, “Well, what do you think of the American mall?”

The man of God replied, “I saw a lot of things I don’t need.”

During this financial storm we’re in, ask God for wisdom. “Lord, show me the difference between what I need and I what I want.” You can be sure God will answer a prayer like that. "

Lessons from Fellowship (1)

2009-05-18T10:29:00.010-05:00

"I was glad when they said to me; Let us go into the house of the LORD." (Ps. 122:1)

Amongst believers, questions like ‘Why go to church since I have a bible?’ do come up. The scripture does encourage meeting together (Heb. 10:25). It’s been a privilege relating with other believers… generally referred to as fellowship. Several things happen in fellowship, some seem favorable while others don’t.

1. It humbles me...It's not all about me.

Imagine a world where you are the only one present, everything else revolves around you. In other words, you are the center of attention. As you would expect, my suggestions must be accepted, my problems must be talked about and my wants completely satisfied. These are lies propagated by ‘the world of isolation’.

In fellowship, I understand that God is not just my 'My Father' but also 'Our Father'. Interestingly, I do not have the monopoly of prayer…other believers pray too! Yea, you thought you should get the spotlight and nobody noticed. What a blessing!

Fellowship (whatever the setting) would help us get down from our man-made thrones. In a culture where ‘self esteem’ is a god of its own, I know this lesson is not always favorable. We tend to look out for places where we hear things like ‘you’re always right’. Fellowship, amongst other things has a humbling effect. Honestly, you don’t want to miss out on this.

Would you choose to be in fellowship with other brethren? Have you chosen to remain ‘isolated’ even when you seem to be in fellowship? Could it be that your silence in meetings is not because of your humility but rather a resistance to correction? Let me suggest to you that pruning could come through fellowship with other believers.

As Jesus taught us, let’s remember: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name’.

Be patient with me...

2009-05-11T09:20:00.003-05:00

When my life seem hopeless,
And all help remain useless,
Be patient with me, for God is not through with me.

Yes, I am very sure about that,
If you knew where I would have been,
You may appreciate the fact that He has led me quite far.

Have you been to the potter's house?
Out of dirt, he brings forth great vessels.
My life is in the hand of the Potter... He hasn't given up on me!

Have you been to a construction site?
Lots of equipment... lots of noise
Yet the architect has the final product in mind
Don't you think God can do even better with my life?

Peter failed Jesus when He denied Him,
Yet, Jesus sent him a personal message when He rose from the dead (Mark. 16:7)
God was not through with Him too!

Your life may not look anything hopeful,
But if you keep following the Lord,
You can be sure of this:
'He that begun a good work in you shall be faithful to complete it'. (Phil. 1:6)

No matter where you have been,
No matter what you have done,
If you would let God, He will do His work in you too.

I would be patient with you, 'cos God is not through with you.
Would you give up on yourself since God is still at work in you?

Because He Lives (2)

2009-04-18T18:45:00.013-05:00

We love...

'We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love abides in death.'( 1 John 3:14)

Here is a brief article I found online:

"It doesn’t matter how nice, harmless and pleasant you are as a person, some people may still not like you; they may hate you without a cause, as they did Jesus (John 15:25). But you don’t have to condescend to their level! Refuse to hate, or backbite. Rather, operate from a higher level and love them in spite of their actions. Be as your heavenly Father; love everyone around you unconditionally. They may not respond to your love at first, and even hate you the more for not hitting back, but never mind; love never fails! It will always win at the end."

God's love was so much that He gave His Son for us...we have got to live the resurrection life, a life of love!

Because He Lives (1)

2009-04-10T23:59:00.004-05:00

I can face tomorrow...

As I walked with Jesus down the road of Calvary, I could hear people mocking Him saying, 'He saved others why can't he save himself?'. As if that wasn't enough, I heard Jesus shout on the cross,'My Father, My Father why has thou forsaken?' All hope seem to be lost...it seemed the messiah has suddenly become helpless at this time.

Many were disappointed with the Lord. Some seemed to say, 'He healed my son, how could He not just use His power again?' And oh, did you not hear him crying out to the Father? It seemed like God has left His faithful Son to die a painful death...it didn't seem to make much sense to many.

However, on that wonderful morning... He rose from the dead! Good news! Death couldn't hold the Lord captive...He broke the chains of death.

So what? The bible tells us...And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus (Eph2:8). As I thought about the resurrection, I began to realize that God is a faithful God. Ever felt like shouting 'God where are you?'...remember Jesus on the cross and look beyond it. Many things do not always make sense but God is faithful to His word. No matter the challenges of life, look at the empty grave (the reminder of Christ's total victory).

Remember: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,who have been called according to his purpose.(Rom.8:28).

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow! Because He lives, all fears are gone, because I know He holds my future. My life is worth a living just because He lives.

I rejoice because He lives!

Let Us...

2009-03-29T01:12:00.010-05:00

As I read Hebrews 12 verse 1&2, a particular phrase got my attention... It shows me that we've got responsibilities as believers. Here it goes:

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (NIV)

Let us throw off...

1. everything that hinders: Yes, indeed everything that hinders! Some of these things could even be legitimate possessions or desires. Another translation puts it this way, 'every weight that slows us down'. Imagine someone having a huge backpack while doing a marathon! I'm no athlete, but I can assure you that such person is on the path of failure. Understand that some things that the Lord may ask you to lay down could be things that may not meet your definition of 'sin'...Be willing to throw off anything that the Lord asks you to. Many of these things are just weights that slow us down!

2.'the sin that so easily entangles'. This is generally known as 'besetting sins'. Simply put, the sin that tempts you the most. From my walk with God, I can tell you there are things that are a huge temptation to me but not to many. One important step is to recognize that area and seek God's grace to overcome. Never cover it up by saying, 'That's just my personality!'

Let us run with perseverance...

The Christian race is filled with distractions. Interestingly, some of these distractions are pleasurable. Persecution is part of the life of a believer. Perseverance entails persistence in a particular course no matter the cost. Beloved, say no to distractions...fight off distractions...yes, that includes people who intend reminding you of how the Christian race is not worth it.

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus...

Jesus must be our focus as we run the christian race. People rise and fall, even great pastors may disappoint... however, our eyes are on Jesus who is 'the author and the perfecter of our faith'. When the race seem very odd, fix your eyes on His promise, 'I will be with you.' It is not enough to keep fighting off distractions, we must focus on Him. Let's not just look... let's fix our eyes on Jesus!

Help me Lord to fix my eyes on You in spite of the distractions.

Time

2009-03-24T09:40:00.005-05:00

A Poem by Benjamin A. that brings more clarity to the danger of procrastination.

Tick Tack Tick Tack

Time is ticking away

And like the passing day

It never comes back

Like the wind we cannot grasp

We just can't hold it back

So only those who wisdom lack

Will waste time using it to yack

Time is precious, Time is money

Time may bring you honey

Or may bring you gall

depends on how you play the ball

As stew is flavored by thyme

So do we get matured with time

And as I grow,I've come to know

That in every time there's a dime

So the truth of time resounds

With freedom that knows no bounds

For everything there's a season

And for every season there's a reason

Fight procrastination!

Pruning: God's Method for Fruitfulness

2009-03-14T22:30:00.010-05:00

"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful" (John 15:1-2).

As Jesus' earthly ministry was coming to an end, he considered it necessary to share with His disciples on the importance of being fruitful. According to Him, 'This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be disciples' (John 15:8). In this text, Jesus referred to His disciples as 'the branches' (John15:5).

As I read the first two verses of John 15, I was a bit shaken when Jesus said that the fruitful branches will be pruned. I was expecting Him to say that they will be applauded (at least some branches are not even bearing any fruit). However, the Lord knows better!

What then is pruning? In agriculture, pruning involves cutting off unwanted, unnecessary or even diseased part of a plant. I read that the purpose of pruning is to increase fruit yield in a plant. No wonder Jesus made that statement! One thing is certain, pruning is not always comfortable to the branch. In fact, the gardener may appear to be wicked as he prunes his plants. However, if we limit our spiritual walk to only when it is favorable, then we will be missing out on the Lord's desire.

God prunes through His word (written or spoken). When the word of God is preached faithfully, at times it causes some discomfort especially when there needs to be unconditional obedience. I can recall some things I held so dear but the Lord (in His wisdom) pruned me from them. Now, I am so grateful He did. For some, it could be a habit (that may not even be sinful) for others, it could be a relationship! Whatever yours maybe, just know that the Lord has considered that area both 'unnecessary and unwanted' (at this time) and desires to cut it away.

You may look around you and say, 'I have been fruitful...done this, done that', that's good. But, do you want to be even more fruitful? If yes, the Lord must be allowed to have His way in our lives even when it seems uncomfortable. Remember, pruning is for this purpose: that the fruitful branch may bear even more fruit!

Prune me, O Lord I pray in Jesus Name.

Ministry : Is It Worth It?

2009-02-28T00:06:00.010-06:00

Ever got tired of ministry (i.e. deeds done to the glory of God)? Did you find resentment where you showed love? Have you found yourself losing out on things you held so dear while zealously serving the Lord? During those times, we are tempted to ask,"Is it worth it?"

Over the years, three particular verses have become very personal to me as I go about God's work. I hope you will take them to heart and encourage yourself with them as challenges come your way.

1. Galatians 6 : 9

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

2. 1 Cor. 15: 58

Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

3. Hebrews 6:10-12

God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.

When we begin to ask 'Is it worth it?', we are probably looking at the wrong things. Let's focus on the faithful God who will not forget (even when people do) all the labor, love,tears, time...etc offered to His glory. (Heb. 11:6). What a privilege to serve God through loving others!

Get up, encourage yourself again... and remain a blessing. Remember Barnabas!

Keep on keeping on!

Are you in the mood?

2009-02-21T18:40:00.006-06:00

Concerning prayer, Charles Spurgeon made an important statement:

" We should pray when we are in a praying mood for it will be sinful to neglect so fair an opportunity. We should pray when we are not in a praying mood because it would be dangerous to remain in so unhealthy a condition."

In other words, we should 'pray continually' (1 Thess. 5:17) in times of joy, anguish, pain, success...whatever the mood. Look beyond your physical circumstance... recognize your ever present God and pray earnestly.

God bless you!

Enemies of my Soul (2)

2009-02-14T23:00:00.003-06:00

Procrastination...attacking my time

Time is one gift everyone has. Procrastination is putting off tasks for a later time (especially when it can be done at the moment).

Have you ever missed a deadline because you said to yourself "I'm gonna take care of it later"? Then, I guess we have a common enemy! Personally, this has been a major 'stumbling block' in my walk with God! Think about it, there are always things I could do sometime later...and they never get done.

Procrastination is the abuse of time! We all need to be reminded that "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven." (Eccl. 3:1). Even Jesus was conscious of His time on earth, hear Him: "We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work." (John9:4)

When I was about to leave for Malaysia, a friend said to me, "Remember, for every time, there's a purpose; For every purpose, there's a time." The truth behind these words have become clearer as I reflect on how I allowed procrastination to rob me of so many opportunities while I was there. (I wish I could go back in time!) I pray you won't let procrastination rob you of divine appointments!

Let me ask you, when will you rejoice in the Lord your God? When will you reach out and be a continual blessing? When will you utilize the gifts God has placed in you? If there's a song to sing, why not sing today? If the Lord has given you strength for today, use it for His glory TODAY!

Father, let my everyday count before you. Help me appreciate the strength you have given me for today and depend on You for tomorrow. In Jesus' Name.

God bless you!

Berean Believers...

2009-02-05T20:00:00.008-06:00

As I kept pondering over ‘my first enemy’, I thought about the Berean believers who were commended for choosing not to dwell on assumptions. This account is found in Acts. 17:10-12. (TNIV). Read & Ponder:

"As soon as it was night, the believers sent Paul and Silas away to Berea. On arriving there, they went to the Jewish synagogue. Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. Many of them believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men."

What if we follow the example of the Berean Christians? What if we began to ask (in all humility), 'Pastor, was your last sermon based on the word of God?' While pastors, preachers etc are very important, they could be sincerely wrong sometimes… especially when they present their own assumptions!

God bless you!

Enemies of My Soul (1)

2009-01-30T19:49:00.012-06:00

Some of these 'enemies' appear subtle and sometimes acceptable!

Assumptions...hindering knowledge

At different points in our lives we've all made several assumptions. However, in our walk with God assumptions could be both a hindrance and disastrous. Many 'christian movements' have had their foundations based on man-made assumptions. History has shown repeatedly that even believers would do strange things when they choose to live by assumptions!

Someone may ask, 'Is it not the same as faith?' "Faith is...the conviction of things not seen" (Heb. 11:1). It is important to note that there is a difference between 'things not seen' and 'things that do not exist'. Understand this, our faith is placed in God who IS and has revealed Himself throughout history!

I believe the cure for assumptions is REVELATION. Yes, Jesus himself dealt with people's assumptions while he was on earth. He made his identity known...leaving no room for assumptions. For instance, He clearly said, "I am the way...No one comes to the Father except by me." (John 14:6). Let me ask you, what is your view of God? Secondly, how did you get that view? Think about it, if God had wanted us to 'assume' our way through life, then why all the instructions in the scriptures?

Does God want us to evangelize? If yes, what scriptural references support that? I believe some of our assumptions could be right. Nevertheless, most assumptions do not stand the test of time. The words of one of my mentors rings so true, "No matter how big your bible is...it is your responsibility to open it and find out what's in it!" Choose to be sure!

Father, help me drop my assumptions as you reveal yourself each day through your word. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Discipleship

2009-01-16T19:19:00.008-06:00

Just before Jesus left the earth he said to his disciples, "...Therefore go and make disciples of all nations..."(Matt. 28:19). I think it would take disciples to make others disciples. So what then is discipleship? This is an answer by Bro. Gbile Akanni:

Jesus Christ is the standard, the pattern for our development. (He is our standard)

Discipleship is a process because conforming to Christ's image will not take place in one experience. It consists of a systematic set of steps, exposures, and training... It is not a program or a course, nor an activity, but a relationship. It is a life-connection... the flow of the divine new life-style in exchange for the old lifestyle. This exchange of lifestyle involves most of the times, falling and rising, correction and whipping; you may sometimes weep and bleed, it can be painful to bend to a new shape... It calls for a very close association with the Master.

Discipleship for each person is unique and peculiar to the individual. The pace, the instrumentality, the arrangement of lessons and dealings as determined by the Master is also unique. Consider, Peter: John 21:15-25, Thomas: John 20 vs 19-20,24-29. To whom much is given, much is required. (Luke 12:48).

Father, help me as I learn of you each day.Enable me to put away all that needs to put away and follow you each day gladly. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

God bless you.

By your side...

2009-01-09T17:18:00.008-06:00

A song by the band 'Tenth Avenue North' was a great blessing to me. It echoes the words of our ever-present God.

Click here for the video. Here's the lyrics:

Why are you striving these days
Why are you trying to earn grace
Why are you crying
Let me lift up your face
Just don't turn away

Why are you looking for love
Why are you still searching as if I'm not enough
To where will you go child
Tell me where will you run
To where will you run

'Cause I'll be by your side
Wherever you fall
In the dead of night
Whenever you call
And please don't fight
These hands that are holding you
My hands are holding you

Look at these hands and my side
They swallowed the grave on that night
When I drank the world's sin
So I could carry you in
And give you life
I want to give you life

Cause I, I love you
I want you to know
That I, I love you
I'll never let you go

I hope you were also blessed by it too.

2009: Recognizing the Ever-Present God

2009-01-07T14:32:00.006-06:00

As I reflected on 2008 I made a lot of discoveries. Notably, a question came to me, "If you were to (really) recognize God's presence every hour in this new year, how different would this year be?"

First of all, it gives me hope! You may ask, "How am I going survive the current economic drama?" Have you not heard how God consistently provided manna (food) to the Israelites for forty years? He is the same God we serve! Again, always remember the word of Jesus, "...do not worry about your life." (Matt. 6:25). Don't you think that God knows your end even from the beginning?

Nevertheless, it may involve some tough choices in the new year. For instance, Joseph refused to sleep with his master's wife and was imprisoned for that. Listen to him: "...How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?"(Gen. 39:9). Similarly, Moses left Egypt, because he saw Him that was invisible. (Heb. 11:27). Get to understand God better through the bible and let that guide your choices throughout the year.

Do you feel like you've wasted your previous years? God is the great restorer. At a time of complete loss in Israel, He said, "... I will restore to you the years that the locust has eaten..." (Joel 2:25). Yes, He can do the same for you if you believe Him!

All things considered, make this a lifelong commitment. For when all else fails, remember you have the ever-present God! He is able to lead you through this year.

Happy New Year!

Add to your faith...

2008-12-21T00:19:00.012-06:00

Did you discover we could know so much about Jesus and yet ineffective & unproductive (even in our own very lives)?

One of the scriptures I think every believer should be familiar with is 2 Peter 1:5-9. It gives a list of 'additions' that will keep us from being ineffective in our knowledge of Jesus. Read & Ponder:

"For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins." (2 Peter 1:5-9).

Father, help me to remain effective as I possess these 'additions' in increasing measure. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Benaiah.

If Jesus Came...

2008-12-06T16:16:00.010-06:00

Some years ago, I read a gospel tract that had this... a song written by Lois Blanchard Eades. Here is the song:

If Jesus came to your house to spend a day or two
If He came unexpectedly, I wonder what you’d do.

Oh, I know you’d give your nicest room to such an honored guest,
And all the food you’d serve to him would be the very best,
And you would keep assuring Him that you’re glad to have Him in your own home
That serving Him in your home is joy beyond compare.

But- when you saw Him coming,
Would you meet Him at the door with arms outstretched in welcome to your heavenly visitor?
Or would you have to change your clothes before you let Him in?
Or hide some magazines and put the Bible where they had been?

Would you turn off the radio and hope He hadn’t heard?
And wish you hadn’t uttered that last, loud and nasty word?
Would you hide your worldly music and put some hymnbooks out?
Could you let Jesus walk right in, or would you rush about?

And I wonder- if the savior spent a day or two with you,
Would you go on doing the things you always do?
Would you go right on saying the things you always say?
Would life for you continue as it does from day to day?

Would your family conversation keep up its normal pace?
And would you find it hard each meal to say a table grace?
Would you sing the songs you always sing and read the books you always read?
And let him know the things on which your mind and soul feed?

Would you take Jesus with you everywhere you’d planned to go?
Or would you, maybe, change your plans for just a day or so?
Would you be glad to have Him meet your very closest friends?
Or would you hope they’d stay away until His visit ends?

Would you be glad to have Him stay on forever on and on?
Or would you sigh with great relief when He at last has gone?

It might be interesting to know the things you would do,
If Jesus Christ in person came to spend some time with you.

Brethren, the Lord is always there even when we seem not to know it!

God bless you.

What kind of prayer would you pray?

2008-11-23T23:13:00.013-06:00

In your ‘quiet time’ (i.e. your private time of prayer and reading the bible), what words do you say in prayer? Do you just say ‘those words’ or do you really express your heart to the Father? When temptations come like an unexpected storm and trials keep knocking at your door, who would you run to? Our brother James said, “Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray…” (James 5:13).

But, what kind of prayer would that be? Many believers attempt saying ‘very good theologically sound prayers’ when there's a public meeting (even when the words mean nothing to them). It is so easy for us to put on a 'mask of spirituality' when we gather for prayer meetings. Nevertheless, let me ask you, how about your personal time of prayer? When was the last time you ‘really’ prayed?

In the scriptures, there are examples of people who ‘really’ prayed. For instance, “During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death and he was heard…”(Heb. 5:7). Jesus really prayed! Think about this too: “Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain and it did not rain…” (James 5:17).

What then would an earnest prayer look like? It doesn’t necessarily have to be loud and long. However, when you pray, you must pray earnestly (i.e. in full seriousness, fervency, sincerity and in faith). While there’s a lot to know about prayer, we can all begin this journey by making a commitment to pray earnestly.

Therefore, pray and when you do, pray with all your heart...For "...The insistent prayer of the righteous person is powerfully effective." (James 5:16)

Benaiah.

Barnabas- Son of Encouragement

2008-11-06T22:36:00.009-06:00

²⁴He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith… (Acts 11:24)

Many have missed a lot of opportunities because of their desire to do just ‘big’ things for God. In the book of Acts, there were diverse manifestations of the Holy Spirit, some were very obvious yet others do not seem so obvious. I pray that the Lord will help us as we take a look at the work of the Holy Spirit in Barnabas’ life.

³⁶ Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement),³⁷sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet. (Acts. 4:36-37)

First, we discover that his actual name was Joseph yet the apostles chose to call him ‘Son of Encouragement’. What a name! If believers were to choose a nickname for me, what would it be?

²⁶ When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was really was a disciple. ²⁷ But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles... (Acts. 9:26-27).

When Saul (a former persecutor of the church who was later known as Apostle Paul) was converted, believers in Jerusalem were afraid because they doubted him. However, Barnabas took the risk of bringing him before the apostles and stood up for him. In fact, he was so convinced of Saul’s testimony that “he told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord...” (Acts. 9:27).

²² …and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. ²³ When he arrived…he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. (Acts. 11:22-23)

Barnabas lived up to his name. I pray that you would make a lifetime commitment to encourage believers wherever you find yourself.

²⁵Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, ²⁶ and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught… (Acts 11:25-27)

In spite of his success, he involved Saul in this ministry. A lot of ministers today have remained virtually ineffective because of their selfishness. We need believers who would take the ‘extra step’ in order to encourage and edify others. Could it be that we have been missing opportunities because we have ignored those God placed around us?

The result of Barnabas’ ministry- The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch (v 27). To put it differently, we are a product of his ministry (If you identify yourself as a ‘Christian’).

²While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” ³ So, after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off. (Acts. 13:2-3)

Finally, he was sent on a ‘mission’. Personally, I will term the above ‘promotion in ministry’. This ‘promotion’ came as a result of being faithful in things that may appear insignificant.

Has the Lord helped you to see some things in the life of Barnabas? Would you choose to remain faithful even when it seems you are considered ‘insignificant’? Remember that God is aware of your service (Heb.6:10).

Now you’ve heard, choose to be an encourager!

Benaiah.

Be the Guard!

2008-11-01T00:22:00.003-05:00

Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life. (Prov. 4:23, Amplified Version)

1. “Keep and Guard your heart” (What?)

Most times when the bible refers to ‘heart’ it is referring to our mind (or at times our spirit or even our life in general) that is to say, our ‘inner man’. There are ‘channels’ to the heart (primarily eyes and ears amongst others).We have a responsibility to place a guard over what goes into our hearts. That would involve saying “No” to some thoughts and giving them no opportunity to dominate your life. We must be the ‘watchman’ of our heart, turning back ‘unwanted visitors’ away from our heart. (What thoughts are actually ‘unwanted visitors’ that needs to be thrown into the trash can?)

2. “…With all vigilance” (How?)

We must do this with all vigilance! Vigilance entails being alert and awake. In this context, it could involve diligence and carefulness. It creates a picture of a watchman being so careful at his post or a soldier being on the lookout for the enemy. There are situations that make us ‘vulnerable’ to fail… It could be as subtle as comparing ourselves to another to anything else. We must not give the devil any opportunity (Eph. 4:27). Some things we permit in our lives now may become a huge a stumbling block in future years. Let’s watch!

3. “…For out of it flow(s) the springs of life” (Why?)

Jesus said, “The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good… for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart.”(Luke 6:45). It appears to me that what we let into our hearts will eventually form a huge part of the way we live. Consequently, guarding our hearts remains a priority for life. There’s no other way!

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honorable, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Phil. 4: 8).

Would you prayerfully commit to letting the Lord help you on this issue for the rest of your life? If yes, make it a prayer at this moment. I pray that the Lord would help us.

Benaiah.

Would You?

2008-10-31T23:53:00.001-05:00

Ever felt thirsty? There's only one thing that comes to mind at that point- a drink! Jesus said, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink."( John 7:37). Consequently, He has made this drink available to everyone who is thirsty.

This blog is meant to be an avenue through which the Lord will refresh us in our walk with Him. Feel free to share your comments, praise reports etc. It is my prayer that the Lord will use this blog to bless your life in every good way (and make you a blessing to others too!).

No matter where you are or who you are, you are invited to COME AND DRINK. Would you?

Your brother,
Benaiah.

DRINK

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Harriet Nassuna Uganda

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Because He Lives (2)

Because He Lives (1)

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Time

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Discipleship

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2009: Recognizing the Ever-Present God

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If Jesus Came...

What kind of prayer would you pray?

Barnabas- Son of Encouragement

Be the Guard!

Would You?

Harriet Nassuna
Uganda